Medical Assistant Programs in Chicago
Welcome to our comprehensive resource for exploring medical assistant programs in the Chicago area. We recognize the importance of selecting the right program for your career path and offer detailed insights into each course. This includes vital information such as program duration, costs, curriculum specifics, certification requirements, and more, across various educational institutions from community colleges to specialized training centers. We aim to help you find a program that fits within your budget and schedule.
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Making an informed decision is critical in your journey to becoming a medical assistant. To aid in this process, we provide tools and resources to compare different programs, understand the training process, and prepare for certification exams.
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Whether you are just starting your career or looking to advance in the medical field, our platform is the starting point for your journey. You can explore our extensive listings, read success stories, and get all the guidance you need from our dedicated team.
In-Person Classes
For those who prefer traditional learning environments, we have detailed information on the best in-person medical assistant courses in Chicago.
Online Programs
For students requiring flexible learning schedules, we offer insights into various hybrid and fully online medical assistant training programs near Chicago.
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If you’ve been waiting to jumpstart your medical career, there’s no better time than now. With many class options, and affordable prices, now is truly the time.
Featured Medical Assistant Programs in Chicago
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Malcolm X College
Malcolm X College's Medical Assisting Program in Chicago, IL, led by Program Director Christine Dzoga, offers a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring medical assistants. The program prepares students with essential cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills, aligning with industry standards. It emphasizes community engagement, ensuring graduates meet the local healthcare needs, and offers flexibility with full-time or part-time schedules, both day and evening courses, across two locations.
Graduates earn certifications as Registered Medical Assistants (RMA) and Registered Phlebotomy Technicians (RPT) through the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and benefit from CAAHEP accreditation. Admission requires eligibility for English 101 and Math 118, official transcripts, and an interview with the Program Director. Coursework covers anatomy, medical terminology, law, clinical procedures, and administrative skills, preparing graduates for a versatile role in medical assistance, from managing appointments and records to clinical tasks and patient preparation.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Contact the program for current fees |
Program Duration | Contact the school for details |
Class Schedules | Full-Time and Part-Time; Day and Evening Courses |
Prerequisites | Eligible for English 101; Eligible for Math 118 or higher |
Location | 1900 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612 |
Chicago School of Phlebotomy
The Chicago School of Phlebotomy offers a Clinical Medical Assisting program suitable for all experience levels. This 11-week beginner-level program focuses on essential medical assistant skills, with a particular emphasis on phlebotomy, a high-demand skill in healthcare. Students gain hands-on experience in patient care, covering topics like vitals, medical histories, phlebotomy, wound dressing, injections, EKG administration, and more.
To enroll, students should be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent. The program costs $2,300, with an optional $300 for a clinical externship. Flexible payment plans are available. While not mandatory, externships are open to graduates with a grade of B or higher, facilitating practical experience.
The program is accredited and prepares students for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Successful completion of this exam is required for graduation, ensuring graduates are certified and job-ready. Scheduled testing dates for the CCMA exam are available through the NHA website.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | $2,300 (Clinical Medical Assisting); $300 (Optional Externship) |
Program Duration | 11 Weeks |
Class Schedules | Twice a week for lecture and hands-on labs |
Prerequisites | 18 Years of Age or Older; High School Diploma, GED, or International High School Diploma Equivalency |
Location | 932 N. Wright St., Suite 168, Naperville, IL 60563 |
Midwestern Career College
Midwestern Career College (MCC) offers a comprehensive 40-week Medical Assisting program that prepares students for roles in healthcare settings. This program includes phlebotomy training, leading to a phlebotomy technician certification.
MCC provides flexibility with campus locations in Chicago Main and Evergreen Park, and the next start date is 04/29/2024 in the evening. The program includes hands-on training in phlebotomy, EKG, and medical assisting, making students eligible for certifications like RMA, NCMA, and CMA upon externship completion. An optional 120-hour externship can lead to phlebotomy certification from AMT.
