Welcome to CapYear Academy’s Clinical Medical Assistant Training Program

Think You’re Too Busy to Get Certified?
Think Certification is Too Expensive?
Think Again. 

In as little as 9 weeks—and for thousands less than other programs—our comprehensive online curriculum will give you the skills and knowledge you need to become a nationally recognized Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. Capitalize on your gap year with CapYear.

Take advantage of our summer grant, available for the first 30 people to enroll from May to June | Use code SUMMER2025 to receive a $150 dollar discount on your enrollment!

What CapYear Academy Offers Students

National Certification for only $1,995

Our online program with hands-on externship option prepares you for the nationally recognized CCMA exam at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs.

Self paced, On demand learning

Convenient and flexible 24/7 access to study modules allows you to complete your training whenever and wherever works for you—scrubs not included.

Curriculum ties to the CCMA exam

Our program leverages the NHA's own curriculum, ensuring you’ll cover all certification exam topics in advance—no exam-day surprises.

Online doesn´t mean alone

Our experienced MD, PA, and RN instructors offer live sessions and are available to answer questions, provide insights, and give 1:1 feedback during your entire learning journey.

12 months Complete program access

One year of unlimited access to course materials means you can succeed on your time (or go back for refreshers if you finish early).

Optional Clinical Externship

Get hands-on training with our optional, 90-hour clinical externship through CapYear.  Train in a clinical setting with real patients to hone the skills you learn in the program.

Samiyra A.

Brown University, Pre Med
Certified Medical Assistant - Cambridge Health Alliance
Completing the CCMA course through the CapYear Academy was truly the perfect experience for me. The program was designed with flexibility in mind, which allowed me to balance my busy school schedule while still preparing thoroughly for the exam. Thanks to the support of the CapYear team and the well-structured coursework, I was able to pass my CCMA exam on my first attempt.... I am so grateful I chose CapYear, not only was it one of the most affordable programs available, but I received over four job offers just a week after passing my exam. 

Isabel L.

Villanova University, Pre PA
Certified Medical Assistant - Dermatology Practice
"Streamlined, supported, motivating"

As a full time college student on the pre-PA track, I wanted to expand my options when it came to gaining healthcare experience. Getting my MA certification through CapYears program was streamlined and perfectly paced for my schedule. I was able to complete the modules during my own time with the CapYear team just a phone call or message away for any help. The team was so personable and encouraging throughout the program and I was happy to pass the CCMA exam on my first attempt. I am now working in my gap year as a medical assistant at a dermatology office!

Natalie B.

University of Oregon, Pre PA
Certified Medical Assistant - Oregon Urology Institute
"Convenient, flexible, results!"

I am a Pre-PA student at the University of Oregon majoring in Human Physiology. I first heard about CapYear Academy from R.T. himself in my schools Pre-PA club zoom meeting. I was looking to find an accredited online MA program that would fit into my busy schedule at college, self paced and that would have me readily prepared to take the CCMA exam. CapYear Academy was the perfect fit! While I was wrapping up the final CapYear modules I accepted a position at Oregon Urology Institute, passed my CCMA exam on the first try, then started work the following week! Getting a MA certificate has changed the trajectory of my career!

Tyler F.

Certified Medical Assistant - Urgent Care Physicians

"Easy, effective, straightforward"

Becoming a medical assistant was something I decided to do as a way to gain experience before attending medical school. After some research, CapYear was easily the best program for me. All of the coursework is self paced, allowing me to work around my busy schedule. After completing my coursework, I took my state examination which I passed first try! The preparation that CapYear gives you is excellent, and I would recommend their program to anyone and everyone!

Devin O.

Miami University, Pre Med
Certified Medical Assistant
"Rewarding, validating, comprehensive"

I first heard about CapYear Academy through an email from my university outlining the details of the program. I decided to pursue CCMA certification to build a strong clinical foundation before medical school and to ensure I could contribute meaningfully in patient care. The program’s structure fit seamlessly into my busy schedule, and I appreciated how well it prepared me for all aspects of being a medical assistant. Passing the exam felt like an important step toward becoming a more capable and compassionate future physician.

Veronika G.

