Medical Assistant Training Program in Illinois
7-month, fast-track, 100% online medical assistant program (with in-person clinical training) designed to prepare career changers and remote job seekers across Illinois for the CCMA certification exam.
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
Illinois Medical Assistant Program Overview: 100% Online
Certification Prep
Start with the medical assisting basics and progress to complex concepts for Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
Expert Support
Learn from instructors who are industry experts and 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
Total Cost: $14,700
Pay-as-you-go Payment Options available
As low as $289/month
Prerequisite Apply
Already Enrolled? Student Corner –
NOTE : The duration of your program will depend on your attendance; i.e., skipping lectures can result in prolonging the program duration.
What You’ll Learn in Illinois Online Medical Assistant Program (Skills)
This program is crafted to provide students with real-world training, required in both clinical procedures and healthcare administration, to help you gain in-demand medical assisting skills, including:
Fundamental Skills
Medical terminology, first aid procedures, anatomy and physiology, and basic pharmacology.
Clinical Skills
Assisting with patient examinations, performing ECGs, phlebotomy procedures, and patient room preparation.
Administrative Tasks
Scheduling appointments, managing phone triage, and processing insurance claims.
Digital Proficiency
Mastering Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and patient billing software.
Patient Care
Developing the "soft skills" necessary for effective patient communication and management.
Program Outcomes – What Careers Can This Lead To
Upon completion of this online medical assistant training, you will be qualified for various entry-level positions, including:
| Job Title | Primary Responsibility | Work Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | Performs a blend of clinical tasks (vitals, blood draws) and administrative duties (scheduling, records). | Highly adaptable; found in physician offices, outpatient clinics, and urgent care. |
| Clinical Medical Assistant | Focuses strictly on back-office, clinical duties and assisting with procedures. | Examination rooms, specialized clinics, and fast-paced ambulatory care centers. |
| Administrative Medical Assistant | Manages front-office logistics, medical billing, coding, patient charts, and regulatory compliance. | Medical office reception areas, billing departments, and administrative suites. |
| Healthcare & Clinical Assistant | Direct patient care and clinical support. | Fast-paced physician offices, clinics, and hospitals. |
| Virtual Medical Assistant | Manage the clinic’s digital communications remotely. | Work from home or remote administrative hubs. |
| Patient Services Representative | Front-desk management and patient intake. | Professional medical reception areas and outpatient centers. |
| Insurance Specialist | Processing claims and navigating healthcare billing. | Private practices, billing departments, or remote offices. |
| Patient Scheduler | Coordinating appointments and provider calendars. | Dynamic call centers or busy medical office settings. |
NOTE : Depending on your employer and work setting, you may require additional certifications.
How’s the Job Demand and Salary for Medical Assistants in Illinois
The demand for MA (even entry-level ones) is very promising. In fact, the BLS projects a strong 12% growth in the next decade nationwide.
Illinois Medical Assistant Job Market at a Glance (Salary and Job Demand)
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Illinois has approximately 21,040 professionals working in this role statewide. Median wages here consistently run on par with the national average, with cities like Englewood, Herrick, and Winchester offering some of the highest-paying opportunities in the country.
| City | Englewood | Herrick | Winchester | Antioch | Meredosia | Port Byron | Henry | Ringwood | Iuka | Lincolnshire |
| Annual Salary | $48,510 | $47,309 | $46,257 | $45,722 | $45,204 | $43,960 | $43,829 | $43,733 | $43,619 | $43,556 |
| Monthly Pay | $4,042 | $3,942 | $3,854 | $3,810 | $3,767 | $3,663 | $3,652 | $3,644 | $3,634 | $3,629 |
| Hourly Wage | $23.32 | $22.74 | $22.24 | $21.98 | $21.73 | $21.13 | $21.07 | $21.03 | $20.97 | $20.94 |
Source: ZipRecruiter
Do Medical Assistants Need to Be Licensed in Illinois?
While a CCMA certification is voluntary under state law, many Illinois employers require it.
Employers like Northwestern Medicine and Advocate Health Care list MA certification as a condition for eligibility for performance incentives and many clinical roles.
