What is the fastest medical assistant program?
What is the fastest medical assistant program?
The fastest medical assistant programs are typically certificate or diploma programs offered by vocational schools and career colleges. These programs focus solely on the skills needed for medical assisting without the additional general education courses required in associate degree programs.
Fastest Program Types
Accelerated Certificate Programs
Length: 4 to 6 months
Often available at private career schools or adult education centers.
Very intense; students must be able to commit to full-time study.
May not always include externships, which some employers prefer.
Standard Certificate or Diploma Programs
Length: 9 to 12 months (most common and practical option)
Includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical externship.
Schools like The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants (NYSMDA) in Queens offer this format.
Graduates are eligible to take certification exams (CMA, CCMA).
Associate Degree Programs
Length: 18 to 24 months
Offered by community colleges. Provides a degree but takes much longer.
Bottom Line
If your goal is to enter the workforce as fast as possible, the 4 to 6 month accelerated certificate is technically the quickest, but the 9 to 12 month diploma program at schools like NYSMDA is the most balanced option. It provides a fast timeline while including an externship and full certification readiness, which most NYC employers prefer.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a real, stable, and respected career—not just a quick way into the workforce—becoming a licensed dental assistant is the way to go. And when it comes to training, 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.
