Best Medical Assistant Schools in Colorado

If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a medical assistant is a smart move. In Colorado, you can complete the training in a year or less and start working in doctors' offices, clinics, or hospitals. The first step is choosing the right medical assistant school.

What to Look for in a Colorado Medical Assistant Program

Before you sign up, check that the program is accredited. In this field, that means looking for approval from:

• Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
• Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)

Accreditation matters because it:

• Ensures your training meets industry standards
• Makes you eligible for national certification exams
• Improves your chances of getting hired

Other things to compare:

• Program length - Most certificate programs run 9-12 months, while associate degrees can take about 2 years
• Class format - On-campus, hybrid, or fully online with in-person labs
• Externship opportunities - Hands-on clinical experience is essential
• Job placement support - Schools with strong employer connections can help you land your first job

Best Medical Assistant Schools in Colorado

Here are some of the top accredited programs in the state.

1. Pima Medical Institute - Denver and Colorado Springs

Pima Medical Institute offers a Medical Assistant Certificate program that can be completed in about 9 months. The curriculum covers both administrative and clinical skills, with extensive lab practice and an externship placement.

Highlights:

• CAAHEP-accredited
• Multiple campus locations
• Strong employer partnerships

2. Concorde Career College - Aurora

Concorde's Medical Assistant diploma program focuses on practical job skills. Students learn everything from patient interaction to lab procedures, and the school offers flexible scheduling for day or evening classes.

Highlights:

• Hands-on training in modern labs
• ABHES-accredited
• Externship included

3. Emily Griffith Technical College - Denver

Emily Griffith is a respected community institution offering an affordable Medical Assisting program. Students benefit from small class sizes and real-world clinical experience at local healthcare facilities.

Highlights:

• Certificate program can be completed in under a year
• State-of-the-art lab environment
• Strong connections to Denver-area employers

4. Front Range Community College - Westminster

FRCC offers both a Medical Assistant Certificate and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The program blends classroom instruction with clinical practice.

Highlights:

• Nationally accredited
• Option to stack credentials toward a degree
• High student success rates

5. Pickens Technical College - Aurora

Pickens offers a Medical Assistant program geared toward both high school and adult students. It prepares graduates for national certification and immediate employment.

Highlights:

• Affordable tuition
• Labs and simulation rooms
• Industry-recognized credentials

Colorado Medical Assistant Training Overview

Most Colorado programs include courses in:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology
• Clinical procedures
• Phlebotomy and EKG
• Administrative duties like scheduling and billing
• Patient communication and safety

Below is a quick comparison of common training paths:

Certification for Medical Assistants in Colorado

Colorado does not require licensure for medical assistants, but most employers prefer or require certification. Completing an accredited program will qualify you to sit for exams such as:

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists
• National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from the National Center for Competency Testing

Note: Always confirm certification requirements with the relevant organization, as rules can change.

Steps to Get Started

1. Research accredited programs in your area or online.
2. Visit campuses or attend virtual info sessions.
3. Ask about externships and job placement rates.
4. Apply for financial aid if needed.
5. Enroll and complete the program.
6. Schedule your national certification exam.

Why Hands-On Training Matters

While online learning can be part of the process, the clinical side of medical assisting requires in-person practice. Lab work and externships let you:

• Develop confidence in patient care skills
• Practice safety and infection control
• Learn the day-to-day flow of a medical office

Choosing the Right School for You

When you compare schools, think about:

• Distance from home
• Class schedules
• Tuition and financial aid options
• Graduate success rates

Make a short list and reach out to admissions advisors. Ask direct questions about accreditation, certification pass rates, and local employer relationships.

Summary and Next Steps

Becoming a medical assistant in Colorado starts with picking the right school. Focus on accredited programs with strong hands-on training and a track record of helping graduates find work. If you're ready to get started, the next step is to contact at least two programs on this list. Schedule a visit, meet instructors, and see the training labs for yourself. That way, you can choose the school that fits your needs and puts you on track to start your healthcare career.

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