Best Medical Assistant Schools in Maryland

If you want to start a career in healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a medical assistant is one of the fastest ways in. In Maryland, many accredited programs can train you in less than two years. You'll learn both the clinical and administrative skills needed to work in doctor's offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

Here's what you should know about the best medical assistant schools in Maryland, the training requirements, and steps to get started.

What Medical Assistants Do in Maryland

Medical assistants in Maryland work alongside doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff. You'll handle both patient care and office duties. Some of your daily tasks may include:

• Taking patient histories
• Measuring vital signs
• Preparing exam rooms
• Assisting with minor procedures
• Scheduling appointments
• Managing medical records

In Maryland, medical assistants are not licensed by the state but are expected to work under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Training Requirements in Maryland

Maryland does not require a license for medical assistants. However, most employers prefer applicants who have completed an accredited training program and passed a national certification exam.

Common certifications include:

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - from the American Association of Medical Assistants
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) - from American Medical Technologists
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) - from the National Healthcareer Association

Completing a formal program also makes it easier to find work quickly.

Top Medical Assistant Schools in Maryland

The schools below are either accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or are regionally accredited institutions.

1. Anne Arundel Community College - Arnold, MD

• Offers a Certificate and Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting.
• CAAHEP-accredited.
• Includes a supervised externship in healthcare facilities.
• Flexible scheduling with day and evening options.

2. Community College of Baltimore County - Baltimore, MD

• Offers an Associate Degree and Certificate in Medical Assisting.
• Hands-on clinical experience in local hospitals and clinics.
• Prepares students for national certification exams.

3. Chesapeake College - Wye Mills, MD

• Offers a CAAHEP-accredited Medical Assisting Certificate.
• Focuses on both administrative and clinical procedures.
• Includes a 160-hour clinical practicum.

4. Fortis College - Landover and Towson, MD

• ABHES-accredited.
• Diploma program designed for entry-level positions.
• Includes lab training and a real-world externship.

5. Howard Community College - Columbia, MD

• Offers a Medical Assisting Letter of Recognition and Certificate program.
• CAAHEP-accredited.
• Emphasizes electronic health record management and patient interaction.

6. Montgomery College - Takoma Park/Silver Spring, MD

• CAAHEP-accredited Associate of Applied Science degree.
• Strong focus on clinical training and the use of modern healthcare technology.
• Full-time and part-time study options.

Comparing Program Length and Format

Here is a quick comparison of typical training timelines:

Tip: If you want to enter the workforce quickly, a certificate or diploma program works best. If you want more advancement potential, an associate degree may be worth the extra time.

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Maryland

1. Choose an Accredited Program
   Look for schools approved by CAAHEP or ABHES.

2. Complete Required Coursework
   Expect classes in anatomy, medical terminology, clinical skills, and office procedures.

3. Complete a Clinical Externship
   This gives you supervised hands-on experience.

4. Pass a National Certification Exam
   Certification such as CMA, RMA, or CCMA is recommended for better job prospects.

5. Apply for Jobs
   Search healthcare facilities, private practices, and outpatient centers.

How to Choose the Right School

When comparing Maryland medical assistant schools, consider:

• Accreditation - Ensure program meets national standards.
• Location - Is it close enough for your commute?
• Cost and Financial Aid - Check for scholarships or payment plans.
• Class Schedules - Are there evening or weekend options?
• Externship Opportunities - Partnered healthcare sites can help you get hired.

Maryland-Specific Employment Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant jobs are growing faster than average across the country¹. In Maryland, healthcare demand is strong due to population growth and expanded outpatient services.

Employers here range from small private practices to large hospital systems, so opportunities vary in setting and schedule.

Final Advice

If you live in Maryland and want to start a healthcare career fast, medical assisting is a solid choice. Pick an accredited program, complete your externship, and earn certification. This will give you the skills and credibility employers want.

Here's what you should do next:

1. Make a shortlist of schools from this guide.
2. Visit each campus or attend an information session.
3. Ask about externship sites and job placement rates.
4. Apply to the programs that fit your needs best.

Starting the process now can put you in your first medical assistant job in as little as a year.

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