I'm starting school in December in a medical assistant specialist program at a college in NY, and I looked to see if the schools program is certified and it is not, but some of the schools listed in the NY area that did have certified MA programs have a very sketchy reputation. So I am wondering how important is certification?

Your Professional Title/Credentials: Student

Are You Still In School? Yes

Are You Working? No

Most employers in my area say CMA/RMA is a must, what they might settle for would be dependent on individual experience.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CMA (AAMA)

Get certified. Its best. I am totally in favor of certification being required to practice as a medical assistant nationally. Its the uncertified medical assistants that make medical assisting seem less "professional" it does not take much to get certified and the exam is pretty easy.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RN-BSN

Are You Still In School? No

Are You Working? Yes

Can you become certified even if your school doesn't have a certified program?

Your Professional Title/Credentials: Student

Are You Still In School? Yes

Are You Working? No

Most states that have a certification require you to graduate from an accredited program. What do you mean by "certified program?" Schools to not certify you, they just give you the education to be able to sit for the certifying exam upon graduation.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RN-BSN

Are You Still In School? No

Are You Working? Yes