7-Month Medical Assistant Program in Iowa
Healthcare careers are growing, and our Online Medical Assistant Program in Iowa makes it easier to get started. Learn from home, complete a local externship, and develop the skills employers look for, all in as little as 7 months.
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
An Introduction to Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa
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
Total Cost: $14,700
Pay-as-you-go Payment Options available
As low as $289/month
Prerequisite Apply
Already Enrolled? Student Corner –
NOTE: The completion timeline for your medical assistant program in Iowa is tied directly to your attendance record. Skipping scheduled lectures will extend the program beyond the standard 7-month period.
What You'll Learn in Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa (Skills)
Our online medical assistant program in Iowa builds the practical, employer-ready, in-demand medical assisting skills you need to step into a healthcare role from day one.
Fundamental Skills
Medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, first aid procedures, and basic pharmacology to establish a solid clinical foundation.
Clinical Skills
Assisting physicians during patient exams, performing ECGs, supporting phlebotomy, and keeping exam rooms prepared and properly stocked.
Administrative Tasks
Scheduling patient appointments, managing health records, and processing insurance claims and billing information.
Digital Proficiency
Hands-on training in Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems and patient billing software actively used across Iowa healthcare facilities.
Patient Care
Developing the soft skills, patient-interaction techniques, and care-management competencies required in busy clinical environments.
Who Can Benefit From Our Online Medical Assistant Program in Iowa?
Our online medical assistant program in Iowa is designed for individuals seeking a practical, flexible path into healthcare.
Recent High School Graduates
Recent High School Graduates Begin your healthcare journey with career-focused training that can be completed in months rather than years.
Career Changers
Career Changers Transition into Iowa’s growing healthcare industry and gain in-demand clinical and administrative skills, regardless of your previous profession.
Working Professionals
Working Professionals Attend live online classes that fit around your work schedule, family responsibilities, and everyday commitments.
Certification-Oriented Learners
Certification-Oriented Learners Build the knowledge and confidence needed to prepare for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam.
Current Healthcare Support Workers
Current Healthcare Support Workers Strengthen your qualifications, expand your skill set, and pursue new opportunities within Iowa’s healthcare system.
Healthcare Beginners
Healthcare Beginners Start your training with no prior medical experience and learn foundational skills from the ground up.
Students Seeking Flexibility
Students Seeking Flexibility Complete coursework online while gaining real-world experience through a local externship arranged near your location whenever possible.
Career Opportunities After Completing Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa
Depending on your interests and work setting, you may pursue roles such as:
| Job Title | Primary Responsibility | Work Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | Blend of clinical tasks (vitals, blood draws) and administrative duties (scheduling, records). | Physician offices, outpatient clinics, urgent care centers. |
| Clinical Medical Assistant | Back-office clinical duties, assisting with procedures. | Examination rooms, specialized clinics, and ambulatory care centers. |
| Administrative Medical Assistant | Front-office operations, billing, coding, patient charts, and compliance. | Medical office reception areas and billing departments. |
| Healthcare & Clinical Assistant | Direct patient care and clinical support. | Fast-paced physician offices, clinics, and hospitals. |
| Virtual Medical Assistant | Remote management of the clinic’s digital communications. | Work from home or remote administrative settings. |
| Patient Services Representative | Front-desk operations and patient intake. | Medical reception areas and outpatient centers. |
| Insurance Specialist | Processing claims and managing healthcare billing. | Private practices, billing departments, or remote offices. |
| Patient Scheduler | Coordinating appointments and managing provider calendars. | Call centers and busy medical office settings. |
NOTE : Certain positions and healthcare employers may require additional certifications beyond program completion.
Medical Assistant Jobs and Salary in Iowa
If you are considering a career as a medical assistant, it’s important to understand the local job market. The information below highlights employment trends, average wages, and earning potential for medical assistants working throughout Iowa.
| State | lowa |
| Employment per thousand jobs | 3.125 |
| Employment | 4,830 |
| Hourly mean wage | $20.51 |
| Annual mean wage | $42,660 |
Here’s a look at the typical salary range for medical assistants in Iowa:
- Top Earners (90th percentile): $44,729
- Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $36,129 to $42,221
- Entry-Level (10th percentile): $33,090
Source: Salary.com
NOTE : These salary figures are intended to provide a general overview of the market. Your actual starting wage may differ depending on your qualifications, employer, location, and level of experience.
Major Healthcare Employers in Iowa
Graduates of our online medical assistant program in Iowa can explore career opportunities across Iowa’s largest hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems.
Recognized Iowa Landmarks Near Healthcare Hubs
Iowa State Capitol (Des Moines)
At the heart of Iowa's capital city, steps from MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center and within reach of UnityPoint Health's Iowa Methodist and Iowa Lutheran campuses.
