The Best Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona

Arizona census data shows that 24% of the population in Arizona is older than 60 years. Arizona’s beautiful weather, landscape, and low cost of living make the state attractive for seniors willing to relocate during retirement.

In 2019, 16% of the U.S. population was 65 years and older. This age group has a higher risk of chronic disease and cognitive decline. Medical assistants play an important role in healthcare. As the number of elderly individuals rises, so will the need for healthcare professionals who can care for them in different settings.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow 18% by 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This page explores what role medical assistants play, what to look for in a program, and how to apply for a medical assistant school in Arizona.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best medical assistant programs in Arizona, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Keep reading to learn more about the best medical assistant programs in Arizona, or go straight to our list of the best medical assistant programs in Arizona.

In Arizona, medical assistants work under the supervision of physicians and physician assistants. The training includes both clinical and administrative tasks. However, many employers hire medical assistants to perform one or the other.

In many cases, medical assistants work in outpatient settings, such as clinics, urgent care settings, and physician offices. The duties of a medical assistant depend on the medical practice and specialty. Their clinical duties may include, but are not limited to:

Medical assistants employed for administrative skills may be asked to:

Medical assistants can specialize in several fields. This can improve their salary potential and gives them the opportunity to work in a specialty they enjoy. This can include ophthalmology, podiatry, obstetrics, orthopedics, and autopsy.

According to Payscale data from May 2022, the annual base salary for a medical assistant averages $35,770 in the United States. Location, certification, and specialization can all affect salary.

It is important to evaluate your medical assistant program choices to ensure your school meets your needs and increases your potential for employment. Consider the following factors:

Arizona includes competency standards for medical assistants who practice in the state, which are currently under review. Most states do not have educational requirements for medical assistants, but employers prefer medical assistants with additional certification.

It is important for medical assistant schools in Arizona to hold proper accreditation. Associations that accredit medical assistant schools are the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Reasons to attend an accredited program include:

Learn more about the accreditation process and how it helps support your career development.

Medical assistant programs take 9-12 months to complete, and associate programs can take two years. Depending on the program, students may have enough flexibility to work during school to help offset the cost. Tuition ranges from $2,500-$26,000.

The school’s financial aid office helps students seek financial aid to help meet their needs. These options include grants, scholarships, student loans, and military benefits. The school may have scholarship programs, and students may seek out scholarship funds through local and national organizations.

Federal grants and student loans may be available when students attend an accredited program. Resources are also available for students who belong to specific populations or organizations. Find more information and resources about financial aid here.

Students can finish a medical assistant program in Arizona between one semester and two years. Accredited programs ensure the education meets national standards and allows the student to take and pass a certification examination.

Arizona does not currently require medical assistants to be certified to work in the state. However, the competency standards are under review. Certification may be required when the new standards are published.

The cost for a medical assistant program ranges from $2,500-$26,000, depending on the college and the length of the program. Programs that include an associate degree cost more than those that offer a medical assistant diploma.

According to Salary.com, the median annual income for a medical assistant in Arizona is $37,390. This data is based on reports from human resource departments and may range from $31,810-$43,090. You can negotiate higher than the median recorded salary with additional certifications and specializations.