Online Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois: Top Schools
Attending a top online medical assistant program in Illinois will prepare you with the administrative and clinical skills to successfully support medical office operations and patient care. But where do you begin? In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of Illinois’ top programs, the features that set them apart, the steps you’ll have to take on the road to certification, and the salary waiting for you on the other side of your certificate or degree.
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Inside Online Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois
You may have convinced yourself that you’re too busy to pursue your medical assistant certification or worried that you wouldn’t have the time or energy to attend classes on campus. We’re here to tell you that online programs put your goals within reach, allowing you to balance your current responsibilities and your goal of becoming a certified medical assistant.
Attending a top online medical assistant program in Illinois will thoroughly prepare you with the administrative and clinical skills to navigate the practical realities of managing a medical office and contributing to patient care. But where do you begin? In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of Illinois’ top programs, the features that set them apart, the steps you’ll have to take on the road to certification, and the salary waiting for you on the other side of your certificate or degree.
Clinical Medical Assistant — Southern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University’s Clinical Medical Assistant program prepares students with the knowledge and skills required to pass the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. This highly flexible program does not follow a strict enrollment schedule, so students can begin anytime. In addition to exam preparation, the curriculum focuses on instilling a thorough understanding of medical terminology, basic medical procedures, patient privacy and security, and healthcare ethics in students.
The program also offers students the opportunity to participate in a clinical experience, where they apply the theoretical principles of the curriculum in real-world situations. Upon graduation from the course, students will have the knowledge and skills required to perform the administrative and clinical tasks required of medical assistants across various healthcare settings, from hospitals and clinics to private care centers.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: Online
Cost: $2,795
Admissions Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent
Curriculum:
- Clinical Teamwork: Training emphasizes functioning effectively as part of a healthcare team in ambulatory care settings.
- Professional Standards: Students learn ethical behavior, therapeutic communication, and patient privacy standards, including detailed coverage of the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules.
- Fundamental Medical Knowledge: Instruction includes medical terminology, an overview of significant body system functions, and basic knowledge of government and private insurance structures.
- Patient Interaction: Students are trained to document chief complaints, obtain patient histories, and understand the contents of various medical records.
- Clinical Procedures: Coursework covers medical and surgical asepsis, venipuncture techniques, and best practices for infection control.
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Certified Clinical Medical Assistant — Governor’s State University
The online Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program from Governor’s State University equips students to become vital members of healthcare teams. It covers a comprehensive curriculum, including medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. Students learn essential skills such as patient care, communication, medical record management, and insurance coding.
The program emphasizes ethical conduct, patient privacy, and a safe work environment. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level positions as CCMAs, having met the requirements for the NHA certification exam. The flexible online format allows students to learn independently while experienced instructors provide guidance and support throughout the program.
Duration: 12 months
Mode: 100%Online
Cost: $2,795
Admissions Requirements: Candidates must have a high school diploma
Curriculum:
- Core Healthcare Team Skills: Develop the skills needed to excel as a vital healthcare team member in ambulatory care settings.
- Professional Standards and Ethics: Gain knowledge in ethical behavior, therapeutic communication, and protecting patient privacy while fostering professional traits essential for success.
- Office Dynamics and Safety: Understand the importance of first impressions, maintaining a safe office environment, and ensuring practice efficiency through risk management and revenue cycle strategies.
- Medical Knowledge and Clinical Skills: Learn medical terminology, administrative and clinical job duties, and core clinical procedures for patient care.
- Career Readiness: Explore best practices for securing a medical assisting position and prepare to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the NHA.
Medical Assistant Certificate — National Louis University
The seven-month Medical Assistant Certificate through National Louis University’s “Accelerate U” platform enables students to earn their medical assistant certificate in a flexible, accelerated manner. This program is ideal for working professionals or those with other time-intensive commitments since courses can typically be completed within 20 hours each week.
In addition to online didactic coursework, students must complete monthly in-person training and a 160-hour externship with an approved organization. Unique to this program, students receive a stipend during their externship, providing valuable insights from esteemed healthcare professionals like doctors and nurses.
The program emphasizes the importance of a supportive, 1:1 learning environment by matching each student with a coach to help guide them through their academic journey. If graduates choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree, they can transfer credits from the certificate program, making it easier to earn their degree quickly. The program works with several healthcare partners to give graduates primary consideration in employment following graduation.
Duration: 7 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $7,200 for Illinois residents
Admissions Requirements: N/A
Curriculum:
- Comprehensive Medical Training: This program integrates national best practices in medical training, combining online, remote, and in-person learning to prepare students for a career as a Medical Assistant.
- Clinical Skills Development: Gain hands-on experience in asepsis, phlebotomy, sterilization, administering immunizations, checking vitals, conducting EKGs, and understanding pharmacology.
- Administrative Expertise: Learn key administrative duties such as medical billing, insurance processes, financial bookkeeping, phone etiquette, appointment scheduling, and medical record management.
- Medical Law and Ethics: Study essential legal and ethical standards, including HIPAA, the AMA Patient Bill of Rights, and CLIA ‘88 regulations.
- Anatomy and Physiology Knowledge: Explore body systems, circulatory system anatomy, and the structure of arteries and veins, along with mastering medical terminology and abbreviations.
- Communication and Teamwork Skills: Develop patient care, interpersonal, and collaboration skills while focusing on cultural competence, written and verbal communication, and teamwork in healthcare settings.