NewBo District (Cedar Rapids)
Close to UnityPoint Health–St. Luke's Hospital and MercyOne Cedar Rapids. These two are Iowa's highest-volume healthcare facilities serving eastern Iowa's largest metro.
Ped Mall (Iowa City)
Adjacent to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa's largest hospital and a major academic medical center employing a significant number of allied health professionals statewide.
RiverCenter (Davenport)
Near Genesis Medical Center – Davenport, the primary hospital anchoring healthcare employment across the Quad Cities region along Iowa's eastern border.
Use these familiar landmarks to explore the healthcare networks serving your region and discover potential training and employment locations.
Financial Aid Options for Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa
Cost should not stand between you and a healthcare career. CCI Training Center offers multiple financial assistance options for eligible Iowa students, in addition to WIOA funding through Iowa’s IowaWORKS network.
Federal Pell Grant Program
Federal Direct Loan
Low-interest Loans
Director's Scholarship (up to $2,000)
Flexible Pay-As-You-Go Payment Plans (starting as low as $289/month)
Contact our Financial Aid representative directly to find out if you are eligible for financial aid.
How to Access WIOA Funding in Iowa?
WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding may fully or partially cover the cost of your medical assistant training in Iowa. Iowa administers WIOA through its statewide network of IowaWORKS offices.
Locate your nearest IowaWORKS office at workforce.iowa.gov/jobs/iowaworks.
Schedule an intake appointment with a career planner to determine your eligibility (adults, dislocated workers, veterans, and youth may all qualify).
Verify that your chosen training program is listed on Iowa's Eligible Training Provider List, accessible through the IowaWORKS portal.
Receive an Individual Training Account (ITA) authorization from your career planner to apply toward tuition before enrolling.
Iowa IowaWORKS Centers and Workforce Resources
| Region | Center | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Central Iowa / Des Moines | IowaWORKS Des Moines | 200 Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA 50315 (515) 281-9619 |
| Central Iowa / Des Moines (Satellite) | IowaWORKS Des Moines River Park | 525 SW Fifth St, Suite A, Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 725-3601 [email protected] |
| Eastern Iowa / Cedar Rapids | IowaWORKS Cedar Rapids | 1025 Kirkwood Pkwy SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 (319) 365-9474 [email protected] |
| Quad Cities / Davenport | IowaWORKS Davenport | 1801 E Kimberly Rd, Suite A, Davenport, IA 52807 (563) 445-3200 [email protected] |
| Eastern Iowa / Iowa City | IowaWORKS Iowa City | Eastdale Plaza, 1700 S 1st Avenue, Suite 11B, Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 351-1035 [email protected] |
| Northwest Iowa / Sioux City | IowaWORKS Sioux City | 2508 4th Street, Sioux City, IA 51101 (712) 233-9030 [email protected] |
| North Iowa / Mason City | IowaWORKS Mason City | 600 S Pierce Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 422-1524 [email protected] |
| Southwest Iowa / Council Bluffs | IowaWORKS Council Bluffs | Omni Centré Business Mall, 300 W Broadway, Suite 13, Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (712) 352-3480 [email protected] |
Additional IowaWORKS offices are available in Dubuque, Fort Dodge, Marshalltown, Ottumwa, Decorah, and Denison. To locate the office closest to you, refer to the link provided in Step 1 of the “How to Access WIOA Funding in Iowa” section above.
Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa: 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 provide 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 in Iowa
Our 240-hour externship in Iowa gives you the opportunity to move beyond the virtual classroom and into a real healthcare environment. Under the mentorship of experienced medical staff, you’ll practice essential clinical and administrative skills.
Your Path to the Field
Step 1: Complete Coursework
Finish all online modules and administrative training (MED01–MED06A).
Step 2: Local Placement
CCI Training Center arranges your externship at an approved medical facility, typically within 30 miles of your ZIP code in Iowa.
Step 3: Supervised Training
Complete 240 hours of hands-on, supervised clinical training in a fully operational medical environment.
6 Key Clinical Tasks You Will Perform During Your Iowa Externship
Patient Intake & Vitals
Measure and document height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and additional vital signs for each patient encounter.
Examination Support
Prepare patients for clinical exams, assist providers during procedures, and keep appointments running on schedule.
Diagnostic Procedures
Set up and assist with basic diagnostic tests, including Electrocardiograms (ECGs), in line with established healthcare protocols.
Specimen Collection & Processing
Accurately collect, label, and prepare laboratory specimens for testing and clinical analysis.
Exam Room Preparation
Sanitize instruments, restock supplies, and ensure every exam room meets readiness and safety standards before and after patient visits.
