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If you want to start a healthcare career that doesn't take years of schooling, becoming a medical assistant is a smart option. In Wisconsin, you can get the training you need in less than two years, sometimes in under a year.
Here's what you need to know to choose the right program and meet Wisconsin's requirements.
What a Medical Assistant Does
Medical assistants (MAs) work in clinics, hospitals, and doctors' offices. They support doctors and nurses with patient care and handle important office tasks. A day's work might include:
- Taking vital signs like blood pressure and temperature
- Preparing patients for exams
- Assisting with minor procedures
- Scheduling appointments
- Updating medical records
The role combines clinical work with administrative duties, which makes it versatile and in demand.
Wisconsin Requirements
Wisconsin does not license medical assistants. However, most employers prefer applicants who have:
- Completed an accredited medical assisting program
- Earned a national certification, such as:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Tip: Accredited programs prepare you to sit for certification exams. Many clinics now require this when hiring.
Choosing the Right Medical Assistant School
When comparing programs, look for:
- Accreditation through CAAHEP or ABHES
- Flexible schedules if you plan to work while studying
- Strong clinical externship placements
- Good pass rates for national certification exams
Also, compare program length and training options.
| School Type | Typical Program Length | Includes Externship? |
| Technical College Diploma | 9-12 months | Yes |
| Associate Degree Program | 18-24 months | Yes |
| Certificate Program | 6-12 months | Varies |
Best Accredited Medical Assistant Schools in Wisconsin
Here are some of the top programs in the state that meet industry and employer expectations.
1. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) - Milwaukee
- Program: Medical Assistant Technical Diploma
- Length: About 1 year
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Combines classroom learning with hands-on lab work and a supervised clinical externship. Known for high certification exam pass rates.
2. Madison Area Technical College - Madison
- Program: Medical Administrative Professional + Clinical Medical Assistant Diplomas
- Length: 1 year per track (can be combined for broader skills)
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling and strong ties to local healthcare providers.
3. Western Technical College - La Crosse
- Program: Medical Assistant Technical Diploma
- Length: 1 year
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Small class sizes and a focus on community healthcare settings.
4. Fox Valley Technical College - Appleton
- Program: Medical Assistant Technical Diploma
- Length: 1 year
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Includes a required 160-hour externship in a clinic. Comprehensive coverage of clinical and administrative skills.
5. Northcentral Technical College - Wausau
- Program: Medical Assistant Technical Diploma
- Length: 1 year
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Highlights: Offers both on-campus and some online coursework to fit working student schedules.
Certification Process in Wisconsin
While not state-required, certification boosts your job prospects. Here's the general process:
- Complete an accredited program (CAAHEP or ABHES).
- Apply to take the CMA or RMA exam through the appropriate certifying body.
- Schedule and pass the exam at an approved testing site.
- Maintain certification by completing continuing education.
Reminder: Certification renewal periods and continuing education requirements vary by organization. Check with AAMA or AMT for current rules.
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , medical assisting is projected to grow faster than average across the U.S. This growth is also strong in Wisconsin, especially in urban areas like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay.
Healthcare systems are expanding outpatient services, which directly increases demand for MAs.
How to Start Your Training
To get started:
- Choose a school from the list above or another accredited program in Wisconsin.
- Apply for financial aid if needed. Federal grants, scholarships, and workforce funding may be available.
- Prepare for background checks and required immunizations before externship placement.
- Complete your coursework and clinical hours.
- Register for your certification exam.
Why Accreditation Matters
Accredited programs follow national guidelines. This ensures you learn the skills that employers and certifying bodies expect. Without accreditation, you may not be allowed to take the CMA or RMA exam.
Summary and Next Steps
If you want a stable healthcare career without years of school, medical assisting is a great fit.
Here's what to do next:
- Pick an accredited Wisconsin school that matches your schedule and location.
- Complete the training and externship.
- Earn your national certification.
- Start applying for jobs in clinics, hospitals, and outpatient centers.
Most programs start new classes several times a year, so you don't have to wait long to begin.
Bottom line: Choose well, train hard, and you could be working in Wisconsin's growing healthcare field within a year.
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