Medical Assisting Training in Aurora, IL Start Your Medical Career Today

 

Hours of Operation

Monday – Thursday: 8AM – 9:30PM

 

For over 40 years, First Institute has been a leader in career education for the Chicagoland area, and we are proud to bring our legacy of success to our newest campus in Aurora. We are dedicated to preparing individuals from Aurora, Naperville, Oswego, and the surrounding communities for rewarding, in-demand careers in healthcare. Our hands-on medical assisting program provides the real-world clinical experience and comprehensive knowledge that local employers are looking for. We combine our proven curriculum with flexible scheduling options to meet the needs of working adults. Whether you reside in Joliet, Elgin, or Oak Brook, our state-of-the-art Aurora campus offers the accessible and practical training you need to launch a successful career in the fast-growing healthcare field. Start your journey toward becoming a medical assistant today.

Medical Assisting: A Growing Healthcare Career

The healthcare sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation, and medical assistants are essential to its expansion. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for medical assistants will grow by 12% from 2024 to 2034, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations [1]. This impressive growth is expected to create approximately 112,300 job openings each year across the country, fueled by the needs of an aging population and an increased demand for preventive medical services.

This high demand translates into excellent job security and a clear pathway to a stable, long-term career. The earning potential is also strong. The median annual wage for medical assistants was $44,200 in May 2024, and the annual mean wage for those in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area was a comparable $44,200 [1] [2]. With professional experience and a national certification, this earning potential can increase significantly. A career as a medical assistant offers a wide variety of opportunities, allowing you to work in diverse settings such as busy hospitals, specialized private practices, and urgent care clinics. Whether your interest lies in direct patient care or the administrative side of a medical office, this career provides a versatile and solid foundation for future success.

Medical Assisting Program Curriculum

Our comprehensive Medical Assisting program curriculum is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in both clinical and administrative healthcare roles. The program emphasizes hands-on application of skills in a real-world training environment at our Aurora campus.

Clinical Skills Training

Hands-on clinical training is the foundation of our program. Our state-of-the-art Aurora facility features a fully equipped clinical lab where you will develop essential patient care skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. This is not an online simulation. You will train in a real clinical environment. Core clinical skills include:

• Patient Vitals: Taking and recording blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration
• Phlebotomy: Performing blood draws and venipuncture techniques
• EKG Administration: Operating electrocardiogram (EKG) machines
• Injections: Administering intramuscular and subcutaneous injections
• Patient Care: Assisting with exams, room prep, and patient safety
• Infection Control: Maintaining sterile medical environments

Administrative & Business Skills

Medical assistants play a critical role in the administrative operations of a medical office. Our curriculum provides training in the business side of healthcare, preparing you to manage front-office responsibilities with accuracy and professionalism, including:

• Medical Billing and Coding: Insurance claims and coding fundamentals
• Electronic Health Records (EHR): Patient records, scheduling, and medical software
• Medical Terminology and Documentation: Accurate charting and healthcare communication
• HIPAA Compliance: Patient privacy and confidentiality standards
• Office Management: Medical office operations and patient communication

Blended Learning Approach

The Medical Assisting program follows a blended learning model combining flexible online coursework with in-person, hands-on lab training at the Aurora campus. Online coursework is completed at your own pace, while practical skills are developed during instructor-led lab sessions. With a maximum class size of 20 students, you receive personalized instruction from experienced healthcare professionals. The program is completed in 50 weeks, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly.

Externship Experience

All students complete a 160-hour externship at a local healthcare facility. This unpaid externship provides real-world experience in professional medical settings such as hospitals, private practices, and urgent care clinics throughout Aurora and the surrounding area. Students apply lab-trained skills, gain workplace experience, and often receive employment offers from externship partners.

National Certifications Available

Graduates of the Medical Assisting program are prepared to sit for nationally recognized certification exams through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). First Institute is an approved testing site, and the cost of the first exam attempt is included in program tuition.

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

The CCMA certification validates proficiency in clinical skills such as vital signs, EKGs, medication administration, and assisting with procedures. This credential is widely recognized by employers and can increase job opportunities and earning potential.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

The CPT certification focuses on blood collection and specimen handling. This credential supports specialized roles in hospitals, labs, and blood donation centers and enhances clinical versatility.

Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)

The CBCS certification validates knowledge of medical billing, insurance claims, and coding systems. This role is essential to medical office operations and may offer remote work opportunities.

Certified EKG Technician (CET)

The CET certification prepares students to perform electrocardiograms, including patient prep and equipment operation. Demand for EKG technicians continues to grow due to increased focus on cardiovascular health.

Program Details: Schedule, Length & Requirements

Below are the key program details for the Medical Assisting program at the Aurora campus.

Program Length & Timeline

The program is completed in 50 weeks with continuous enrollment options throughout the year. This accelerated timeline allows students to transition quickly into the workforce.

