Are you thinking about starting a career in the healthcare field without spending years in medical school? Becoming a medical assistant might be the perfect path for you. But before you jump in, one of the most important steps is finding the right school. In this 2025 guide, we’ll help you discover some of the best medical assistant accredited schools in the U.S. and Canada — schools that not only provide quality education but also open doors to real job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

Whether you're from the U.S. or Canada, choosing an accredited school matters more than you might think. Accreditation means a school meets strict educational standards, and it ensures that your certificate or degree is recognized by employers and industry professionals. Let’s break everything down so you can make an informed choice.

What Is a Medical Assistant?

Before diving into the schools, let’s quickly cover what a medical assistant actually does. These healthcare workers help doctors, nurses, and patients by handling both clinical and administrative tasks. That could mean anything from checking vital signs and preparing exam rooms to managing patient records and scheduling appointments.

Medical assistants are in high demand across North America, and that demand is only growing. The job offers good pay, stability, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives — without years of study or expensive tuition.

Why Choose an Accredited School?

Now, here’s the important part: Not all schools are the same. Choosing from among medical assistant accredited schools is crucial. An accredited school has been reviewed and approved by a trusted education body. This ensures:

  • You receive a high-quality education

  • Your diploma or certificate is recognized nationwide

  • You’re eligible for certification exams (like CMA or RMA)

  • You’ll have better job prospects

If a school is not accredited, you might spend time and money on a program that doesn’t help you in the real world. That’s why this guide only highlights medical assistant accredited schools in the U.S. and Canada.

Top Medical Assistant Accredited Schools in the U.S.

Here are some of the best-known accredited programs in the United States:

1. Pima Medical Institute

  • Location: Multiple campuses across the U.S.

  • Why Choose It: Known for hands-on training, experienced instructors, and flexible learning options.

  • Program Length: About 9 months for a certificate program.

2. Keiser University

  • Location: Florida (with online options)

  • Why Choose It: Offers both associate degree and diploma programs with a strong emphasis on real-world training.

  • Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

3. Herzing University

  • Location: Various states and online

  • Why Choose It: Combines classroom learning with on-site clinical experience. You can also earn an associate degree.

  • Fast-Track Options: Some campuses offer programs you can complete in as little as 10 months.

Best Medical Assistant Accredited Schools in Canada

If you’re based in Canada, you’ll find several great options as well. While the system is slightly different from the U.S., the goal is the same: quality education and job readiness.

1. Anderson College

  • Location: Ontario

  • Why Choose It: Offers a well-rounded Medical Laboratory and Clinical Assistant program that prepares students for certification and work placement.

  • Accreditation: National Association of Career Colleges (NACC)

2. CDI College

  • Location: Multiple locations across Canada

  • Why Choose It: Known for short-term, career-focused programs. CDI's Medical Office Administration program with clinical specialization is highly rated.

  • Duration: Typically 9–12 months.

3. Evergreen College

  • Location: Toronto, Mississauga, and other cities

  • Why Choose It: Offers practical training and co-op opportunities. Their Medical Office Administrator program is aligned with current industry demands.

What to Look for When Choosing a School

Now that you know some of the top options, here’s how to choose the right one for you:

  1. Accreditation: Always confirm the school is listed under medical assistant accredited schools.

  2. Location or Online Options: Decide if you want in-person training or need the flexibility of online classes.

  3. Program Length: Most programs range from 9 months to 2 years depending on the certificate or associate degree.

  4. Hands-On Training: Clinical practice or externships give you real-world experience.

  5. Certification Prep: The best programs help you prepare for national exams like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam in the U.S.

Cost and Financial Aid

One of the concerns many students have is cost. Fortunately, most medical assistant accredited schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans. Costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the school and program type (certificate vs. degree).

In the U.S., FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) can help eligible students pay for tuition. In Canada, provincial student loan programs and grants can offer similar help.

Career Outlook in 2025 and Beyond

Medical assisting is a rapidly growing field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical assistants is expected to grow by 16% from 2021 to 2031 — much faster than the average for all occupations.

Canadian data shows similar growth, especially in urban areas with expanding healthcare needs. Completing a program from one of the medical assistant accredited schools puts you in a strong position to benefit from this rising demand.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school is the first and most important step in your medical assisting journey. Whether you're in the U.S. or Canada, picking from medical assistant accredited schools ensures you’re on the right path to a rewarding and respected healthcare career.

In 2025, the healthcare industry continues to need skilled, compassionate professionals — and medical assistants are at the heart of that need. With so many accredited options available, now is the perfect time to enroll and take control of your future.