University of Oregon, Pre PA
Certified Medical Assistant - Pure Joy Pediatrics
"Convenient, Supported, Organized"

I always knew that becoming a Medical Assistant was the right path for me I just wasn’t sure how to get started. CapYear made the process easy, enjoyable, and convenient, allowing me to complete the program while balancing school and work. The modules were thorough and well-structured, and even when I faced challenges, I could easily reach out to an instructor for support!

Students from these colleges have enrolled in CapYear Academy

Students from these colleges have enrolled in CapYear Academy

Students from these colleges have enrolled in CapYear Academy

Online Learning. Hands On Training.

Gain in-person clinical experience through our partnership with CapYear as part of your training with an optional externship at no additional cost

Work with real patients 

Apply the skills you have learned in a real-world setting with the support of a clinical trainer

Externship Placement Support

Our externship coordination team will help you identify a clinical site for your training

Demonstrate you are job ready

Show future employers you have the knowledge, skills and experience to care for patients 

Learners

Graduation Rate

First Time CCMA Exam Pass Rate

Online

* As of September 30th, 2025

Licenses and Affiliations

CapYear Academy is licensed by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools and the Maryland Higher Education Commission. CapYear Academy is a recoginzed partner of the National Healthcareer Association and the American Medical Certification Association.
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Why Choose CapYear Academy?

Lead Instructor Dr. Sami Shoucair on CapYear Academy's Innovative Medical Assistant Training Program

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Faster, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional programs, CapYear Academy’s curriculum is mapped to the National Healthcareer Association's (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam.

CapYear Academy’s CCMA Program By the Numbers

  • 1:1 live instructor support when you need it
  • 5 expert, practicing instructors
  • 9 short weeks to complete training
  • 12-month total program access
  • 19 comprehensive, interactive clinical modules
  • 24/7 online access
  • $1,995 total cost 
  • 4 practice exams to prepare for certification
  • 1 payment plan to facilitate enrollment
  • 90 hour optional externship through CapYear

Only $1,995 for Full, 12-Month Program Access

Payment Plans Available

  • $1000's less than traditional programs
  • 4 month payment option
  • A comprehensive refund policy so you can enroll with confidence
  • The cost of the NHA CCMA certification exam is included in the tuition

Go from Pre-Health Student to Practicing Professional in 4 Easy Steps

Prepare for the CCMA certification exam in as little as 9 weeks online, not 6, 9, or even 12 months
in-person, like traditional programs. Launch your healthcare career today. 

Sign Up for CapYear Academy

Our application takes 10 minutes to complete—faster than you can say “Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis*.”

Applicants must have a high school degree or equivalent and access to broadband internet to enroll. A quick verification process will confirm eligibility.

Complete Our Program in as Little as 9 Weeks

CapYear Academy’s 100% online program is completely self-paced. You can finish our 19 learning modules, quizzes, and a final assessment in just 9 weeks or take up to a full year—it’s up to you and your schedule. Personalized, one-on-one interactive support from our physician, physician assistant, and nurse instructors is available if and when you need it.

CapYear Academy partners with the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the certifying body for the CCMA certification. Our program is mapped to the NHA guidelines and leverages NHA materials to ensure you build the skills you need to be prepared for the CCMA exam and be a medical assistant.

The graduation certificate you receive at the end of our program is your ticket to sit for the CCMA exam.

Sit for the CCMA certification exam

When you finish CapYear Academy’s training program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to sit for the CCMA exam. We'll even help you reserve your spot!

Become a Certified Medical Assistant

After you pass the CCMA exam, you’ll be [drum roll, please!] a certified clinical medical assistant.

The CCMA certification is recognized in all 50 states and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Surveys show 80% - 90% of employers require or strongly prefer medical assistants to be certified.

* Did you know “Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis,” a lung disease caused by inhalation of very fine silicate or quartz dust, is the longest word in most standard English dictionaries with 45 letters? 

Learn Valuable Clinical Skills from Medical Professionals

CapYear Academy’s CCMA training program is led by experienced, engaging medical professionals and supplemented by interactive videos and study guides.


Bonus: Real-world patient simulations allow you to practice and perform essential medical assistant tasks right from home.

