If you’re exploring medical assistant programs in Newark, here are four excellent options to consider. Each program is unique, offering different features to suit your budget, schedule, and career goals.
- Americation Career & Training School: A short 3-4 month program with flexible online or in-person options, preparing students for six certifications at an affordable cost of $4,000.
- Academy of Allied Health Sciences: An 8-month, 900-hour program with a strong focus on hands-on clinical and administrative skills, including a 180-hour externship.
- Propel America: A tuition-free, 12-month program with online classes, in-person labs, and guaranteed job interviews, plus a stipend and free laptop for participants.
- Berkeley College: Offers a 45-week certificate or 60-week associate’s degree, accredited by CAAHEP, with a comprehensive curriculum and 165-hour practicum.
Explore each program in greater detail to find the one that best fits your career goals and needs.
1. Americation Career & Training School
The Medical Assistant program at Americation Career & Training School offers flexible options for completion in 3-4 months, including self-paced online classes or instructor-led live sessions. The curriculum includes core skills in clinical procedures, phlebotomy, and EKG, preparing students for entry-level healthcare roles.
Students can attend theory classes online while completing hands-on clinical training on campus. Class schedules include morning, evening, and weekend options, with time commitments of 15-20 hours per week. Tuition costs start at $4,000, with payment plans available.
Graduates are eligible for up to six national certifications, including Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Phlebotomy Technician, and EKG Technician. Upon program completion, students receive a certificate, digital badge, and transcript to showcase their achievements. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,000 |
| Duration | 3-4 months |
| Schedules | Morning, Evening, Weekend |
| Online Classes? | Yes |
| Location | 24 Commerce St, Ste 401, Newark, NJ |
| Phone | 973-642-4160 |
2. Academy of Allied Health Sciences
The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program at the Academy of Allied Health Sciences spans 8 months and includes 900 hours of training. It integrates clinical, administrative, and lab components, with a 180-hour externship at affiliated medical centers.
The curriculum covers medical office administration, clinical skills, and lab procedures. Students learn Microsoft Office tools, medical billing, coding, patient screening, and infection control. Topics also include anatomy, nutrition, and medical terminology.
Graduates earn a certificate of completion and qualify for National Certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Classes prepare students for diverse roles in modern healthcare settings, combining practical training with career-focused education.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Duration | 8 months |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 24 Commerce St, Suite 510, Newark, NJ |
| Phone | 973-732-4180 |
3. Propel America
The Propel America Medical Assistant program is tuition-free and lasts 12 months. It includes over 700 hours of online coursework, in-person labs, and a 160-hour externship with RWJ Barnabas Health.
Classes are asynchronous, allowing students to work on their own schedule, with assignments due twice a week. Hands-on skills labs and coaching sessions with career advisors are also part of the curriculum.
Participants receive a laptop if needed, a $500 stipend, and are prepared for certification exams upon completion. The program guarantees job interviews with partner healthcare organizations. Graduates can expect starting salaries of approximately $45,000 per year. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements, including having a high school diploma or GED and being fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Tuition reimbursed through stipend |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Schedules | Asynchronous with in-person labs |
| Online Classes? | Yes |
| Location | Newark, NJ (specific address not provided) |
4. Berkeley College
The Medical Assistant program at Berkeley College offers two tracks: a 45-week certificate program and a 60-week Associate’s degree program. Both programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
The curriculum covers clinical and administrative skills, including taking vital signs, assisting in exams, collecting lab specimens, medical billing, and EKG procedures. Students gain hands-on experience in simulated clinical environments and complete a 165-hour practicum.
Graduates of the degree program also receive a Medical Assistant certificate. The program prepares students for certification exams such as CMA, RMA, and CCMA. Classes include both theory and practical training to meet the demands of modern healthcare facilities, including hospitals and physicians’ offices. Students benefit from small class sizes and career development support.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $27,900 per year (Associate’s) |
| Duration | 45 weeks (Certificate), 60 weeks (Associate’s) |
| Schedules | Not Provided |
| Online Classes? | Yes, some courses |
| Location | 536 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102 |
| Phone | 800-446-5400 |
Our Thoughts
All four are great options for Newark residents, and which one you should attend should be based on your long-term goals, your budget, how long you want to attend school, and other factors. Here’s a quick breakdown of these four options:
- Americation Career & Training School is great if you need flexibility. It’s short—just 3-4 months—and offers online or in-person options with morning, evening, or weekend schedules. At $4,000, it’s affordable and prepares you for six certifications. Ideal for someone looking to get certified quickly and start working.
- Academy of Allied Health Sciences offers a more detailed 8-month program with 900 hours of training, including a 180-hour externship. It’s more hands-on but lacks online options. If you want a strong focus on clinical and administrative skills, this is a solid choice.
- Propel America stands out because it’s tuition-free and includes a laptop and stipend. The 12-month program blends online classes with in-person labs and guarantees job interviews upon completion. Perfect if cost is a concern and you want guaranteed hiring support.
- Berkeley College offers two tracks: a 45-week certificate or a 60-week associate’s degree. It’s more comprehensive, with accredited programs and a 165-hour practicum. However, at $27,900 per year, it’s the most expensive and better suited for those looking to advance academically.
Choose based on your budget, timeline, and career goals!