Degrees, Certification, Earnings & Job Growth
Medical assistants in Ohio are important team members in a variety of medical practices and settings. They are often the first professional many patients see when they enter a hospital, medical clinic or doctor's office. Ohio is among those states that employ the greatest number of medical assistants, both in total and per capita, in the nation. Additionally, job growth for medical assistants is strong and expected to continue that way for years to come. All of this adds up to a positive outlook for careers in medical assisting in Ohio.
If you think you may be interested in a career in the field, read on to learn about job and education opportunities for medical assistants in Ohio today
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Ohio's Top Schools for Medical Assisting
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Those who want to help others and get started on a career in health care can do just that with a degree or certificate in medical assisting. With the necessary education out of the way, a medical assistant can make a big difference in a hospital, clinic or physician's office by helping with back-end office work or working directly with patients. To find the right program to meet your career aspirations, do some research. Our handy list of Ohio's 2017 Top Schools for Medical Assisting is a good starting point. We looked at a number of factors, like class sizes and career placement, to develop this list and save you some time.
These rankings include
#1 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
Cincinnati, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate from Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its Ohio campus. Students who plan to pursue careers in medical assisting can earn an associate degree or certificate to obtain technical training. These programs also prepare certificate-holders to transfer into bachelor's programs for further education.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near the school's campus to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning can be ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 73
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 84
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#2 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Edison State Community College
Piqua, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Ohio, Edison State Community College is a public school offering associate degrees and certificates in medical assisting. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the medical assisting field. Along with entry-level roles, graduates can apply their new knowledge to bachelor's studies.
With online and on-campus options, the school educates enrollees in Piqua and throughout the country. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. Prospective applicants should base their enrollment decision on their chosen field's education requirements.
Edison State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 36
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 44
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 4
#3 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Zane State College
Zanesville, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Ohio, Zane State College is a public school educating learners through associate and certificate programs. To prepare for entry-level roles in medical assisting, many students pursue an associate degree or certificate in the field. To increase their career options, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
Enrollees living outside of the area benefit from these programs being available online. In addition, online learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. The institution's admissions counselors can help applicants select the best program for their goals and interests.
Zane State College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 40
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 34
#4 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Belmont College
St Clairsville, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school in Ohio, Belmont College delivers associate degrees and certificates in medical assisting. Associate degrees and certificate programs help prepare graduates for entry-level positions in medical assisting requiring modest technical training. Graduates often transfer their certificate or associate credits into a bachelor's program to qualify for more advanced roles.
Enrollees who prefer not to relocate to St. Clairsville can study remotely, in an online format. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should ensure the institution offers a program that aligns with their professional goals.
Belmont College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 32
Number of Certificate Programs: 25
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#5 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Clark State Community College
Springfield, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Ohio, Clark State Community College is a public school educating learners through associate and certificate programs in medical assisting. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the medical assisting-specific skills employers value. After completing their associate or certificate program, graduates can enroll in bachelor's programs to increase their job options and earning potential.
Enrollees not based near the Springfield campus can pursue the school's programs online. An additional benefit of online learning is the scheduling flexibility, which can be important to working professionals and students with family responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should consider their career goals and contact the admissions department for more information.
Clark State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 47
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10
Number of Certificate Programs: 37
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 11
#6 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Terra State Community College
Fremont, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Ohio-based Terra State Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. Associate and certificate programs in medical assisting feature technical training to prepare students to succeed in specialized roles. To improve their job prospects and earning potential, graduates can continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
With remote programs, the school provides opportunities for enrollees in any location to study online. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. Before enrolling, prospective applicants should ensure the institution offers a program that aligns with their professional goals.
Terra State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 81
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 3
Number of Certificate Programs: 60
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#7 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Lorain County Community College
Elyria, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in medical assisting from Lorain County Community College. With online and in-person enrollment options, the school provides opportunities for both Ohio residents and out-of-state students. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
Associate degrees and certifications introduce participants to the basic ideas and practices used in medical assisting. Immediately after graduation, many individuals apply to medical assisting positions. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Lorain County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 52
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 4
Number of Certificate Programs: 81
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 14
#8 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Eastern Gateway Community College
Steubenville, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Ohio-based Eastern Gateway Community College provides online and on-campus associate and certificate programs. To prepare for entry-level roles in medical assisting, many students pursue an associate degree or certificate in the field. Many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced positions.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Steubenville to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. In addition, online learning allows students to continue earning an income while pursuing their education. Prospective applicants should base their enrollment decision on their chosen field's education requirements.
