Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas
Your search for a flexible medical assistant program in Arkansas ends right here. CCI Training Center offers a 7-month online Medical Assistant program that helps students across Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, and anywhere else across the state gain the skills needed to pursue entry-level healthcare careers.
School Accredited By : (ACCET)
- 240-hour Externship (real clinical experience)
- 100% Online (teacher-led) + Local clinical Training
- No prior experience required
- CCMA (NHA) certification exam prep
Get Certified
Get Trained
Get Job
Complete Overview of Our Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas
Certification Prep
Start with the medical assisting basics and progress to complex concepts for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
Expert Support
Learn from instructors who are industry experts and will guide you every step of the way.
Fast-Track Training
Earn your entry-level certificate of completion in the Medical Assistant program in only 7 months.
Tuition Fee
Pay-as-you-go Payment Options available
As low as $289/month
Already Enrolled? Student Corner –
NOTE : Completion time for the medical assistant program in Arkansas may vary based on attendance. Skipping lectures can result in prolonging the program duration. Consistent participation in scheduled classes helps ensure you finish within the expected 7-month timeframe.
The Skills You'll Build in Our Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas
Our online medical assistant program in Arkansas equips you with the in-demand medical assisting skills employers expect from day one.
Fundamental Skills
Medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, first aid procedures, and basic pharmacology to build a strong healthcare foundation.
Clinical Skills
Supporting physicians during exams, performing ECGs, assisting with phlebotomy, and maintaining properly prepared exam rooms.
Administrative Tasks
Scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and processing insurance and billing information.
Digital Proficiency
Training in Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems and patient billing software used across Arkansas healthcare facilities.
Patient Care
Building essential "soft skills", patient interaction techniques, and overall care management competencies.
Our Online Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas Is Best Suited For
Our medical assistant program in Arkansas is designed for individuals seeking a flexible, faster path into Arkansas’s healthcare industry.
Recent High School Graduates
Recent High School Graduates Start your healthcare career without spending years earning a four-year degree.
Career Changers
Career Changers Make a smooth transition into the healthcare industry, regardless of your previous work experience.
Working Adults
Working Adults Attend flexible online classes designed to fit around your job, family, and daily responsibilities.
Certification-Focused Students
Certification-Focused Students Build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently prepare for certifications such as the CCMA.
Current Healthcare Support Staff
Current Healthcare Support Staff Expand your clinical and administrative skills to pursue career advancement opportunities across Arkansas.
Career Opportunities After Completing Our Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas
One of the biggest advantages of our medical assistant program in Arkansas is the variety of career paths it can open. After completing our program, you may be eligible to pursue entry-level positions such as:
| Job Title | Primary Responsibility | Work Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | Blends clinical duties (vitals, blood draws) with administrative tasks (scheduling, records). | Highly versatile; found in physician offices, outpatient clinics, and urgent care centers. |
| Clinical Medical Assistant | Focuses on back-office clinical duties and procedural support. | Examination rooms, specialized clinics, fast-paced ambulatory care centers. |
| Administrative Medical Assistant | Oversees front-office operations, medical billing, coding, patient charts, and compliance. | Medical office reception areas, billing departments, and administrative suites. |
| Healthcare & Clinical Assistant | Provides direct patient care and clinical support. | Fast-paced physician offices, clinics, and hospitals. |
| Virtual Medical Assistant | Handles a clinic’s digital communications remotely. | Remote/work-from-home administrative hubs. |
| Patient Services Representative | Manages front-desk responsibilities and patient intake. | Professional medical reception areas and outpatient centers. |
| Insurance Specialist | Processes claims and navigates healthcare billing systems. | Private practices, billing departments, remote offices. |
| Patient Scheduler | Coordinates appointments and provider calendars. | Busy medical offices or dynamic call centers. |
NOTE : Completing a medical assistant program can help you pursue these career paths, but some employers may require additional certifications, experience, or role-specific training before hiring for certain positions.
