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If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in college, becoming a medical assistant is one of the fastest ways to get started. In Missouri, you can complete your training in about a year and step right into a job helping doctors and patients. The key is choosing the right school.
This guide lists the best medical assistant programs in Missouri, what to look for in a school, and the steps you’ll need to take to get certified.
Medical assistants work in doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals. They perform both administrative and clinical tasks.
Typical duties include:
Missouri does not require medical assistants to be licensed, but most employers prefer graduates of an accredited training program who have earned a professional certification.
Not all programs are the same. Here’s what to consider before enrolling:
Accreditation Look for schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This ensures you’ll be eligible for national certification exams.
Program Length Most Missouri medical assistant certificate programs run 8-12 months. Associate degrees usually take 18-24 months.
Hands-On Training Choose a program with a built-in externship so you get real-world experience.
Certification Preparation Confirm that the curriculum covers material for exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
career services Some schools have strong relationships with local healthcare employers, which can may support your job search.
Here are some respected options based on accreditation, program quality, and student support:
Ozarks Technical Community College is a Public, 4-year in Springfield, MO. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MO.
State Fair Community College is a Public, 2-year in Sedalia, MO serving about 2,475 students and accredited by Higher Learning Commission. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MO.
Follow these steps to get started:
Missouri does not require a license for medical assistants, but certification makes you a stronger job candidate and may be necessary for certain employers.
Once you graduate, you can choose from a few national certifications. The most recognized include:
Each has its own eligibility requirements, but all require passing an exam.
Here’s a quick comparison of how long programs typically take in Missouri:
| Credential | Typical Length | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate/Diploma | 8-12 months | Basic theory, lab practice, externship |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | All certificate courses plus general education |
If you want to apply for roles upon completioner, go for a certificate or diploma. If you want more career flexibility, an associate degree may be better.
Getting trained as a medical assistant in Missouri can take about a year if you choose the right certificate or diploma program. Always pick an accredited school, make the most of your externship, and plan to get nationally certified.
Here’s what you should do next:
Your training is the foundation of your medical career. Start with a school that gives you the skills, confidence, and credentials you need.
Learn more about this career, including national salary data and certification paths, in our How to Become a Medical Assistant career guide.