Eastern Gateway Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 41
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 16
Number of Certificate Programs: 27
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 12
#9 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Rhodes State College
Lima, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
To qualify for medical assisting careers, learners can pursue Rhodes State College's associate or certificate programs. While the school's campus is located in Lima, Ohio, students can complete online programs from anywhere. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
In addition to practical training, associate and certificate programs in medical assisting help participants gain a breadth of relevant knowledge. After completing their associate or certificate program, individuals can apply for entry-level positions relevant to their training. Graduates can also choose to transfer to a bachelor's program for continued education and expanded opportunities, often with a reduced course load or fewer prerequisites.
Rhodes State College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 40
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 11
Number of Certificate Programs: 48
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 15
#10 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Columbus State Community College is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. Students located in Ohio can attend classes at the school's campus, while others can enroll online. These flexible remote programs are great options for those unable to move for their education.
In addition to coursework, associate and certificate programs in medical assisting feature practical training opportunities to prepare participants for work in the field. After completing their associate or certificate program, individuals can apply for entry-level positions relevant to their training. Graduates can also pursue a bachelor's degree, which they may use to qualify for more advanced roles with higher earning potential.
Columbus State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 61
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 14
Number of Certificate Programs: 107
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 24
#11 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Marion Technical College
Marion, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing an associate degree or certificate in medical assisting can consider Marion Technical College, a public institution. Students located anywhere can enroll in the school's online programs. Learners with full-time jobs often study online because of the increased flexibility remote learning offers.
Associate and certificate programs in medical assisting feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level medical assisting roles. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Marion Technical College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 28
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 8
Number of Certificate Programs: 24
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 9
#12 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Northwest State Community College
Archbold, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing an associate degree or certificate in medical assisting can consider Northwest State Community College, a public institution. Based in Archbold, Ohio, the school delivers programs online and on campus. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to busy learners, working professionals, and individuals with families.
In addition to coursework, associate and certificate programs in medical assisting feature practical training opportunities to prepare participants for work in the field. Individuals can pursue entry-level medical assisting positions after graduation. Graduates often pursue bachelor's studies before entering the workforce, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salary potential.
Northwest State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 56
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 24
#13 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Southern State Community College
Hillsboro, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in medical assisting can earn an associate degree or certificate from Southern State Community College, a public institution. Although the school's campus is in Hillsboro, Ohio, students can attend classes online from any location with internet access. Online learners often work full time while completing their program, scheduling their studies around work.
Medical assisting programs at the associate and certificate levels provide coursework and training that allow participants to develop a strong foundation in the field. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level medical assisting roles. Graduates can also transfer to a bachelor's program to advance their education and qualify for higher-level positions in the field.
Southern State Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 25
Number of Certificate Programs: 11
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#14 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public school, Cuyahoga Community College educates learners based in Ohio and throughout the country by offering online and on-campus programs. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the medical assisting field. To increase their career options, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
By studying online, enrollees can eliminate the cost of commuting to Cleveland for in-person classes. Additionally, many online medical assisting programs allow students to complete coursework at their convenience, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Cuyahoga Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 66
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 10
Number of Certificate Programs: 59
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 6
#15 Medical Assistant Schools & Salaries in Ohio
Ohio University-Southern Campus
Ironton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio University-Southern Campus is a public institution enrolling learners in associate and certificate programs. With online and in-person enrollment options, the school provides opportunities for both state residents and out-of-state students. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate and allows learners the flexibility to maintain full-time employment.
While completing an associate or certificate program in medical assisting, participants develop technical skills and gain broad knowledge in the field. After completing their associate or certificate program, individuals can apply for entry-level positions relevant to their training. Before entering the workforce, graduates often choose to enroll in a bachelor's program, many of which accept transfer credits.