Medical Assistant Salary in Arkansas
| State | Arkansas |
| Employment | 4700 |
| Employment per thousand jobs | 3.695 |
| Hourly mean wage | $17.10 |
| Annual mean wage | $35,560 |
NOTE : Salary figures are provided for informational purposes only and do not guarantee a specific starting wage. Actual earnings may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, job responsibilities, and geographic location.
Major Healthcare Employers in Arkansas
After completing your online medical assistant program in Arkansas, you will be well-positioned to explore entry-level roles across these high-demand healthcare hubs.
Employer
Recognized Arkansas Landmarks Near Healthcare Hubs
These well-known locations make it easy to orient yourself within Arkansas’s major healthcare markets as you plan your job search.
Financial Aid Options for Our Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas
Starting a new career is a big step, but paying for your education doesn’t have to be a barrier. Beyond WIOA funding, CCI Training Center offers several financial aid solutions for eligible students, including:
Federal Pell Grant Program
Federal Direct Loan
Low-interest Loans
Director's Scholarship (up to $2,000)
The CCI Training Center also offers flexible payment options for all online training programs. Check with our representatives to check if you are eligible for financial aid.
How to Access WIOA Funding in Arkansas
WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding can fully or partially cover the cost of your medical assistant training in Arkansas. Arkansas administers WIOA through its statewide network of Arkansas Workforce Centers. To access WIOA funding in Arkansas:
Locate your nearest Arkansas Workforce Center.
Complete an intake appointment with a career counselor to confirm your eligibility (adults, dislocated workers, veterans, and youth may all qualify).
Receive an Individual Training Account (ITA) authorization from your WIOA counselor to cover tuition.
Confirm that your chosen training program accepts WIOA funding.
Top Available Arkansas Workforce Centers
Arkansas has a well-established network of Workforce Centers that provide no-cost career services, WIOA funding access, and job placement support for healthcare job seekers.
| Region | Center / Agency | Address & Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Little Rock | Little Rock Arkansas Workforce Center | 5401 S. University Ave., Little Rock, AR 72209, 501-682-0228 |
| North Little Rock | North Little Rock Workforce Center | 324 W Pershing Blvd. Suite 1, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-376-4119 |
| Fayetteville (NW Arkansas) | Fayetteville Arkansas Workforce Center | 2153 E. Joyce Blvd. Suite 201, Fayetteville, AR 72701, 479-521-5730 |
| Fort Smith | Fort Smith, Arkansas Workforce Center | 616 Garrison Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72901, 479-783-0231 |
| Jonesboro | Jonesboro Arkansas Workforce Center | 2311 E. Nettleton Ave., Jonesboro, AR 72401, 870-935-5594 |
| Hot Springs | Hot Springs Workforce Center | 201 Market St., Hot Springs, AR 71901, 501-525-3450 |
| Forrest City | EACC Campus Workforce Center | 1700 New Castle Rd., Forrest City, AR 72335, 870-633-2900 |
| Harrison | Harrison Workforce Center | 818 N. Hwy. 62-65, Harrison, AR 72601, 870-741-8236 |
Our Medical Assistant Program in Arkansas: Curriculum Breakdown
Module 1: Professional Foundations & Digital Literacy
This module introduces the administrative, digital, and professional skills commonly used in healthcare settings.
Virtual Assistant Literacy (VAL01):
Learn the digital tools essential for modern clinics and remote roles, including Microsoft Office and communication platforms like Zoom and Google Meet.
Medical Law, Ethics & Professionalism (MED02):
Develop an understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities in healthcare environments, covering medical malpractice, HIPAA compliance, and patient rights.
Module 2: Medical Science & Pharmacology
Medical Terminology/Anatomy & Physiology (MED03R):
Master the language of medicine and develop an understanding of the structure and function of major human body systems.
Basic Pharmacology (MED05):
Study drug classifications, safe administration routes, and how to identify potential drug interactions.
Module 3: Clinical Theory & Electronic Records
Bridge the gap between theory and digital management through simulated environments.
