Best Medical Assistant Schools in Nevada

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

  1. Graduate high school or earn a GED - This is the minimum requirement to enter most programs.
  2. Choose an accredited medical assistant program - Often completed in 9-12 months for a diploma or up to 2 years for an associate degree.
  3. Complete classroom and clinical training - Includes anatomy, medical terminology, patient care, and administrative procedures.
  4. Earn national certification - Many graduates take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam.
  5. 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

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV College of Southern Nevada is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Nevada Career Institute

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV Nevada Career Institute is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician.

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#3

Great Basin College

Elko, NV In-state option

Located in Elko, NV Great Basin College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Accounting Technology, and Bookkeeper.

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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Training program lengths

Here’s a quick look at how long each type of medical assistant program takes in Nevada.

Program TypeDurationNotes
Certificate/Diploma9-12 monthsFocuses on core medical assistant skills
Associate Degree18-24 monthsIncludes 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.
  • career services Strong career services can may support your job search.
  • 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:

  1. Make a shortlist of schools from the list above.
  2. Verify their accreditation and program start dates.
  3. Ask about tuition, payment options, and externship sites.
  4. Enroll and complete the required training.
  5. 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.