If you’re exploring medical assistant programs in Memphis, cost is likely one of your biggest concerns—and for good reason. Tuition varies widely based on program format, duration, and the level of training offered. Some students may pay as little as $2,500, while others invest more than $30,000 for degree-based pathways. In this guide, we break down what you can expect to spend and how that compares to other healthcare training options.
💵Cost Comparison: Medical Assistant Programs in Memphis
Let’s start with a side-by-side cost comparison of the most popular programs in the Memphis area:
| School | Program Type | Tuition (Approx.) | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SuperiorCare Medical Academy | Certificate | $2,500 | 12 weeks | In-person (Southaven, MS) |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | Certificate (CCMA) | $3,095 | Up to 12 months | Fully Online |
| University of Memphis | Certificate | $4,500 | 6 months | Online + short in-person lab |
| Health-Tech Institute of Memphis | Certificate | $15,099 | 37 weeks | In-person |
| Stepful | Certificate | Contact for pricing | 4 months | Online + in-person externship |
| Concorde Career College | Diploma / AAS | $19,032 (Diploma), $32,553 (AAS) | 9–16 months | Hybrid (Memphis) |
| Arkansas State University Mid-South | Associate Degree | Not fully listed | 2 years | In-person |
🎯 Key Takeaways: What Impacts the Cost?
Several factors influence the total cost of your medical assisting education:
- Program Length: Shorter certificate programs (8–12 weeks) cost significantly less than associate degree programs.
- Training Format: Online and hybrid programs often cost less due to fewer overhead expenses.
- Included Services: Programs with externships, certification exam vouchers, CPR/BLS training, and career services may cost more—but also offer greater job readiness.
- Credential Level: Associate degrees offer broader healthcare training and general education but come with a steeper price tag.
🥇 Most Affordable Medical Assistant Programs in Memphis
If keeping costs under $5,000 is your goal, here are your best bets:
| School | Cost | Perks |
|---|---|---|
| SuperiorCare Medical Academy | $2,500 | Includes classroom, lab, and 40-hour externship. Flexible day/evening classes. |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | $3,095 | Fully online, includes CCMA exam voucher, self-paced over 12 months. |
| University of Memphis | $4,500 | Online with hands-on lab. Payment plans available. Strong support services. |
These programs offer excellent value for job-seeking students who want to enter the healthcare workforce quickly without significant debt.
🧠 A Closer Look: Certificate vs. Degree Costs
To help you compare apples to apples, here’s a breakdown of medical assistant training costs versus other healthcare education pathways in Memphis:
| Career Path | Typical Program Length | Average Tuition | Credential Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant (Certificate) | 3–9 months | $2,500–$5,000 | CCMA, CMA, RMA |
| Medical Assistant (AAS Degree) | 16–24 months | $15,000–$32,000 | Associate Degree |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 4–12 weeks | $1,000–$3,000 | CPT |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 4–8 weeks | $700–$2,500 | CNA License |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 12–18 months | $10,000–$25,000 | LPN License |
| Registered Nurse (ADN) | 2–3 years | $18,000–$45,000 | RN License |
As shown, medical assistant certificate programs are one of the most cost-effective ways to enter the healthcare field while still achieving national certification.
💬 What Students Should Ask Before Committing
Before enrolling, here are a few financial and educational questions worth asking each school:
- What’s included in the tuition? (Books, uniforms, exam fees, externship?)
- Are there payment plans or scholarships available?
- What’s the certification pass rate for graduates?
- What’s the job placement rate and employer network?
- How many students are in each class?
📍 Location, Convenience, and Costs
Students near Memphis can also consider outlying programs in West Memphis, Arkansas, or Southaven, Mississippi. These programs—like Arkansas State University Mid-South and SuperiorCare Medical Academy—often offer more affordable tuition and smaller class sizes while still being within commuting distance.
🏁 Choosing a Program That Matches Your Budget and Goals
Memphis offers an impressive range of medical assistant programs to suit every budget and lifestyle—from fast, in-person certificate classes to robust associate degree programs with advanced training and job placement.
If cost is your primary concern, programs like SuperiorCare and Southwest Tennessee Community College offer affordable, reputable paths into the field.
If you’re looking for deeper instruction or long-term growth, consider investing more in a structured program like Health-Tech Institute or Concorde.
No matter your path, there’s an option in Memphis that can help you launch your healthcare career—without overextending your finances.