If you’re considering a career in healthcare but don’t want to spend years in school, becoming a Medical Assistant (MA) might be the perfect path. Medical assistants are a vital part of the healthcare team, helping with both clinical and administrative tasks in doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals. The best part? You can train for this growing career in less time than you might think.
If you’re wondering how long it takes to become a medical assistant in Georgia, here’s what you need to know—plus how Helms College can help you start your journey.
What Does a Medical Assistant Do?
Before diving into the timeline, it’s helpful to understand what medical assistants do. In Georgia, medical assistants work under the supervision of doctors and nurses to:
- Take patient histories and vital signs
- Prepare patients for exams
- Assist with minor procedures
- Administer injections or medications (depending on training and employer policies)
- Schedule appointments
- Handle medical billing and coding
- Maintain electronic health records (EHR)
This mix of hands-on clinical duties and administrative tasks makes medical assisting a versatile and rewarding healthcare career.
How Long Is Medical Assistant Training in Georgia?
The time it takes to become a medical assistant depends on the type of training program you choose. In Georgia, there are generally three pathways:
- Diploma or Certificate Programs (9–12 months)
Many students opt for a Medical Assistant Diploma or Certificate Program, which is designed to provide the skills and knowledge needed for entry-level positions. These programs typically take 9 to 12 months to complete and include coursework in:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Clinical procedures
- Administrative skills
- Phlebotomy and EKG basics
- Medical law and ethics
Diploma programs also include hands-on training and an externship, so you’ll graduate ready to work.
- Associate Degree Programs (18–24 months)
Some students choose to pursue an Associate Degree in Medical Assisting, which usually takes 18 to 24 months to complete. An associate degree program provides the same clinical and administrative training as a diploma program but adds general education courses like English, math, and communication.
Earning an associate degree may give you an advantage when applying for certain jobs or considering future career advancement.
- On-the-Job Training (Varies)
While some medical assistants are trained on the job, most healthcare employers today prefer or require formal education from an accredited program. On-the-job training is less common and may limit your opportunities in the long run.
Helms College Medical Assistant Degree Program – 12 Months
At Helms College in Augusta, Georgia, we offer a Multi-Skilled Medical Assistant Degree Program designed to prepare students for this rewarding career in about 12 months.
Our program includes hands-on training in:
- Clinical and laboratory procedures
- EKG and phlebotomy
- Medical billing and coding
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Electronic health records
- Patient communication skills
You’ll also complete an externship, giving you real-world experience in a medical office or clinical setting before you graduate.
Why Choose a Medical Assistant Degree Program?
While you can enter the field with a diploma, choosing a degree program like the one at Helms College offers several advantages:
- More in-depth training in clinical and administrative skills
- Better job opportunities with some healthcare employers
- Preparation for industry certifications like National Medical Assistant (CMA) certification
- Transferable credits if you decide to continue your education later
What About Certification?
Although Georgia does not require medical assistants to be licensed or certified, most employers prefer candidates who have earned a professional certification. After completing your program, you may choose to take an exam to become certified. Common certifications include:
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
Certification can improve your job prospects, earning potential, and ability to advance in your career.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Medical Assistant Job After Graduation?
Thanks to the growing demand for healthcare workers, medical assistants in Georgia often find employment quickly after graduation—especially if they’ve completed a program like Helms College’s that includes externship experience.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth in medical assisting jobs from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. That’s good news for anyone entering the field.
Start Your Medical Assistant Career in Georgia
In as little as 12 months, you can be on your way to a stable, rewarding healthcare career as a medical assistant. At Helms College’s Augusta campus, our Medical Assistant Degree Program offers flexible scheduling, hands-on training, and career support designed with your success in mind.
Ready to take the next step?
Contact Helms College today to learn more about our Medical Assistant Program and how you can get started on your new career.
About Helms College:
Helms College is a private, nonprofit career college with campuses in Augusta and Macon, Georgia. We specialize in hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for real-world careers in healthcare, culinary arts, and skilled trades.
Interested in learning more? Reach out to our admissions team or schedule a campus visit today!