* Administrative Assistant: Often requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training. Some positions might prefer an associate's degree (2 years), but a bachelor's degree (4 years) isn't typically required.
* Teaching Assistant (TA): Usually requires at least a bachelor's degree (4 years) in a relevant field, and often some progress toward a graduate degree (master's or doctoral).
* Research Assistant: Generally requires a bachelor's degree (4 years), sometimes a master's degree (additional 1-2 years) depending on the complexity of the research.
* Medical Assistant: Requires completion of an accredited medical assisting program, which can range from a certificate (less than 2 years) to an associate's degree (2 years).
In short, you need to specify *what kind of assistant* you're asking about.