Keiser University

Medical Assisting

Sarasota Campus
Associate Degree
Medical Assisting
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program on campus, and it is also offered in online and hybrid formats (availability varies by campus).
$12,908 per semester. This program spans 4 semesters at full-time enrollment.
Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 16 months (approximately 1 year and 4 months) and 60.5 credit hours.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid, including grants and federal student loans.

Medical Assisting is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Sarasota, FL. The program takes 16 Months to complete, with tuition of $12,908 per semester.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Medical Assisting provides comprehensive training for students pursuing medical assistant careers in healthcare. Our accredited program covers essential clinical skills including preparing examination rooms, taking vital signs, measuring blood pressure, assisting in minor surgical procedures and diagnostic procedures, giving injections, performing venipuncture and drawing blood, assisting in laboratory operations, performing urinalysis, pregnancy testing, blood sugar testing, and various other waived laboratory tests, taking x-rays, and administering electrocardiograms. Students also develop strong administrative capabilities such as patient communications, maintaining patient records and patient information, managing medical records and electronic health records, billing and financial records, scheduling appointments, ordering medical services and supplies, and processing insurance forms and claims.
 
The medical assistant program emphasizes both the cognitive knowledge and psychomotor skills needed to succeed in diverse healthcare settings including physician offices, medical clinics, doctors offices, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. Through rigorous clinical courses and supervised clinical externships, students gain the confidence and competence to contribute meaningfully to patient care while advancing their careers in the healthcare community working alongside other medical professionals and other health practitioners.

Program Mission

The Keiser University Medical Assisting Program’s mission is to cultivate compassionate and competent medical assistants who are equipped with the knowledge (cognitive), skills (psychomotor), and ethical (affective) values necessary to excel in diverse healthcare settings. Our program strives to provide a rigorous and supportive learning environment that empowers graduates to contribute meaningfully to patient care, advance their careers, and become valuable assets to the healthcare community.

Program Goals

  1. Equip students with the knowledge and skills to proficiently prepare patients, manage equipment and maintain examination rooms for diverse medical examinations and procedures. Develop a student’s ability to perform various administrative duties necessary for a successful career in Medical Assisting.
  2. Prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively perform a wide range of administrative duties in a variety of healthcare settings.
  3. Equip students with a strong ethical foundation and professional demeanor that prioritizes patient-centered care, upholds confidentiality, and ensures the highest standards of conduct within the healthcare setting.
  4. Provide students with foundational knowledge, clinical and administrative skills necessary to successfully pass recognized credentialing exams related to Medical Assisting.

Prerequisites for Major Courses

  • Must take the Program Assessment Examination when scheduled, prior to Externship II

Program Highlights

The medical assisting associate degree program combines classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and real-world clinical experience in a professional office environment. Students complete two externship courses at affiliated health care facilities, gaining practical experience under the supervision of licensed medical professionals and working alongside other medical assistants. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and hands-on experience with medical terminology, anatomy, medical procedures, and administrative skills.

Clinical courses prepare students to perform administrative and clinical tasks including basic life support, taking patients vital signs, drawing blood, and managing patient information systems. The curriculum prepares students to sit for national certification exams offered by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), American Medical Technologists (AMT), and National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Occupational Risks

State Licensure Disclosure

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University’s Medical Assisting Program at the Daytona Beach campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs ( ), 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709 Seminole, FL 33775, on recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board ( ), 2339 N. California Ave., #47138, Chicago, IL 60647.

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. .

What sets this Program apart

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Medical Assisting Career:

  • Clinical competency in taking vital signs, measuring blood pressure, and more
  • Laboratory procedures including venipuncture, drawing blood, and diagnostic testing
  • Medical terminology and medical terminology anatomy knowledge
  • Electronic health records management
  • Patient care techniques and clinical skills across the lifespan
  • Administrative skills including managing insurance forms and billing procedures
  • Medical office procedures, clerical duties, and administrative tasks
  • Pharmacology basics and medication administration under physician direction
  • Basic life support certification and emergency response
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities for diagnostic procedures

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With online and on-campus learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels. Our medical assisting program stands out by offering an associate degree that provides both depth of knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.

