Different Levels of Medical Assistant Training

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With all the Medical Assistant Training options available in the US, a lot of would-be Certified Medical Assistants are confused as to how they should approach their studies to receive their certification. What is the best route to take? The confusion for some lies in the fact that there are two choices, a fork on the path: Certificate or Associate degree?

The decision is sometimes really hard to make; a lot of factors needs to be considered. Certificate courses usually last one year, while Associate degrees take approximately two years. For those who would like to get the job sooner would usually opt to go for the certificate program. But this decision has its obvious consequences: trying to learn all the facets of a Medical Assistant job in so short a span of time would usually result to under training. Though, if your goal is only to pass the Medical Assistant Certification, then the one-year certificate course would suffice. You can get all the hands-on training while at work anyway, right?

Now, let’s consider the 2-year Associate degree program. Obviously, the name bears more weight since this is a “degree” of some sorts, which would allow you to take further studies if you decide to step-up in your career in the Medical Assistant profession. But that’s just one of the benefits; Associate degree holders usually get better pay because of the value attached to the length of training they’ve received. The only setback is the length of time spent on getting trained, and most people nowadays just don’t have that luxury of time.

Ultimately, the decision is made based on your current lifestyle. For those seeking to get certified and land a Medical Assistant job the soonest time possible, the 1-year Certificate program is advisable. Don’t worry; much of education is acquired beyond the confines of a classroom. However, if you’re one who has a lot of time and resources to invest, then the Associate degree is a better option.