How Can I Determine if an Online College Degree in Medical Assisting is Accredited?
When choosing an online medical assisting degree, you should ensure that both the program and the institution are accredited. This article details how to determine if your college is accredited and why it's so important to earn a degree from an accredited program.
The Importance of Accreditation
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting an online medical assisting degree program is whether or not both the school and the program are accredited. A medical assisting degree from an accredited school is more likely to help you land a job. Completion of an accredited medical assisting training program is also required to attain certification from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Discover Accredited Online Programs
Find the program that works best for you and apply today.
Southern New Hampshire University
You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you reach them. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus provides affordable, achievable, and flexible pathways to a college degree for adult learners. With over 90 degrees and certificates, UMGC is built to fit your schedule and goals.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers a wide range of online programs designed for working adults. Earn your degree from a nationally recognized institution with flexible scheduling and strong academic support.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
Important Facts About Medical Assistant Careers
| Median Salary (2018) | $33,610 |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 29% (Much faster than average) |
| Entry-level Education | Postsecondary non-degree award |
| Similar Occupations | Dental assistants, pharmacy technicians, and nursing assistants |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Verifying a School's Accreditation Status
Most institutions have information on their websites disclosing their accrediting agency, but you'll need to independently verify the legitimacy of the agency and confirm that the agency accredits your school.
To confirm that an accrediting agency is legitimate, you can consult the U.S. Department of Education's website. Many online degree programs are accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), which is listed as a legitimate accrediting agency by the Department of Education. To determine if the accrediting agency has approved the school, go to the accreditation organization's website to confirm that your school is listed there.
Verifying a Program's Accreditation Status
Two organizations that accredit medical assisting degree programs are the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). To take the certified medical assistant (CMA) certification exam, you must have graduated from a medical assisting training program that is accredited by one of these agencies.
You can find lists of accredited medical assisting degree programs at the CAAHEP and ABHES websites. Since some programs are accredited by only one of these organizations, check both websites in order to determine whether or not your program is accredited.