Ohio University-Southern Campus at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 18
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 5
Ohio Medical Assisting Schools and Programs
There are currently more than 100 medical assisting schools in Ohio to choose from, located throughout all parts of the state. Finding the right one for a particular student requires a time and effort. The tool below is designed to make that search for the right school and program quicker and easier
Certification & Training in Ohio for Medical Assistants
1. How does Ohio define "medical assistant?"
Ohio state law does not offer a specific definition for the term "medical assistant." It does, however, provide for the delegation of medical tasks by physicians to "unlicensed persons," a group that includes medical assistants in Ohio. Under Ohio Administrative Code Section 4731.23, an "unlicensed person" is defined as, " an individual who is not licensed or otherwise specifically authorized by the Revised Code to perform the delegated medical task."
2. Is a formal education and/or training required to work as a medical assistant in Ohio?
According to the State Medical Board of Ohio, there are no legal or specified standard training requirements for the education or training of medical assistants in the state.
3. Is certification required?
State certification to practice as a medical assistant in Ohio is not required. There are also no state licensure or registration requirements, but because many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants, a certification could be an important step on the road to becoming a medical assistant in Ohio.
4. Is certification available?
Yes. While certification is not a legal requirement in Ohio, voluntary certification is strongly recommended. There are no certifications specifically for medical assisting in Ohio, but several organizations and associations offer certifications on a national level, as described below:
| Sponsoring Organization/Association | Certification Designation | Basic Certification Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) | Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) | Candidates must: graduate from an accredited medical assisting program; complete non-paying practicum; and pass the CMA exam. Continuing education for recertification required. |
| American Medical Technologists (AMT) | Medical Assistant (RMA) | Candidates can choose from among four eligibility paths to qualify for exam, then must pass the RMA exam. Certification maintenance requires completion of continuing education requirement. |
| National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP) | Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant (NRCMA) | Completion of accredited education program, approved military medical training or minimum two years of professional experience for eligibility and successful passing of the NRCMA exam. Continuing education for recertification required. |
| National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) | Medical Assistant (NCMA)1 | Candidates choose from four eligibility paths for eligibility and must pass the NCMA exam. Recertification with continuing education required. |
| National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)2 | Eligibility requires a high school diploma or GED, plus completion of accredited training or military or other work experience and passing of the CCMA exam. Continuing education for recertification is required. |
5. Does Ohio's state codes provide any description or guidance regarding scope of practice for medical assistants?
Yes. While Ohio law does not offer lists of specific tasks that can or cannot be performed by medical assistants, it does provide very specific guidelines to physicians regarding the conditions under which he or she may delegate medical activities or tasks to "unlicensed persons" such as medical assistants. Prior to delegating a task to a medical assistant, a physician must determine, among other things:
- That the task is within that physician's authority.
- The appropriate level of supervision.
- That the person to whom the task will be delegated is competent to perform that task.
- That the task can be performed without requiring the exercise of judgment based on medical knowledge.
- That the task can safely be performed according to exact, unchanging directions.
- That the task can be performed without repeated medical assessments.
- That the task, if performed improperly, would not present life threatening consequences or the danger of immediate and serious harm to the patient.
- That on-site supervision by the physician is given to the medical assistant when delegating the administration of drugs, notwithstanding a number of limited exceptions.
6. Are there tasks specifically prohibited from the practice of medical assistants in Ohio?
Again, no specific task list is provided. However, state law does prohibit a physician from delegating a number of tasks to unlicensed persons, including those:
- Specifically authorized only to be performed by a physician.
- Not within the authority of the physician or is beyond his or her training, expertise, or normal course of practice.
- Beyond the unlicensed person's competence.
