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If you want to start a healthcare career without years in medical school, training as a medical assistant is one of the quickest ways to get working. In Maine, there are community colleges, technical schools, and private training centers that can teach you the skills you need - from taking patient vitals to handling medical records. Choosing the right program is the first step.
What Medical Assistants Do
Medical assistants work in doctors' offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They handle both clinical tasks (blood pressure checks, specimen collection, assisting with exams) and administrative tasks (scheduling, billing, patient records).
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects medical assistant jobs to grow faster than average through at least 2032.
In Maine, most employers want candidates with formal training and often prefer graduates from accredited programs.
Maine Requirements for Medical Assistants
Maine does not have a state license for medical assistants, but employers almost always want proof of training. Many also prefer applicants who have passed a national certification exam such as:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through American Medical Technologists
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) through NCCT
To be eligible for these exams, you generally need to complete an accredited program.
Top Medical Assistant Schools in Maine
Here are some of the best options for medical assistant training in Maine. Each offers a program that can prepare you for certification exams.
1. Central Maine Community College - Auburn, ME
- Program: Associate in Applied Science, Medical Assisting
- Length: About 2 years (full-time)
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Notes: Includes both classroom learning and supervised clinical experience.
2. Eastern Maine Community College - Bangor, ME
- Program: Associate Degree in Medical Assisting
- Length: 2 years
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Notes: Prepares graduates for the CMA exam. Offers strong ties to local healthcare providers.
3. Kennebec Valley Community College - Fairfield, ME
- Program: Associate in Applied Science, Medical Assisting
- Length: 2 years
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Notes: Provides hands-on training with modern lab and medical office equipment.
4. Washington County Community College - Calais, ME
- Program: Associate Degree in Medical Assisting
- Length: 2 years
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Notes: Smaller class sizes offer more personalized guidance.
5. Beal University - Bangor, ME
- Program: Diploma and Associate in Medical Assisting
- Length: Diploma in under 1 year; Associate in 18-24 months
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Notes: Offers flexible scheduling for working adults.
Comparison Table of Program Lengths
| School | Degree/Diploma | Approx. Length |
| Central Maine Community College | Associate in Applied Science | 2 years |
| Eastern Maine Community College | Associate Degree | 2 years |
| Kennebec Valley Community College | Associate in Applied Science | 2 years |
| Washington County Community College | Associate Degree | 2 years |
| Beal University | Diploma / Associate Degree | 9-24 months |
How to Choose the Right Program
When you compare schools, look at:
- Accreditation - CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation helps with certification eligibility.
- Program Length - Decide if you want a diploma (faster) or an associate degree (more comprehensive).
- Externship Opportunities - Hands-on clinical hours are key for real-world experience.
- Scheduling - Check for evening or weekend classes if you need flexibility.
- Certification Prep - Make sure the program aligns with the CMA, RMA, or NCMA exam content.
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Maine
- Research and select an accredited program that fits your schedule and career goals.
- Complete all coursework and clinical requirements - this usually takes 9 months to 2 years.
- Apply for a national certification exam such as the CMA through the AAMA.
- Pass the certification exam to improve your job prospects.
- Apply for jobs in doctors' offices, clinics, and hospitals.
While Maine does not require state licensure, certification is often the deciding factor for employers when choosing between two candidates with similar experience.
Why Accreditation Matters
Graduating from an accredited program means:
- You're eligible to sit for national certification exams.
- Employers can be confident in the quality of your training.
- You'll have completed the necessary clinical hours and competencies.
Both CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) and ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools) are recognized accrediting bodies for medical assistant programs.
Next Steps
If you want to start your career as a medical assistant in Maine, the best step you can take now is to contact the admissions offices of the schools listed above. Ask about:
- Program start dates
- Admission requirements
- Tuition and financial aid options
- Externship placement sites
By choosing a program that's accredited and fits your schedule, you can be ready to enter the healthcare field in as little as nine months.
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