Best Online Associate in Medical Office Administration Programs of 2023
Medical office administrators are the backbone of the medical industry. They are highly skilled professionals who perform daily tasks that keep doctors' offices and hospitals running smoothly. As the demand for healthcare professionals increases, earning an associate in medical office administration is the first step to entering this rapidly evolving industry.
Why This Matters
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19% OF MEDICAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATORS HAVE ASSOCIATE DEGREES
An O*NET survey shows that 19% of office administrators and health service managers have an associate degree, 65% have a bachelor’s degree, and 12% have a master’s degree.
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THE U.S. NEEDS 139,000 MORE OF YOU BY 2029
The overall aging population and industry-wide changes in healthcare technology are contributing to the above-average demand for medical office administrators during the next eight years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% increase in the number of available medical office administrator jobs between 2019 and 2029.
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EARN $35,850 AS A MEDICAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
While you will need an advanced degree for high-paying jobs, medical office administrators with an associate degree earn $35,850 per year on average.
Our Research
Medical office administrators are vital in making sure healthcare centers, hospitals, and private practice facilities operate efficiently and effectively. Their responsibilities include working directly with patients and healthcare professionals to manage health records, set appointments, complete insurance forms, and code patients’ medical information. An associate degree in medical office administration prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare.
Students gain a solid foundation in medical office procedures, terminology, software applications, insurance and billing, records management, team building, and problem-solving skills. Our list looks thoroughly at Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees, all of which are offered online by regionally accredited schools. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredits allied health programs that meet high standards of rigorous education.
- 75 hours to write this article
- 90 universities and colleges we assessed
- 95 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Associate in Medical Office Administration Programs
What You Should Know About This Degree
If you’re not sure that an online associate in medical office administration is right for you, consider similar degrees such as business administrator or medical assistant. Business admins work in and manage businesses of all types, including healthcare facilities, and medical assistants work directly with patients to take histories and vital signs before appointments.
Secretaries and administrative worker jobs are expected to decline through 2029, which means having your associate degree in medical office administration can help make you more competitive in the job market.
Credentials to look for as you research programs in this field include the Higher Learning Commission, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A certificate or license isn’t necessary for most jobs in medical office administration. However, related certifications, such as the Medical Coding Certificate, can help give you an edge in the job market.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in medical office administration programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Most associate degree plans require students to submit a high school diploma or equivalency and demonstrate interest in the medical profession. You also may be required to enroll in general education courses and maintain a certain GPA.
- Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? All the programs we reviewed for this program are offered online. Depending on the school, program, and instructor, classes will either meet together online at a determined time or allow students to work on coursework at their own pace. Before you select your program, make sure that it fits your learning style and schedule.
Explore the different programs you might qualify for and review the school’s application requirements. Gather your materials early and apply as soon as you select your school. You will also need to think about funding your associate degree in medical office administration. Talk to the school’s admissions office or financial aid advisor to learn what loans, scholarships, or other forms of aid might be available.