Our comprehensive MA courses include:

Basic Science

Reinforce your knowledge of human anatomy and disease.

Medical law and ethics

Lessons on HIPAA, OSHA and other regulations to make sure you are up to speed on patient privacy and protection.

Medical terminology

Learn the language of healthcare to communicate effectively with patients and medical professionals.

Clinical Skill Building

Learn how to obtain vitals, prepare patients for examinations, and assist with procedures.

Patient communication 

Learn principles of patient-centered communication, how to obtain patient histories, and effective patient education.

Pharmacology & Medicine

Develop your pharmacology and medication administration knowledge to improve your patient care skills.
Our Instructors

Experienced.
Dedicated.
Professional.

CapYear’s instructors are highly qualified professionals widely acknowledged in their fields. Their goal? Your success.

Sami Shoucair, M.D.

Deborah Gutman, M.D.

Ashley Iacone, PA-C 

David Roberts, PA-C

Stephanie Griffus

Questions? Answers.

Check out our FAQs below.
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Email us at academy@capyear.co

How much does the medical assistant training program cost?

Our mission is to increase access to clinical opportunities for pre-health students. That’s why we have priced our program significantly less than traditional medical assistant programs.

The CapYear Academy program is $1,995 and includes all the learning materials, study guides, practice exams and the optional clinical externship. Even the cost of the CCMA or AMCA exam is included.

We have 0% interest payment plans and tuition grants with partner organizations and schools. 

Note for Maryland residents:  The state of Maryland has certain regulations around schools issuing tuition grants to Maryland residents.  Please contact academy@capyear.co for more information. 

How long do I have to complete CapYear Academy’s Program?

Our program consists of 19 clinical courses totaling 201 clock hours including the study guide and practice exams. Students can complete the self-paced program in as little as 9 weeks or take up to a full year—the choice is yours.

The time to completion will vary depending on the amount of time a student has to work toward completion. Most students finish the program in a few months working on it part-time around a school schedule.

Students have up to 12 months to complete our program. There are no required hours per week as long as all the content is completed within 12 months.

Due to the online asynchronous format, students can start at any time that works best for them. There are no set academic terms or set program start and end dates. There are minimum attendance and progress requirements to maintain enrollment. Please see our Student Catalog for more details.

Is there any opportunity for hands-on experience?

Yes!

Students completing the CapYear Academy Clinical Medical Assistant Training program are eligible to enroll  in an optional medical assistant clinical readiness course hosted by our career platform, CapYear. 

**There is no additional charge for CapYear Academy graduates to enroll and participate in the medical assistant readiness course.**

The course consists of a 90-hour onsite clinical externship plus 5 hours of online modules and independently obtaining your CPR certification. 

This optional externship gives you the opportunity to gain real-world, hands-on experience in a medical setting — perfect for building your skills, confidence, and resume before applying to healthcare programs or jobs.

Is the cost of my certification exam included?

Yes!  At CapYear Academy, your first attempt at the CCMA or AMCA certification exam is included in the tuition. 

We will give you a code when you complete the program which you can use when signing up for the certification exam so you can register at no additional cost! 

How Does CapYear Academy’s Program Work?

All our program content is online and asynchronous and includes interactive videos, written materials and exercises, and interactive simulations.

Our training program comprises five primary knowledge areas: Healthcare Fundamentals, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, Clinical Skills Building, and Administrative Skills Building. Each of these knowledge areas contains courses that relate to the knowledge area. Courses are divided into modules. After completing courses in the knowledge areas, students complete a study review and then have access to 6 practice exams.

Students are assessed with quizzes after each completed module. Student must receive a passing grade on their quizzes for the module to be considered complete.  Students must also complete a minimum of 2 practice exams including scoring over 80% on the final practice exam.  Please see graduation requirements for additional details.

Instructors and administrative staff are available during business hours to help troubleshoot any issues accessing course material. Weekly instructor-led Zoom office hours help students navigate the course and its contents. Instructors are also available for one-on-one sessions to address any questions.

How does the optional clinical externship work?

We get a lot of questions about the optional clinical externship.

Here’s how it works!

1)  Complete the Clinical Medical Assistant Training program.

