1. The University of Memphis
The University of Memphis offers a 6-month online medical assisting program designed for non-degree seeking students. Classes are delivered asynchronously through the Canvas platform, and students should plan to spend 12–15 hours per week completing online coursework.
The program includes four content blocks covering anatomy, medical terminology, administrative tasks, clinical procedures, and patient interaction. Before completing the program, students must attend a two- to three-day in-person clinical skills lab to demonstrate hands-on competencies.
The total program cost is $4,500, with a $1,500 deposit and flexible payment plans available. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam. Acceptance into the University of Memphis is not required for enrollment in this program.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $4,500 total (includes tuition, books, and instruction). Payment plan available: $1,500 deposit, then $1,000 at the start of each course block. |
| Duration | 6 months. |
| Class Format | Fully online, asynchronous coursework. Includes a required 2–3 day in-person clinical skills lab. |
| Class Schedules | Flexible; students should expect to spend 12–15 hours per week on coursework. |
2. Southwest Tennessee Community College
The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program at Southwest Tennessee Community College is offered fully online through a self-paced format. Students have 12 months to complete 540 course hours and are required to finish within this timeframe. Enrollment is open year-round, allowing students to begin at their convenience.
Course material covers medical terminology, administrative skills, clinical procedures, HIPAA rules, and patient care techniques. A voucher for the CCMA certification exam is included with the $3,095 tuition. Students also have the option to test out of the Medical Terminology section if they score at least 80% on two exams.
A clinical experience is available but not guaranteed and depends on site availability. CPR certification is also included. All required textbooks are provided, and a personal computer with internet access is needed to complete the coursework.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $3,095 |
| Duration | 12 months to complete, 540 course hours |
| Class Format | Online, self-paced |
| Class Schedules | Open enrollment; start anytime |
3. Concorde
Concorde offers students two pathways in medical assisting: a Diploma or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The Diploma program can be completed in as few as 9 months, while the AAS program takes about 16 months. Both options blend online coursework with hands-on lab training and a required externship.
The Diploma program includes 240 lab hours and 230 externship hours, with an estimated total cost of $19,032. The AAS program covers the same clinical and administrative skills with additional general education courses, totaling approximately $32,553.
Students complete virtual coursework covering topics such as medical terminology, office procedures, and patient care skills, alongside on-campus lab sessions. Externships offer real-world experience in healthcare settings. Classes are available at both the Memphis and Southaven campuses, offering flexible scheduling options.
| Category | Details |
| Price | Diploma: $19,032; AAS Degree: $32,553 |
| Duration | Diploma: 9 months; AAS Degree: 16 months |
| Class Format | Blended (online coursework + in-person labs/externship) |
| Class Schedules | Flexible start dates; Memphis and Southaven campuses |
🧭 Find the Right Fit
We’ve reviewed medical assistant programs across Memphis to highlight the top choices—whether you need online flexibility, accelerated training, or part-time classes. Let us guide you toward the program that fits your life and career goals.
4. Stepful
Stepful’s online Medical Assistant program is completed in 4 months and combines 100% virtual classes with 80 in-person clinical hours. Students attend instructor-led Zoom sessions part-time, choosing between morning or evening classes to fit their schedules.
The curriculum covers healthcare systems, medical terminology, anatomy, patient care, phlebotomy, and EKG basics. After the online portion, students complete clinical hours at a local healthcare facility to meet certification requirements. The program prepares students for the National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
Stepful offers job search support, including resume assistance, interview prep, and externship placement. Class spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
| Category | Details |
| Price | Contact Stepful for current pricing |
| Duration | 4 months |
| Class Format | 100% online classes with 80 in-person clinical hours |
| Class Schedules | Morning or evening part-time options available |
What We Think
Choosing the right online or hybrid medical assistant program depends on more than just price, timeline, or course format. Here’s our breakdown based on key factors:
University of Memphis offers a strong 6-month asynchronous program at $4,500, ideal if you need flexibility and want consistent instructor support. The required 2–3 day hands-on clinical lab ensures some practical exposure before certification.
Southwest Tennessee Community College offers the most affordable option ($3,095) with 12 months of access, fully online. However, this program is self-paced and less structured, so students must be self-motivated. CPR certification and optional clinical experiences are bonuses, but placements are not guaranteed.
Concorde provides the most in-depth blended experience. With 240 lab hours and 230 externship hours, you’ll get strong practical skills. It’s also the most expensive option, ranging from $19,032 (Diploma) to $32,553 (AAS). Concorde is best for students seeking more face-to-face learning and a college-like environment.
Stepful is the fastest and most job-focused option, at 4 months with evening classes available. It’s fully online, but 80 clinical hours must be completed in person. Stepful also heavily emphasizes career services, including resume help and guaranteed externship assistance.
While we’ve gathered the facts, you should personally reach out to programs to learn about:
- Instructor Quality and Engagement: How available and responsive are the instructors?
- Student Support and Career Services: What is the real level of help during job placement?
- Class Size and Learning Environment: Are online classes small enough for personalized attention?
- Alumni Outcomes and Program Reputation: Are graduates successfully finding good jobs?
- School Vibe and Responsiveness: How helpful and respectful are the admissions staff during your interactions?
Tip: First impressions matter. How a school treats you as a prospective student often reflects how they will support you as a learner.
Each program has strengths depending on what matters most to you — cost, speed, flexibility, or depth of training. We’ve done our best to present the critical details, but connecting directly with program coordinators will give you the full picture of what your day-to-day experience will really be like.