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If you want to become a medical assistant in Tennessee, choosing the right school is the most important first step. You'll want a program that's accredited, offers the right mix of classroom and hands-on training, and prepares you for certification. The good news is that Tennessee has several strong options-from technical colleges to community colleges-spread across the state.
Why Accreditation Matters
Medical assistants in Tennessee are not licensed by the state, but most employers want certification from a nationally recognized organization. To sit for exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the AAMA or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from AMT, you'll need to graduate from an accredited program.
The two main accrediting agencies for medical assistant programs are the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Accredited programs also make it easier to transfer credits, qualify for financial aid, and ensure you're getting current, industry-standard training.
Top Medical Assistant Schools in Tennessee
Below is a list of respected programs in the state that meet accreditation standards and offer comprehensive training.
1. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)
- Campuses: Multiple across the state including Nashville, Murfreesboro, Memphis, and Knoxville
- Program Length: Typically 12 months full-time
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Strong hands-on training, scheduled clinical rotations, and high job placement rates.
2. Chattanooga State Community College
- Location: Chattanooga
- Degree/Certificate: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting or Diploma option
- Program Length: 12 months for diploma, 24 months for AAS
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Offers both diploma and associate paths, providing flexibility for career growth.
3. Volunteer State Community College
- Location: Gallatin, TN plus satellite campuses
- Degree/Certificate: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: 24 months
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Combines general education and medical assisting courses for well-rounded training.
4. Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Location: Memphis
- Degree/Certificate: Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: 2 years
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Strong connections with Memphis healthcare employers for externships and job placement.
5. Miller-Motte College - Chattanooga
- Location: Chattanooga
- Degree/Certificate: Diploma in Medical Assisting
- Program Length: Typically 15-18 months
- Accreditation: ABHES
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling options and career service support after graduation.
Comparing Medical Assistant School Options
Here's a quick comparison to help you see which school fits your timeline and goals.
| School | Location(s) | Length | Accreditation | Degree/Diploma |
| TCAT | Multiple | ~12 months | CAAHEP | Diploma |
| Chattanooga State CC | Chattanooga | 1-2 years | CAAHEP | Diploma/AAS |
| Volunteer State CC | Gallatin / Satellite | 2 years | CAAHEP | AAS |
| Southwest TN CC | Memphis | 2 years | CAAHEP | AAS |
| Miller-Motte College | Chattanooga | 15-18 months | ABHES | Diploma |
What You'll Learn in a Medical Assistant Program
Most accredited programs in Tennessee will include:
- Anatomy and physiology basics
- Medical terminology
- Clinical procedures (taking vitals, assisting with exams)
- Administrative skills (scheduling, billing, insurance processing)
- Laboratory procedures (phlebotomy, specimen handling)
- Externship/clinical practicum at a real healthcare facility
This mix prepares you for both front-office administrative tasks and back-office clinical duties.
Steps to Becoming a Medical Assistant in Tennessee
- Choose an accredited program - pick one that fits your location, schedule, and career plans.
- Complete your training - full-time students can finish in 9-12 months for a diploma, or 2 years for an associate degree.
- Apply for national certification - such as CMA or RMA, which can make you more competitive in the job market.
- Start applying for jobs in clinics, hospitals, doctors' offices, and other healthcare settings.
While Tennessee does not require medical assistants to be certified, most employers strongly prefer it.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
- Look at accreditation to ensure eligibility for certification.
- Check class schedules and whether night or online options are available.
- Ask about externships-hands-on experience is key.
- Compare costs and explore financial aid options.
- Review job placement rates for graduates.
The Job Market for Medical Assistants in Tennessee
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assisting is a fast-growing occupation with strong demand expected across the United States for years to come. Growth is driven by an aging population and more clinics offering outpatient services.
This means that finishing a program and earning your certification can quickly lead to steady work.
Final Thoughts
If you're ready to start a career in healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a medical assistant is one of the fastest ways to get there. Tennessee has many community colleges, technical colleges, and private schools with accredited programs to choose from.
Here's what to do next:
- Shortlist schools from the table above based on your location.
- Contact admissions offices to get program start dates and application requirements.
- Ask about tuition, financial aid, and externship opportunities.
Getting the right training now can put you in a stable, in-demand healthcare career within a year or two.
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