Best Medical Assisting Schools In Chicago, Illinois 2025

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

Exploring Medical Assisting Schools In Chicago, Illinois

Medical assisting is a crucial aspect of healthcare delivery, acting as a bridge between patients and medical professionals. In Chicago, Illinois, a city renowned for its robust medical infrastructure and numerous healthcare institutions, aspiring medical assistants can find a plethora of educational options. The programs aim to equip students with both administrative and clinical skills required to excel in diverse healthcare settings.

Studying medical assisting in Chicago provides students with access to world-class hospitals, clinics, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. This exposure not only enhances the learning experience but also sets a solid foundation for a successful career in the growing healthcare sector. With Chicago's diverse population, medical assistants also gain insights into working with a variety of patient demographics, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

By pursuing a medical assisting program in Chicago, students can pave the way for a rewarding career in healthcare while enjoying the vibrant cultural and educational landscape that the city has to offer. The combination of quality education, extensive job prospects, and the opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to healthcare makes Chicago a prime choice for future medical assistants.

Best Medical Assisting Schools In Chicago, Illinois

Explore top-ranked Medical Assisting schools in Chicago, Illinois. Discover the best institutions to pursue a professional certificate or degree in Medical Assisting.

Address: 203 N LaSalle, Chicago,Illinois, Cook County, 60601
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 824
Graduation Rate: 63%
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: 430 S Michigan Ave, Chicago,Illinois, Cook County, 60605-1394
Address: 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago,Illinois, Cook County, 60612-3197
Best Medical Assisting Schools Near Chicago, Illinois

Below are the top ranked medical assisting schools in the surrounding areas of Chicago, Illinois

Address: 8317 W North Avenue, Melrose Park,Illinois, Cook County, 60160-1605
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 1,345
Graduation Rate: 65%
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: 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills,Illinois, Cook County, 60465-0937
Address: 2000 5th Ave, River Grove,Illinois, Cook County, 60171-1995

Common Admission Requirements For Medical Assisting SchoolsIn Chicago, Illinois

When applying for medical assisting programs in Chicago, prospective students should be prepared to meet specific admission requirements. Typically, these may include:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require candidates to have completed high school or an equivalent level of education.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Some schools may ask for completion of courses in biology, chemistry, or health science prior to admission. While not universally mandated, having a solid foundation in these subjects can provide an advantage.

  • Age Requirements: Applicants are generally expected to be at least 18 years old, although some institutions may allow younger students with parental consent.

  • Application Form and Fees: Students must complete the application form for the selected school and pay any associated fees.

  • Interview: Certain programs may include an interview process to evaluate a candidate's commitment and suitability for the medical assisting profession.

  • Background Check: Due to the nature of the job, a background check may be necessary before students can participate in clinical rotations.

  • Health and Immunization Records: Incoming students may need to provide proof of health insurance and immunizations to protect themselves and patients during clinical training.

Understanding these requirements can streamline the application process and help students prepare adequately for their educational journey in medical assisting.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Medical Assisting Schools In Chicago, Illinois

The cost of medical assisting programs in Chicago varies depending on several factors, such as the institution type and program duration. Typically, tuition fees can range from $10,000 to $25,000 for diploma or associate degree programs. Additionally, it's essential to consider additional expenses like textbooks, uniforms, equipment, and fees related to certification exams.

Fortunately, various financial aid options are available for students pursuing medical assisting training:

  • Federal Financial Aid: Many students qualify for federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

  • Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are offered by schools, healthcare organizations, and professional associations. These can be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific demographics.

  • State Programs: Illinois has state-funded financial resources and programs aimed at helping students in vocational education, including medical assisting.

  • Payment Plans: Some institutions provide flexible payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition in installments rather than lump sum payments.

Investigating all available financial aid options can help prospective medical assistants find effective ways to manage education costs and reduce the financial burden associated with their studies.

Medical Assistant Salary in Illinois
Annual Median: $42,850
Hourly Median: $20.6
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$34,770
25th$37,450
Median$42,850
75th$46,560
90th$50,270

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Assisting Schools In Chicago, Illinois

  1. What is the duration of medical assisting programs in Chicago?

    • Programs typically last between 9 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a diploma or associate degree.
  2. Are medical assistants required to be certified?

    • Certification is not mandatory, but becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) can enhance job prospects.
  3. What skills are important for a medical assistant?

    • Key skills include effective communication, organization, detail orientation, compassion, and proficiency in medical software.
  4. Do medical assistants work only in hospitals?

    • No, they also work in clinics, outpatient facilities, labs, and physicians' offices.
  5. What is the average salary for a medical assistant in Chicago?

    • The average salary ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.
  6. How do I choose the right medical assisting program?

    • Assess factors like accreditation, curriculum, faculty qualifications, and internship opportunities.
  7. What advanced certifications are available for medical assistants?

    • Advanced certifications include CMA, RMA (Registered Medical Assistant), and specialty certifications in areas like phlebotomy or EKG.
  8. Can medical assistants administer medications?

    • This depends on state laws; in Illinois, certified medical assistants can administer medications under a supervising physician's direction.
  9. Is there a demand for medical assistants in Chicago?

    • Yes, with the growing healthcare sector, there is a strong demand for skilled medical assistants.
  10. What resources are available for finding medical assisting jobs?

    • Job boards, networking events, career services at your school, and healthcare recruitment agencies are great resources for job seekers.