2) After students complete the Clinical Medical Assistant program, they have the option to enroll in a medical assistant clinical readiness course hosted by our career platform, CapYear.

**There is no additional charge for CapYear Academy graduates to enroll and participate in the medical assistant readiness course.**

The course consists of a 90-hour onsite clinical externship plus 5 hours of online modules and independently obtaining your CPR certification.   

3) The team of externship coordinators at CapYear will work with students to find a clinical site near the student's home or school.

3) Placements into medical offices are based on location, schedule availability, and career goals.

4) During the clinical externship, participants in the medical assistant readiness program are considered trainees and not employees, so clinical externships are unpaid.

5) The clinical externship planning process starts around the halfway point of your Clinical Medical Assistant training program, so students have plenty of time to prepare.

Because the externship is optional, you don’t have to complete an externship to sit for the CCMA exam. Many students find it works best to take their CCMA exam when they complete the program and wait to do the externship over a break so it doesn’t conflict with class schedules.

Do I have to complete an externship to sit for my certification exam?

No!  You do not have to complete a clinical externship to sit for either the AMCA or CCMA medical assistant certification exams to become certified as a medical assistant.

In fact, many of our students complete the training program, sit for the exam as soon as possible, and then schedule their externship when it works well for their schedule.  

Does CapYear Academy offer job placement support?

Yes! We’re committed to helping you succeed beyond completing your training program.

Our Career Support Services include:
• Personalized resume and interview coaching
• Job search support and introductions to our clinical employer partners
• Access to our CapYear Job Board, a platform designed specifically for pre-health students seeking clinical opportunities.

What financial aid or payment options are available?

We currently offer:
• A 0% interest, 4-month payment plan
• Tuition grants.  Contact academy@capyear.co to confirm your eligibility.   

How do I Complete the Program and Graduate?

To complete the program, students must:

  • Complete 100% of the 201 hours of required program learning
  • Achieve a minimum passing score on all module quizzes and assessments

  • Score a minimum of 80% on the final program assessment
  • Pay for the program in full

When you complete our training, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion and be eligible to sit for the CCMA exam.

Is the program now accepting Maryland residents?

Yes!  We are enrolling Maryland residents.  Per state requirements, our current enrollment is capped at 50 Maryland residents so space is limited.  We hope to be increasing space availability for Maryland students soon!   

What will completing CapYear Academy’s program enable me to do?

Successful completion of CapYear Academy's clinical medical assistant training program satisfies the educational requirements for eligibility to sit for either the NHA's CCMA exam or the AMCA medical assistant certification exam. When you pass your certification exam, you’ll be qualified to work as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant.

Can I take the program during my school semester?

Absolutely. Many of our students are enrolled in college and balancing a pre-health course load.

The online, asynchronous format means you can work on the program around your school schedule. 

If your semester becomes too busy, you can request a Leave of Absence (LOA) to pause your progress for 30–180 days at a time. This flexibility allows you to continue your certification on your own schedule without losing your progress.

In what states is the CCMA certification recognized?

The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification is recognized by employers in all 50 states.  However, due to state medical assistant licensing requirements, our program will not work for students looking to work in Washington State.

What if I want to work in Washington State?

Washington State has special medical assistant licensing requirements.  Our program will not qualify you to work as a medical assistant in Washington State.  As a practice, we do not enroll students from Washington State or those who plan to work in Washington State.  If you have questions about eligibility, please contact academy@capyear.co.

What are the Eligibility and Admissions Criteria for Enrollment in the Program?


CapYear Academy verifies that the following requirements are met through the application and admissions process:
  • Must have a minimum of a High School Diploma, a General Education Development (GED) certificate or the equivalent, or have obtained a home school credential. CapYear will accept current college or university enrollment or completion as verification of meeting this requirement;
  • Must be at least 18 years of age;
  • Must have regular and reliable access to computer equipment, broadband internet, and the technical skills to be successful in an online program.

It is important to know that criminal convictions may affect a student’s ability to be licensed, certified, or registered. If an applicant is concerned about a criminal record, they should speak with an admissions agent.

It is also important to know that U.S. work authorization status may also impact the availability of employment opportunities even with a CCMA certification.

