Best Medical Assistant Schools in Hawaii

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to start a career in healthcare that doesn't require years of schooling, becoming a medical assistant is a smart choice. In Hawaii, many trade schools and community colleges offer programs that can prepare you for this role in a year or less.

A good medical assistant program will teach you clinical skills, administrative work, and in some cases prepare you for certification. Picking the right school is the first step.

What a Medical Assistant Does

Medical assistants support doctors and nurses by handling both patient care and office duties. Depending on where you work, tasks can include:

  • Checking vital signs
  • Preparing patients for exams
  • Taking medical histories
  • Assisting with minor procedures
  • Managing patient records
  • Scheduling appointments

In Hawaii, employers expect you to have formal training before hire. While certification is not required by state law, many clinics prefer or require it.

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing Hawaii medical assistant schools, look for:

  1. Accreditation - Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) meet national standards.
  2. Certification Exam Prep - Many employers look for graduates who passed exams like the CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT).
  3. Clinical Experience - Check that the program includes an externship in a local clinic or hospital.
  4. Program Length - Certificate programs run 9-12 months. An associate degree can take about 2 years.
  5. Location and Schedule - Some schools offer evening or hybrid classes, which is helpful if you work during the day.

Note: The Hawaii State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs regulates some aspects of healthcare worker training. Always confirm your program meets state and employer expectations.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in Hawaii

Here are some of the most reputable training options in the state:

1. Kapiʻolani Community College - Honolulu

  • Program Type: Certificate of Achievement in Medical Assisting
  • Length: 12 months (includes summer term)
  • Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
  • Highlights: Strong focus on clinical skills with hospital partnerships for externships.

2. Hawaii Medical College - Honolulu

  • Program Type: Diploma in Clinical Medical Assisting
  • Length: 9 months (day) or 15 months (evening)
  • Accreditation: ABHES accredited
  • Highlights: Flexible scheduling, job placement assistance, and career services support.

3. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College - Kahului

  • Program Type: Certificate of Competence and Certificate of Achievement
  • Length: 1-2 semesters for basic certificate; additional terms for advanced
  • Accreditation: Accredited community college
  • Highlights: Offers stackable credentials to build on your training.

4. Windward Community College - Kāneʻohe

  • Program Type: Non-credit Medical Assistant Training Program
  • Length: About 6-9 months
  • Highlights: Designed for quick entry into the medical assistant field and includes job readiness training.

5. Leeward Community College - Pearl City

  • Program Type: Limited healthcare vocational training, including medical assisting modules
  • Length: Varies
  • Highlights: Good option if you're exploring healthcare before committing to a full program.

Comparison Table: Hawaii Medical Assistant Programs

School Program Type Length Accreditation Clinical Externship
Kapiʻolani Community College Certificate 12 months CAAHEP Yes
Hawaii Medical College Diploma 9-15 months ABHES Yes
UH Maui College Certificate 1-2 semesters Yes (college accredited) Yes
Windward CC Non-credit 6-9 months N/A Yes
Leeward CC Vocational modules Varies Yes (college accredited) Possibly

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Hawaii

  1. Complete Accredited Training
    Choose a program that includes both classroom lessons and hands-on experience.

  2. Consider Certification
    Take a national exam such as the CMA or RMA. While not required, it increases your job options.

  3. Apply for Jobs
    Clinics, hospitals, and private practices all hire medical assistants.

  4. Keep Skills Current
    If you earn certification, renew it regularly and stay updated on healthcare changes.

Tip: Many Hawaii employers prefer candidates with CPR certification in addition to medical assisting training.

Why Accreditation Matters

Graduating from an accredited program ensures your training meets industry standards. It also makes you eligible for national certification exams.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 1, medical assistants with formal training and certification generally have more job opportunities.

Next Steps

If you're ready to move forward, make a shortlist of schools near you, contact their admissions offices, and ask about:

  • Start dates
  • Tuition and fees
  • Financial aid options
  • Externship locations

Choosing the right program is about fit. Look for one that offers the schedule, training style, and support you need. Once you complete your training, you can start working in a field that offers stability and the chance to help others every day.

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Assistants ↩

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