Class Schedule Options

Flexible day and evening schedules are available. Clinical lab sessions follow consistent Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday schedules. Online coursework can be completed at any time. The Aurora campus is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Admission Requirements

To ensure our students are set up for success, we have a straightforward admissions process. Prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 17 years of age
• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Complete an admissions interview with one of our advisors
• Provide a valid government-issued ID
• Complete a Blended Program Readiness Questionnaire
• Students will be provided a Chromebook for the duration of their program, unless they opt out and have their own device to use. Students will need access to the internet that is no less than 60mbps to access live class through Microsoft and complete activities in the online environment.

Program Costs & Financial Aid

Program costs include tuition, registration fees, textbooks, materials, a Chromebook, and the first certification exam attempt. Financial aid options include Federal Pell Grants, Direct Loans, WIOA funding, and flexible payment plans. Admissions advisors can provide detailed financing information.

What Sets First Institute Apart

First Institute provides a hands-on, student-focused learning experience supported by decades of success in healthcare education.

40+ Years of Experience in Chicagoland

Founded in 1982, First Institute has trained healthcare professionals across the Chicagoland area for more than four decades. The Aurora campus builds on this proven legacy of quality education and strong employer relationships.

Expert Instructors with Real Healthcare Experience

Instructors bring real-world healthcare experience into the classroom. Small class sizes of up to 20 students ensure individualized instruction and mentorship.

Local Healthcare Partnerships & Job Placement

Strong employer partnerships support externships and job placement. Graduates receive lifetime job placement assistance including resume support, interview preparation, and job leads.

Hands-On Training in a Real Clinical Lab

The Aurora campus features a brand-new medical lab with industry-standard equipment, providing hands-on skill development essential for workplace readiness.

Flexible Learning for Working Adults

Blended learning, flexible schedules, and convenient campus access make the program well-suited for working adults balancing multiple responsibilities.

First Institute Aurora Campus Location

The Aurora campus serves students throughout DuPage, Kane, and Will counties.

Campus Address & Directions

First Institute Aurora
405 North Eola Road, Suite C
Aurora, IL 60502

Phone: 331-688-3931

The campus is located at the corner of North Eola Road and East New York Street in a modern shopping center. An embedded Google Map will be available on the live page.

Convenient for the Region

Convenient for students in Naperville, Oswego, Joliet, Elgin, and Oak Brook.

Parking & Transit

Ample free parking is available on site. The location is accessible via local public transportation routes.

Campus Facilities

The 2,400-square-foot campus includes modern classrooms, administrative offices, a medical lab, student break room, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ADA-compliant facilities.

Real Clinical Lab Training (Not Online Only)

Hands-on lab training is a core component of the program. Students train in a fully equipped clinical environment using the same tools found in healthcare facilities.

What You’ll Practice On

• Patient Monitoring Equipment: Blood pressure cuffs, pulse oximeters, thermometers
• Phlebotomy Stations: Practice arms and blood draw supplies
• EKG Machines: Lead placement and diagnostics
• Injection Practice Models: Injection technique training
• EHR Systems: Digital medical record systems

Instructor-Led, Small Class Sizes

Instructor-led lab sessions ensure real-time feedback and personalized support. Additional practice time is available when needed.

From Lab to Real World

Lab training prepares students for externships and employment. Employers value the hands-on readiness of First Institute graduates.

Launch Your Healthcare Career After Graduation

Graduates are prepared for long-term success in healthcare roles across the Aurora area.

Job Titles & Career Paths

• Clinical Medical Assistant
• Administrative Medical Assistant
• Phlebotomy Technician
• EKG Technician
• Doctor’s Assistant
• Ophthalmic Assistant

Earning Potential in the Chicago Area

The annual mean wage for medical assistants in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area was $44,200 as of May 2023 [2]. Earnings increase with experience and certification.

Lifetime Job Placement Assistance

• Resume Building
• Interview Preparation
• Job Leads

First Institute Alumni Working in Your Area

Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices throughout the region.

Start Your Medical Assisting Training Today

The admissions team is ready to help you begin your training at the Aurora campus.

The Enrollment Process

1. Contact the admissions team
2. Schedule a campus tour
3. Complete an admissions interview
4. Submit your application
5. Begin classes on the next available start date

Admission Requirements Quick Review

• High school diploma or GED
• 17+ years of age
• Valid government-issued ID
• Admissions interview
• Computer and internet access

Next Steps

• Phone: 331-688-3931
• Online: Complete the request information form on this page

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Medical Assisting program?

The program is completed in 50 weeks.

Can I study while working?

Yes. The blended format supports working adults.

Is a high school diploma required?

Yes. A diploma or GED is required.

Do you offer job placement?

Yes. Lifetime job placement assistance is included.

Is the program online only?

No. Hands-on lab training at the Aurora campus is required.

What certifications are available?

CCMA, CPT, CBCS, and CET certifications.

What are campus hours?

Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Is parking available?

Yes. Free parking is available.

References

[1] Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Assistants, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm (visited November 5, 2025).

[2] Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Medical Assistants, at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319092.htm (visited November 5, 2025).