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Best Medical Assistant Schools in Florida
If you want to become a medical assistant in Florida, the quickest path is to choose an accredited school that prepares you for national certification. Picking the right program matters. It can impact your training quality, job readiness, and certification chances.
In Florida, many trade and vocational schools offer medical assisting programs. Some focus on clinical skills, others add front-office training. Your goal is to find a program that meets accreditation standards, fits your schedule, and helps you qualify for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exams.
How to choose a medical assistant program in florida
When comparing schools, look at:
Accreditation: Programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES meet national standards and allow you to sit for certification exams.
Length of training: Most programs take 9-12 months for a diploma or 18-24 months for an associate degree.
Hands-on training: Clinical externships in medical offices or clinics are crucial for real-world skills.
Exam preparation: A good program will prepare you for CMA or RMA certification.
Class schedules: Some schools offer day, evening, and online hybrid options.
Florida does not require medical assistants to be licensed, but most employers in the state prefer candidates who hold a recognized national certification.
Top accredited Medical assistant schools in Florida
Below is a selection of well-regarded Florida schools with medical assistant programs approved by national accrediting bodies. Contact each school to confirm start dates, tuition, and externship locations.
#1
Fortis College
📍
Mobile, AL
•In-state option
Located in Mobile, AL Fortis College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, and Paramedic.
Located in Pensacola, FL Pensacola State College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Barbering, Beauty Cosmetology, and Accounting Technology. The campus serves roughly 6,725 learners.
Located in Ormond Beach, FL Daytona College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Barbering, Beauty Cosmetology, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Tip: Diploma programs get you into the workforce faster, but an associate degree can provide more career flexibility in the long run.
Certification path after graduation
After completing an accredited program, you can apply for national certification. The two most recognized options are:
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Eligibility: Graduate from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program.
Exam: Multiple-choice covering clinical and administrative topics.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) - offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT).
Eligibility: Graduate from an accredited medical assisting program.
Exam: Tests both clinical procedures and office administration.
Renewal requirements: Both CMA and RMA certifications require continuing education credits to maintain active status.
Steps to start your Medical assistant career in Florida
Research schools - Focus on CAAHEP or ABHES-accredited programs.
Compare program lengths - Decide between a quick diploma or a longer associate degree.
Apply and enroll - Check each school’s admission requirements.
Complete externship - Gain hands-on clinical experience before graduation.
Take your certification exam - CMA or RMA, depending on your program and career goals.
Apply for jobs - Look for openings in clinics, hospitals, and physician offices.
Why accreditation in Florida matters
Attending a non-accredited program can limit your job options. Many Florida employers will not consider graduates who cannot take the CMA or RMA exam. Accreditation also ensures the program meets minimum standards in:
Anatomy and physiology
Medical law and ethics
Clinical procedures
Laboratory techniques
Administrative office work
Final thoughts and next steps
Becoming a medical assistant in Florida can be a fast track into healthcare. Start by picking a program from an accredited school. Verify it includes an externship and prepares you for the CMA or RMA exam. If you commit to the training and certification, you can build practical skills in about a year.
Here’s what to do next:
Make a shortlist of two or three accredited schools in Florida that match your location and schedule. Contact their admissions departments today to confirm tuition, start dates, and application steps. The sooner you begin, the sooner you can start your medical assistant career.
