Like most people, you probably want to gain an education free of student debt. Medical assistants are no different, and if you do your homework, you can find some fairly inexpensive courses, and in some cases you can even find free medical assistant programs in Los Angeles. You can also look for additional sources of funding to help you pay your tuition and fees, but we’ll get to that later. First, let’s take a look at a short list of the most budget-friendly medical assistant programs near Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles Urban League: $0
- Loyola Marymount University: $2,295
- Santa Monica College: $2,795
- California State University Long Beach: $2,899
The Best Deals on MA Training in Los Angeles
Click on a school for more details.
Los Angeles Urban League
The Medical Assistant Program at Los Angeles Urban League is a 12-month comprehensive training program designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level healthcare roles. Offered in partnership with Cedars-Sinai, the curriculum includes 68 units of coursework and a 200-hour clinical internship. Students receive training in both administrative and clinical tasks, such as front-office procedures, patient care, and lab work, all while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a professional healthcare environment.
The program prepares graduates to sit for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam through the American Medical Technologists (AMT), ensuring they meet industry-recognized standards for employment. Classes are primarily in-person, with some online options available for flexibility. Admission is open to those with a high school diploma or equivalent, and students must complete a background check and meet health requirements before beginning clinical rotations.
What sets this program apart is its zero-cost tuition for eligible students and strong job placement support. The Los Angeles Urban League’s mission-driven approach focuses on empowering underserved communities through career training and access to employment. With free education, real-world clinical experience, and career services such as resume help and interview coaching, this program is a strong fit for motivated individuals seeking a practical, accessible pathway into healthcare.
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) offers one of the most affordable online medical assistant programs in Los Angeles, making it a great option for students looking for high-quality training at a lower cost. At just $2,295, this 100% online program is significantly more budget-friendly than many other MA programs while still preparing students for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
With no prerequisites required, this program is accessible to anyone looking to enter the medical field quickly and affordably. Students receive comprehensive training in patient scheduling, medical records management, insurance coding, and workplace readiness—critical skills for a successful career in healthcare.
For those seeking a flexible, low-cost, and fully online pathway to becoming a medical assistant, LMU’s program is a top choice. Learn more about this affordable online MA training and take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career today!
Santa Monica College
Santa Monica College (SMC) offers an affordable and flexible path to becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). With a tuition cost of just $2,795, this 100% online program is a budget-friendly option for students who want a comprehensive medical assistant education without the high price tag.
This program is ideal for students looking for self-paced learning while preparing for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA exam. Covering both administrative and clinical skills, students learn everything from patient scheduling and medical billing to phlebotomy and EKG procedures. Plus, with no prerequisites required, it’s accessible to anyone ready to start a career in healthcare.
For those seeking a low-cost, flexible, and well-rounded online medical assistant program, SMC offers one of the most affordable ways to earn CCMA certification. Start anytime and take the first step toward a growing career in the medical field!
California State University Long Beach
California State University Long Beach (CSULB) offers a flexible and affordable path to becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). Priced at $2,899, this 100% online, self-paced program is ideal for independent learners who want to train on their own schedule while preparing for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA exam.
Unlike other online programs, CSULB’s course includes a clinical externship opportunity, allowing students to gain real-world experience at a local healthcare provider of their choice. The 140-hour online curriculum covers phlebotomy, EKGs, pharmacology, patient care, and medical procedures, equipping students with the necessary skills to work in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices.
With open enrollment and no set start date, students can begin whenever they’re ready. For those seeking a self-paced, hands-on training option at an affordable price, CSULB provides an excellent blend of flexibility and real-world experience to jump-start a career in healthcare.
Featured Programs
Other Medical Assistant Funding Methods
These are other ways schools are able to provide this training for free to certain students in the right circumstances.
Healthcare Provider Sponsorship: Hospitals and healthcare organizations facing a high demand for medical assistants sometimes sponsor training programs to cultivate a steady stream of qualified candidates. Participants may receive sponsored training in exchange for committing to work for the sponsoring organization for a set period after graduation.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Some community colleges and vocational schools receive grants or donations specifically allocated for scholarships, which can fully or partially cover tuition for students who meet specific criteria, such as being first-time, full-time students or meeting income-based requirements.
Job Corps and Workforce Development Programs: Programs like the aforementioned Los Angeles Urban League offer free vocational training, including medical assistant courses, to young adults who meet eligibility criteria. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, Job Corps provides a range of career training options to help individuals gain employable skills in high-demand fields.
Philanthropic Foundations: Foundations focused on healthcare, education, or workforce development may grant funds to educational institutions or nonprofits to run affordable training programs. These foundations often aim to support economic mobility and improve access to healthcare careers for underrepresented groups.
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Some cities allocate a portion of CDBG funds toward job training programs, which may include medical assistant programs. These grants are intended to benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and can be used to support education and career development in essential fields.
By leveraging these resources, organizations can offset the cost of tuition, materials, and sometimes even exam fees, making it possible for students to receive quality medical assistant training at little to no personal expense.