Best Medical Assisting Schools In Affton, Missouri 2025

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

Exploring Medical Assisting Schools In Affton, Missouri

Medical assisting is a vital component of the healthcare system, serving as an essential link between patients and the healthcare team. InAffton, Missouri, residents have an opportunity to enroll in high-quality medical assisting programs that provide the necessary training for a rewarding career in healthcare. With its proximity to St. Louis, Affton offers an ideal environment for aspiring medical assistants, featuring access to various healthcare facilities, a supportive community, and a blend of academic rigor and hands-on training.

Medical assistants play a diverse role, handling administrative and clinical tasks that ensure healthcare facilities operate efficiently. These responsibilities may include managing patient records, scheduling appointments, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting with diagnostic procedures. The demand for skilled medical assistants continues to grow, making this an opportune time to pursue a career in this field.

Choosing to study in Affton allows students to benefit from local healthcare networks, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. The region provides a welcoming atmosphere to facilitate both academic and professional growth, enabling students to enjoy their educational journey while preparing for a stable career in the healthcare industry.

Best Medical Assisting Schools Near Affton, Missouri

Below are the top ranked medical assisting schools in the surrounding areas of Affton, Missouri

Address: 2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville,Illinois, St. Clair County, 62221-5899
In-State Tuition: $6,120
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,940
Full-time Enrollment: 7,955
Graduation Rate: 37%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Medical Assisting Degree Programs:
Medical Clinical Assistant
Medical Assisting Degrees: Certificate, Associate's
Online Medical Assisting Degrees Offered: None
Address: 5800 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey,Illinois, Madison County, 62035
Address: 5250 Shepherd Rd, Springfield,Illinois, Sangamon County, 62794-9256

Common Admission Requirements For Medical Assisting SchoolsIn Affton, Missouri

To enroll in medical assisting programs in Affton, prospective students should be aware of the following general admission requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED: A secondary education credential is typically required. Students may need to provide proof of graduation.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Some programs may require completion of specific courses, such as biology, chemistry, or health-related subjects, before admission.

  • Application Form: Students must fill out an official application form for their desired program, which may include essay components outlining their interest in the field.

  • Background Check: Many healthcare programs require applicants to undergo a criminal background check to ensure the safety of patients and facilities.

  • Health Screenings: Some institutions may require proof of immunizations and/or a health assessment to confirm that students are fit for clinical placements.

  • Entrance Exam: Certain programs may ask for standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT), or assessments specific to medical assisting skills.

  • References: Applicants might need to submit letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can attest to their qualifications and character.

Understanding these requirements can help streamline the application process and ensure a smooth transition into a medical assisting program.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Medical Assisting Schools In Affton, Missouri

When considering medical assisting programs in Affton, potential students should be mindful of associated costs and available financing options.

  • Tuition Ranges: Tuition for medical assisting programs in Affton can vary widely based on several factors, including institution type, program length, and whether it is a certificate or degree program. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 for completed courses.

  • Additional Costs: In addition to tuition, consider expenses related to textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, and other supplies. It's important to budget for these costs to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

  • Financial Aid Opportunities: Students can explore various financial aid options, such as:

    • Federal Student Aid: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can qualify students for subsidized and unsubsidized loans, as well as federal grants.
    • Scholarships: Many local organizations, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions offer scholarships specifically for aspiring medical assistants. Researching and applying for these can greatly reduce educational costs.
    • Work-Study Programs: Some schools may have part-time work-study programs offering students employment while studying, further alleviating financial burdens.
  • Payment Plans: Many institutions provide flexible payment plan options, allowing students to spread tuition payments over the course of the program.

Considering tuition, additional costs, and available financial support can significantly enhance students' ability to finance their medical assisting education successfully.

Medical Assistant Salary in Missouri
Annual Median: $38,260
Hourly Median: $18.4
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$31,570
25th$35,550
Median$38,260
75th$43,130
90th$46,750

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Assisting Schools In Affton, Missouri

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

    • Programs typically range from 9 months for diploma or certificate courses to 2 years for associate degree programs.
  2. Are online medical assisting programs available?

    • Yes, several institutions offer online coursework, but clinical placements must be completed in-person.
  3. What certifications are available for medical assistants?

    • Common certifications include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
  4. Do I need prior healthcare experience to enroll?

    • No prior healthcare experience is usually required, though it can be beneficial in admission decisions.
  5. What skills can I expect to learn in a medical assisting program?

    • Skills include patient care, clinical procedures, office management, and electronic health record management.
  6. Will job placement assistance be provided?

    • Many programs offer job placement services to help graduates find suitable positions after completing their training.
  7. Can I work while studying?

    • Yes, many students manage part-time work schedules, especially in flexible jobs related to healthcare.
  8. Is certification necessary for medical assistants?

    • While not always legally required, certification can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.
  9. What types of healthcare facilities hire medical assistants?

    • Medical assistants are employed in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practices.
  10. What continuing education options are available for medical assistants?

    • Many associations offer continuing education courses, workshops, and seminars to maintain certification and stay updated in the field.