Admission Requirements and Process

Admission includes Keiser University's general requirements plus any program-specific requirements listed below, followed by the university’s application process.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
    Verification of high school graduation (transcript, diploma, etc.), verification of GED completion (GED scores or GED diploma), or proof of graduation from a foreign institution…
  • Entrance Examination
    Applicants must take Keiser University’s entrance examination or provide results of the SAT, ACT or ASVAB. The University requires a combined score of 910 on the SAT, a composite…
  • Application and Registration Fees
    A one-time $55 application fee and a one-time $145 registration fee are charged upon enrollment.
  • FAFSA (for Financial Aid)
    Students seeking financial aid complete the FAFSA using Keiser University’s federal school code, 015159.
  • Program Assessment Examination
    Students must take the Program Assessment Examination when scheduled, prior to Externship II.
  • Minimum Grade Before Externship
    MEA1206C Clinical Procedures, MEA1267C Laboratory Procedures I and MEA2268C Laboratory Procedures II must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher before students are assigned…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s admissions counselors to talk through the program and your options.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an open house or plan a campus visit. Applicants are encouraged to visit the University in person.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.
    Apply Now

Program Schedule

Keiser University students take one class at a time. Keiser University term lengths are 4-week, 8-week and 16-week.

Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 16 months and 60.5 credit hours.

Keiser University lists this program as available on campus, Online, and Hybrid.

Tuition is charged per 16-week semester according to the credit hours scheduled.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • November 23rd, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • February 08th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 07th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027
  • August 02nd, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $12,908
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition per 16-week semester according to the number of credit hours scheduled, not per program. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12 to 17.99 credits)$12,908.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$9,681.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$6,454.00
Less than half time (0 to 5.99 credits)$3,227.00
Full time + (18 to 24 credits, approval required)$16,135.00

Required fees

  • Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
  • Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
  • Education fee — $550.00 per semester, for programmatic participation and facilities resources

Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, transcript $5.00, student ID replacement $15.00, returned check $35.00, late payment $10.00 and library late fee $10.00. Clinical, licensure, professional skill development and technical fees vary by program.

Financial aid

Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Curriculum

The curriculum pairs a medical assisting major core (about 36.5 credits, including clinical procedures, anatomy and physiology, radiography, laboratory procedures, medical office management, and two externships) with general education coursework (about 24 credits). Course titles and credit values are listed below.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
MEA1238Medical Terminology1.5
MEA1236Anatomy and Physiology6
MEA1290Radiography6
MEA1303CMedical Office Management4.5
MEA2806Externship I3.5
MEA2807Externship II3.5
AMH1010American History Pre 18763
AMH1020American History Since 18763
IDS1107Strategies for Success3
POS1041Political Science3
PSY1012Introduction to Psychology3
SYG1000Sociology3
SPC1017Speech3
CGS1000CIntroduction to Computers3
ENC1101English Composition I3
ENC2102English Composition II3
AML1000American Literature3
ENL1000English Literature3
MAT1033Intermediate Algebra3
BSC1005General Biology3
BSC1005LGeneral Biology Laboratory1
BSC1006Advanced Biology3
BSC1006LAdvanced Biology Laboratory1
BSC1050Environmental Science3

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s medical assisting program enter a growing field with strong job prospects. According to labor statistics, the healthcare industry continues to expand, creating increased job growth and demand for qualified medical assistants across physician offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized health care facilities. This degree in medical assisting prepares students to perform both administrative and clinical tasks, making them valuable assets to healthcare teams. Medical assistants work alongside physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals to ensure quality patient care and efficient medical office operations.

Career Pathways in Medical Assisting

  • Clinical Medical Assistant
  • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
  • Registered Medical Assistant
  • Medical Office Specialist
  • Healthcare Administrative Assistant
  • Patient Care Coordinator
  • Medical Records Specialist
  • Medical Laboratory Assistant
  • Dermatology Medical Assistant
  • Urgent Care Medical Assistant

What to expect as a Keiser University student

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

Keiser University’s medical assisting program provides the education and training you need to launch rewarding medical assistant careers. With flexible scheduling, experienced faculty, and comprehensive clinical training, our associate degree in medical assisting prepares you to enter the workforce as a competent, certified medical assistant ready to make a positive impact on patient care. Whether you’re starting your healthcare journey with a high school diploma or transitioning from another field, Keiser offers the support and resources needed to help you achieve your professional goals.

