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If you want a healthcare career without years of schooling, training as a medical assistant is a solid choice. In South Dakota, you can get the skills and credentials you need in one year or less depending on the program you choose.
The role combines clinical tasks-like taking vital signs and assisting with exams-with administrative work such as scheduling and patient records. Employers value graduates from programs that meet industry standards and prepare you for national certification.
Here's how to get started and where to train in South Dakota.
Know the Requirements for Medical Assistants in South Dakota
South Dakota does not have a state license specifically for medical assistants. Most employers look for graduates from an accredited program, along with a national certification like Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
Note: The CMA credential is issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). You must graduate from an accredited program to take the CMA exam.
Typical steps to qualify:
- Complete a medical assistant diploma or associate degree program.
- Pass a national certification exam (CMA, RMA, NCMA, or CCMA).
- Maintain certification through continuing education.
Best Accredited Medical Assistant Schools in South Dakota
Below are some of the most recognized and trusted options for medical assistant training in the state. All offer programs designed to prepare you for certification and entry-level employment.
1. Southeast Technical College - Sioux Falls
- Program Options: Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: About 1 year
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Hands-on clinical training, externship placement, and preparation for the CMA exam.
2. Lake Area Technical College - Watertown
- Program Options: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: 2 years
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Includes general education courses, strong job placement support, and comprehensive lab work.
3. Western Dakota Technical College - Rapid City
- Program Options: Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: 12 months
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Smaller class sizes, clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities, and job readiness training.
4. National American University - Sioux Falls
- Program Options: Associate Degree in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: 2 years (flexible schedule available)
- Accreditation: ABHES
- Highlights: Online and on-campus learning, supportive faculty, and career services.
Training Program Comparison
| School | Location | Credential | Time to Complete | Accreditation |
| Southeast Technical College | Sioux Falls | Diploma | ~1 year | CAAHEP |
| Lake Area Technical College | Watertown | AAS | 2 years | CAAHEP |
| Western Dakota Technical College | Rapid City | Diploma | 12 months | CAAHEP |
| National American University | Sioux Falls | AAS | 2 years | ABHES |
Skills You Will Learn
Medical assistant programs in South Dakota cover both clinical and administrative areas. Training often includes:
- Taking and recording vital signs
- Assisting with patient exams and minor procedures
- Administering medications as directed by a physician
- EKG and basic lab testing
- Scheduling appointments and managing patient records
- Insurance and billing procedures
Clinical externships are a key part of most programs. They give you real-world experience before applying for jobs.
Certification Options After Graduation
After graduating from an accredited program, you can choose from several certification exams:
- CMA (AAMA): Recognized nationwide, requires CAAHEP or ABHES program completion.
- RMA (AMT): Requires graduation from an approved program or relevant work experience.
- NCMA (NCCT): Flexible eligibility options for graduates from accredited schools.
- CCMA (NHA): Often accepted by employers for entry-level clinical support roles.
Employers may prefer or require one certification over another. Check with local healthcare providers to see what they value most.
How to Choose the Right Medical Assistant School
When comparing programs in South Dakota, keep these points in mind:
- Accreditation: CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation is essential for certification eligibility.
- Program Length: Diploma programs take less time, while associate degrees offer more general education.
- Clinical Experience: A strong externship program increases employability.
- Location and Schedule: Consider commute time and whether evening or online options are available.
- Job Placement Rates: Ask the school for recent graduate employment data.
Steps to Get Started
- Research schools in your preferred area of South Dakota.
- Verify accreditation through CAAHEP (https://www.caahep.org/) or ABHES (https://www.abhes.org/).
- Contact admissions for program start dates, tuition, and financial aid options.
- Apply and enroll in the program that fits your goals.
- Complete coursework and externship.
- Register for your certification exam.
Final Advice
If you want to join the healthcare field quickly, becoming a medical assistant in South Dakota is one of the fastest ways in. Start by choosing an accredited program that offers solid clinical experience and certification preparation.
Here's what to do next:
Make a shortlist of schools from the list above, contact each one about start dates and admission requirements, and apply early. Getting into the right program now means you could be working in a medical office or clinic in a year or less.
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