FAQs for Illinois Medical Assistant Students
Now that you know what it takes to become a medical assistant, you may have questions about the program’s specifics that will help you get there. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about online medical assistant programs in Illinois so you can find the right program for your career goals.
Are there professional organizations or networking opportunities for Illinois medical assistants?
Yes, medical assistants in Illinois have numerous opportunities to expand their network and become active participants in the allied healthcare community. These organizations will open the door to potential career opportunities and help you get certified, provide professional development, and advocate for the profession. They often hold regular events and conferences where you can connect with other medical assistants and further your career.
One of the most influential organizations is the Illinois Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA), a state-level affiliate of the American Association of Medical Assistants. Through ISMA, members can attend networking events, conferences, and board meetings, volunteer, continue their education, and more.
Do I need to complete any prerequisites before applying?
Most Illinois medical assistant programs only require a high school diploma and a minimum GPA. However, some programs (like Waubonsee Community College, for example) require students to complete prerequisite courses in medical terminology, biology, and/or anatomy and physiology before enrolling in the program, so it’s essential to research your institution’s requirements.
If your school requires prerequisites, you may not have to complete them before you apply, but you will have to complete them by the time the program begins. Even if prerequisites are not required, having previous experience or coursework in the healthcare field or medical assistantship can make your program application more compelling. It may also allow you to complete your certification in less time.
How much should I expect to pay for my program?
The cost of a medical assistant program in Illinois varies within each institution, but Illinois offers many affordable programs. Typical costs for some of the top Illinois schools range from $2,000-$7,000, depending on the program length. When working towards your medical assistant certification, you may be eligible for specific scholarships, grants, or other financial aid services through your institution, state, or the national government.
One popular state-sponsored program is the Illinois Monetary Award program, which provides grants for students at eligible colleges and institutions. However, since certificate programs operate differently than degree programs, financial aid services may be more limited. For this reason, most Illinois schools aim to provide affordable certificate programs. Still, verifying your funding options with your school before enrolling is essential.
What are the admission requirements for Illinois medical assistant programs?
Each medical assistant program in Illinois has different admissions requirements. Typical admission requirements for Illinois medical assistant programs include a minimum GPA, a high school diploma or GED, placement or entrance exam, a clean background check, and a mandatory orientation. Some schools’ admission requirements are less stringent, and others more so.
As mentioned above, you may also need to have taken certain prerequisites, such as biology or anatomy and physiology, before officially enrolling in the program. Additionally, since you’ll be working in a healthcare setting for clinicals, some programs may require health screenings, immunizations, or CPR certification.
What does an online medical assistant curriculum in Illinois cover?
The primary focus of an Illinois medical assistant program is to prepare students to pass the certification exam. The curriculum will cover topics appearing on the exam from an administrative and medical perspective. For example, students can expect to learn topics surrounding basic medical terminology, biology, and procedures, as well as administrative tasks such as record keeping, medical billing, and patient privacy.
Many online medical assistant programs also incorporate in-person externships or clinicals. Some schools may provide placement for clinicals, while others may require students to find one on their own. It’s essential to find out about in-person requirements before you enroll to ensure you can meet them.
MA Certification and Continuing Education
Earning a medical assistant certification can help bolster your resume and stand out to employers. These certifications signify that you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to be a valuable asset as a medical assistant.
A Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a popular choice for Indiana medical assistants. While not always required, this certification can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential. The Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification or Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) certification are also prominent choices that will further your skill set and aid in career advancement.
To keep your CCMA certification active, you must complete continuing education (CE) credits. The exact number of credits and specific topics may vary, so be sure to check with the NHA for the most current requirements. Staying up-to-date with the latest medical practices and regulations is essential for professional growth and legal compliance.
Career Prospects and Pay for Medical Assistants in Illinois
Medical assistants in Illinois can look forward to solid pay and a promising job outlook. The nationwide average job growth for medical assistants from 2022 to 2032 is projected at 13.8%, while Illinois is slightly lower at 10.7%. However, this is still a strong figure, resulting in 3,140 job openings each year. Medical assistants can enhance their chances of being hired by going the extra mile during their education, such as participating in internships and volunteer opportunities.
The income medical assistants can expect in Illinois allows for a comfortable living, especially in areas with a lower cost of living. The median annual wage is $42,850, with the lowest 10th percentile earning $34,770 and the highest earning $50,270. Wages vary across the state, ranging from a low of $37,000 in Danville to $45,010 in the Chicago area. To learn more about salary expectations and job growth in Illinois, check out the tables below for medical assistants.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 21,720 | 24,040 | 2,320 | 10.70% | 3,140 |
| 1 – United States | 764,400 | 870,200 | 105,800 | 13.80% | 114,600 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $33,500 | $42,000 | $56,480 |
| Springfield, IL | $33,800 | $38,830 | $44,890 |
| Rockford, IL | $36,810 | $41,550 | $46,470 |
| Peoria, IL | $35,640 | $39,570 | $46,080 |
| Kankakee, IL | $35,030 | $42,890 | $44,460 |
| Decatur, IL | $36,560 | $38,840 | $44,470 |
| Danville, IL | $28,880 | $37,000 | $47,210 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $35,280 | $45,010 | $54,870 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $34,300 | $39,410 | $47,580 |
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | $30,770 | $38,040 | $46,520 |
| Bloomington, IL | $32,380 | $37,770 | $47,720 |
| Illinois | $34,770 | $42,850 | $50,270 |
Source: Medical Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
