IVY TECH vs. NYSMDA: Which School Is Right for You?
IVY TECH vs. NYSMDA: Which School Is Right for You?
If you're exploring a career in healthcare and considering either Ivy Tech Community College or the New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants (NYSMDA), it's important to recognize that these two institutions serve different goals, audiences, and career outcomes.
Below is a detailed comparison to help you make the most informed choice:
1. Institutional Overview
FeatureIvy Tech Community CollegeNYSMDA (New York School for Medical & Dental Assistants)TypePublic, State-Funded Community CollegePrivate, For-Profit Vocational SchoolLocationMultiple campuses across IndianaLong Island City, New YorkFounded19631967AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (regional)Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC – national)Student Population~100,000 studentsA few hundred annually
2. Programs Offered
CategoryIvy TechNYSMDADental AssistingYes – CODA-accredited, Certificate & Associate DegreeYes – 11-month program, hands-on externshipMedical AssistingYes – Certificate & Associate Degree optionsYes – 11-month medical assistant trainingNursingYes – LPN, ASN programs, pathway to RN and BSNNo nursing programs offeredOther Allied HealthRadiology, Surgical Tech, Physical Therapy Assistant, moreNone beyond medical and dental assistingTransfer PathwaysYes – Credits transfer to IU, Purdue, etc.No transfer agreements
3. Accreditation & Licensure
Ivy Tech:
Dental Assisting program is CODA-accredited, qualifying students for national certification (CDA) and state licensure.
Medical Assisting qualifies students to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or CMA exam.
Broad recognition through regional accreditation makes credits more transferable nationwide.
NYSMDA:
Programs are approved by the New York State Department of Education and ACCSC-accredited.
Graduates can sit for New York-specific certification and national exams like RMA (Registered Medical Assistant).
Not regionally accredited, which may limit credit transfer to colleges and universities.
4. Cost and Affordability
MetricIvy TechNYSMDAEstimated Tuition (In-State)~$4,000 per year~$18,000 to $22,000 total program costFinancial Aid AvailableFederal and state aid, Pell Grants, Indiana aidFederal aid and private loans availableAverage Graduate DebtLow – 4 out of 5 graduate with no debtModerate – private tuition may result in higher debt
5. Program Length & Flexibility
Ivy Tech:
Programs range from 11 months (certificate) to 2 years (associate degrees).
Offers evening classes, hybrid learning, and multiple campuses.
More flexible for students balancing work or family commitments.
NYSMDA:
11-month full-time programs in both dental and medical assisting.
Strong hands-on externship component.
Limited schedule flexibility – mostly daytime training.
6. Career Outcomes & Job Placement
Ivy Tech:
Strong employer partnerships across Indiana.
High job placement rates in dental offices, hospitals, and health systems.
Offers pathways to Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) or nursing.
NYSMDA:
Strong focus on NYC metro area job market.
Externships often lead to immediate job offers.
Good placement track record in NYC, especially for assistants in private practices.
7. Ideal For Whom?
Choose Ivy Tech if you:
Want a degree-based, flexible path with long-term growth options.
May consider transferring to a university.
Seek the lowest cost and highest credential recognition.
Live in Indiana or are willing to relocate for education.
Choose NYSMDA if you:
Want a fast-track, practical training program in NYC.
Need to start working in less than a year.
Prefer a specialized, career-focused school.
Plan to work only in New York and want a job-oriented curriculum.
Final Verdict: Which Is Better?
There is no universal “better” school—only the one that fits your goals, timeline, and location.
NYSMDA is a solid choice for those who want quick employment in NYC as a medical or dental assistant with strong local placement support.
. If you want to enter the workforce quickly in New York, NYSMDA may be your best bet.
If you're searching for more than just a job—a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential—then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Moreover, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
