Medical Assistant Education Requirements

Most employers look for graduates of recognized programs. Vocational schools, technical schools, and community and junior colleges can offer medical assistant education programs. One year or less of study is generally required to obtain a diploma or certificate, and two years of medical assistant education can provide an associate degree.

The typical medical assistant curriculum covers an array of training, which includes a study of patient care and communication, clinical and pharmacology, medical insurance, bookkeeping, health sciences, laboratory procedures, therapeutic care and much more. Medical assistants are also required to learn laboratory methods, medicine administration and first aid.

Medical assistant training programs from accredited schools are dedicated to making sure graduates complete a program prepared with the skills and knowledge to qualify for entry-level positions in their field and to be ready to complete on day one of their new job. 


Typical medical assistant classroom training can include:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• First Aid/CPR and Injury Prevention
• Medical Terminology
• Medical Law, Ethics and Professionalism
• Medical Insurance Processing
• Medication Administration, Injections and Venipuncture
• Nutrition, Patient Care and Communication