Graduates can pursue careers as medical assistants, performing tasks like patient care, medication administration, lab specimen collection, and insurance handling. The program covers a wide range of knowledge and skills, including anatomy, clinical procedures, electronic health records, and billing. Graduates become eligible for exams such as NCMA, NCPT, and NCET through the NCCT.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Contact the program for current fees |
Program Duration | 40 weeks (2 Terms) |
Class Schedules | Hybrid; Evening classes (Next start date: 04/29/2024) |
Prerequisites | n/a |
Location | 203 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60601 |
Chicago Medical Assistant School
Chicago Medical Assistant School offers a 24-week Medical Assisting program designed to prepare students for medical careers. Notably, the school prioritizes affordability by providing flexible payment plans to reduce student debt.
The program includes an 80-hour externship for practical experience in real medical offices, enhancing students' readiness for entry-level roles. Instructors are experienced medical professionals, and flexible class schedules accommodate various commitments, with evening and weekend options available.
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion and can take the CCMA exam through the NHA, expanding their career opportunities nationwide. The school's commitment to affordability is evident through customizable payment plans, and they accept multiple payment methods.
Admission requirements include a minimum age of 17, proof of secondary education, valid identification, and vaccination records.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Affordable tuition with flexible payment plans |
Program Duration | 24 weeks, including an 80-hour externship |
Class Schedules | Flexible, including evenings and weekends |
Prerequisites | Minimum age 17, proof of education, ID, vaccines |
Location | 830 W Diversey Pkwy Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60614 |
National Louis University
The Accelerate U Medical Assistant Pathway at National Louis University offers a 7-month certificate program primarily delivered online. It includes monthly in-person "Skills Labs" and a 4-6 week externship. Graduates earn a nationally-recognized certification, 30 college credits, and receive primary consideration for Medical Assistant positions.
This comprehensive program covers clinical and administrative aspects, including a 160-hour onsite externship for real-world experience. Students can engage in about 20 hours of coursework per week and benefit from professional coaching.
With a cost of $7,000, the program is accessible to those with a high school diploma or equivalent, aged 17 or older, and valid ID and immunization records.
Lincoln Tech
Lincoln Tech's Melrose Park campus in Illinois offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam. With over a century of experience, Lincoln Tech provides hands-on training with EKG machines, injection simulators, and more. The curriculum covers anatomy, clinical procedures, medical terminology, and ethics.
Upon program completion and RMA exam success, graduates can pursue careers as Medical Assistants, EKG Technicians, Phlebotomy Technicians, or Unit/Ward Clerks in hospitals. The program offers flexible day, afternoon, and evening schedules.
Lincoln Tech emphasizes professional development, including modules on Student Success, Financial Literacy, Professional Development, and Career Success. Graduates can find opportunities in various healthcare settings.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Contact the school for current tuition |
Program Duration | Approximately 37 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
Class Schedules | Day, Afternoon, Evening Programs |
Prerequisites | Prerequisite required; Successful completion of all in-school coursework prior to internship |
Location | 8317 W. North Ave, Melrose Park, IL 60160 |
Esperanza Health Centers
Esperanza Health Centers in Chicago offers a Free Medical Assistant Training Program in collaboration with the National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement (NIMAA). The program aims to provide accessible opportunities for individuals interested in a medical assistant career, particularly within the local community.
This free program is structured for twenty students annually, divided into spring and fall cohorts of ten each. Esperanza covers tuition and fees for all students, provided they commit to working with Esperanza after completion. Applicants should meet specific criteria, including Illinois residency, being at least 18 years old by the program's end, having a high school diploma or equivalent, bilingual fluency in Spanish and English, and more.
