Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey | 2025

Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in New Jersey, including detailed information about their prerequisites, requirements, salary expectations after graduation, and more. Whether you'd like to apply to a program today or just generally curious about the role, you've come to the right place.

Best Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey — Online & On-Campus

What Is a Medical Assistant Program in New Jersey?

Medical Assistant programs in New Jersey combine both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for performing various clinical and administrative tasks within medical settings. The goal is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of medical terminology, patient care, laboratory techniques, and healthcare administration, enabling them to support doctors and nurses in providing patient care.

Medical Assistant Coursework

The coursework for Medical Assistant programs covers a wide range of subjects to prepare students for both the clinical and administrative aspects of the role. Here's a list of what to expect:

• Medical Terminology: Understanding the language of medicine, including terms related to anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Basic knowledge of the human body and its systems, crucial for understanding medical procedures and patient care.
• Clinical Procedures: Detailed study of the procedures medical assistants are expected to perform, including diagnostic tests and patient preparation.
• Pharmacology: Basics of pharmacology, including understanding prescriptions, medication interactions, and administration techniques.
• Medical Law and Ethics: An overview of the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare, including patient confidentiality and professional conduct.
• Medical Billing and Coding: Training in the administrative aspects of healthcare, including insurance processing, coding of diagnoses and procedures, and managing patient records.
• Healthcare Administration: Skills for managing the front office, scheduling appointments, and providing patient communication and support.
• First Aid and CPR: Certification in first aid and CPR, essential for emergencies in a medical setting.

Medical Assistant Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of Medical Assistant programs. Here's what to expect:

• Patient Care: Students learn how to assist with patient examinations, take vital signs (such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature), and prepare patients for procedures.
• Phlebotomy: Training often includes drawing blood, handling and processing specimens, and understanding basic lab safety and procedures.
• EKG Administration: Students may learn to perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), including placing leads and understanding basic EKG readings.
• Medication Administration: This includes training on the proper administration of medication, understanding dosages, and managing medication schedules.
• Medical Procedures: Hands-on practice with common medical procedures, such as injections, wound care, and assisting with minor surgeries.
• Clinical Laboratory Skills: Students gain experience in basic laboratory techniques, including using laboratory equipment and performing tests such as urinalysis and blood counts.
• Infection Control: Training in proper sterilization techniques, disposal of biohazard materials, and maintaining a clean and safe clinical environment.

Requirements of Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey

• Completion of Coursework: Students must complete all required coursework, which covers both administrative and clinical aspects of medical assisting. This includes classes in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical procedures, pharmacology, and medical law and ethics.
• Clinical Externship: A key requirement of most programs is the completion of a clinical externship. This provides hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, allowing students to apply what they've learned in a real-world environment.
• Certification Exam: While not always a requirement of the program itself, obtaining certification as a Medical Assistant (e.g., Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)) is highly recommended and often pursued by graduates. Some programs are designed specifically to prepare students for these certification exams.
• Technical Skills: Students must demonstrate proficiency in various technical skills, such as taking vital signs, administering injections, performing EKGs, and using medical software.
• Soft Skills: Effective communication, professionalism, and ethical behavior are required for the successful completion of the program and future employment. Students must demonstrate these skills throughout their training and externship.

Medical Assistant Program Admission Requirements

Pursuing a career as a medical assistant in New Jersey involves fulfilling certain prerequisites and requirements. These are designed to ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the comprehensive training provided by the programs and are capable of successfully entering the healthcare field upon completion.

Prerequisites of Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey

• High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must have completed high school or have a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. This is a fundamental requirement for entry into most post-secondary education programs.
• Minimum Age Requirement: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old by the time they complete the program.
• Health and Immunization Records: Candidates may need to provide up-to-date immunization records, including vaccinations for Hepatitis B, MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), and Varicella (Chickenpox), among others. This ensures the safety of both students and patients during clinical training.
• Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal background check is often required to ensure the safety of patients and to comply with healthcare facility policies where students will perform their clinical externships.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification: Some programs may require or recommend that applicants have a current Basic Life Support certification, which includes CPR training, especially for healthcare providers.

