A critical part of the healthcare industry is medical billing and coding. Nearly every healthcare practice has these specialists.
These vital people work in the records billing department of hospitals and clinics. They use codes to classify the various services and diagnoses so that billing and reimbursement can be properly processed by Medicare or health insurance companies.
Education Requirements
To work in this field, an associate’s degree and certification are necessities. Many institutions provide pathways to gain these credentials, through certificate programs, terminal associate’s degrees, or transfer options into bachelor’s programs. A sampling of schools offering online degrees and certifications are highlighted below. These online options make vital education and training more accessible for aspiring professionals seeking to enter the field. With an accredited online associate’s degree and certification, the door opens to launching a career in this vital industry.
Career Outlook
Medical billing and coding jobs are expected to increase because of the large numbers of aging and retiring people in the general population. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of medical billing and coding professionals is expected to increase by 7% between 2021 and 2031 (as fast as average pace). The median salary for this occupation is listed at $46,660 and more for those that work at pharmaceutical companies who made $55,290.
Medical billing and coding schools online with financial aid
For detailed-oriented professionals seeking advancement, medical billing and coding offers an appealing career path. Fortunately, many institutions offer financial assistance to support aspiring billing and coding specialists.
Best Universities meticulously compiled a thorough catalog of accredited online medical billing and coding schools, harnessing financial data acquired from the National Center for Education Statistics. Additionally, we gathered student enrollment figures and campus details from the NCES website.
Career Step
Completion Time Frame: 4 months – with 12 months of access to the course
Cost of Course: $3,699
Course Delivery Type: Online
Certification Type Awarded: Certificate
CareerStep is an online training platform that offers medical coding and billing programs. These programs aim to equip students with the essential expertise and competencies required to operate as medical coders and billers, thereby facilitating their career prospects in the healthcare sector.
The program includes comprehensive training in medical coding and billing, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and healthcare reimbursement methodologies. A thoughtfully designed curriculum has been created to establish a sturdy groundwork in the healthcare sector and enable students to thrive and achieve success in certification exams. The curriculum aims to furnish students with the essential abilities necessary for success in these fields.
At CareerStep, students can enjoy the freedom to learn according to their preferences and availability with their flexible online training program. The program is crafted in a self-paced manner to ensure that students remain engaged and motivated while they learn by incorporating interactive lessons, videos, and assessments.
After finishing the program, students will acquire the essential competencies to pursue certification exams that meet industry standards, such as the Certified Professional Coder and Certified Coding Specialist exams, and they will receive a certificate of accomplishment. Obtaining these certifications may enhance students’ employability and enable them to command higher salaries from prospective employers. CareerStep’s medical coding and billing program is a comprehensive and flexible training option for those interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry.
Military spouses enrolling in any course offered by Career Step can receive a MyCAA grant covering up to $4,000 in program expenses. The MyCAA program covers 100% of the cost of Career Step’s approved courses.
To find out more, visit CareerStep.com.
Berkeley College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 67%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 26 to 1
Berkeley College offers an online billing and coding program that prepares students for careers in the healthcare field. The program is designed to teach students the skills and knowledge necessary to manage medical insurance and billing information, and to work in positions such as medical biller, medical coder, and health information technician.
The program is offered through Berkeley College Online, which is a fully accredited online learning platform. Learners are given the choice to complete the curriculum at their own pace and can benefit from a variety of resources, like, virtual lectures, interactive forums, and personalized tutoring services, according to their own discretion.
Completion of the program happens when 60 credits are earned, which can be accomplished in no less than two years. The program includes courses in medical terminology, medical coding, medical billing, and healthcare law. Students also complete an internship in a healthcare setting.
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the program readies students for sought-after professions. The tuition is affordable, and Berkeley College offers a variety of financial aid options.
Bryant & Stratton College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 28 to 1
Bryant & Stratton College offers a variety of online billing and coding programs, including a diploma, certificate, and associate degree. The programs are designed to prepare students for careers in medical billing and coding, which are in high demand.
