Healthcare Support
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants are caring and organized people who enjoy helping others. This role suits friendly, detail-oriented individuals who like working with patients and teams in a busy healthcare setting. You should be reliable, calm under pressure, and good at multitasking. No college degree is needed to start; many enter from other jobs looking for stable, meaningful work. It offers steady hours and the chance to make a real difference every day.
Median wage
$21.97/hr
Physical demands
low
Drug test
Yes
National wages & job outlook
National figures for Medical Assistants, shown as published by the source below.
Entry (10th–25th pct)
$17.33–$18.5/hr
Median
$21.97/hr
Experienced (75th–90th pct)
$23.65–$28.52/hr
Projected openings / year
112,300
+13% growth, 2024–2034
Wage data: 2025. National figures; local pay varies.
Source: CareerOneStop (careeronestop.org), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration (DOLETA), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).
Starting requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Clean background check and good people skills
- Basic computer and math abilities
- Willingness to get certified and trained
- Ability to stand for long periods
Training structure
Most programs take 9 to 12 months at a trade school or community college. You learn both clinical skills (like taking blood pressure) and office tasks. Many include hands-on practice and help you prepare for national certification. Some employers offer on-the-job training too. It’s a fast, practical path to a healthcare career.
Top credentials
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Phlebotomy Certification
- BLS / CPR
- EKG Technician
Licenses & certifications
Licenses are state-specific and certifications vary by specialty. Look up the exact ones for this path in your state.
Open the license & certification finderAdvancement path
Entry: Medical assistant after certification
Experienced: Senior or lead medical assistant with higher pay
Next Steps: Move into nursing, lab work, healthcare administration, or specialized clinics
Long Term: Supervisor, trainer, or office manager roles
With experience and extra certifications, many enjoy good raises.
Typical employers
Clinics, hospital systems, specialty practices, urgent care
A day in the life
Your day starts by preparing exam rooms and greeting patients. You take vital signs, record medical history, assist doctors during visits, and handle tasks like drawing blood or scheduling appointments. The work mixes patient care with office duties in a clean, team-based environment. You finish knowing you helped people get the care they need. It’s rewarding and varied.