Unlike some entry level medical professions that can be completed in 4 weeks or less, medical assistant programs usually take 8 months or longer to complete.
Fortunately, there are several accelerated medical assistant programs in the Chicago area that allow you to complete training in as fast a time as possible while achieving a certification.
We would strongly recommend students attend a program that leads to certification, as that will make finding a job and career advancement much easier. The last thing you want to do is have to go back to school to complete additional training to become certified!
There are three accelerated medical assistant program options in Chicagoland, all offering a pathway to certification:
- Chicago Medical Assistant School (24 weeks)
- Northwest Suburban College (32 weeks)
- Esperanza Health Centers (29 weeks)
Accelerated Medical Assistant Program Options in Chicago
1. Chicago Medical Assistant School – 24 weeks
The Chicago Medical Assistant School offers an accelerated Medical Assisting program, allowing students to complete their training in just 24 weeks, significantly faster than traditional programs. This expedited format includes an 80-hour externship at a local medical office, ensuring students gain practical, hands-on experience.
Classes are conducted in an actual medical office, blending lecture and lab work. This approach helps students quickly develop the skills needed for medical assisting roles. The program’s flexible schedule, including evening and weekend options, caters to those balancing other commitments.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,450 |
| Duration | 24 weeks |
| Schedules | Flexible, includes evenings and weekends |
| Address | 830 W Diversey Pkwy Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60614 |
| Phone | 512-887-7943 |
| Website | Chicago Medical Assistant School |
2. Northwest Suburban College – 32 weeks
Northwest Suburban College offers a Medical Assisting program in an accelerated 32-week format, including an 8-week hands-on externship. This allows students to complete their training more quickly than traditional programs, providing a fast-track path to a healthcare career.
The program includes 560 hours of classroom instruction covering healthcare procedures, clinical assisting, and medical billing. The externship offers real-world experience, helping students apply their knowledge in a clinical setting. Daytime and evening classes are available, making it convenient for those with other commitments.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Contact the school for current tuition |
| Duration | 32 weeks (including externship) |
| Schedules | Daytime and evening classes available |
| Address | 5999 S. New Wilke Rd. Bldg. #500, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 |
| Phone | 847-665-0738 |
| Website | Northwest Suburban College |
Esperanza Health Centers – 29 weeks
Esperanza Health Centers, in collaboration with the National Institute for Medical Assistant Advancement (NIMAA), offers an accelerated Medical Assistant Training Program designed to prepare students quickly for healthcare careers. The program can be completed in 29 weeks, and is divided into spring and fall cohorts, each accommodating ten students.
This accelerated format combines hands-on training with online components, allowing students to complete their education efficiently. While the program is cost-free, it is only available for those who commit to joining Esperanza Health Centers after completion. For this reason we would only recommend students consider this program if they want to work for Esperanza for an extended period of time.
Coursework includes medical procedures, patient care, and administrative tasks, with a strong emphasis on the specific health challenges faced by the Southwest side community.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Duration | 29 weeks |
| Schedules | Spring and Fall cohorts available |
| Address | 2724 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60608 |
| Phone | (773) 542-7077 |
| Website | Esperanza Health Centers |
Our Pick:
We recommend the Chicago Medical Assistant School for those seeking the fastest route to certification, as it offers a comprehensive program that can be completed in just 24 weeks. This program’s flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend options, makes it ideal for individuals balancing other commitments.
For those who prefer a slightly longer program with additional hands-on experience, Northwest Suburban College’s 32-week program is a solid choice, offering extensive classroom instruction and a well-structured externship. Students should inquire about the program’s tuition before committing to the program.
If you are interested in a cost-free option and are committed to working at Esperanza Health Centers after graduation, their 29-week program, in partnership with NIMAA, is an excellent opportunity.
Ultimately, we recommend reaching out to each program to learn more and choose the one that best aligns with your personal and professional needs.