Looking to start a healthcare career that’s fast, flexible, and always in demand? Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a great choice—and Jacksonville has plenty of training options to help you get started.
Step 1: Choose the Right Medical Assistant Training Program
Before you can get certified, you’ll need to complete a formal medical assistant training program. Most certification bodies—like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)—require proof of completion from an accredited or approved program.
In Jacksonville, you’ll find several great options that fit different schedules and budgets:
- Aspatria Institute – 13-month hybrid diploma program with weekday classes and weekend externships
- Helping Hearts Training Center – Fully online program with 180-hour externship and flexible financing
- FSCJ (Florida State College at Jacksonville) – Online career certificate with optional clinical experience
Make sure to choose a program that includes both clinical and administrative skills, and prepares you for a national certification exam.
Step 2: Complete the Required Coursework and Hands-On Training
Your coursework will cover everything from anatomy to EKG procedures to front office operations. Most Jacksonville-area programs include:
- Online or in-person lectures
- Lab work (for blood draws, injections, and diagnostics)
- A hands-on externship in a real healthcare facility
Programs like Aspatria Institute and FSCJ build in this experience, so you can practice your skills before taking the exam—and include support with scheduling and placement.
If you’re working full-time or raising a family, look for programs with part-time, evening, or weekend options so you can complete the requirements on your own timeline.
Step 3: Choose and Take Your National Certification Exam
Once you’ve completed your training, the next step is getting certified. There are three common options:
- CCMA – Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (offered by the NHA)
- CMA – Certified Medical Assistant (offered by the AAMA)
- RMA – Registered Medical Assistant (offered by AMT)
Each exam includes both clinical and administrative knowledge. You’ll need to submit proof of training and a high school diploma or GED to qualify.
Many Jacksonville programs include exam prep and a voucher for the test (FSCJ and Helping Hearts are good examples).
Testing options:
- Schedule your exam at a local Pearson VUE or PSI testing center, or
- Take the test online with remote proctoring
📍 Visit official sites for more info:
- NHA CCMA Info
- AAMA CMA Info
- AMT RMA Info
Step 4: Apply for Medical Assistant Jobs in Jacksonville
Once you’re certified, you can start applying for entry-level positions. Certified MAs are in high demand across Jacksonville’s healthcare landscape—including:
- Primary care and urgent care centers (CareSpot, Solantic, MinuteClinic)
- Specialty practices like dermatology, cardiology, or orthopedics
- Major hospital systems: Baptist Health, UF Health, Mayo Clinic
- Clinical research and concierge practices
💡 Pro Tip: List your certification and externship experience prominently on your resume, and use job boards like:
Step 5: Keep Your Certification Active
After getting certified, you’ll need to renew your credential every 1–2 years, depending on the organization. This typically involves:
- Completing continuing education units (CEUs)
- Paying a renewal fee
- Sometimes passing a short renewal exam
You can earn CEUs online through the NHA, AAMA, or even through your employer. Local colleges like FSCJ may also offer CEU opportunities for allied health professionals.
Bonus: Local Resources to Help You Succeed
Here are a few more helpful Jacksonville-area resources to support your journey:
- Externship Placement Help: Provided by Aspatria Institute, FSCJ, and Helping Hearts
- Tutoring/Certification Prep: Ask your program director if they offer CCMA/CMA test prep
- Free Training for Eligible Young Adults: Check out Jacksonville Job Corps for a tuition-free, residential MA training option
Conclusion: You Can Become a Certified MA in Under a Year
With the right program and plan, you can become a Certified Medical Assistant in Jacksonville in as little as 9–13 months. Whether you choose to train online, in the evenings, or part-time, there are multiple programs in the area designed to help you succeed.
📍 Ready to take the first step? Explore Jacksonville’s Top Medical Assistant Programs Here