The diploma program is a 12-month program that covers the basics of medical billing and coding. The certificate program is a 9-month program that covers the same topics as the diploma program, but in more depth. The associate degree program is a 2-year program that covers all aspects of medical billing and coding, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and insurance coding.
Students have the flexibility to complete all the programs from any location within the country since they are available online. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has granted accreditation to these programs, recognizing them as credible options for students seeking education at career schools and colleges.
Program costs differ based on both the program and the location of the student. However, Bryant & Stratton College provides an assortment of financial aid alternatives, which consist of scholarships, grants, and loans.
Cambridge College of Healthcare and Technology
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 25 to 1
Delray Beach, Florida, is where Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, a privately-owned for-profit educational institution, is situated. It offers a variety of programs in healthcare and technology, including an online billing and coding program.
The online billing and coding program at Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology is a 37.5-week program that can be completed in as little as nine months. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding.
The curriculum of the online billing and coding program at Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology includes courses in health science core fundamentals, anatomy and physiology labs, medical terminology, electronic medical office procedures, computer in healthcare, computerized practice management, fundamentals of ICD coding, insurance and reimbursement procedures, and electronic medical records.
Upon completion of the online billing and coding program at Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology, students will be prepared to take and pass certification examinations that will qualify them for entry-level employment in medical billing and coding.
Numerous resources are provided by the program, accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, to assist students in reaching their objectives. Among these resources are online tutoring, career counseling, and assistance with job placement.
Central Maine Community College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
Central Maine Community College (CMCC) offers a 100% online Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field. The program covers medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, and electronic health records. Students also complete a practicum in a healthcare setting.
Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs has been granted to the program. CAAHEP is a national accrediting agency that sets standards for educational programs in allied health professions. Accreditation by CAAHEP assures employers and the public that the program meets high standards of quality.
Individuals interested in a healthcare career can participate in the program as long as they have obtained a high school diploma or equivalent. No prior experience in healthcare is required.
The program typically requires a period of two years to finish, on average. Students can attend classes at their preferred speed and arrange their study schedule accordingly.
The program’s cost varies depending on the number of credits students take. Assistance in paying for the program is available to students who apply for financial aid.
Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to take the Certified Medical Coder exam and the Certified Professional in Healthcare Information Technology exam. These exams are recognized by employers as proof of competency in medical coding and electronic health records.
Central Maine Community College’s online Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records program is a great option for students who are interested in a career in the healthcare field. The program is accredited by CAAHEP and prepares students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field. The program is also affordable and flexible.
Cosumnes River College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 28 to 1
Designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the medical field, Cosumnes River College (CRC) offers an online medical billing and coding certificate program. The program is comprehensive, covering topics such as medical terminology, insurance billing, and coding. Besides the coursework, students will complete an externship at a local medical office, gaining practical experience in the field.
You don’t need prior medical field experience. This program invites individuals with a high school diploma or its equivalent to participate.
Students can complete the medical billing and coding certificate in less than two years if they take more than one class per semester. In addition to the tuition cost, fees for books and supplies exist. However, financial aid is available to eligible students.
Enrolling in the online medical billing and coding program at CRC is an excellent way to prepare for a career in the medical field. Not just being economical, the program also possesses flexibility and adaptability, which enables pupils to accommodate their coursework into their hectic schedules. Moreover, the inclusion of an externship in the program provides students with valuable practical experience.
Cowley Community College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Cowley Community College offers an online medical billing and coding program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. The online program is available in its entirety, providing students with the flexibility to learn at their own preferred pace and according to their own personal timetable.
The program immerses students in medical terminology, enhancing their understanding of anatomy and physiology, essential pharmacological knowledge, teaching them coding procedures and reimbursement methodologies. Additionally, students gain hands-on experience through a practicum in a healthcare setting.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Certified Coding Associate and Certified Professional Coder exams. These are the two most widely recognized credentials in the medical coding field.
