It is possible to begin a career as a medical assistant without any formal training and learn on the job.  However, most employers prefer graduates of medical assisting schools.  A medical assisting certificate can be earned in one year and an associate's degree in two.  Programs include course study in subjects like medical terminology, physiology, anatomy, transcription and insurance processing.  Clinical courses include lab techniques, pharmaceutical principles and medication administration.  Students can also expect to attend an internship.  Visit Medical Assistant training schools

Medical assistants are not required to be licensed by states, but some states require testing for specialized duties like taking X-rays.