What do Medical Assistants Do?

Medical assistants are versatile healthcare professionals who perform a combination of clinical and administrative tasks to support healthcare teams and ensure quality patient care. Their roles may vary depending on the healthcare setting and their level of training or specialization.

Types of Medical Assistants

1. Clinical Medical Assistant: Focus on direct patient care and assist physicians with clinical tasks, such as taking vital signs, drawing blood, administering injections, preparing patients for exams, and assisting with minor surgical procedures. They may also perform basic lab tests and handle specimen collection.
2. Administrative Medical Assistant: Specializes in managing the front office and administrative functions of a healthcare facility. Responsibilities include maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments, handling billing and insurance claims, and coordinating communication between patients and providers.

Medical Assitant Specializations

Medical assistants can specialize in specific areas, such as:

1. Podiatric Medical Assistant - Assists with foot care, wound care, and patient education for podiatry patients.
2. Ophthalmic Medical Assistant - Supports eye care professionals with exams, surgeries, and patient education.
3. Cardiovascular Medical Assistant - Works with cardiologists on EKGs, stress tests, and heart condition monitoring.
4. Dermatology Medical Assistant - Assists with skin exams, treatments, and minor surgical procedures.
5. Pediatric Medical Assistant - Specializes in caring for infants, children, and adolescents in pediatric settings.
6. Oncology Medical Assistant - Supports cancer patients and oncologists with treatments and patient care.
7. OB/GYN Medical Assistant - Assists with prenatal care, gynecological exams, and reproductive health education.
8. Allergy and Immunology Medical Assistant - Conducts allergy testing, immunotherapy, and patient education.
9. Orthopedic Medical Assistant - Supports orthopedic care, including patient preparation, casting, and splinting.
10. Geriatric Medical Assistant - Specializes in caring for elderly patients, focusing on age-related health issues.

These are some of the most popular specializations for medical assistants, but many other areas are also available for specialization.

Where Do Medical Assistants Work?

Medical assistants work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, outpatient centers, and specialized medical offices. Their roles are dynamic, requiring flexibility and multitasking skills to manage a combination of patient care and administrative duties.

Key Skills and Qualifications of Medical Assistants

• Strong clinical skills, including knowledge of medical terminology, procedures, and basic patient care.
• Excellent administrative abilities, such as data entry, record management, and handling patient inquiries.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for patient interaction and teamwork.
• Adaptability to handle both clinical and administrative tasks.
• Certification (CMA or RMA) may be preferred or required, depending on the employer.

Medical Assistant Certification 

Obtaining certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can enhance job prospects and earning potential. CMAs are certified through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), while RMAs are certified by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Both certifications demonstrate proficiency in clinical and administrative skills, often making candidates more attractive to employers and opening up more job opportunities.

^{Note: While certification or registration is not always required, it is often preferred by employers and can enhance job prospects and earning potential.}

Medical Assistant Salary Expectations in New Jersey

Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for other occupations. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national average for Medical Assistant income is as follows: 

• Bottom 10% $33,500 annually ($16.10 hourly)
• Median $42,000 ($20.19 hourly)
• Top 10% $56,480 ($27.15 hourly)

While these figures are directional, it's important to consider the various factors that affect salary expectations, such as geography, years of experience, employer, level of education, and more.

In New Jersey, Medical Assistants are reported to earn a mean annual salary of $45,190 or $21.72 an hour.

The top-paying states for Medical Assistants include:

• Washington: $53,780
• Alaska: $52,530
• California:  $50,900
• District of Columbia:  $50,110
• Minnesota: $49,740

The top-paying industries for Medical Assistants include: 

• Scientific Research & Developmental Services: $55,130
• Junior Colleges: $53,890
• Grantmaking & Giving Services: $50,990
• Outpatient Care Centers:  $50,250
• Management, Scientific, & Technical Consulting: $49,090

When evaluating potential earnings, remember that higher salaries in certain locations often (but not always) correspond to a higher cost of living in that state or region.

