Online Medical Assistant Programs in Texas: Choosing a School
Medical assistant programs in Texas help prepare students for important roles in healthcare facilities across the state. But can you earn a medical assisting credential online? How does it work and how much does it cost? EduMed’s in-depth guide to online medical assistant programs in Texas gives you the inside scoop on one of today’s best career training opportunities.
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What to Expect: Inside Top MA Programs in Texas
As the cost of healthcare increases, so does the importance of medical assistants. And the more a medical assistant can do, the more time (and cost) it helps the bottom line. As a result, solid training as a medical assistant is a must.
Earning medical assistant certification online in Texas is one of the fastest ways to enter the healthcare field. Programs help you build a solid foundation in the following areas:
- Medical terminology & anatomy
- Clinical procedures
- Pharmacology & medication
- Administrative skills
- Patient care & communication
Typically, programs run about two years and lead to an associate degree or certificate; however, some programs can be completed in as little as six months.
Some online medical assistant programs in Texas are available 100% online, while others require hands-on training and in-person internships. Get the inside scoop on three of the state’s top online medical assistant programs.
Texas A&M International University — Certificate
Texas A&M International University has a robust online medical assistant certification program. This fully online program is accredited by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is open to students across the country.
Courses are divided into two sections: a theoretical medical terminology section and a practical certified clinical medical assistant section, preparing you to work in a variety of medical settings. The program encompasses 540 course hours and is self-paced, so you can start anytime.
While these noncredit courses aren’t transferable, your fee includes sitting for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the NHA, making you a strong candidate for potential employers.
Duration: Six to 12 months
Mode: Fully online
Cost: 4-6 months: $3,950, 12 months:$2,795
Admissions Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Medical Terminology
- Becoming a Medical Assistant
- Law, Ethics, and Healthcare
- Enhancing the Patient Experience
- Managing Medical Records
- Medical Billing and Overview Coding
- Major Body Systems
- Pathophysiology
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Tyler Junior College — Certificate
Tyler Junior College hosts a top Texas Clinical Medical Assistant Online Certification Program that combines affordable tuition with the in-depth coursework necessary for students to become certified clinical medical assistants in doctors’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and outpatient facilities.
The program includes generous support, with mentoring available 24/7, pre- and post-course assessments, online performance tracking, and a student portal with career guidance, resume-writing help, and other resources.
The program is ideal for students interested in pursuing a future Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential or nursing LPN or RN program. Upon course completion, graduates are prepared to sit for the NHA CCMA certification exam.
Duration: Six months
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $2,199
Admissions Requirements: Have or be pursuing a high school diploma or GED
Curriculum:
- Responsibilities of the Clinical Medical Assistant
- Introduction to Healthcare Facilities
- Medical Terminology
- Medical and Legal Aspects of Care
- Aseptic Techniques, Infection Prevention, and Biohazards
- Documenting Patient Medical Histories
- Phlebotomy, Venipunctures, and Collecting Specimens
- Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
University of Houston — Certificate
The University of Houston Clinical Medical Assistant Training program is one of the most popular online medical assistant certification courses in Texas. The program covers the essentials you need to enter the field, such as basic anatomy, medical documentation, and medical terminology, and advances to professional topics such as legal regulations, HIPAA requirements, and policies that impact medical care.
Students also gain a deeper understanding of how to handle cases in which patients are insured by private and government insurance plans. While graduates are prepared to work in the healthcare setting of their choice, the program emphasizes the knowledge and skills expected of medical assistants in ambulatory settings.
The program is accredited by the NHA and includes a voucher to take the CCMA exam. You’ll have 24/7 access to lectures, assignments, and course resources.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $2,795
Admissions Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Mental Health
- Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, and Complementary Medicine
- Medical Assisting Foundations
- Professional Behavior
- Legal and Ethical Issues
- Medical Office Environment
- Daily Financial Practices
Texas Medical Assistant FAQs
To help clarify any confusion you may be feeling as you zero in on the medical assistant program that’s right for you, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about online medical assistant programs in Texas. Learn more about medical assistant program scholarships, prerequisites, and costs.
Are scholarships or grants available for online medical assistant students in Texas?
Yes, scholarships — plus grants and other financial resources — are available for online medical assistant students in Texas. Available scholarships include:
- Texas Society of Medical Assistants Scholarships, which cover the academic expenses of two student members each year.
- The Outstanding Rural Scholar Recognition Program, which covers the cost of an allied health program, including online medical assistant certification programs in Texas, for students from rural parts of the state. Recipients commit to returning home to work in an allied health position.
Are there professional organizations or networking opportunities for Texas medical assistants?