Dakota State University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 84%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
Dakota State University (DSU) offers an online medical billing and coding certificate program. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the medical billing and coding field. Students learn the skills and knowledge necessary to code and bill medical claims, including:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
ICD-10-CM and CPT coding
Healthcare reimbursement
Medical ethics
Students have the flexibility to pursue their studies from any location in the world as the program is entirely online. Classes are taught by experienced faculty who are experts in the medical billing and coding field. An assortment of online resources, comprising a learning management system, a collection of textbooks and articles, and a student forum, is accessible to students.
After finishing the program, students become qualified to sit for the American Health Information Management Association’s Certified Coding Associate exam. The CCA exam is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a basic level of competency in medical coding.
Daymar College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
At Daymar College, we present a fast-paced online medical billing and coding program that immerses students in this field within just 12 months. Daymar College’s purpose is to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding, allowing them to showcase their abilities from the get-go.
The program covers a variety of topics, including:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Medical coding
Medical billing
Insurance regulations
Patient privacy
Customer service
An internship at a healthcare facility in the vicinity will also be available for students enrolled in the program.
Upon completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Professional Coder exam. The CPC exam is a national certification exam that is recognized by employers in the medical billing and coding field.
Daymar College provides students with an array of financial assistance choices to support them in covering program costs. These choices encompass scholarships, grants, and loans.
To learn more about Daymar College’s online medical billing and coding program, please visit the school’s website.
Here are some pros and cons of the program:
Pros:
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools accredits the program.
The online program is available to enable students to learn according to their own pace.
Included in the program is an internship that affords students practical experience in the industry.
The program prepares students for the CPC exam.
There are numerous financial aid options available through the program.
Cons:
The program is expensive.
The program is not offered at all locations.
The program has mixed reviews from students.
DeVry University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 88%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: varies depending on the campus
DeVry University offers an online medical billing and coding program that can be completed in as little as one year. The program is designed to teach students the skills they need to become medical billers and coders, including how to:
Accurately record, register, submit and track patient information
Apply medical terminology and coding principles
Use electronic health records
Communicate with patients and healthcare providers
Negotiate with insurance companies
This program holds accreditation from the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. It not only readies students for the nationally recognized Certified Coding Associate exam but also immerses them in a dynamic learning environment.
In addition to the coursework, DeVry University also offers a variety of student resources, including:
Online tutoring
E-library tools
Career services
Online student community
The financial aid eligibility of the student determines the program’s cost variability. DeVry University also offers a variety of payment plans to make the program more affordable.
Drexel University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 77%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
Drexel University’s online medical billing and coding program is a 30-quarter credit, a 10-course program that is designed to prepare students for a career in medical billing and coding. The online program is designed to allow students to learn at their convenience and without any time restrictions, as it is fully online.
The program covers a variety of topics, including:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Medical coding
Medical billing
Insurance reimbursement
Medical record coding and auditing
Students who complete the program will be prepared to take the national certification exams for medical coders and billers. They will also be able to apply for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding.
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs has accredited the program, affirming its achievement of the highest standards of excellence and comprehensiveness. This accreditation demonstrates the program’s commitment to maintaining top-notch quality.
Acquiring the essential skills for a career in the fast-growing field of medical billing and coding can be made more convenient and cost-effective with Drexel University’s online program. This program offers flexibility and affordability, making it an attractive option for students.
Here are some of the benefits of the Drexel University online medical billing and coding program:
Fully online, so students can learn at their own pace and on their own time
Accredited by CAAHEP
Affordable tuition
Career services support to help students find jobs after graduation
Herzing University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 92% average between the schools
- Student-to-faculty ratio: varies depending on the location
Herzing University offers both online diploma and associate degree programs in medical billing and coding. The duration to complete the diploma program is approximately 12 months, which requires a total of 25 credits. On the other hand, the associate degree program is a more extensive curriculum, which demands 60 credits and can be finished in approximately 24 months. Both programs are offered 100% online, and students have the option to complete an internship or search project.