Clinical Theory & Simulations (MED18):
Use performance-based simulations and guided practice activities during live lectures, practicing essential procedures such as vital signs, specimen collection, vision screening, and injection techniques, to develop clinical reasoning and master patient care tasks in a controlled setting.
Electronic Medical Records (MED30A):
Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard EMR software for patient charting, billing, and insurance claim processing.
Module 4: Office Management & Career Launch
Finalize your training with administrative expertise and professional preparation.
Medical Office Procedures (MED06A):
Learn how to keep a medical office running smoothly by managing patient intake, appointments, triage, and essential day-to-day operations.
Career Development (CDV01):
Prepare for healthcare careers by building resumes, creating a professional LinkedIn profile, and practicing modern job search strategies used by employers today.
Certification Review (CEP02):
A dedicated 24-hour intensive review of all medical assistant duties to ensure you are ready for national certification exams (CCMA).
Medical Assistant Practice Kit (Included with the MED18: Clinical Theory & Simulations Course)
This practice kit is designed to complement online coursework and provides students with simulated, at-home training tools aligned with common clinical procedures.
What’s Included in the Practice Kit
Injection practice supplies
Vital signs training tools
Wound care
Specimen collection
PPE ITEMS
Instructional guide
How Is It Used During the Course?
Applied Learning
Integrated directly into MED18 lessons to support hands-on practice alongside theoretical instruction.
Student Activities
Used to complete weekly structured practice, follow live/recorded instructor demonstrations, and build foundational clinical workflows.
Externship Prep
Helps students build confidence and familiarity with clinical tools before stepping into their local externship.
Instructor Integration
Instructors incorporate kit materials into live lecture demonstrations, weekly assignments, and skill readiness reviews.
NOTES
- All materials are intended for educational simulation purposes only and are not used on real patients.
- You will be able to practice crucial skills under the supervision of healthcare professionals during your local externship (in-person).
- This kit is distributed specifically during the MED18 course (Clinical Theory and Simulations) directly to the student’s registered address.
Build Real Confidence With a 240-Hour Externship in Arkansas
This hands-on experience bridges the gap between online simulations and a professional medical career, allowing you to apply your skills under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
Your Path to the Field
Step 1: Complete Coursework
Successfully complete your online medical and administrative training (MED01-MED06A).
Step 2: Local Placement
CCI Training Center arranges your externship at a medical facility, typically within 30 miles of your location.
Step 3: Supervised Training
Complete 240 hours of comprehensive, supervised clinical training in a functional medical environment.
6 Key Clinical Tasks You Will Perform
During your externship, you will actively support a medical team by performing essential patient care duties, including:
Patient Intake & Vitals Signs
Record and monitor essential patient information, including height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and other vital measurements.
Examination Support
Prepare patients for examinations, assist healthcare providers during procedures, and help ensure a smooth clinical workflow.
Diagnostic Procedures
Set up and perform basic diagnostic tests, such as Electrocardiograms (ECGs), in accordance with established healthcare protocols.
Specimen Collection & Processing
Collect, label, handle, and prepare laboratory specimens accurately for testing and analysis.
Exam Room Preparation
Clean, sanitize, and stock exam rooms, ensuring medical instruments are properly sterilized and ready for use.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Documentation
Maintain accurate patient records by documenting medical histories, clinical observations, and visit details using EMR systems.
NOTE: The school is fully committed to assisting students in finding a suitable externship site near the student’s location. At times, finding a new externship site to match the remote location of the student leads to delays and causes the student to complete the program later than anticipated. Students must understand and agree to this condition and assist the school when possible by remaining in close contact with the school.
Our Flexible Medical Assistant Training in Arkansas Is Built Around You
Attend just two live online classes each week, with schedule options designed around your life in Arkansas, whether you work full-time, have family commitments, or are balancing multiple responsibilities.
Morning Lecture
- Monday & Wednesday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm (CST)
- Tuesday & Thursday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm (CST)
Evening Lecture
- Monday & Wednesday 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (CST)
- Tuesday & Thursday 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (CST)
Limited Seats Available
Contact Admissions for the latest class start dates and enrollment availability. Seats fill quickly.
