An aspiring medical assistant in Chicago, Illinois, must possess soft skills such as empathy, communication, and the ability to build positive relationships. However, the most important quality a medical assistant must possess is technical proficiency.
This is imperative as their duties will include working with medical instruments and performing administrative duties on computers. To acquire this array of skills, candidates must turn to dedicated training programs.
Of course, it is important for individuals not just to hope for any program but to choose the best program to begin their careers on the right path.
Thankfully, Chicago residents will discover below the top options in and around the city and what these training programs offer.
How to Become a Medical Assistant in Chicago
Medical assistants in Chicago don’t need to be licensed or registered with the state before they can start working. However, employers set most requirements, including a high school diploma or GED and graduation from a training program.
Candidates may secure employment as medical assistants with a diploma or a certificate. To stand out even further, some consider associate degree programs. All in all, 9 - 24 months of training is needed to begin.
Even though medical assistants in Chicago are not technically expected to become certified, many choose to do so. Certification offers credibility, continuing education resources, and professional networking opportunities.
The National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) credential from the National Center for Competency Testing is viable.
Top Medical Assistant Schools in Chicago, Illinois
These are the most prominent training programs for aspiring medical assistants in Chicago.
Lincoln College of Technology
Melrose Park, IL Campus + Online
Lincoln College of Technology offers several high-quality training programs in technical and healthcare fields. The school boasts a Chicago location, making it easy for residents to launch their careers on a solid path.
Tuition
$20,636 per ProgramContact
(844) 546-4868
Midwestern Career College
Chicago, IL Campus + Online
Midwestern Career College's certificate program is another excellent option to consider. The program offers classroom training, hands-on experience opportunities, and significant student support services.
Tuition
$11,400 per ProgramContact
(312) 236-9000
admissions@mccollege.edu
Fox College
Tinley Park, IL Campus Only
Fox College offers a diploma and an associate degree program for aspiring medical assistants. The diploma program consists of 50 credits of coursework, totaling 1,183 hours of instruction.
Tuition
$7,920 per SemesterContact
(708) 444-4500
College of Lake County
Grayslake, IL Campus Only
College of Lake County’s medical assistant training program contains 60 credits of instructions leading to an associate degree. Students here get to learn under highly experienced instructors in a serene environment.
Tuition
$136 - $482 per CreditContact
(847) 543-2085
lfasano@clcillinois.edu
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: