How Much Does It Cost to Become a Medical Assistant?
Apr 18, 2025
Becoming a medical assistant offers a fast and affordable path into the healthcare field. Depending on the program type and institution, the issue of how much does it cost to become a certified medical assistant can vary significantly.
This guide breaks down the typical expenses and things medical assistants should know associated with medical assistant training, helping you choose the best option for your budget and career goals.
Breakdown cost to become a medical assistant
When choosing a program, consider factors like program length, cost, and how well it aligns with your career goals.
Becoming a medical assistant is an accessible and cost-effective entry into the healthcare field.
Depending on the program type and institution, training expenses can range from as low as $2,000 to over $36,000.
Certificate programs
Medical assistant certification programs are often the most affordable and quickest path to becoming a medical assistant. The medical assistant certification costs between $1,500 and $10,000 and can be completed in less than a year.
For instance, the Florida Health Care Academy (FHCA) offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program priced at $6,550. This program provides flexible scheduling options: a 12-week Monday through Friday schedule or a 24-week Saturday-only schedule.
Factors influencing the cost of medical assistant programs
How much is medical assistant school? The cost of becoming a medical assistant varies widely, influenced by factors such as program length, credential type, institution, and delivery format.
Tuition can range from as low as $1,500 for basic certificate programs to over $36,000 for comprehensive associate degree programs. Understanding the top medical assistant specialties is crucial for selecting a program that aligns with your budget and career aspirations.
Type of credential
The credential you pursue significantly impacts the cost:
- Certificate Programs: Typically the most affordable and quickest route, these programs can range from $1,500 to $10,000 and often take less than a year to complete.
- Diploma Programs: Offering more comprehensive training, diploma programs usually cost between $11,000 and $24,300 and take about a year to finish.
- Associate Degree Programs: These two-year programs provide in-depth education and can cost anywhere from $6,600 to $36,500, depending on the institution.
Institution type
The type of educational institution also affects program costs:
- Community Colleges: Often more affordable, with in-state tuition for certificate programs ranging from $1,500 to $10,000.
- Trade Schools: Designed for quick entry into the workforce, these programs can vary in cost but generally fall within the $11,000 to $24,300 range.
- Private Colleges and Universities: These institutions may offer more comprehensive programs with additional resources, leading to higher tuition fees.
Delivery format
The format in which the program is delivered can influence both cost and flexibility:
- Online Programs: Often more affordable and flexible, online programs typically cost between $1,500 and $5,000 and can be completed in under a year.
- In-Person Programs: These may have higher costs due to facility usage and on-site resources but offer hands-on experience.
- Hybrid Programs: Combining online coursework with in-person labs, hybrid programs offer a balance between flexibility and practical experience.
Additional expenses to consider
When planning to become a medical assistant in Florida, it's important to consider additional expenses beyond tuition. These costs can include certification renewal fees and continuing education requirements, which are essential for maintaining your credentials and staying current in the field.
- NHA Certification: Renewal is required every two years, with a fee of approximately $179. If your certification has been expired for less than one year, you must complete 15 continuing education credits and pay additional fees totaling $376.50.
- AAMA Certification: Recertification is required every 60 months, either by completing 60 continuing education units (CEUs) or by passing the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam. The recertification fee is $80 for AAMA members and $160 for nonmembers.
License renewal
In Florida, medical assistants are not licensed by the state; however, many choose to obtain national certification through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). These certifications require periodic renewal, which involves fees and continuing education.
Continuing education requirements
The question of how much is a medical assistant program in Florida requires ongoing education to stay current with industry standards and fulfill renewal requirements. Certifying bodies like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) mandate continuing education units (CEUs) every two to five years, depending on the organization.
For a convenient and cost-effective solution, consider the Florida Health Care Academy (FHCA)'s Medical Assistant CEU bundle. Priced at $150, this program offers 30 credit hours covering essential topics such as Alzheimer's Disease, Domestic Violence, OSHA, HIV, and Infection Control. The bundle is designed to meet Florida's continuing education requirements and can be completed online at your own pace.