The Herzing University online medical billing and coding programs prepare students for a career in medical records and insurance billing and coding. Students learn the fundamentals of medical terminology, current procedural terminology coding, revenue cycle, and advanced coding. They also learn about patient privacy, ethics, and professionalism.
Upon completion of the Herzing University online medical billing and coding programs, students are eligible to sit for the national certification exams for medical coders and insurance billing and coding specialists. These certifications open up opportunities for students to secure entry-level positions within a range of healthcare environments, such as hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and insurance firms.
Here are some of the benefits of earning a medical billing and coding degree from Herzing University:
100% online programs with flexible scheduling
Experienced faculty with industry experience
Small class sizes with personalized attention
Comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of medical billing and coding
Career services to help you find a job after graduation
Financial aid options to help you pay for your education
Keiser University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 97%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 15to 1
Keiser University’s online medical billing and coding program is a 60-credit associate degree program that prepares students for entry-level employment in the medical billing and coding field. The program can be completed entirely online, and within a span of just two years, students can successfully finish it.
The program’s curriculum engrosses students in a diverse array of subjects. It delves into medical terminology, explores the intricacies of the human body’s structure and functions, hones their skills in categorizing medical procedures, and instructs them in the art of managing medical expenses. Furthermore, it equips students with insights into processing insurance claims, ensuring compliance, and securing reimbursements. This curriculum encourages students to showcase their abilities across a wide spectrum of topics.
Alongside their coursework, program participants also get the chance to intern in a medical billing and coding environment. This internship empowers students to acquire vital hands-on experience, honing their skills in the field. It allows them to showcase their abilities in a real-world setting.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the American Academy of Professional Coders credentialing examination. The AAPC credential is recognized by employers throughout the healthcare industry.
For those seeking a flexible and budget-friendly route to acquire the necessary expertise to embark on a career in medical billing and coding, the Keiser University online program is an excellent choice. It offers a convenient learning experience that can accommodate varying schedules and is priced reasonably.
Northwest Technical College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 21 to 1
Northwest Technical College (NTC) offers three online medical billing and coding programs: a certificate, a diploma, and an associate of applied science (AAS) degree. All three programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level medical coding positions.
Out of the three programs, the certificate program is the briefest, and it requires approximately one year to finish. It typically requires around two years to finish the diploma program, while the AAS degree usually takes approximately three years to complete.
All three programs include coursework in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, U.S. health care systems, and medical billing and insurance. The certificate program also includes coursework in medical terminology, medical coding, and medical coding procedures. The diploma program includes all of the coursework in the certificate program, plus additional coursework in medical coding theory and practice. The AAS degree includes all of the coursework in the diploma program, plus additional coursework in college-level writing, bioethical issues in contemporary society, general psychology, intro to public speaking, business communications, and customer relations management.
NTC’s online medical billing and coding programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). CAAHEP is a national organization that accredits educational programs in allied health.
Purdue University Global
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100% Application
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 27 to 1
Purdue University Global is a private, nonprofit university that offers online and on-campus programs. The university’s online medical billing and coding certificate program is designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the medical billing and coding field.
The program is 44 quarter credit hours in length and can be completed in as little as 12 months. Students learn the skills and knowledge they need to submit medical claims, code medical diagnoses, operate computerized billing systems, maintain medical records, and more. They also complete a 40-hour practicum to gain real-world experience.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist, Certified Coding Associate, Certified Coding Specialist–Physician-based, Certified Coding Specialist, and Insurance and Coding Specialist industry credentials.
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs accredits the program.
Rasmussen College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: varies by campus
- Student-to-faculty ratio: varies by campus
The Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program at Rasmussen University is a fully online program that prepares students for a career in the healthcare industry. The program can be completed in as few as nine months, and it includes courses on medical coding, billing, and health information technology. An internship in a healthcare environment is a viable option for students.
Designed to cultivate essential competencies and expertise, the curriculum thoroughly prepares students to thrive in healthcare.
