If you’re exploring weekend Medical Assistant programs in the Baltimore area, two standout options offer very different formats, costs, and learning experiences. Whether you’re seeking a fast-track program or a more in-depth training path, both schools prepare students for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA exam and are designed to fit around busy schedules. Here’s a quick overview of what each program offers:
1. Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute
Top Knowledge offers a 10-week Clinical Medical Assistant program at its Rockville campus with a weekend-friendly format that includes live Zoom sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.) and in-person training on Saturdays (9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.). The program totals 168 clock hours and combines online lectures with hands-on lab work. Students are also expected to spend an additional 10 hours per week completing online assignments.
The full program cost is $3,200, which includes registration, tuition, books, uniform, supplies, and BLS certification. A payment plan is available, with installments spread across the 10 weeks. To graduate, students must maintain at least an 85% attendance rate, score 77% or higher on assignments and exams, and pass all lab components.
Graduates receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA exam. While no job placement is offered, the school emphasizes student support and experienced faculty from respected institutions.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $3,200 (includes registration, tuition, books, uniform, supplies, and BLS) |
| Duration | 10 weeks (168 clock hours) |
| Class Format | Hybrid: Live Zoom lectures + in-person Saturday labs |
| Class Schedules | Tuesdays & Thursdays (5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. via Zoom); Saturdays (9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. in person) |
2. Community College of Baltimore County
CCBC offers a 652-hour Medical Assistant program with multiple scheduling options, including a weekend/evening track that takes approximately 13 months to complete. Classes are held at CCBC’s Randallstown, Hunt Valley, and Essex campuses. The program is divided into four modules and includes classroom learning, hands-on labs, and 160 hours of clinical practicum.
The weekend/evening format includes classes starting in October and February, designed for students balancing work or family. Students meet for lectures and labs during evenings and weekends, though specific session times vary by campus. Total tuition for all modules is $7,720, with financial aid and grants available for qualifying students. The cost of textbooks, scrubs, and the NHA certification exam are included.
The program is accredited by CAAHEP and prepares students to sit for the NHA CCMA exam. Graduates may also receive up to 22 credits toward an Allied Health associate degree. Certification pass rates are strong, averaging over 88% from 2018–2022.
| Category | Details |
| Price | $7,720 (includes all four modules) |
| Duration | Approximately 13 months (weekend/evening track) |
| Class Format | In-person classroom, labs, and clinical practicum |
| Class Schedules | Evening and weekend classes; start dates in October and February |
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Comparing The Weekend Programs:
| Category | Top Knowledge Healthcare Institute | Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) |
| Total Cost | $3,200 | $7,720 |
| Program Length | 10 weeks | ~13 months (weekend/evening track) |
| Total Hours | 168 hours | 652 hours |
| Class Format | Zoom (Tues/Thurs), In-Person (Sat) | In-person, some online coursework |
| Class Location | Rockville, MD (not Baltimore) | Multiple Baltimore-area campuses (Essex, Hunt Valley, Randallstown) |
| Externship Included | No | Yes (included in training hours) |
| Accreditation | MHEC Approved | CAAHEP Accredited |
| Financial Aid | Not available | Federal and state aid available |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible for NHA CCMA exam | Eligible for NHA CCMA exam |
| Career Services | None | Yes (career pathways, externships, job resources) |
| Program Schedule | Weekend: Tues/Thurs (Zoom), Sat (In-person) | Weekend/Evening: 2–3 days/week |
| Learning Support | Limited; no externship or job placement | Strong; includes tutoring, externship, academic advising |
If you’re still undecided, visiting both schools, speaking with instructors, and asking about recent graduate outcomes will give you valuable insights that brochures and websites can’t.