
Thinking about becoming a medical assistant in Philadelphia? You’re in the perfect city to start your healthcare career. Whether you’re looking for a short-term program to get started quickly or a more in-depth degree option, Philly has plenty of choices to fit your goals, schedule, and budget. Let’s dive into what’s out there and how to find the program that’s right for you.
All Programs
Below is a full list of every medical assistant program in the Philadelphia metro area. We try to make it easy for you!
Career Starter Services
The Medical Assistant Program offered by Career Starter Services provides an affordable and flexible training option for those seeking a career in healthcare. The self-paced online program includes 24/7 access to learning materials and prepares students for certifications in Clinical Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, and EKG Technician, enhancing earning potential and career opportunities.
Students benefit from interactive course content, hands-on training tools, and personalized support through one-on-one assistance. With open enrollment, participants can start immediately after registration, allowing for maximum convenience. The program is ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments while pursuing career advancement.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | Affordable with payment plans available |
Duration | Self-paced |
Program Type | Medical Assistant Certification |
Class Schedules | Flexible |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | (215) 769-1199 |
Location | 1 Medical Center Blvd, Suite 224, Upland, PA 19015 |
Community College of Philadelphia
The Clinical Medical Assisting program at the Community College of Philadelphia is a 140-hour online course designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in healthcare. The curriculum focuses on clinical skills like phlebotomy, EKGs, and assisting with procedures, while also covering patient care and administrative tasks in medical settings.
Students are eligible to take the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam after completing the program. An optional externship provides hands-on experience, and financial support is available through payment plans or scholarships. The self-paced format makes it ideal for those balancing other commitments.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | $2,599 |
Duration | 140 hours |
Program Type | Online |
Class Schedules | Self-paced asynchronous |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | (215) 751-8000 |
Location | 1700 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA |
Delaware County Community College
Delaware County Community College’s Medical Assistant Program offers students the choice of an Associate in Applied Science (62 credits) or a Certificate of Proficiency (43 credits). The program prepares students for both clinical and administrative roles in healthcare, featuring hands-on training through a required externship in a medical office setting.
Accredited by CAAHEP, the program ensures quality education and prepares students for the AAMA certification exam. With a focus on real-world skills and career readiness, this five-semester program is ideal for those looking to enter the healthcare field with industry-standard training.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | Not specified |
Duration | 5 semesters |
Program Type | Associate in Applied Science or Certificate of Proficiency |
Class Schedules | Not specified |
Online Classes? | No |
Phone | 610-723-2000 |
Location | 901 S. Media Line Rd, Media, PA 19063 |
Esperanza College
The Medical Assisting program at Esperanza College provides students with the skills and training needed to succeed in healthcare. Over four semesters, students gain practical knowledge in areas like clinical procedures, diagnostics, medical billing, and phlebotomy. The program includes a 160-hour externship in healthcare settings, ensuring hands-on experience for graduates.
Students are also prepared to sit for national certification exams, including Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and CPR certification. With small class sizes and a focus on holistic patient care, the program supports both academic and professional growth, making it a great pathway for those seeking entry into healthcare.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | $767 per credit hour (Part-time); $17,495 per semester (Full-time) |
Duration | 4 semesters |
Program Type | Associate of Applied Science |
Class Schedules | Daytime classes and externship |
Online Classes? | No |
Phone | (215) 324-0746 x410 |
Location | 4261 N. 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19140 |
Mercy College
Mercy College's Medical Assisting Program is a 12-month course combining online instruction with hands-on training. Students complete two in-person labs and a 160-hour clinical practicum to develop essential skills like drawing blood, administering medications, and assisting with patient care in medical offices.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA) exam, with a 100% pass rate. The program offers flexible start dates in fall, spring, and summer, making it ideal for students balancing work and studies. Tuition is approximately $10,929, with financial aid options available.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | $10,929 |
Duration | 12 months |
Program Type | Medical Assisting Certificate |
Class Schedules | Online with in-person labs and practicum |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | (215) 226-1225 |
Location | 2900 W Hunting Park Ave, Philadelphia, PA |
Montgomery County Community College
Montgomery County Community College offers a Medical Assisting Certificate program designed to prepare students for both administrative and clinical roles in healthcare. With a total of 31 credit hours, students can complete the program in either three semesters full-time or five semesters part-time, gaining essential skills for entry-level medical assisting roles.
Graduates of the program are eligible to take national certification exams, including the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). The curriculum includes hands-on clinical training, laboratory procedures, and courses in medical law and ethics, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | In-county: $223/credit; Out-of-county: $399/credit; Out-of-state: $575/credit |
Duration | 3 semesters (full-time) or 5 semesters (part-time) |
Program Type | Certificate |
Class Schedules | Full-time or part-time |
Online Classes? | No |
Phone | 215-641-6300 |
Location | Blue Bell Campus: 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422 Pottstown Campus: 101 College Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464 |
OIC Philadelphia
The Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) program at OIC Philadelphia offers a tuition-free opportunity to gain the skills needed for a career in healthcare. Students learn patient care, physician assistance procedures, and healthcare practices while receiving strong job placement support. The program includes hands-on training and access to career services.
With an 83% job placement rate, this program provides practical experience and resources to help graduates secure employment in healthcare. It’s ideal for individuals seeking a supportive, no-cost pathway to enter the field of medical assisting.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | Tuition-Free |
Duration | Not specified |
Program Type | Clinical Medical Assistant |
Class Schedules | Not specified |
Online Classes? | No |
Phone | (215) 236-7700 |
Location | 1231 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19122 |
Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
The Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate program at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology equips students with essential skills for roles like medical assistant, EKG technician, and phlebotomist. Students complete coursework in medical terminology, clinical procedures, and patient care while gaining hands-on experience through a supervised externship.
This 33-week program offers flexibility with traditional and hybrid learning options, allowing students to balance studies with personal commitments. Graduates earn multiple certifications, including Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), boosting career prospects in diverse healthcare settings.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | $500 per credit hour |
Duration | 33 weeks |
Program Type | Certificate |
Class Schedules | Traditional and hybrid |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | (610) 892-1500 |
Location | 800 Manchester Ave, Media, PA 19063 |
Philadelphia Job Corps
The Philadelphia Job Corps Clinical Medical Assistant program equips students with essential skills for administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. Participants gain hands-on experience in tasks like taking vitals, administering injections, and preparing blood samples. Graduates can earn certifications as a Clinical Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, or EKG Technician.
This program is tuition-free, offering accessible career training for individuals aged 16-24. With durations ranging from 8 months to 3 years based on learning pace, it provides flexibility to suit individual needs. Job placement assistance is included, helping graduates transition into healthcare roles at hospitals and clinics.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | Free |
Duration | 8 months to 3 years |
Program Type | Clinical Medical Assistant Training |
Class Schedules | Varies by individual learning pace |
Online Classes? | No |
Phone | 800-733-5627 |
Location | 2810 S 20th St #12, Philadelphia, PA 19145 |
Prism Career Institute
Prism Career Institute’s Medical Assistant Program offers 720 hours of training over 40 weeks, blending lecture, lab, and externship hours. Students gain essential skills in patient care, administrative tasks, and procedures like phlebotomy and EKG. The program includes flexible daytime and evening class schedules and 108 hours of online learning.
Graduates are eligible for the CCMA exam, with fees covered by Prism. A 150-hour externship provides real-world experience in healthcare settings. The program is ideal for those seeking an entry-level role in medical assisting with hands-on training and support. Financial aid options are available for eligible students.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | $13,815 |
Duration | 40 weeks |
Program Type | Diploma |
Class Schedules | Day: Monday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–1:30 PM Evening: Monday–Thursday, 5:30 PM–10:00 PM (NJ only) |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | (215) 402-2007 |
Location | 8040 Roosevelt Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19152 |
Propel America
The Propel America Medical Assistant Program offers an 8-month tuition-free pathway to begin a healthcare career. Participants complete 700 hours of online asynchronous classes, in-person labs, and a 160-hour externship, earning 30 college credits and hands-on experience. Graduates receive career coaching and guaranteed interviews with employer partners like Penn Medicine.
The program is designed for young adults aged 18-26 who meet specific eligibility requirements. With flexible online classes and supportive resources like a $1,500 stipend and a free laptop, this program is ideal for those seeking an accessible and career-focused entry into the healthcare field.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Cost | Tuition-Free |
Duration | 8 months |
Program Type | Medical Assistant Certificate |
Class Schedules | Online asynchronous with in-person labs |
Online Classes? | Yes |
Phone | Not specified |
Location | Philadelphia, PA |
What Types of Medical Assistant Programs Are Offered in Philly?
Philadelphia is home to many schools offering medical assistant training, so you’ve got options! Here are some of the most common program types:
Certificate and Diploma Programs
These are perfect for getting into the field quickly. They typically take 6 to 12 months to complete and focus on the skills you’ll need right away, like taking vital signs, performing injections, and handling medical records.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree
If you’re looking for something more advanced, an AAS degree might be your path. These two-year programs combine medical assistant training with general education courses, opening the door to future career growth.
Accelerated Programs
Want to start working as fast as possible? Some schools offer fast-track options that can get you certified in just a few months.

