If you’re a high school senior in Georgia thinking about a healthcare career, you’ve probably heard of nurses. But what about medical assistants? Both are important members of the healthcare team—and both offer meaningful, people-focused work. But what exactly is the difference between a medical assistant and a nurse?
At Helms College’s Augusta campus, you can train to become a medical assistant in as little as 12 months and launch a career helping patients in doctors’ offices, clinics, and urgent care centers. Let’s break down the differences between the two roles and help you decide which path might be right for you.
What Does a Medical Assistant Do?
A medical assistant (MA) works mainly in outpatient settings like physician’s offices, urgent care clinics, and specialty practices. They’re trained to do both clinical and administrative tasks—think of them as the ultimate multitaskers in healthcare.
Common Medical Assistant Duties:
- Taking vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse)
- Preparing patients for exams
- Drawing blood and collecting lab specimens
- Scheduling appointments and managing electronic health records
- Assisting physicians with minor procedures
Medical assistants work closely with doctors, nurses, and patients—but they do not provide direct medical care independently the way nurses do. Instead, they support care delivery and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
What Does a Nurse Do?
Nurses, especially Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), have a broader scope of medical responsibility and require more extensive training.
Common Nursing Duties:
- Administering medications
- Developing care plans
- Starting IVs
- Monitoring patient conditions
- Providing direct care in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics
Nurses often work in inpatient settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities, whereas most medical assistants work in outpatient environments. Nurses also typically need a 2- to 4-year degree and must pass the NCLEX exam for licensure.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Assistant vs. Nurse?
If you’re looking to start working in the medical field quickly, medical assisting is one of the fastest ways to launch your career.
| Role | Typical Education Time | Certification |
| Medical Assistant | ~12 months (certificate/diploma) | Optional (CMA or RMA) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 12–18 months | NCLEX-PN |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 2–4 years (ASN or BSN) | NCLEX-RN |
At Helms College in Augusta, the Medical Assistant program is designed to be completed in about one year, including classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training.
Where Do Medical Assistants Work?
Medical assistants often work in:
- Family medicine practices
- Pediatric offices
- Urgent care centers
- Outpatient clinics
- OB-GYN or dermatology offices
Because MAs are cross-trained in clinical and administrative skills, they are in high demand—especially in Georgia, where healthcare is a fast-growing sector.
Is Medical Assisting a Good Career in Georgia?
Yes! According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistant jobs are projected to grow 15% nationally from 2023 to 2033—much faster than average. In Georgia, demand is especially strong in growing cities like Augusta, Savannah, Macon, and Atlanta.
Starting salaries are competitive, and medical assisting can be a launching pad to other healthcare careers, including:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Medical Office Manager
- Phlebotomist
- Health Information Technician
If you’re not quite ready to commit to nursing school but still want to help patients and learn medical skills, medical assisting could be the perfect first step.
How Much Do Medical Assistants Make?
According to the BLS, the median salary for medical assistants in Georgia is around $38,000–$42,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and certification.
Many medical assistants also receive benefits such as:
- Paid holidays and time off
- Healthcare insurance
- Tuition assistance for further education
- Flexible schedules
Plus, the skills you learn are transferable across multiple settings, giving you long-term job security.
Is a Medical Assistant Certification Required?
Certification isn’t always required to get hired, but it’s a great way to stand out. At Helms College, students are prepared to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exams after graduation. These credentials show employers you’re trained and career-ready.
Why Choose Helms College in Augusta?
Located right in the heart of Augusta, Georgia, Helms College offers a supportive, career-focused education designed to help students succeed—especially those just starting their careers after high school.
Here’s what sets Helms apart:
✅ Complete your training in as little as 12 months
✅ Small class sizes and one-on-one support
✅ Hands-on learning and clinical experience
✅ Career Services team to help with job placement
✅ Financial aid available to those who qualify
Whether you’re from Augusta, Evans, North Augusta, or anywhere in the CSRA, Helms College offers an accessible and affordable way to start your healthcare journey.
Common Questions from Georgia High School Students & Parents
Q: Is medical assisting a good option if I don’t want to go to a 4-year college?
A: Absolutely. You can finish in a year, start working quickly, and earn good wages while deciding if you want to continue into nursing or another field.
Q: Can medical assistants become nurses later?
A: Yes. Many MAs use their training and work experience to transition into nursing programs, often with a head start.
Q: Is it hard to get a job as a medical assistant in Georgia?
A: No! Demand for MAs is strong across Georgia, especially in cities like Augusta, Macon, Atlanta, and Savannah.
Ready to Start Your Healthcare Career?
If you’re a high school senior in Georgia wondering whether to become a medical assistant or nurse, consider your timeline, goals, and interests. Medical assisting is a fast, affordable way to enter the healthcare field—and it’s a great stepping stone if you decide to become a nurse later.
At Helms College in Augusta, you can train in 12 months or less and launch your career with confidence.
Learn more about the Medical Assistant Program at Helms College in Augusta
Schedule a tour or request information
Your healthcare journey starts here—right in Augusta. Let Helms College help you take the first step.