Online Medical Assistant Programs in Nevada: Compare Schools

How the Programs Work

Online medical assistant programs in Nevada prepare students for both administrative and clinical roles in healthcare settings. Students gain skills in areas such as patient scheduling, medical billing and coding, taking vital signs, and assisting with basic clinical procedures.

Because medical assistants perform hands-on patient care, most Nevada programs use a hybrid format that blends online coursework with in-person training. Common program features include:

• Online instruction for subjects like medical terminology and office administration, delivered through live virtual classes or asynchronous modules
• Digital assignment submission and instructor interaction via online learning platforms
• In-person clinical skills training completed at approved healthcare facilities near the student

To help you understand what to expect, the three Nevada medical assistant programs highlighted below outline key details such as curriculum, admission requirements, program length, costs, and clinical expectations.

Nevada Medical Assistant Student FAQs

Many students considering an online medical assistant program in Nevada have specific questions about what to expect both during and after their MA training. Below are the answers to five of the most common questions prospective students have before enrolling in a medical assistant program.

Are there online medical assistant programs available?

Yes. Online medical assistant programs are, in fact, quite popular and found throughout Nevada and the entire nation alike. Both fully-online (like the Western Nevada College CCMA course) and hybrid-formatted (like the programs at the College of Southern Nevada, United Education Institute, and Pima Medical Institute) options are available.

Whether coursework is offered entirely or partially online, students can expect to get important hands-on training in a medical practice setting.

How much does medical assistant school cost in NV?

The cost for an online program in Nevada for medical assistants varies by school and credential type. Also, different programs employ different payment schemes for their online MA programs. For example, the College of Southern Nevada prices its Certificate of Achievement program on a per-credit basis (currently $127/credit for in-state residents), while Western Nevada College, charges single price (currently $3,295) for its entire course.

Keep in mind, though, that a variety of financial aid resources, including scholarships, grants, employer tuition reimbursement, and more, are often available to help mitigate MA education costs.

How much do medical assistants make in Nevada?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, as of May 2024, medical assistants in Nevada earn an annual mean salary of $42,740, which is slightly below the national mean of $44,720. However, what you actually earn in your Nevada medical assistant job will depend on a number of factors, including your:

• Geographic location
• Specific employer
• Specific job title and duties
• Level of professional experience

More on salaries and job growth potential for Nevada medical assistants below.

How do I become a certified medical assistant?

To become a certified medical assistant, first you’ll need to:

• Graduate high school or complete an equivalent program, such as the GED.
• Complete an accredited medical assistant education program (like any of those mentioned in this guide.)
• Sit for and pass the exam for CMA certification or any of a number of other recognized professional medical assistant certifications. (More on medical assistant certifications below.)

As you make your way through the process of becoming a working medical assistant, be sure to make the most of the many resources available to MA students.

How long does it take to become a medical assistant in Nevada?

Becoming a medical assistant in Nevada usually takes anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the program and path you choose. There are exceptions, with some courses featuring quicker completion rates. But for the most part expect to spend:

• Six months to a year if pursuing a certificate or diploma program.
• Two years full-time (more if studying part-time) if earning a full associate degree.

Once you’ve completed your MA studies, you’ll be eligible to obtain professional certification and apply for your first medical assistant job.

Certifications and Continuing Education: Your Options in Nevada

Nevadan medical assistants are not required by state law to obtain any specific certification or licensure. However, many employers prefer or require professional certification of their MA job applicants, so you’re strongly advised to consider obtaining certification a must.

Obtaining professional medical assistant certification typically requires completion of an accredited MA education program and passing a certification exam. There are several certifications available, including:

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
• Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA)
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

Keep in mind, though, that individual medical assistant programs often lead to eligibility of only one or a few of these certifications. So, be sure to confirm the certification types a program will qualify you for before you enroll.

As with licensure, there are no state-mandated continuing education requirements for medical assistants in Nevada. However, you will have to renew your professional certification(s) on a regular basis.

For most certifications, that will require earning a given number of continuing education (CE) credits during each renewal period. Be sure to check the specific renewal requirements for your certifications, though, since failing to renew in time typically requires retaking the certification exam (and paying the full exam fee).

Salary & Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Nevada