Certifications You Can Aim For After Completing the Program
Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Certificate of Completion from CCI Training Center. To further strengthen your career prospects across Arkansas’s healthcare system, you can also pursue:
CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant)
This core certification, provided by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), verifies your clinical skills and significantly enhances your job prospects in competitive healthcare markets.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
This credential, provided by the National Safety Council (NSC), demonstrates the specialized knowledge required to maintain a safe medical workplace and prevent environmental hazards.
BLS / CPR (Basic Life Support & Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
Essential for healthcare professionals, this training (often certified via the American Heart Association) validates your ability to perform life-saving CPR, use an AED, and respond to choking and cardiac emergencies.
First Aid
Also awarded by the NSC, this certification validates your ability to provide critical emergency medical assistance when every second counts.
The CCI Training Center prepares you for success on these certification exams by providing a Comprehensive Certification Review.
Learn what additional medical assisting certifications you can aim for after completing this training program.
Career Support for Your Future
Your journey doesn’t end with a certificate. CCI Training Center provides dedicated Career Support Services to help you transition into the workforce, including:
- Personalized Career Counseling
- Resume & Cover Letter Assistance
- Interview Skills Coaching
- Career Assessment Support
For more information, contact our career services.
Medical Assistant Job Search Platforms for Arkansas Students
Whether you are searching for your first healthcare role or your next career opportunity, these job platforms connect medical assistant candidates with openings throughout Arkansas:
Why Does Our Medical Assistant Online Program in Arkansas Stand Out?
Flexible 100% Online Learning
Attend live online classes just twice a week, making it easier to balance your education with work, family, and other responsibilities. Interactive simulations help you practice real-world medical office scenarios from home.
Accredited School
Our school is accredited by ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training), ensuring you receive industry-relevant training aligned with employer expectations.
Learn From Experienced Instructors
Receive guidance from knowledgeable healthcare professionals who bring real-world experience, practical insights, and personalized support to every class.
Hands-On Clinical Externship
Put your skills into practice through a supervised externship at an approved healthcare facility located within 30 miles of your ZIP code whenever possible.
Career Support Services
From resume assistance to interview preparation and job search guidance, our Career Services team is available to support you throughout your training and beyond graduation.
Financial Aid Options
Qualified students may be eligible for various funding opportunities, including scholarships, Pell Grants, low-interest loans, and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) assistance to help make training more affordable.
Online vs In-Person Medical Assistant Program
| Feature | Online Medical Assistant Programs | In-Person Medical Assistant Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Environment | Lectures delivered virtually; clinical theory via online simulations | All lectures, discussions, and lab work on a physical campus |
| Flexibility & Schedule | High flexibility with morning and evening session options | Rigid, fixed schedules requiring daily physical attendance and commuting |
| Clinical Practice | Core skills introduced online; mastered during a mandatory local externship | Clinical skills practiced on peers in a physical campus lab |
| Technology | Requires a computer, high-speed internet, a webcam, and comfort with digital platforms | Minimal personal technology required; use on-campus computer labs |
If you are wondering why choose an online training program? Check out this comparison between traditional and online medical assistant training courses.
Meet Your Online Medical Assistant Training Instructor
Dr. Nathaniel Pettigrew
Dr. Pettigrew is an accomplished healthcare professional, military veteran, and educator who currently serves as an Allied Health Instructor at CCI Training Center. His diverse career spans clinical practice in major health systems, military medical readiness operations, and academic leadership as a Program Director. He specializes in bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world clinical application, with a strong focus on hands-on training, student mentorship, and professional accountability.
- Experience: 25+ years in healthcare; 15+ years of leadership in allied health education; Veteran (US Navy Hospital Corpsman).
- Qualification:
Academic Degrees: Dual MBA/MHA, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN BSN), BS in Health Administration, Master of Christian Education, and a Doctorate of Humanities.
Professional Certifications: Nationally registered in Medical Assisting, EKG, Phlebotomy, and Patient Care Technology.