Top Questions About Earning a Medical Assisting Associate Degree

Can I complete my medical assisting degree online at Keiser University?
Yes, the medical assisting program is offered online, on-campus, and in a hybrid format. Speak to a Keiser University admissions counselor to learn more about the format option that will best fit your lifestyle.
What careers can I pursue with an Associate Degree in Medical Assisting?
Graduates work in physician offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical clinics, urgent care centers, doctors offices, specialty practices, diagnostic laboratories, nursing homes, insurance companies, and various other health care facilities. Career options include clinical medical assistant, certified clinical medical assistant, administrative medical assistant, medical office specialist, certified phlebotomy technician, and ECG technician roles working alongside other medical professionals and other healthcare professionals.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for medical assisting students?
Absolutely. Students in the medical assisting program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Is the medical assisting program accredited?
Keiser University’s Medical Assisting Program at the Daytona Beach campus is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs (www.caahep.org), 9355 – 113th St. N, #7709 Seminole, FL 33775, on recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (www.maerb.org), 2339 N. California Ave., #47138, Chicago, IL 60647. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation.
Do I need to become certified to work as a medical assistant?
While certification requirements vary by state and employer, most health care facilities and doctors offices prefer or require certification. Keiser’s medical assisting program prepares graduates to sit for national certification exams including the certified medical assistant exam, strengthening their employment prospects and demonstrating professional competency. Medical assistants work more effectively and advance their medical assistant careers when they hold a certification.
How long does it take to complete the medical assisting program?
Students can complete the Associate of Science degree in Medical Assisting in approximately 16 months when attending full-time. Actual completion time may vary based on course load, transfer credits, and individual circumstances.
What clinical skills will I learn in the program?
Students master taking vital signs including blood pressure and temperature, performing venipuncture and drawing blood as a certified phlebotomy technician, administering injections, conducting ECGs, assisting with minor surgical procedures and diagnostic procedures, performing CLIA-waived laboratory tests including urinalysis and blood sugar testing, taking x-rays (where state-permitted), preparing and maintaining examination rooms, and providing direct patient care under physician supervision alongside other medical assistants and healthcare professionals.
Where do students complete their clinical externships?
Students complete supervised externships at affiliated health care facilities including physician offices, doctors offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical clinics, nursing homes, and specialty practices. The Career Services team works with students to arrange externship placements that provide valuable hands-on experience working with other medical professionals, other medical assistants, and other health practitioners in real medical services settings.
What happens after I graduate from the program?
After successful completion of the medical assisting program, graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). The career services department assists graduates with job search strategies for medical assistant careers, resume development, and interview preparation. Most medical assistants find employment in physician offices, medical clinics, doctors offices, or other healthcare facilities, with strong job growth projected for the healthcare industry according to labor statistics.
Can I pursue a bachelor's degree after completing this associate degree?
Yes. Graduates of the medical assisting associate degree program can continue their education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration, Health Science, or related fields at Keiser University. The associate degree credits transfer seamlessly into these bachelor’s degree programs, allowing medical assistant professionals to advance their career path into management or specialized healthcare roles.
What makes Keiser's medical assistant program different from vocational schools or community colleges?
Keiser University’s medical assistant program offers an associate degree rather than a diploma or certificate, providing comprehensive education that includes clinical courses, general education, and specialized training. Unlike many vocational schools and community colleges, Keiser features small class sizes, accelerated scheduling, and extensive clinical externship opportunities at multiple healthcare facilities. Our accredited program meets national standards for allied health education programs and prepares students for multiple certification pathways including certified medical assistant and registered medical assistant.

Campus Address

Sarasota Campus
6151 Lake Osprey Drive
Sarasota, FL 34240

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

The Keiser University catalog lists no separate programmatic accreditation for this program.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential
Ready to get started?
Apply to Medical Assisting at Sarasota Campus.
Medical Assisting