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If you want to start working in healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a medical assistant is a smart path. In Montana, training programs are available at community colleges, tech schools, and private career schools. You can earn a diploma or certificate in as little as a year, or complete an associate degree for broader skills.
Here's what you need to know about training, certification, and the best options in Montana.
What Medical Assistants Do
Medical assistants help doctors, nurses, and other medical staff with both patient care and office work. You might take vital signs, prepare exam rooms, schedule appointments, or update medical records. The job gives you direct patient contact, but also uses organizational and computer skills.
Most employers want candidates who have completed an accredited medical assistant program and passed a national certification exam.
Montana Medical Assistant Requirements
Montana does not require a license for medical assistants, but most clinics and hospitals look for:
- Completion of a medical assistant program from an accredited school.
- Certification such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
- A clean background check and proof of immunizations.
- CPR and First Aid training.
"In Montana, employers set their own hiring standards for medical assistants. Certification is voluntary by law but often required by the job." - Montana Board of Medical Examiners
How Long Training Takes
Most students complete training in less than two years. Here's a typical breakdown:
| Credential Type | Typical Length | Includes Externship? |
| Certificate/Diploma | 9-12 months | Yes |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | Yes |
A shorter program can get you working faster, while an associate degree may open the door to more responsibility and future career growth.
Best Medical Assistant Schools in Montana
These schools are accredited and have medical assistant programs that prepare students for national certification exams.
1. Flathead Valley Community College - Kalispell
- Program Options: Certificate, AAS in Medical Assistant
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Highlights: Offers small class sizes and strong local healthcare partnerships for externships.
- Visit program page
2. Missoula College - University of Montana
- Program Options: AAS in Medical Assisting
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Highlights: Focus on both administrative and clinical skills. Includes hands-on work in local clinics.
- Visit program page
3. City College at Montana State University Billings
- Program Options: Certificate of Applied Science, AAS
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling and a pathway to further healthcare degrees.
- Visit program page
4. Great Falls College Montana State University
- Program Options: Certificate, AAS
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Highlights: Offers strong job placement support and modern lab facilities.
- Visit program page
5. Helena College University of Montana
- Program Options: AAS in Medical Assisting
- Accreditation: CAAHEP accredited
- Highlights: Emphasis on rural healthcare needs and community clinics.
- Visit program page
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Montana
- Research schools - Look for CAAHEP or ABHES-accredited programs.
- Apply for a program - Complete admissions requirements such as transcripts and placement tests.
- Finish your training - Complete classroom and lab work plus your externship.
- Sit for a national certification exam - Examples include CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT).
- Apply for jobs - Clinics, hospitals, and outpatient care centers are common employers.
Certification Options
The two main national certifications are:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Both require completion of an accredited program and passing an exam.
Why Accreditation Matters
Only graduates from accredited programs can sit for the CMA or RMA exams. Accreditation also means the program meets national standards for curriculum, instructor qualifications, and hands-on training.
Picking the Right Program
When comparing schools, think about:
- Location - Commuting distance or online options.
- Schedule - Day, evening, or hybrid formats.
- Externship sites - Quality and variety of clinical placements.
- Student support - Career services, tutoring, and job placement help.
- Graduation rates - Strong numbers can signal good student outcomes.
Next Steps
If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in training, a medical assistant program in Montana is a practical start. Choose an accredited school, commit to the training, and earn your certification. That way, you'll meet the requirements most employers look for and be ready to step into a stable healthcare role.
Start by contacting at least two schools from the list above. Ask about start dates, tuition, and externship sites. Then, apply to the one that fits your situation best.
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