Feel like the MA role is not for you? Explore 19+ Medical Careers That Don’t Require a Degree.
Illinois Medical Assistant Training Program Curriculum Breakdown
01
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.
02
Module 2: Medical Science & Pharmacology
Focus on the core biological and pharmaceutical knowledge required for clinical safety.
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.
03
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.
04
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.
240-Hour Externship: Real-World Clinical Training
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 finish 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
Measuring height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
Examination Assistance
Preparing patients for exams and assisting physicians during procedures.
Diagnostic Testing
Setting up and performing basic diagnostic tests, such as ECGs (Electrocardiograms).
Specimen Collection
Correctly collecting, labeling, and processing laboratory specimens for testing.
Room Preparation
Sterilizing medical instruments and ensuring exam rooms are stocked and sanitized.
Patient Charting
Using Electronic Medical Records (EMR) to accurately document patient history and encounter details.
Flexible Medical Assistant Classes to Fit Your Schedule
Just two medical assistant online classes a week. Enroll in your desired batch.
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.
What Are the Medical Assistant Certification Options in Illinois?
Completing the CCI Training Center program earns you a certificate of completion. More importantly, it prepares you to sit for nationally recognized certification exams that Illinois employers actively seek, including:
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)
Provided by the National Safety Council (NSC), this credential ensures you have 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 for 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, we offer:
Professional Career Counseling | Resume & Interview Prep | Employer Networking
For more information, contact our career services.
Who's Hiring Medical Assistants in Illinois?
Illinois’s healthcare ecosystem is vast, spanning world-class academic medical centers, multi-site integrated health systems, urgent care networks, and private specialty practices. As a certified medical assistant, your employment options are substantial.
Top Illinois Employers Looking for Certified MAs:
| Employer | Key IL Locations | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern Medicine | Chicago, Evanston, Geneva, Winfield | Prestigious academic medical center; offers highly competitive benefits, tuition reimbursement, and extensive clinical career paths. |
| Advocate Health Care | Chicago Metro, Downers Grove, Park Ridge | One of the largest health systems in Illinois; vast network of clinics and hospitals providing frequent opportunities for ambulatory and surgical MAs. |
| UChicago Medicine | Chicago (Hyde Park), Orland Park, Willowbrook | Renowned academic institution; strong emphasis on professional development and career advancement within specialty clinical departments. |
| Trinity Health (Loyola Medicine) | Maywood, Burr Ridge, Melrose Park | Integrated regional system; often provides benefits from day one and robust training programs for certified MAs. |
| UI Health | Chicago (Illinois Medical District) | Academic center associated with the University of Illinois; serves as a major training ground with a mission-driven work environment. |
| Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) | Carbondale, Herrin, Murphysboro | The primary healthcare provider for the southern region of the state; offers essential clinical roles in a community-focused setting. |
| UChicago Medicine AdventHealth | Bolingbrook, Hinsdale, La Grange, Woodridge | Expanding suburban network; frequently seeks MAs for primary care and specialty clinics with competitive compensation packages. |
NOTE : Available positions are subject to change as per the employer’s requirements.
Job Search Platforms to Start Your Illinois MA Career
Once you’re certified, these platforms offer strong Illinois healthcare listings:
Are There Any Illinois Workforce Centers & Financial Aid Resources Available?
Yes! Cost should never be the barrier between you and a healthcare career. The state of Illinois offers extensive workforce funding programs.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) oversee the state’s workforce infrastructure. American Job Centers located throughout the state serve as official one-stop hubs for job seekers, providing career counseling, skills assessments, resume assistance, mock interviews, and direct connections to WIOA-approved training programs.
These centers are the primary resources for residents looking to transition into high-demand healthcare careers.
How to find your local center:
Visit the Illinois workNet Center Locator to find the office nearest you.
You can also contact the IDES Appointment Scheduling Hotline at (217) 558-0401 for assistance with in-person or virtual services.
Illinois Job Center & Workforce Hubs:
Chicago/Cook County: Visit the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership to find an American Job Center in your neighborhood.
