Weekend medical assistant programs offer a convenient pathway for busy individuals in Los Angeles to enter the healthcare field without disrupting their weekday commitments. One of the biggest advantages of weekend programs is flexibility—students who work full-time, have family responsibilities, or pursue other educational opportunities during the week can attend classes on Saturdays and Sundays. This setup allows them to continue meeting their existing obligations while acquiring the hands-on and theoretical skills required for a medical assisting career. Many weekend programs also pack coursework into shorter, intensive sessions, helping students progress quickly through the material and complete their training in a streamlined timeframe.
Weekend Medical Assistant Programs in Los Angeles
West Los Angeles College
West Los Angeles College (WLAC) offers a comprehensive Medical Assistant program designed to prepare students for both clinical and administrative roles in healthcare. The program is structured as a part-time, one-year commitment, making it accessible for students balancing other responsibilities. Through hands-on labs, lectures, and real-world practicum experiences, students gain essential skills such as taking vital signs, performing injections, handling medical records, and understanding medical billing and coding. Classes are scheduled in the evenings and weekends, offering flexibility for working professionals or those with weekday obligations.
WLAC’s program is notable for its emphasis on job readiness, ensuring graduates are equipped with both technical and interpersonal skills needed in healthcare settings. Upon completion, students can sit for the California Certifying Board Examination for Medical Assistants (CCBMA), with options to specialize in administrative, clinical, or combined medical assistant certifications. WLAC has a strong track record for job placement, with graduates finding employment in various medical settings, including local clinics, hospitals, and private practices.
Financially, the program is affordable, with tuition costs varying based on specific requirements and additional fees for certification exams, which range from $115 to $155. As an accredited California community college, WLAC provides quality education backed by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring students receive training that meets industry standards and positions them well for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce.
American Career College
American Career College’s (ACC) Medical Assistant program offers a focused, hands-on learning experience designed to prepare students for entry-level medical assistant roles in as little as nine months. Delivered in a convenient blended format, the program combines online coursework with two days of in-person instruction each week. This structure allows students flexibility in balancing their studies with other commitments. Classes are available across ACC’s three Southern California campuses in Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County, including a weekend option to accommodate various schedules.
The program covers a wide range of essential skills for medical assisting, from administrative duties like patient scheduling and medical billing to clinical tasks such as recording vital signs, conducting EKGs, and assisting in minor procedures. A key feature of the program is the 200-hour externship, which provides students with hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. ACC’s commitment to practical training ensures that graduates are well-equipped with the skills needed to excel in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
ACC’s Medical Assistant program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), underscoring its high standards in healthcare education. Financial aid and scholarship options are available for eligible students, making the program accessible to a broader range of applicants. Additionally, ACC offers career support services, including job placement assistance, resume building, and interview coaching to help graduates transition smoothly into the workforce.
NIU College
The Clinical Medical Assistant program at NIU College offers a comprehensive, fast-paced pathway for students eager to enter the healthcare field. Spanning just 12 weeks, this program provides students with essential clinical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in a variety of medical settings. Small class sizes and a community-focused atmosphere allow for personalized learning, giving students ample one-on-one time with instructors. This short-duration course is ideal for individuals looking to quickly gain employable skills and start a rewarding career in healthcare. Classes are available on weekdays and weekends, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules.
The curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of clinical tasks, including drawing blood, running EKGs, taking vital signs, and conducting urinalysis, giving students a robust skill set to meet the demands of healthcare facilities. An optional externship allows students to gain practical experience in real-world settings, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application. The program awards a Clinical Medical Assisting Diploma, along with specialized certifications in electrocardiography and venipuncture, making graduates well-prepared to secure entry-level positions in healthcare.
NIU College supports students beyond graduation, with job placement assistance that includes resume building, interview coaching, and networking support. Financial aid options and tuition financing plans are available for those who qualify, making the program more accessible to a wide range of students.