Becoming a medical assistant in Florida can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a year, depending on the type of program you choose. Some programs are fast-paced and designed for quick certification, while others provide comprehensive training over a longer period. The key to determining how long it will take lies in selecting the program type that aligns with your goals.
Factors That Influence Program Length
1. Program Type: Certificate vs. Associate’s Degree
- Certificate Programs: These are often the quickest option, focusing on essential skills and hands-on training. They typically take 4-12 months to complete.
- Associate’s Degree Programs: These are more comprehensive, including general education courses along with medical assistant training. They usually take 18-24 months.
2. Program Format
- In-Person Programs: Often include set schedules with lab and externship hours.
- Hybrid or Online Programs: Provide flexibility, which can extend or shorten the completion time depending on how quickly you progress.
3. Required Contact Hours
Most medical assistant programs have specific requirements for contact hours (classroom, lab, and externship hours). Programs with more contact hours provide deeper training, but they take longer to complete.
Popular Medical Assistant Program Lengths in Orlando
| Name | Length | Contact Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Technical College | 14 months | 1,300 hours |
| Concorde | 9 months | 240 lab hours, 230 externship hours |
| Florida Health Care Academy | 12 weeks or 24 weeks | 700 hours |
| Lake Technical College | 43 weeks | 1,300 hours |
| Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology | 36 weeks | 1,440 hours |
| University of Central Florida | Self-paced, up to 12 months | 540 hours |
| Stepful | 4 months | 80 clinical hours |
| Southern Technical College | 40 weeks or 18 months | Not specified |
| Orlando School of Nursing | 36-78 weeks | 930 hours |
| THA – Technical Health Academy | 12-20 weeks | Not specified |
| Florida Technical College | 9 months | Not specified |
| Phlebotomy Orlando Online | 5 weeks | Not specified |
| U.S. Career Institute | 4-7 months (self-paced) | Not specified |
Choosing the Right Program for You
When deciding which program to attend, consider the following:
1. How Quickly You Want to Start Working
- If you want to start your career as soon as possible, opt for a certificate program like those at Stepful or Florida Health Care Academy. These programs can be completed in as little as 4-12 weeks.
2. Your Long-Term Goals
- If you’re aiming for a more comprehensive education with opportunities for career growth, an Associate’s Degree program from schools like Southern Technical College may be a better choice.
3. Balancing School with Other Commitments
- Self-paced programs like the ones at University of Central Florida or U.S. Career Institute offer flexibility if you have other responsibilities.
Key Points to Remember
- Externship Hours Matter: Programs like Concorde include externship hours to give you hands-on experience, which is valuable for job placement.
- Program Costs: Shorter programs may be less expensive but could lack the depth of longer programs.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program you choose is accredited to qualify for certification exams.
Conclusion
The time it takes to become a medical assistant in Florida varies significantly based on program type and format. Whether you’re looking for a quick start with a certificate program or a more in-depth experience with an associate’s degree, Orlando offers a range of options to fit your needs. Use the table above to compare programs and decide which one works best for your goals.