Are Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey Worth It?

Deciding whether a Medical Assistant program in New Jersey is worth it requires considering its various advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey

1. Growing Demand: The healthcare industry is expanding, and with it, the demand for medical assistants. New Jersey, with its dense population and numerous healthcare facilities, offers a robust job market for medical assistants.
2. Short Duration of Training: Compared to other healthcare professions, medical assistant programs are relatively short, often taking about a year to complete. This allows for quicker entry into the workforce.
3. Diverse Work Environment: Medical assistants have the flexibility to work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical offices, providing a range of experiences and learning opportunities.
4. Foundation for Further Healthcare Careers: For those considering advancing their career in healthcare, becoming a medical assistant can provide a solid foundation and practical experience that is beneficial for further education and specialized roles.
5. Competitive Salaries and Benefits: Medical assistants in New Jersey can expect competitive salaries and benefits, reflecting the state's cost of living and demand for healthcare professionals.

Cons of Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey

1. Cost of Education: The cost of completing a medical assistant program can be high, especially for private institutions. Prospective students should consider the return on investment and explore financial aid options.
2. Physical and Emotional Demands: The role of a medical assistant can be physically and emotionally demanding, with long hours and the need to handle stressful situations, including dealing with sick or distressed patients.
3. Limited Scope of Practice: Medical assistants have a defined scope of practice, which might limit those looking for more autonomy in patient care. This could be a drawback for individuals aiming for more clinical responsibilities.
4. Job Competition: While there is a demand for medical assistants, certain areas may have a saturated job market, leading to increased competition for positions, especially for new graduates.
5. Continuing Education Requirements: To maintain certification and stay updated with the latest healthcare practices, medical assistants may need to pursue continuing education, which can be an additional time and financial commitment.

Ultimately, Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey offer valuable opportunities for those interested in entering the healthcare field. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons based on personal circumstances, career aspirations, and financial considerations to determine if it's the right path for you.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Medical Assistant Program in New Jersey

Choosing an accredited Medical Assistant program in New Jersey is crucial for several reasons:

• Quality Education: Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards for curriculum, faculty, and student resources, providing a quality education that prepares students for the workforce.
• Certification Eligibility: Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to sit for national certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which is often required by employers.
• Employment Opportunities: Employers prefer hiring graduates from accredited programs, recognizing their comprehensive training and readiness for the medical assisting role.
• Transfer Credits: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other institutions if you decide to pursue further education.

The primary accrediting bodies for Medical Assistant programs are the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

Medical Assistant Programs Near Me

Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in the following states:

• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Michigan
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Texas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I work in the medical field while enrolled in a Medical Assistant program?

Many students choose to work part-time in the medical field while enrolled in a Medical Assistant program. This can provide valuable real-world experience and help reinforce the skills learned in the classroom. Some programs may even offer evening classes to accommodate students who work full-time.

Are there Medical Assistant programs that offer evening classes?

Several Medical Assistant programs in New Jersey offer evening classes to accommodate students who have daytime commitments such as work or family. This flexibility allows students to pursue their education without having to give up their current employment or other responsibilities.

How do I demonstrate competency after completing a Medical Assistant training program?

Upon completing a Medical Assistant training program, competency is typically demonstrated through passing a certification exam, such as the one offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Successfully passing this exam awards you the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, which is widely recognized by employers.

Can I work in a physician's office without any prior experience, just with my certification?

Many graduates of Medical Assistant programs begin their careers in physicians' offices without prior work experience in the medical field. Employers often value the comprehensive training and certification (e.g., CMA) that new graduates bring, as it demonstrates a foundational level of knowledge and competency in medical assisting tasks, including managing medical records.

What are the options for enrollment in Medical Assistant programs? Can I study part-time?

Medical Assistant programs typically offer flexible enrollment options, including full-time and part-time study paths. Part-time programs are designed to accommodate students who may have other commitments, allowing them to progress through the program at a slower pace. This flexibility ensures that a wider range of students can pursue medical assistant training, regardless of their current life and work situations.

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee