ODUGlobal Continuing Education graduate Meredith Williams credits the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Program for helping her launch a healthcare career and prepare for physician assistant school through flexible, career-focused training.
For many adult learners, balancing career goals with work and family responsibilities can make pursuing additional education feel out of reach. For Meredith Williams, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Program through ODUGlobal Continuing Education offered the flexibility, support, and career preparation she needed to successfully transition into healthcare.
Today, nearly a year after completing the program, Williams is working as a Medical Assistant and gaining valuable clinical experience as she prepares for the next step in her healthcare journey: physician assistant school.
“I enjoyed the CMA program at ODU because I was prepared and ready for interviews immediately after the course ended,” said Williams. “The faculty work in the healthcare industry and are willing to help you get that first job. It’s nice to have that level of support.”
ODUGlobal’s Certified Medical Assistant Program is designed for students seeking a fast, flexible pathway into healthcare. The five-month program combines online, asynchronous coursework with hands-on clinical training and an externship experience. Students prepare for three nationally recognized certifications through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Clinical Medical Assistant, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician.
The program’s results speak for themselves. Since its launch, 94% of students have passed their certification exams on the first attempt. Students in the CMA track have achieved an impressive 98.6% first-time pass rate, while EKG and Phlebotomy students have earned first-time pass rates of 97.1% and 98.6%, respectively.
For Williams, the program’s flexible format was a key factor in her success.
“It’s a fast-paced and mostly self-guided program, but that worked for me as a full-time employee,” she said. “There were no set class times until the two-week externship. As a working adult, this was the best work-study balance for me.”
The ability to learn on her own schedule allowed Williams to continue working while building the knowledge and skills needed for a new career. She quickly recognized the quality of the curriculum and the value of the training.
“As soon as I started reading the course material, I knew I chose the right program,” Williams said.
In addition to flexible learning, students benefit from instruction provided by healthcare professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom. The program emphasizes both clinical and administrative competencies, preparing graduates to perform essential responsibilities such as patient intake, vital signs, EKGs, phlebotomy procedures, electronic health record documentation, and assisting healthcare providers with patient care.
For Williams, the investment paid off quickly.
“I’ve been in the same job now for almost a year after finishing the certification,” she said. “I’m going to go to PA school next. Now I can gain clinical experience as a Medical Assistant while I do my prerequisite courses for my graduate degree.”
Her story reflects a growing trend among students who use medical assisting as both a rewarding career and a stepping stone to advanced healthcare professions. By providing industry-recognized credentials, hands-on experience, and career support, ODUGlobal Continuing Education helps students enter the workforce with confidence and build a foundation for future success.
Whether students are seeking a career change, looking to enter healthcare for the first time, or preparing for advanced clinical education, the Certified Medical Assistant Program offers a pathway to meaningful opportunities in one of the nation’s fastest-growing fields.
To learn more about the Certified Medical Assistant Program and upcoming enrollment opportunities, visit ODUGlobal Continuing Education.
