Kansas City offers several fast-paced medical assistant programs designed to help students get certified quickly and start working. Each option varies in cost, format, and post-graduation expectations, so choosing the right one depends on your goals and availability.
1. Kansas City School of Phlebotomy
The Clinical Medical Assisting program at Kansas City School of Phlebotomy lasts just 11 weeks and is one of the most affordable and fastest CCMA certification options in the Kansas City area. Classes meet twice weekly for four hours per session and combine lectures with hands-on lab instruction.
The total cost is $2,300, which includes tuition, books, supplies, lab fees, and the NHA CCMA exam. Payment plans are available at no extra cost. The curriculum covers phlebotomy, EKGs, injections, lab testing, front office procedures, and patient care techniques. Students who maintain a B average and receive a positive instructor recommendation may qualify for an optional 40–120 hour clinical externship, which costs an additional $300.
All graduates sit for the national CCMA exam on the final day of class, ensuring certification before entering the job market. Small class sizes and experienced instructors provide a focused, practical learning environment. Job placement assistance is available.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $2,300 (includes tuition, books, lab fees, supplies, and certification exam) |
| Duration | 11 weeks (plus optional 40–120 hour externship for $300) |
| Class Format | In-person (lecture and hands-on labs) |
| Class Schedules | Twice weekly, 4-hour sessions (specific days/times not listed) |
2. Meritas Health
The Meritas Health Medical Assistant Academy is a 14-week, accelerated training program that includes virtual coursework, one weekly skills lab at Park University, and two weekly on-site clinic rotations at Meritas Health locations. Participants are paid during training, and all educational costs are covered by Meritas Health.
The program focuses on practical skills including blood draws, injections, immunizations, medication dispensing, and procedure assistance. Upon completion, graduates are required to work at a Meritas Health practice for at least 18 months.While details on pay, benefits, and application timelines are not disclosed, this program may appeal to individuals looking for paid training with a guaranteed job placement. However, it’s important to weigh the work commitment and gather more information directly from Meritas Health about compensation, schedule expectations, and openings before applying. Spots may be limited, and eligibility criteria are not clearly outlined online.
| Category | Details |
| Price | Covered by Meritas Health (no cost to student) |
| Duration | 14 weeks |
| Class Format | Hybrid (virtual coursework, weekly skills lab, and on-site clinical rotations) |
| Class Schedules | Weekly lab at Park University + two on-site clinic days per week |
3. Mid-America College of Health Sciences
This 22-week program includes 730 clock hours of training and prepares students to sit for the NHA CCMA certification exam. It features multiple schedule options: weekday mornings, weekday evenings, and a blended-week format with classes on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The course includes both classroom instruction and a 160-hour externship with partners like KU Medical Center and HCA Physician Clinics.
Tuition is $9,800, which covers books and lab supplies, and a $25 registration fee is required. Financial assistance may be available through Great Jobs KC or other workforce programs. Students must have CPR certification from the American Heart Association, submit health screenings, and meet other admissions requirements.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning, small class sizes, and real-world clinical skills. Training covers EKG, phlebotomy, lab procedures, injections, front office tasks, and medical terminology. A diploma is awarded upon completion, but passing the CCMA exam is required to be certified.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $9,800 (includes textbooks and lab supplies) + $25 non-refundable registration fee |
| Duration | 22 weeks (730 clock hours, includes 160-hour externship) |
| Class Format | In-person with lab and externship |
| Class Schedules | Weekday Mornings (Mon–Thurs, 8:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.), Weekday Evenings (Mon–Thurs, 3:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.), Blended-Week (Thurs–Sat, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.) |
Our Take
With several accelerated medical assistant programs in Kansas City, your ideal choice will depend on your priorities—whether it’s cost, schedule flexibility, employer connections, or long-term job security. Here’s a breakdown of how each program stands out and what to consider beyond just tuition and timelines:
If cost and speed are your main concerns, KCSP delivers. If you want paid training and a guaranteed job, Meritas Health is worth exploring—just get clear on the terms. If you’re aiming for deeper training and a more traditional educational environment, Mid-America offers value through structure and partnerships. Talk to instructors, ask about externship quality, and get a feel for how each school supports its students. The day-to-day experience and post-graduation outcomes matter just as much as tuition and timelines.