Online Medical Assistant Programs in Montana: Find and Compare

A Closer Look: Montana’s Online Medical Assistant Programs

You may be surprised to know that it is possible to get your medical assistant degree online. Enrolling in one of the online medical assistant programs in Montana is the first step to becoming a vital member of any healthcare team. In these programs, you’ll learn to perform both clinical and administrative tasks, serving as a connection between patients and other medical professionals and providers.

You’ll take diverse courses ranging from medical terminology to anatomy & physiology to medical billing and coding. Much of this coursework can be completed online, either by remote live learning or asynchronous pre-recorded lectures. After viewing lectures, you’ll complete coursework on your own schedule and submit assignments via a designated online portal.

However, many programs do have a hands-on requirement so students can apply what they’ve learned in real-world settings. Before you commit to a program, it’s important to take a closer look at your options and get a feel for what to expect. Below, we’ve highlighted three outstanding examples of online medical assistant programs in Montana.

Your Questions, Answered: Montana Medical Assistant Student Queries

When you’re considering online medical assistant programs in Montana, it’s only natural to have questions about what to look for, how much you’ll pay, and how your degree will work for you after you’ve completed your program. Below, we’ve included prospective medical assistant students’ most pressing questions, along with their answers.

How do I know if a program is accredited?

You can find out if schools you’re interested in are accredited by reviewing information on their website, contacting them directly, or checking the list provided by the accrediting agency, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, making finding accreditation information relatively easy. Accreditation is important because it ensures you’re getting a quality education and are ready for the demands of the job. Many widely recognized certification exams also require you to attend a properly accredited program.

How in-demand are medical assistants in Montana?

Medical assistants are in high demand in Montana. This rewarding profession is currently experiencing a workforce crisis, both around the country and in Montana, as Montana Free Press reports that almost one-third of residents will be over the age of 60 by 2030. The BLS indicates a 14.1 percent increase in jobs for MAs in the state through 2033. This means an average of 300 jobs added to the workplace annually.

Montana’s job growth percentage is slightly less than the U.S. as a whole. National numbers include a projected increase in the medical assistant workforce by 18.4 percent through 2033, equating to 104,400 new jobs for MAs.

What is the cost of a medical assistant program in MT?

The cost of an online degree will depend on the school you choose. Schools like Montana State University charge a flat fee of $4,200 for residents and $13,090 for non-residents for the entire program. Online tuition for the University of Montana, on the other hand, is $3,518 to $6,920 per year for state residents depending on the number of credits. Out-of-state online students at the University of Montana pay from $10,594 to $21,070. The type of program can also impact cost; for example, a two-year associate degree will cost more than a certificate program.

How do I become a medical assistant in Montana?

Since medical assistants in Montana do not need to obtain a license, according to the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, some medical facilities provide on-the-job training to those with a high school diploma. However, earning a certification after completing an online medical assistant program in MT makes you more attractive to employers. This means completing an online medical assistant program in Montana and sitting for a certification exam. You may also be able to obtain work as a MA in Montana based on your MA credentials earned in another state.

What will I learn in online medical assistant programs in Montana?

Online medical assistant programs in Montana will provide you with both the clinical and administrative skills you need to thrive in healthcare settings, from bustling hospitals to private practice. As part of your clinical training, you may learn to take vital signs, administer injections, draw blood, and assist with patient exams. On the administrative side, you’ll learn medical coding, insurance processing, and patient communication skills. Depending on the program, you may spend additional time practicing what you’ve learned in a hands-on setting. This diverse skill set and real-world practice will ensure you’re ready to take on a variety of roles in Montana’s growing healthcare market.

Continuing Education & Certifications in Montana

There’s no law or regulation on the books in Montana stating that medical assistants need to obtain any specific certification or licensure. However, many employers prefer or require certification, so earning one can make you a more marketable candidate to potential employers. To become certified, register for and pass a recognized exam, like the Certified Medical Assistant Exam and/or the National Certified Medical Assistant Exam.

While there are no specific continuing education requirements for medical assistants in Montana, maintaining your certification usually means seeking out ongoing education. For example, the AAMA requires CMAs to recertify every 60 months by retesting or by earning 60 hours of continuing education.

Continuing education can also help you level up in your career by keeping you up to date with medical advancements, the latest in-patient care, and new technologies. You can find continuing education opportunities through statewide organizations like the Montana Society of Medical Assistants.

Salary & Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Montana