Do I have to be a U.S. Citizen to become a certified medical assistant?

No.  You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to enroll in our program or become a certified medical assistant.  Getting your certification is not a substitute for work autorization and each individual employer sets its own hiring policies. 

When can I enroll?

At CapYear Academy, we are all about making getting you medical assistant certification work for you.  That’s why you can enroll at any time.  We offer rolling admissions, so there are no pre-set start dates.  

You have up to 12 months to complete the program from the day you enroll but most students complete the program in a few months. 

How often are certification exams offered?

The CCMA and AMCA certification exams are offered multiple times a month.  The AMCA is only offered online. The CCMA exam can be taken online or in person.  Contact academy@capyear.co for more information.

Does CapYear Academy have physical locations?

All coursework is held asynchronously and online at CapYear Academy. Course content is available 24/7 online. CapYear Academy has physical office locations for our staff in Baltimore, MD, and Newark, OH.

What are CapYear Academy’s Hours of Operations?

CapYear Academy's program is 100% online and asynchronous, so enrolled students can access program materials 24/7.

CapYear Academy's technical and academic support is available Monday - Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST.

CapYear Academy is closed for administrative, technical, and academic support on the following days:

New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
President’s Day
Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving and the day after
Christmas Eve through New Year’s Eve

Access to the online program and content will be available, but administrative offices will be closed and instructor support will not be available during these days.

What Topics are Covered in the Course?

The curriculum is fully mapped to the guidelines provided by the NHA and the NHA CCMA test plan. 

Topics covered include:
☑Basic Science
☑Clinical Skill Building
☑Medical Law and Ethics
☑Patient Communication
☑Medical Terminology
☑Pharmacology and Medicine

For a full outline of the program, please check out our student catalog.

What does a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant Do?

A medical assistant is a vital part of the patient care team usually found in outpatient clinical settings.  Duties can include:

  • Assisting physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and other clinicians in patient care and administrative activities
  • Maintaining medical records and completing insurance billing forms
  • Obtaining and recording vital signs and medical histories
  • Performing EKG, phlebotomy, and injections
  • Performing laboratory and diagnostic tests
  • Assisting with clinical procedures
  • Aiding in customer service and appointment scheduling

What is the Job Outlook for Medical Assistants?

Medical assistant jobs are projected to grow 16% nationally from 2021 to 2031, faster than average for all occupations. About 123,000 openings for medical assistants are projected each year, on average, over the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these openings result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force by retiring or other reasons.

What Happens if I Don't Pass an Assessment?

Students who do not achieve a passing score on an end of module quiz may retake the quiz until they achieve a passing score. Please note this exception: The Final Practice Test only allows students one retake to score over 80%.  

What is CapYear Academy’s Refund Policy?

CapYear Academy is a state licenced school. Our refund policies follow state regulations. For more information, please review the student catalog that pertains to your state of residence.

The School shall make the appropriate refund within thirty (30) days of the date the School is able to determine that a student has withdrawn or has been terminated from a program. Refunds shall be based upon the last date of a student’s attendance or participation in an academic school activity.

What If I Have a Complaint and I am not a Maryland resident?

All student complaints should be first directed to the school personnel involved. If no resolution is forthcoming, a written complaint shall be submitted to the director of the school. Whether or not the problem or complaint has been resolved to his/her satisfaction by the school, the student may direct any problem or complaint to the Executive Director, State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, 30 East Broad Street, Suite 2481, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, Phone 614-466-2752; toll-free 877-275-4219.

What if I have a complaint and I am a Maryland resident?

Students who have a grievance with the school are encouraged to resolve the matter with their
instructor. If still unsatisfied, the grievance should be addressed to the School Director.

If still unsatisfied, the student may submit a written complaint to: the Maryland Real Estate
Commission, 500 North Calvert Street, 3rd Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202-3651, 410-230-6230,
fax: 410-333-0023, e-mail: mrec@dllr.state.md.us; or

the Secretary of Higher Education at the Maryland Higher Education Commission, 6 N. Liberty Street, 10th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21201; or

the Maryland Consumer Protection Division at 200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21202,
410-576-6550, email: consumer@oag.state.md.us.