You've decided you want to become a medical assistant. Now comes the big question: should you choose a traditional program or an accelerated one? Both can lead to the same destination — but the road looks very different.
Here's an honest look at the differences so you can choose the path that fits your goals, your schedule and your life.
Traditional programs: the longer route
Traditional medical assisting programs can take anywhere from 10 to 14 months to complete. For some students, that's the right choice — especially if you're seeking college credits that can be applied toward future education. The trade-off is time: nearly a year (or more) before you can start working in the field.
Accelerated programs: the faster route
Accelerated programs focus on the knowledge and hands-on skills you need to start working as a medical assistant — in a much shorter timeframe. At Providence Medical Academy, the program takes 18 weeks: online coursework over 12 weeks, four in-person skills labs, and a two-week externship at the end.
Side by side
Traditional
10–14 months
- Longer time before you can start working
- May offer credits toward future education
- Prepares you to sit for certification
Accelerated · Providence
18 weeks
- Start your new career months sooner
- Online coursework + 4 hands-on skills labs
- Two-week externship included
- Prepares you to sit for the NHA CCMA exam
Whether you choose a traditional or accelerated program, the outcome is the same: you're eligible to sit for certification with the skills to start your career.
Questions to ask yourself
- How soon do I want to start working? If getting into the workforce quickly matters, an accelerated program can save you months.
- Do I need college credits? If you're planning a degree path, a traditional program may make more sense.
- Can I keep my job while I study? Look for flexible formats with online coursework and evening or weekend labs.
- Will I get real hands-on experience? Make sure the program includes in-person skills training and an externship.
- Does it prepare me for certification? Employers increasingly look for certified medical assistants.
Fast doesn't mean shortcuts
At Providence Medical Academy, we believe in high-quality, hands-on education that prepares confident and competent medical assistants — just in a faster timeframe. You'll learn medical office front- and back-office tasks with full instructor support, practice your skills in person with licensed, certified instructors, and gain real-world experience during your externship. Our program is authorized by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission, and our students' certification pass rate is 90% (as of June 2025).
Classes start monthly, so you won't be stuck on a waiting list. Apply today, or read our FAQ to learn more.