Medical Assistant Certification Requirements
| Update: September 5th, 2025
Ever walked into a doctor’s office and wondered who’s behind the scenes making sure everything runs like clockwork? That’s the work of medical assistants, the multitasking pros who handle everything from patient histories and vitals to coordinating between doctors and patients. If you’re thinking about healthcare programs and how to become a medical assistant, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to get started.
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant
1. Complete a Medical Assistant Program
If you’ve been asking yourself, “How fast can I become a medical assistant?” the answer might be faster than you think. At UEI College, our medical assistant program can be completed in as little as ten months, giving you a direct path into the healthcare field. This program is designed to move quickly and prepare you for the real world, and UEI’s hybrid model makes things even more flexible.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. This trend reflects the growing demand for healthcare support roles across the country. By the time you get your diploma from UEI, you’ll be eligible to sit for certification exams like the CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) or RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) to help you stand out from the competition.
2. Choose a Certification Path
If you decide to become certified in medical assisting, there are several options for you to follow. Getting certified isn’t required but comes highly recommended. The certificate aims to enhance your current career and sticks to the core topics within the medical field, such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and understanding lab procedures.
An associate’s degree usually takes two years and provides a more comprehensive training program. It will enable you to undertake and understand science and math, as well as specific medical topics.
3. Pass the Certification Exam
Once you’ve completed your medical assistant program requirements, it’s time to prove your knowledge by passing a certification exam. These exams cover a variety of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care procedures. Passing the exam certifies that you have the expertise needed to perform the duties of a medical assistant effectively.
Certification is not required for employment (it is required only in Tacoma).
4. Apply for Medical Assistant Jobs
Now you’re ready to start applying for positions in hospitals, clinics, and private medical offices. Certification helps you stand out in the competitive healthcare job market, opening doors to exciting career opportunities.
Why Certification is a Smart Move
- Better job opportunities
- Stronger skillset
- Faster track into healthcare
- Meaningful and fulfilling work
FAQ
Each agency will have its own specific requirements. Typically though, as long as you’ve graduated from an accredited school in medical assisting, you may be eligible to take the exam. If you have been out of school for a while, there are additional requirements that may require verification of employment. Therefore, it is recommended to take the exam fresh out of school.
To get started, find a UEI campus near you
If you’re excited to take the next step and jumpstart your career in healthcare, UEI College can help you get there. Enroll in a Medical Assistant Training Program, and in as little as 10 months, you’ll be ready to make a difference in the medical field.
