An online program offers some much-needed flexibility that in-person classes lack. Most programs allow you to review materials at your own pace and on your own time, so long as you complete all the work by an assigned due date.
There are three different degree options for becoming a medical assistant--an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree, and a certificate. Each program has different requirements, commitments, costs, and outcomes. The bachelor's is the most intensive and requires the biggest time commitment, while a certificate program requires the least. Evaluate each option before applying.
The American Association of Medical Assistants is the governing body of the profession. Be sure that whatever online program you choose is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). That will enable you to get your certification from the AMAA. You may verify the accreditation of a particular program by contacting the AMAA directly or searching its website.
Completing an online program may be just as challenging as completing a program consisting entirely of in-classroom requirements. Therefore, research the time commitment that the program you choose demands, and assess your own ability to attend online lectures, complete assignments and study all the required readings.
Herzing University has an online program that offers both an associate's and Bachelor's degree in medical assisting. Kaplan University School of Health Sciences is another accredited program that offers online instruction toward both the associate's and bachelor's degrees, as does Keiser University. San Joaquin Valley College is an online program that offers programs leading toward a certificate and an associate's degree. There are numerous other programs, so choose carefully and evaluate all your options.