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If you want to become a medical assistant in Nevada, the first step is finding the right school. Choosing an accredited, reputable program matters because employers look for candidates with solid training and the right certifications.
Here's what you need to know about training requirements and some of the best programs available in Nevada.
Why Accreditation Matters
A good medical assistant program should be accredited by CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) or ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and prepares you for national certification exams.
Some employers will only hire medical assistants who completed an accredited program.
Nevada does not require state licensure for medical assistants, but most employers prefer - and some require - national certification.
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Nevada
- Graduate high school or earn a GED - This is the minimum requirement to enter most programs.
- Choose an accredited medical assistant program - Often completed in 9-12 months for a diploma or up to 2 years for an associate degree.
- Complete classroom and clinical training - Includes anatomy, medical terminology, patient care, and administrative procedures.
- Earn national certification - Many graduates take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam.
- Apply for jobs in clinics, hospitals, or medical offices - Your school's career services can often help place you.
Top Accredited Medical Assistant Schools in Nevada
Below are some of the most recognized and accredited training options in the state. Always confirm program details directly with the school.
1. College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
- Location: Las Vegas
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Program Type: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Combines general education with medical assisting courses. Includes a clinical externship in local healthcare facilities.
Learn more at CSN's website
2. Pima Medical Institute - Las Vegas
- Location: Las Vegas
- Accreditation: ABHES
- Program Type: Certificate/Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Career-focused training with hands-on lab work and externship. Known for quick program completion time.
Visit Pima Medical Institute
3. Carrington College - Reno and Las Vegas
- Location: Reno & Las Vegas
- Accreditation: ABHES
- Program Type: Certificate in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and externship placements with local clinics.
Visit Carrington College
4. Nevada Career Institute
- Location: Las Vegas
- Accreditation: ABHES
- Program Type: Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Emphasis on both administrative and clinical duties. Offers career support after graduation.
Visit Nevada Career Institute
5. Great Basin College
- Location: Elko (offers some online coursework)
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Program Type: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Highlights: Affordable tuition and options for students in rural areas.
Learn more at Great Basin College
Training Program Lengths
Here's a quick look at how long each type of medical assistant program takes in Nevada.
| Program Type | Duration | Notes |
| Certificate/Diploma | 9-12 months | Focuses on core medical assistant skills |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | Includes general education courses |
National Certification Options
Most medical assistants in Nevada pursue one of these credentials:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) - Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) - Offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT).
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) - Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
While certification is optional in Nevada, it can make you more competitive.
Tip: Take the certification exam within a few months of finishing school while the material is still fresh.
What to Look for When Choosing a Program
When reviewing medical assistant schools in Nevada, keep these points in mind:
- Accreditation - Look for CAAHEP or ABHES approval.
- Externship opportunities - Hands-on experience is a must.
- Graduate success rates - Ask about certification exam pass rates.
- Job placement support - Strong career services can help you get hired faster.
- Class schedule flexibility - Evening or weekend options help if you're working.
Working as a Medical Assistant in Nevada
Medical assistants work in doctors' offices, hospitals, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities. Your duties will likely include:
- Checking vital signs
- Updating patient records
- Assisting with exams
- Preparing lab samples
- Scheduling appointments
- Managing billing and insurance forms
Most positions are full-time. Some clinics offer predictable schedules, while hospitals may require evenings, weekends, or holidays.
Summary and Next Steps
If you plan to work as a medical assistant in Nevada, start by choosing an accredited school that offers both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Consider your preferred location, schedule, and whether you want a shorter diploma or a longer associate degree.
Here's your action plan:
- Make a shortlist of schools from the list above.
- Verify their accreditation and program start dates.
- Ask about tuition, financial aid, and externship sites.
- Enroll and complete the required training.
- Sit for a national certification exam to boost your job prospects.
Starting with the right education will give you the skills and confidence you need to succeed in the healthcare field.
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