Best Medical Assistant Schools in North Dakota

If you want to start a healthcare career without spending years in school, medical assisting is a strong option. North Dakota has solid training programs that can get you job-ready in about a year. Here's how to choose the right school and start your training.

What a Medical Assistant Does

Medical assistants work in clinics, hospitals, and doctor's offices. They help with patient care and handle basic office tasks. Duties can include:

• Taking vital signs
• Preparing patients for exams
• Updating medical records
• Scheduling appointments
• Assisting with minor procedures

The role combines clinical skills with administrative work. You'll interact with patients daily, so communication and organization are important.

North Dakota Training Requirements

North Dakota does not require state licensure for medical assistants. Employers hire based on training and certification. Most clinics prefer graduates from an accredited program.

Tip: Completing a program accredited by CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) or ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools) will make you more competitive.

Most candidates also earn a national certification such as:

• CMA - Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA)
• RMA - Registered Medical Assistant (AMT)
• CCMA - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (NHA)

Each certification requires passing an exam after completing an approved training program.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in North Dakota

Below are some of the top programs in the state. All offer hands-on training, classroom work, and externships.

1. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) - Wahpeton

• Program Type: Diploma and AAS degree
• Length: Diploma about 1 year; AAS about 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Highlights: Strong externship partnerships with local hospitals and clinics. Option to continue for an associate degree.
• Website: https://www.ndscs.edu

2. Dakota College at Bottineau

• Program Type: AAS degree
• Length: 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Highlights: Offers small class sizes and online learning support. Includes clinical rotations in community healthcare settings.
• Website: https://www.dakotacollege.edu

3. Bismarck State College

• Program Type: Diploma and associate options
• Length: Diploma typically 1 year
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Highlights: Flexible scheduling, including some online courses. Clinical practice with regional medical providers.
• Website: https://bismarckstate.edu

4. Lake Region State College - Devils Lake

• Program Type: Certificate and AAS
• Length: Certificate in 1 year; AAS in 2 years
• Accreditation: CAAHEP
• Highlights: Well-rounded program covering both administrative and clinical tasks. Strong career services support.
• Website: https://www.lrsc.edu

Program Length and Format

Here's a quick comparison of common timelines:

Some schools offer online or hybrid courses, but clinical skills must be completed in person at partnered healthcare facilities.

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in North Dakota

1. Choose an accredited program - Look for CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation.
2. Complete your training - This includes coursework and supervised clinical practice.
3. Apply for certification - CMA, RMA, or CCMA are common in the state.
4. Start job applications - Target clinics, hospitals, and specialty practices.
5. Maintain your certification - Most require continuing education and renewal.

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing schools, pay attention to:

• Accreditation - This is a must for most certifications.
• Clinical Experience Hours - Hands-on training is critical.
• Program Costs and Financial Aid - Check for scholarships or payment plans.
• Job Placement Assistance - Some schools have strong employer networks.
• Location and Schedule - Consider commute time and class flexibility.

Work Settings for Medical Assistants in North Dakota

While most medical assistants work in ambulatory care (doctor's offices, outpatient clinics), there are also opportunities in:

• Hospital outpatient departments
• Chiropractic clinics
• Urgent care centers
• Specialty practices (orthopedics, cardiology, pediatrics)

Certification Renewal and Continuing Education

Certification bodies require renewal every few years. This usually involves continuing education units (CEUs). Some North Dakota employers will cover the cost of this training if it's job-related.

Rule Reminder: If you plan to work with specialized equipment or in certain procedures, OSHA safety training may be required.

Summary and Next Steps

Getting trained as a medical assistant in North Dakota can take as little as one year. Start by picking an accredited program, complete your coursework and clinical hours, then earn a national certification. With growing demand in healthcare, you can step into a steady role and keep building skills.

Here's what to do next:

• Review the schools listed above
• Contact admissions to confirm start dates and costs
• Ask about clinical training sites and job placement rates
• Plan for certification after graduation

Once you find the right program, you can be on your way to working in healthcare and making a difference in your community.

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