Yes. You’ll find professional organizations and other resources for Texas medical assistants. These organizations provide scholarships, information that supports you during your education, networking opportunities, and job boards to help you land your first job as a medical assistant. Professional organizations can also help you learn what settings interest you most and connect you with potential employers. As you’re getting your online medical assistant certification in Texas, consider joining these organizations:
Do I need to complete any prerequisites before applying?
Prerequisites vary from program to program. However, most Texas online medical assistant programs require applicants to have just a high school diploma or GED. For example, at Houston Medical Assistant School and Texas A&M International University, applicants need a high school diploma or GED. However at Tyler Junior College, while technically the application requirements are the same, applicants may get preference if they intend to continue their medical careers and education to become LPNs, CMAs, or RNs. If you meet the basic admissions criteria, review the course listings to ensure the topics spark your interest. If you’re naturally interested in the subject matter, you’re likely to succeed in your classes.
How much should I expect to pay for my program?
The cost of online medical assistant programs vary. However we’ve crunched the numbers and found that, on average, total tuition cost is roughly $3,250. The amount doesn’t vary significantly between online, in-person, and hybrid courses.
For a better idea of how much specific online medical assistant certification programs in Texas cost, check out the tuition of these five accredited programs:
- Austin Medical Assistant School (hybrid): $4,490
- Dallas College (in person): $3,960
- Texas A&M International (online): $2,795
- Tyler Junior College (online): $2,199
- University of Houston (online): $2,795
What does an online medical assistant curriculum in Texas cover?
Your online medical assistant curriculum will vary depending on which Texas program you attend. However, a quality program will prepare you with a basic understanding of medical terminology, medical technology, office procedures, insurance and billing basics, and the hands-on skills you need to assist doctors and other medical professionals across various healthcare settings.
As you narrow your program choices, review course listings to see how various schools’ courses are similar and different. If you plan to specialize in a certain area of medicine, look for courses that address that topic. At many schools, you’ll also complete a clinical externship to gain hands-on experience before earning your online medical assistant certification in Texas.
Certification and Continuing Education for MAs in Texas
The rules for becoming an MA in Texas are fairly loose. But that doesn’t mean just anyone can excel in a medical assistant role. You’ll need extensive knowledge covering both exam procedures and office procedures, and the best way to get that knowledge is by completing an online medical assistant program in Texas.
Another way to prove your competency — and stand out to potential employers — is through certification. NHA is one of the best-known certification options, however other companies also provide certifications for medical assistants in Texas. The National Center for Competency Testing offers the Nationally Certified Medical Assistant exam, American Medical Technologists offers the Registered Medical Assistant exam, and the American Medical Certification Association offers the Clinical Medical Assistant Certification, among others.
Even once your training is complete, you’ll still learn on the job. In Texas, if a physician trains you to do a task, you are then qualified to complete that task. Tasks might include:
- Taking vital signs
- Instructing patients about medications
- Doing EKGs
- Applying and changing wound dressings
- Starting IVs
- Assisting with minor surgery
On the administrative side, tasks you may learn on the job include using specific computer programs, arranging for hospital admissions and lab work, and handling insurance forms and billing.
Texas Medical Assistant Salary & Career Potential
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,020 | $44,200 | $57,830 |
| Texas | $30,160 | $38,930 | $48,350 |
| Abilene, TX | $28,900 | $36,870 | $44,680 |
| Amarillo, TX | $29,110 | $37,360 | $43,890 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $37,100 | $45,220 | $53,050 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $30,520 | $37,610 | $48,320 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | $26,690 | $34,570 | $41,990 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | $29,080 | $37,490 | $44,300 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $29,660 | $37,250 | $45,390 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $30,720 | $40,160 | $50,050 |
| Eagle Pass, TX | $26,740 | $28,410 | $42,080 |
| El Paso, TX | $28,320 | $36,440 | $44,410 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $31,220 | $42,930 | $48,350 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $31,220 | $38,790 | $46,840 |
| Laredo, TX | $28,070 | $35,540 | $41,990 |
| Longview, TX | $30,230 | $36,050 | $43,050 |
| Lubbock, TX | $28,900 | $36,090 | $43,160 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | $24,920 | $31,870 | $39,530 |
| Midland, TX | $36,850 | $42,870 | $47,040 |
| Odessa, TX | $34,320 | $36,530 | $47,510 |
| San Angelo, TX | $27,990 | $36,100 | $43,570 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $35,550 | $39,970 | $45,840 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | $34,830 | $38,410 | $47,800 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | $29,170 | $36,700 | $44,060 |
| Tyler, TX | $29,890 | $37,110 | $44,490 |
| Victoria, TX | $29,060 | $36,380 | $45,900 |
| Waco, TX | $30,930 | $38,350 | $46,440 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | $30,490 | $39,080 | $45,190 |
Source: Medical Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 66,740 | 83,570 | 16,830 | 25.20% | 11,250 |
| 1 – United States | 764,400 | 870,200 | 105,800 | 13.80% | 114,600 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top 3 Online Medical Assistant Programs in Texas
Our rankings use a consistent methodology to deliver quality results to prospective students. All schools included in the rankings must hold regional accreditation and offer at least one online component in their program. In addition, they must offer academic counseling and career placement services. Click “About the Ranking” for more details.