EMR Documentation
Use Electronic Medical Records systems to record patient histories, clinical observations, and visit details accurately and in compliance with HIPAA standards.
Flexible Medical Assistant Classes Designed for Iowa Students
You can complete your medical assistant training from anywhere in Iowa, whether you are in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City, or a smaller town across the state.
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.
Job Search Resources for Medical Assistant Students in Iowa
As you begin your job search, these trusted employment platforms can help you identify medical assistant opportunities in healthcare settings ranging from physician offices to large hospital systems.
Certifications You Can Pursue After Completing Our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa
Upon successful completion of our Medical Assistant Program in Iowa, to further strengthen your qualifications and stand out to healthcare employers across Iowa, you may also choose to pursue several industry-recognized certifications.
CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant)
Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the CCMA certification validates your clinical knowledge and patient care skills, making you a more competitive candidate for medical assistant positions.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
This credential demonstrates your understanding of workplace safety standards, infection control procedures, and healthcare compliance practices that help maintain a safe clinical environment.
BLS / CPR (Basic Life Support & Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
Often provided through organizations such as the American Heart Association, this certification prepares you to respond confidently to medical emergencies, perform CPR, and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
First Aid
First Aid training equips you with the skills to provide immediate assistance during injuries and medical emergencies until professional medical care becomes available.
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. The 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.
Why Choose Our Online Medical Assistant Program in Iowa?
Flexible Online Learning
Attend live, instructor-led classes just twice a week, allowing you to balance your training with work, family, and other responsibilities. Learn from anywhere in Iowa without needing to commute to a campus or rearrange your life.
ACCET-Accredited School
CCI Training Center is accredited by ACCET, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, confirming that the program meets established educational quality standards that Iowa employers recognize and trust.
Learn From Experienced Healthcare Professionals
Every session is led by instructors with real-world clinical experience, providing the practical industry knowledge Iowa healthcare employers expect from candidates entering entry-level roles.
Local Iowa Externships
Your 240-hour externship is arranged at an approved medical facility, typically within 30 miles of your ZIP code in Iowa, whether you are in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, or anywhere across the state.
Dedicated Career Services
Resume building, interview coaching, job placement assistance, and career guidance continue well after you complete the program.
Financial Aid for Eligible Students
Iowa students who qualify may access Federal Pell Grants, WIOA funding through IowaWORKS, low-interest loans, and the Director's Scholarship. A financial aid representative will walk you through every option available.
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. | 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 campus lab. |
| Technology | Requires a computer, high-speed internet, a webcam, and comfort with digital platforms. | Minimal personal technology required; uses on-campus computer labs. |
If you’re weighing your options, 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, 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 Our Online Medical Assistant Program in Iowa?
Getting started at CCI Training Center is simple and guided at every step.
Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form with your basic personal and educational details.
Speak With an Admissions Advisor
Connect one-on-one with an advisor to discuss your career goals and ask questions.
Complete Enrollment & Explore Financial Aid
Meet with the financial aid staff to determine eligibility, create your funding plan, and sign your agreement.
Start Your Training
Begin live virtual classes and structured coursework designed to build the practical, job-ready skills needed.
Want to explore the MA career journey? Learn how to become a medical assistant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I complete this medical assistant program if I live in a rural area of Iowa?
Yes. Students from both major cities and smaller Iowa communities can complete the online coursework and, whenever possible, participate in a local externship.
How much time should I expect to spend studying each week?
Study time varies by student, but most learners dedicate additional hours outside of live classes to complete assignments and review course material.
What equipment do I need to participate in the online classes?
Students typically need a reliable computer, an internet connection, a webcam, a microphone, and access to common online learning tools.
Can I complete my externship at a healthcare facility near my hometown in Iowa?
The CCI Training Center works to arrange externship opportunities close to a student’s location in Iowa whenever possible.
Can I apply for medical assistant jobs before completing the medical assistant program in Iowa?
Employer requirements vary, but some entry-level opportunities may be available while certification is pending.
Are there healthcare employers in Iowa that hire newly trained medical assistants?
Many clinics, physician practices, hospitals, and outpatient facilities hire entry-level candidates who have completed accredited training programs.
Is medical assisting a good long-term career path in Iowa?
Medical assisting can provide a strong entry point into healthcare while creating opportunities for future specialization and career advancement.
How soon after graduation can I begin applying for jobs?
Many students begin their job search immediately after completing our medical assistant program in Iowa and prepare their application materials.
What makes this medical assistant program different from other medical assistant schools in Iowa?
Our medical assistant program in Iowa combines online instruction, a 240-hour externship, certification preparation, career support services, and flexible scheduling designed for adult learners.
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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.