The NIMAA program spans approximately 29 weeks (8 months) and includes the opportunity to sit for a medical assistant certification exam. Details and application information are available on NIMAA's application webpage.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Free |
Program Duration | Approximately 29 weeks (8 months) |
Class Schedules | Spring and Fall cohorts available |
Prerequisites | - Illinois residency
- 18 years old by program completion date - High school diploma, GED, or equivalent - Proficiency in verbal and written English - Bilingual (Spanish/English - Proof of required immunizations - Regular access to a computer and internet (recommended - Background check conducted by NIMAA (if an offer is made) |
Location | Esperanza Health Centers, 2724 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60608 |
Fox College
Fox College in Tinley Park, Illinois, offers a 12-month Medical Assisting program designed for individuals seeking a rewarding healthcare career. This comprehensive program equips students with both clinical and administrative skills essential for success in the medical field.
Students receive hands-on training in clinical procedures such as injections, medical lab tests, and healthcare tasks. They also master administrative procedures like medical record management and patient scheduling. An 8-week externship provides real-world experience and industry connections. Graduates are eligible for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exams.
The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, clinical procedures, and medical office systems. With strong job demand, Fox College offers career services assistance. Tuition is $7,860 per semester, with financial aid options available. The program is full-time and on-site, located at 18020 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477. Contact them at 708-444-4500.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | Tuition Per Semester: $7,860 |
Program Duration | 12 months |
Class Schedules | Full-time, accelerated program |
Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent |
Location | 18020 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477 |
National Latino Education Institute
The National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) offers a comprehensive and cost-free Bilingual Medical Assistant (BMA) program designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in Medical Assisting. Accredited by CAAHEP, this 40-week program covers a wide range of subjects, including medical Spanish, anatomy, ethics, and more. Graduates are eligible for the AAMA-CMA exam, enhancing their credentials.
The program provides OSHA and CPR certifications, crucial in healthcare. Students gain practical experience through a 160-hour externship. Various activities, including mock interviews and workshops, enhance their training. Applicants should be 18 years old, have an Illinois ID, a high school diploma or equivalent, proficiency in English and Spanish, proof of immunizations, and access to a computer and the internet. A background check may be required.
Program Information | Details |
Cost | No (Program is free) |
Program Duration | 40 weeks |
Class Schedules | Contact the program for current schedule |
Prerequisites | - Illinois residency
- 18 years old by program completion date - High school diploma, GED, or equivalent - Proficiency in verbal and written English - Bilingual (Spanish/English - Proof of required immunizations - Regular access to a computer and internet (recommended - Background check conducted by NIMAA (if an offer is made) |
Location | 2011 West Pershing Rd, Chicago, IL 60609 |
Northwest Suburban College
Northwest Suburban College in Rolling Meadows, IL, offers a 32-week Medical Assistant Certificate program, including 8 weeks of hands-on externship training. This program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a rewarding career in healthcare. Medical Assistants play a crucial role in clinical and hospital settings, providing support to the healthcare team, including doctors and nurses.
During the program, students receive comprehensive training in healthcare procedures, clinical assisting, diagnostic techniques, medical records management, pharmacology, billing and coding, and patient education. Additionally, students benefit from 20 hours per week of supervised externship experience, where they gain valuable real-world medical experience and establish industry connections.
Class schedules are flexible, with both daytime and evening options available to accommodate different lifestyles. Admissions are open every month, and applicants can expect a prompt response to their applications.
Program Information | Details |
Cost: | Contact the school for current tuition. |
Program Duration: | 32 weeks (including externship) |
Class Schedules: | Daytime and Evening |
Prerequisites: | Contact the school for current requirements |
Location: | 5999 S. New Wilke Rd. Bldg. #500, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 |
Free Medical Assistant Programs in Chicago
Our website provides all the essential information to determine if this career path aligns with your professional aspirations. You can explore various options, including free medical assistant training programs for eligible students, and compare them with traditional in-person and online formats to make a well-informed decision that suits your schedule and learning preferences.
Today is the day to find the Chicago medical assistant program that will help you begin your new career journey.