Can You Work While Attending School?
Yes! Many programs in Philadelphia are designed for people who are juggling work, family, or other commitments. Here’s what to look for:

Evening or Weekend Classes
Great for people who work during the day.

Online and Hybrid Learning
A mix of online coursework and in-person clinical training gives you flexibility while still getting hands-on experience.

Evening or Weekend Classes
Great for people who work during the day.
Hands-On Experience: A Key Part of Training
Every good medical assistant program includes clinical training. In Philadelphia, you’ll get real-world experience at local healthcare facilities, like clinics, hospitals, or doctor’s offices. During this time, you’ll practice skills like:
- Taking vital signs
- Drawing blood and performing EKGs
- Assisting with patient exams and minor procedures
- Managing medical records and handling administrative tasks
These externships are not just about learning; they’re also a great way to network and even land a job!
Career Support You Can Count On
Many schools in Philadelphia offer career services to help you hit the ground running after graduation. Look for programs that include:
- Job Placement Assistance: Some schools have connections with local employers to help you find work quickly.
- Resume and Interview Coaching: Learn how to stand out to potential employers.
- Certifications: Programs often prepare you for certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), which can boost your career prospects.

Affordable and Cost-Effective Training Options
Worried about the cost? Don’t be. Philly has several options to make medical assistant training affordable:
- Scholarships and Grants: Many schools offer financial aid to eligible students.
- Workforce Development Programs: Some organizations provide no-cost training for qualifying individuals, especially those seeking new careers or re-entering the workforce.
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment options can make tuition easier to manage
Why Choose a Medical Assistant Program in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is not just a city rich in history; it’s also a thriving hub for healthcare. The region’s demand for skilled medical assistants is growing, making it a great time to start your training. Plus, with so many schools offering flexible schedules, hands-on training, and career support, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a career in healthcare, Philadelphia has a program for you. Whether you’re looking for a fast-track certificate, a flexible hybrid program, or an AAS degree, there’s something to fit your needs. Explore your options today and start building a career that makes a difference!