Lake County: Job Center of Lake County – 1 N Genesee Street, Waukegan, IL 60085 | (847) 377-3450.
DuPage County: workNet DuPage Career Center – 2525 Cabot Dr, Lisle, IL 60532 | (630) 955-2030.
Southern Illinois: Southern Illinois Workforce Development Board serves the southernmost counties with career and training resources.
Can WIOA Funding Cover My Medical Assistant Training in Illinois?
Yes, WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding can fully or partially cover the cost of your medical assistant training in Illinois.
Additional Financial Aid at CCI Training Center
Beyond WIOA, CCI Training Center contracts with several agencies to provide financial assistance to eligible students. Additional options include:
Federal Pell Grant Program
Federal Direct Loan
Low-interest Loans
Flexible Pay-As-You-Go Payment Plans (starting as low as $289/month)
For more information, contact our Financial Aid representative.
Why Choose CCI for Your Medical Assistant Training in Illinois
100% Online Programs (twice a week)
Synchronous live lectures give you the flexibility to learn even if you work or have other responsibilities. Includes simulations of working in a medical office.
National Accreditation
Curriculum and skills taught are verified and aligned with the ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training) guidelines.
Expert Instructors
Our online classes are led by experienced instructors, offering practical training and industry insights.
Local Medical Externships
Gain real-world experience at an approved medical facility arranged within 30 miles of your zip code.
Career Planning
Our team helps with job placement assistance and provides career support even after you graduate.
Financial Aid
Eligible students can leverage several financial aid options (Pell grants and low-interest loans), including Scholarships and Texas Workforce (WIOA) Funding.
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, focusing heavily 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 the Illinois Online Medical Assistant Program
Starting your career training at CCI Training Center is simple.
Submit Your Application
Fill out our online form to provide your basic information and educational background.
Speak With an Advisor
Complete a required personal interview with an admissions representative to discuss your career goals.
Complete Your Enrollment
Meet with the financial aid staff to determine eligibility and create your funding plan and sign your agreement.
Start Your Training
Begin your online modules and join live lectures to master essential healthcare skills.
Want to explore the MA career journey? Learn how to become a medical assistant.
Can I Enroll From Anywhere in Illinois?
Absolutely. The CCI Training Center Medical Assistant Program is 100% online, which means you can complete your coursework from any location in Illinois with a reliable internet connection.
For the externship component, CCI Training Center works to place you at an approved clinical facility within approximately 30 miles of your zip code.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need prior healthcare experience to enroll in this program from Illinois?
No prior experience is required. All you need is a high school diploma or equivalent GED. The program is designed from the ground up to take students from no background to CCMA exam-ready in just 7 months (completion of the course will depend on your attendance).
Is CCI Training Center's online medical assistant program accredited in Illinois?
Yes. The CCI Training Center is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), a nationally recognized accreditation body. This accreditation confirms the curriculum meets industry-verified standards and is recognized by Illinois employers and workforce funding agencies.
How does the 240-hour externship work if I live in Illinois?
After completing your online coursework, CCI Training Center arranges your externship at an approved medical facility — typically within 30 miles of your Illinois ZIP code. You’ll complete 240 hours of supervised, hands-on clinical training in a real healthcare environment under the supervision of licensed professionals.
What certifications will I be prepared for after completing the program?
The program prepares you to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) — the credential most preferred by Illinois employers. It also includes preparation for OSHA and First Aid certifications through the National Safety Council (NSC).
Is WIOA funding available for this program in Illinois?
Eligible Illinois students may qualify for WIOA funding through their local workforce center. WIOA can fully or partially cover tuition costs for qualified adults, dislocated workers, and veterans. Contact your nearest center to confirm eligibility and begin the application process.
What is the starting medical assistant salary in Illinois for new graduates?
Entry-level medical assistants in Illinois typically earn in the low-to-mid $30,000s to low $40,000s annually, depending on location and employer. With CCMA certification, specialized skills, and experience, salaries frequently rise into the $50,000–$65,000+ range.
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The CCI training center difference
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.