Specialized Training: Certified BLS/CPR Instructor; certified in Basic and Advanced Emergency Care via military medical training.
How to Enroll in Our Medical Assistant Online Program in Arkansas
Getting started at CCI Training Center is straightforward and supported at every step.
Submit Your Application
Complete a short online application with your basic contact information and educational background. Once submitted, our admissions team will review your information and reach out to discuss the next steps.
Meet With an Admissions Advisor
Schedule a one-on-one conversation with an admissions advisor to discuss your career goals, learn more about the program, and get answers to any questions you may have.
Explore Financial Aid and Complete Enrollment
If you are eligible, our financial aid team will help you review available funding options, including grants, scholarships, WIOA assistance, and payment plans. Once you're ready, you'll complete the enrollment process and secure your spot in the program.
Begin Your Medical Assistant Training
Start attending live online classes, completing coursework, and developing the clinical and administrative skills needed for certification preparation and entry-level healthcare careers in Arkansas.
Interested in exploring the full MA career path? Learn how to become a medical assistant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to complete the online medical assistant program in Arkansas?
Students can complete our online medical assistant program in as little as 7 months. However, completion time may vary based on attendance. Skipping lectures can extend the time needed to finish the program.
Is the Medical Assistant Program completely online?
The academic portion of our medical assistant program in Arkansas is delivered online through live instructor-led classes and simulations. But students also need to complete a required 240-hour externship at a local healthcare facility to graduate.
Do I need previous healthcare experience to enroll?
No prior healthcare experience is required. This Medical Assistant program in Arkansas is designed for beginners starting from any level and provides structured, step-by-step training in clinical, administrative, and patient care skills to help you build confidence for entry-level healthcare roles. With instructor-led online instruction and a supervised local externship in Arkansas, you’ll receive guided support throughout your training from start to finish.
What certification can I pursue after completing the program?
Students receive a Certificate of Completion from CCI Training Center and are prepared to pursue the CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Additional certifications such as CPR/BLS, OSHA, and First Aid may also strengthen employment opportunities.
Will I complete a medical externship in Arkansas?
Yes. Students complete a 240-hour supervised externship at an approved healthcare facility. Whenever possible, placements are arranged within approximately 30 miles of the student’s ZIP code.
What jobs can I apply for after graduating?
Graduates may pursue entry-level healthcare roles such as Clinical Medical Assistant, Administrative Medical Assistant, Medical Office Scheduler, Patient Care Coordinator, Virtual Medical Assistant, Medical Receptionist, and other related positions. Employment requirements vary by employer.
How much do Medical Assistants earn in Arkansas?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Assistants in Arkansas earn an average annual wage of approximately $35,560. Remember, actual earnings vary based on experience, certifications, employer, specialty, and geographic location.
Is financial aid available for Arkansas students?
Yes. Qualified students may be eligible for financial aid options including Federal Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, low-interest financing, scholarships, and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding.
Can I work while attending the medical assistant program in Arkansas?
Yes. Our online medical assistant program in Arkansas is specifically designed for flexibility, with live online classes offered in both morning and evening schedules, allowing many students to continue working while completing their training.
Why should I choose an online Medical Assistant Program instead of an in-person program?
An online medical assistant program in Arkansas offers greater scheduling flexibility, reduced commuting time, and the ability to learn from home. Combined with a local externship, students gain both the convenience of online learning and the practical experience employers expect.
How does the externship help with employment?
The externship allows students to apply classroom knowledge in a real healthcare setting, gain practical experience, build professional confidence, and develop connections with healthcare employers before graduation.
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Latest From CCI Training Center
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Providing accredited career training for decades, CCI Training Center is a name that is well recognized and trusted among employers in the fields of Information Technology, Medical / Healthcare, and Business & Accounting. At CCI Training Center, we’re proud of the tradition of excellence we established with the first class of professional career training graduates in 1984.
The experts at CCI career training center have been preparing thousands of adults for new careers or assisting them in enhancing their current careers through our fast-track online career training program.
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