Program Details
- ACCSC Accreditation
- $796 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Remington College
- Remington College's Medical Assisting program includes the cost of the first attempt at CCMA and CPR certification exams within the tuition, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for students.
- The program offers a 200-hour externship, providing valuable real-world clinical experience by working directly alongside healthcare professionals before graduation.
- Students who complete the 12-month Medical Assisting diploma can transfer 100% of their credits toward the associate degree, allowing an accelerated path to further qualification.
Program Details
- ACCSC Accreditation
- $796 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,733 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Panola College
- The Medical Assisting program at Panola College requires no additional application beyond initial enrollment, streamlining student admission and entry into the program.
- Students benefit from hands-on clinical experience supervised by healthcare professionals, ensuring practical skill development in real medical settings.
- Faculty bring diverse backgrounds and include guest speakers from clinical sites around the Ark-La-Tex, enriching learning through expert insights and regional networking opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,733 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,770 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Texas College
- Western Texas College’s Medical Assistant program offers a Fast Track option enabling completion of certification in just 8 months, accelerating entry into the workforce.
- Students learn from instructors with extensive real-world healthcare experience and current professional certifications, ensuring relevant and practical training.
- The program is accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), enhancing program credibility and graduate employability.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,770 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TXProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $18,643 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of the Incarnate Word
- The program offers eligibility to earn additional certifications as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) and EKG Technician (CET), enhancing job market competitiveness after course completion.
- Students benefit from an 80-clock-hour externship with local Family Practice offices, providing essential hands-on clinical experience and strong references for employment.
- The program is designed to accommodate busy students by fitting into their schedules, combining 96 hours of classroom instruction with homework and self-paced online study options.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $18,643 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,983 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Galveston College
- The program includes a voucher for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam fee, providing a financial benefit and direct exam access upon completion.
- Students have the opportunity to become CPR certified and participate in an unpaid clinical experience, enhancing hands-on skills and employability.
- Students with prior knowledge can test out of the Medical Terminology course by scoring 80% or higher, allowing for accelerated completion and personalized pacing.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,983 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,284 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected College of the Mainland
- The Medical Assistant program at College of the Mainland offers competitive tuition rates and multiple scholarship opportunities to reduce financial barriers for students.
- The program features clinical externship placements that prepare students with real-world experience and improve employment prospects post-graduation.
- Experienced faculty provide specialized instruction and personalized support to ensure students are well-prepared for certification exams and medical assisting careers.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,284 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,115 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Howard College
- The Medical Assistant program includes an option to test out of the Medical Terminology course with a minimum score of 80%, accelerating completion for knowledgeable students.
- Completion prepares students to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) national certification exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), boosting employability.
- Students gain unpaid clinical experiences supervised by Howard College faculty, providing valuable hands-on patient care training in real clinical settings.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,115 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,377 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected El Paso Community College
- The CCMA program includes an exam voucher that covers the fee for the national certification exam, reducing financial barriers for students.
- The course offers hands-on clinical experience opportunities, including unpaid clinical placements, enhancing real-world job readiness.
- Students can earn CPR certification as part of the program, increasing their qualifications and employability in healthcare settings.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,377 Avg. Aid Amount
- 31% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,691 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected McLennan Community College
- The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program includes the CCMA national certification exam voucher at no extra cost, enhancing affordability and certification readiness.
- Students have the option to test out of the Medical Terminology course with an 80% score, allowing accelerated completion for those with prior knowledge.
- The program provides an unpaid clinical experience coupled with CPR certification eligibility, delivering practical training that employers value.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $3,691 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,078 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 27/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Amarillo College
- Amarillo College's Medical Assistant program boasts a 100% pass rate on national certification exams among its first graduates, proving exceptional student preparation and program quality.
- The program equips students with versatile skills combining administrative duties and hands-on clinical procedures, increasing employability in diverse healthcare settings.
- Plans to expand the program to a new campus in Hereford improve accessibility, demonstrating Amarillo College’s commitment to growing healthcare workforce opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $1,078 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 27/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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