Best Medical Assistant Schools in Arkansas

If you want to start a career in healthcare without spending four years in school, becoming a medical assistant is one of the fastest paths. In Arkansas, you can train in less than two years at accredited schools that prepare you for certification and entry-level jobs in clinics, hospitals, and doctors' offices.

The most important step is choosing a program that's accredited, trusted by employers, and meets state and national standards.

What Medical Assistants Do

Medical assistants support doctors and nurses by handling both administrative and clinical tasks. That often includes:

• Taking vital signs
• Preparing patients for exams
• Assisting with minor procedures
• Maintaining medical records
• Scheduling appointments

Arkansas does not require medical assistants to be licensed by the state medical board, but most employers prefer or require graduates from CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) or ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools) accredited programs.

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Arkansas

1. Choose an accredited program
   Look for CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation to ensure your training is accepted nationwide.

2. Complete your training
   Most programs take 9 months to 2 years. You'll study anatomy, medical terminology, pharmacology, and lab procedures.

3. Gain clinical experience
   Schools include an externship in a healthcare facility.

4. Sit for a national certification exam
   The most recognized is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants.

5. Apply for jobs
   Clinics, hospitals, and private practices regularly hire trained medical assistants.

Note: While Arkansas does not require certification, having it greatly improves your job prospects.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in Arkansas

These schools are known for accredited training, job placement help, and strong local reputations.

Pulaski Technical College - North Little Rock, AR

• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Program length: 2 years (AAS degree)
• Includes classroom instruction and hands-on lab training, plus a supervised externship.

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Program length: 1 year (Technical Certificate)
• Offers both day and evening classes. Strong connections with local healthcare employers.

Arkansas State University - Newport

• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Program length: 1 year certificate or 2-year associate degree
• Students train in clinical and administrative skills with modern lab facilities.

Black River Technical College - Pocahontas

• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Program length: 3 semesters for Technical Certificate
• Includes externship experience and preparation for national certification exams.

Baptist Health College - Little Rock

• Accreditation: ABHES
• Program length: 10 months diploma program
• Focuses on direct patient care skills with extensive clinical rotations.

Program Length Comparison

What to Look for When Choosing a Program

When comparing Arkansas medical assistant schools, pay attention to:

• Accreditation - Only accredited programs prepare you for CMA exams.
• Program type - Decide if you want an associate degree or a shorter certificate.
• Clinical hours - Look for programs with plenty of hands-on training.
• Scheduling options - Day, evening, or online classes can make a big difference.
• Job placement services - Schools with strong employer ties can help you get hired faster.

Certification Options After Graduation

The two most recognized certifications are:

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) - Offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Both require graduation from an accredited program and passing an exam. Certification shows employers you meet national standards.

Certification exams have eligibility requirements. Always check with the certifying body before applying.

Why Accreditation Matters

Training at a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program ensures you:

• Learn the skills employers expect
• Qualify for most national certification exams
• Can transfer credits if you continue your education

Unaccredited programs may cost less but can limit your job options.

Final Steps to Get Started

Here's what you should do next:

1. Make a list of accredited programs within driving distance or online.
2. Contact admissions offices to ask about tuition, start dates, and clinical requirements.
3. Visit campuses to see labs and meet instructors.
4. Apply early-medical assistant programs often fill fast.

Starting a career as a medical assistant in Arkansas is straightforward if you choose the right school and stick with your training. Within a year or two, you can have the skills, certification, and hands-on experience employers want.

Sources:

[^1] :U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Assistants

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