Salaries for Ohio Medical Assistants
Salaries for medical assistants in Ohio are below national averages and tend to be among the lowest nationwide, according to 2014 figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Here's a look at Ohio wages for medical assistants, as compared with national averages:
| Annual Wage 25th percentile | Annual Wage Median | Annual Wage 75th percentile | Hourly Wage Median | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $24,610 | $28,020 | 32,210 | $13.47 |
| National | $25,500 | $29,960 | $36,070 | $14.41 |
Source: BLS, 2014
Medical Assistant Salaries in Ohio: City and Metropolitan Area Salaries
Geographic location factors such as population play a major role in determining actual salary figures for specific occupations. The chart below offers a glimpse at how location influences salaries for medical assistants in Ohio.
| Area | Annual Wage 25th percentile | Annual Wage Median | Annual Wage 75th percentile | Hourly Wage Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cincinnati-Middletown, OH-KY-IN | $25,760 | $29,270 | $34,520 | $14.07 |
| Cleveland-Elyria-Mentor, OH | $25,430 | $28,290 | $31,670 | $13.60 |
| Columbus, OH | $26,070 | $29,450 | $34,430 | $14.16 |
| Dayton, OH | $25,970 | $29,170 | $33,770 | $14.03 |
| Eastern Ohio nonmetropolitan area | $21,230 | $24,620 | $29,110 | $11.84 |
| Southern Ohio nonmetropolitan area | $20,600 | $24,430 | $29,200 | $11.74 |
| West Northwestern Ohio nonmetropolitan area | $21,100 | $23,650 | $27,970 | $11.37 |
| Other Ohio nonmetropolitan area | $21,050 | $24,440 | $28,930 | $11.75 |
Source: BLS, 2014
Medical Assisting Employment Trends in Ohio
While expected job growth for medical assistants in Ohio over the coming years trends lower than for the nation at large, the prospects for finding work as a medical assistant in the state are strong when compared to the overall job market
Medical Assistant Estimated Employment Growth 2012-2022
| Average Annual Openings | Current Employment | Projected Employment 2022 | Jobs Added | Growth Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 890 | 22,510 | 27,130 | 4,620 | 20.6% |
| National | 26,990 | 560,800 | 723,700 | 162,900 | 29% |
*Source: Projections Central, 2012-2022
Ohio Medical Assisting Schools Spotlight
There are dozens of formal educational options for prospective Ohio medical assistants, each offering its own quality academic program designed to suit the unique needs of its students. Highlighted here are three different types of medical assisting schools in Ohio for comparison.
CLARK STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
School Type:
Community College
Accreditation:
CAAHEP
School highlights:
Clark State operates on three campus locations in Ohio: Springfield, Beavercreek and Bellefontaine. The college has per semester enrollment of over 5000 students.
Programs offered:
Associate of Applied Science-Medical Assisting and Certificate in Medical Assisting. Students pursuing the associate degree complete all coursework required for the Certificate in Medical Assisting at the completion of their first year of study and may apply for the Certificate at that time.
STARK STATE COLLEGE
School Type:
Public College
Accreditation:
CAAHEP
School highlights:
Stark is a public, two-year college offering associate degrees, certificates and professional development programs in over 230 majors.
Programs offered:
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Medical Assisting. The degree is designed to be completed in two years (including a summer semester) of full-time study and is available in both day time and night time tracks. Offered on Stark's campus in Canton.
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHWESTERN OHIO
School Type:
Private Non-Profit College
Accreditation:
CAAHEP
School highlights:
UNOH is a private four-year college with its campus in Lima offering certificate, associate, bachelor and master degree programs to a 4,500 student population.
Programs offered:
Associate of Applied Business in Medical Assistant Technology. This degree is designed to be completed in six quarters of full-time study.
University of Northwestern Ohio
Resources for Ohio Medical Assistants and Students
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Website for the major medical assistant education program accreditation organization. Provides a search tool for locating accredited programs throughout the country
Ohio Revised Code, Chapter 4731 - Physicians; Limited Practitioners
State code chapter concerning physicians that includes laws and regulations pertaining to the scope and practice of medical assistants in Ohio.
Ohio State Society of Medical Assistants (OSSMA)
The state affiliate of the AAMA. The OSSMA site provides information on the association's networking events and scholarship programs, a job board, blog and more.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Assistants
Excellent site for government information and statistics on the medical assisting profession. Includes descriptions of job duties, education and training qualifications, job outlook, and more.