Medical assisting in Tennessee is a growing career field with 19,940 professionals earning a strong average annual salary of $40,070. While Tennessee does not mandate certification for medical assistants, state employers highly prefer candidates with national credentials to support the projected 12%-increase in employment through 2034.
The table below is a complete list of CAAHEP and ABHES accredited medical assistant programs in Tennessee for 2026. There are 8 accredited medical assistant programs in Tennessee located in cities such as Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville, including institutions like Chattanooga State Community College and Casa Loma College.
Each listed school provides comprehensive information regarding its accreditation, rating, and location, helping you compare your options efficiently. Clicking on any of the programs provides in-depth program data, including curriculum details, learning formats such as on campus or online options, contact information, and helpful resources like maps and videos.
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Medical Assistant Schools in Tennessee
| Medical Assisting Program | Rating | Accreditor |
|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga State Community College Chattanooga, TN | 4.2 | CAAHEP |
| Cleveland State Community College Cleveland, TN | 4.3 | CAAHEP |
| South College Knoxville, TN | 3.3 | CAAHEP |
| South College-Nashville Learning Site Nashville, TN | 2.7 | CAAHEP |
| Casa Loma College Nashville, TN | 4.2 | ABHES |
| Fortis Institute Nashville, TN | 4.6 | ABHES |
| Ross Medical Education Center Johnson City, TN | 4.1 | ABHES |
| Ross Medical Education Center Knoxville, TN | 3.2 | ABHES |
Comparing Medical Assistant Programs in Tennessee
Medical assistant programs in Tennessee train graduates to excel in diverse settings, from clinics to specialty practices across the state’s healthcare infrastructure. Given the variability in program standards and employer demands, a thorough review of each institution is essential to ensure readiness for clinical responsibilities.
- Compare a medical assistant diploma (shorter duration, focused on core skills) versus an associate’s degree (longer, includes general education and broader career pathways).
- The size of the program and class environment directly affect how much personalized instruction and mentorship you’ll receive, which is crucial for foundational learning.
- Check the program’s track record for preparing students for the CMA AAMA exam; a high pass rate is a strong sign of an effective curriculum.
- Look for comprehensive hands-on training, including labs and required clinical externships, which ensures graduates develop the practical skills necessary for employment.
- Realistically consider tuition costs, financial aid availability, and payment plans, as this is essential for true long-term affordability.
- Admissions requirements, scheduling, and flexibility must be carefully evaluated to ensure the program fits your existing work or family commitments.
A strong comparison mandates looking past basic descriptions to evaluate program quality through student outcomes, support resources, and comprehensive clinical preparation.
More Info for Medical Assistants in Tennessee
Medical assistants in Tennessee are required to complete appropriate training, and national certification is commonly preferred by employers, which can be researched further at medical assistant certification in Tennessee.
Medical assistant pay in Tennessee varies by location and professional experience, and detailed wage information is available on the medical assistant salary data in Tennessee page.
✔️ Page Updated: January 6, 2026 | Data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, CAAHEP, and ABHES
