Best Medical Assisting Schools In Pico Rivera, California 2025

By MedicalAssistantSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Medical Assisting Schools In Pico Rivera, California

Medical assisting is a crucial field within the healthcare industry, serving as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers. The role encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and managing patient records, as well as clinical duties such as taking vital signs and assisting with examinations. For those looking to enter this rewarding profession, Pico Rivera, California, offers a strategic location for medical assisting training.

Situated in Los Angeles County, Pico Rivera boasts a diverse population and a steady demand for healthcare services. The area is home to various healthcare facilities, including clinics, hospitals, and specialty practices, providing ample internship and job opportunities for aspiring medical assistants. Furthermore, the city's accessibility to major transportation corridors facilitates networking with local healthcare organizations, enhancing students' career prospects after graduation.

Studying medical assisting in Pico Rivera not only opens doors to a stable and growing career but also allows students to become integral parts of their communities. As healthcare evolves to meet the needs of a diverse population, those equipped with the relevant skills and knowledge will find themselves in a position to make a meaningful impact on patient care.

Best Medical Assisting Schools Near Pico Rivera, California

Below are the top ranked medical assisting schools in the surrounding areas of Pico Rivera, California

Address: 12340 Woodruff Ave., Downey,California, Los Angeles County, 90241
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 844
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Medical Assisting Degree Programs:
Medical Clinical Assistant
Medical Assisting Degrees: Certificate
Online Medical Assisting Degrees Offered: None
Address: 2101 W Garvey Ave, West Covina,California, Los Angeles County, 91790
Address: 4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach,California, Los Angeles County, 90808-1706

Common Admission Requirements For Medical Assisting SchoolsIn Pico Rivera, California

Admission to medical assisting programs in Pico Rivera may vary by institution, but prospective students can generally expect the following requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must demonstrate completion of secondary education. Some programs may also accept students currently enrolled in high school.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: While most programs do not require extensive prior education, completing courses in biology and anatomy can be advantageous.

  • Health and Immunization Records: Many programs require proof of certain vaccinations, as students will work closely with patients during clinical training.

  • Background Check and Drug Screening: Due to the nature of the profession, students often must pass a criminal background check and drug screening before entering clinical settings.

  • Enrollment Forms and Application Fee: Students must submit completed enrollment forms and pay any associated application fees as part of the admission process.

  • Entrance Exam: Some institutions may require completion of an entrance exam covering basic math and language skills.

Meeting these requirements is crucial in securing a spot in a medical assisting program and starts students on their path toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Medical Assisting Schools In Pico Rivera, California

The cost of medical assisting programs in Pico Rivera can vary based on factors like program length and institution type. Here’s a general overview:

  • Tuition Ranges:

    • Certificate programs typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000.
    • Associate degree programs can range from $15,000 to $30,000.
  • Additional Expenses: Students should also consider costs associated with textbooks, uniforms, supplies, and certification exam fees, which can add an additional $1,000 to $3,000.

  • Financial Aid Options:

    • Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which may cover tuition and living expenses.
    • Scholarships: Many local organizations and educational institutions offer scholarships specifically for healthcare students, which can significantly reduce financial burdens.
    • State Programs: California offers various grants and financial assistance programs for residents pursuing vocational training.
    • Payment Plans: Some institutions provide flexible payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition in installments rather than upfront.

Affordable education and financial aid options help pave the way for aspiring medical assistants in Pico Rivera to begin their careers without overwhelming financial stress.

Medical Assistant Salary in California
Annual Median: $22.45
Hourly Median: $46,690
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$17.6
25th$18.87
Median$22.45
75th$28.49
90th$35.07

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Assisting Schools In Pico Rivera, California

  1. What does a medical assistant do? Medical assistants handle administrative tasks and clinical responsibilities, such as managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and taking vital signs.

  2. What qualifications do I need to become a medical assistant? Typically, you need a high school diploma or GED, completion of a medical assisting program, and any required certifications.

  3. How long do medical assisting programs take? Certificate programs can take around 9 months to a year, while Associate degree programs usually require 2 years of study.

  4. Is certification required to work as a medical assistant? Certification is not mandatory, but many employers prefer certified candidates, which can enhance job prospects.

  5. What are common employers for medical assistants? Medical assistants are commonly employed in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

  6. What financial aid options are available for medical assisting programs? Students can apply for federal financial aid, scholarships, state grants, and many institutions offer payment plans.

  7. Are there online medical assisting programs available? Yes, some institutions offer online medical assisting programs for the theoretical components, though clinical training usually requires in-person work.

  8. How much does a medical assistant earn? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical assistants is approximately $38,000, though salaries can vary based on location and experience.

  9. Do I need previous healthcare experience to apply for a medical assisting program? No prior healthcare experience is generally required, although it can be beneficial.

  10. Can I specialize as a medical assistant? Yes, many medical assistants choose to specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or other medical fields, which may require additional training or certification.