Students learn how to:
Code medical procedures and diagnoses
Bill healthcare providers for services rendered
Use healthcare information technology systems
Comply with healthcare regulations
The program also prepares students for the Certified Coding Associate and Certified Coding Specialist exams, which the American Health Information Management Association offers. These certifications can give students a competitive edge in the job market.
The Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program at Rasmussen University is a great option for students who want to start a career in the healthcare industry.
San Joaquin Valley College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: varies by campus
- Student-to-faculty ratio: varies by campus
San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) offers an online Medical Billing and Coding program that trains students to work on the administrative side of healthcare. Students prepare for positions in a medical office environment and can choose the credential level that best meets their needs and career goals.
The program is offered in two levels:
Certificate of Completion: This program takes about 7-9 months to complete and prepares students for entry-level medical billing and coding positions.
Associate of Science degree: This program takes about 15 months to complete and prepares students for more advanced medical billing and coding positions.
Both programs cover the following topics:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Medical coding
Medical billing
Insurance reimbursement
Electronic health records
HIPAA compliance
CPR and first aid
Apart from the fundamental courses, learners pursuing the Associate of Science degree program are also required to enroll in classes that cover topics in business, mathematics, and English language skills.
SJVC’s online Medical Billing and Coding program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. The California Department of Public Health also approves the program.
Graduates of SJVC’s online Medical Billing and Coding program are eligible to sit for the national certification exams for medical coders and billers. These exams are administered by the American Health Information Management Association.
Southern Careers Institute
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: varies by location
- Student-to-faculty ratio: varies by location
Southern Careers Institute (SCI) offers an online medical billing and coding program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. The program is designed to teach students the skills and knowledge they need to become medical billing and coding specialists.
The program covers a variety of topics, including:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Insurance coding
Medical billing
Electronic health records
Compliance
Patient relations
The program enables students to undertake an internship with a healthcare provider in the local area.
After completing the program, students will be prepared to sit for the national certification exams for medical billing and coding specialists.
SCI’s online medical billing and coding program stands as an excellent choice for students aspiring to acquire the essential skills for a thriving career in this burgeoning field. This program offers a flexible and seamless learning experience, immersing students in expert guidance while they hone their skills. Seasoned educators are readily available to mentor students, allowing them to showcase their abilities effectively.
Sullivan University
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10 to 1
Sullivan University’s online medical billing and coding program is a 9-month certificate program that prepares students for a career in medical coding. The program covers the following topics:
Anatomy and physiology
Medical terminology
Pathophysiology
ICD-10-CM coding
ICD-10-PCS coding
CPT and HCPCS coding
Reimbursement methodologies
The program empowers students to engage in local healthcare internships.
Upon completing the program, students will be prepared to take the Certified Coding Associate exam, the entry-level certification for medical coders. The CCA exam is offered by the American Health Information Management Association.
Ultimate Medical Academy
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
Ultimate Medical Academy offers an online Medical Billing and Coding diploma or associate degree program. It typically takes approximately 11 months to complete the diploma program, whereas the associate degree program requires approximately 18 months to finish. The aim of both programs is to equip students with the necessary abilities to pursue a beginner-level position in the medical billing and coding industry.
The curriculum for both programs covers a range of topics, including:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Medical coding
Medical billing
Insurance regulations
HIPAA compliance
Computer software applications
Through internship programs at nearby healthcare facilities, students gain invaluable firsthand experience and connections. Hands-on participation in the field builds practical skills and industry familiarity. Students are empowered to apply their knowledge while gaining exposure to prospective employers. These enriching internship opportunities promote direct engagement with the healthcare industry, allowing students to transition from the classroom to career with confidence.
Upon completion of either program, students are eligible to take the Certified Professional Coder exam. The CPC is a national certification that is recognized by employers in the field of medical billing and coding.
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 13 to 1
The University of Cincinnati Clermont College offers an online medical coding and billing certificate program. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the medical coding and billing field.
The program is 45 weeks long and is offered entirely online. Students have the flexibility to finish the program at their convenience and at their own chosen time. The program is taught by experienced faculty who are experts in the medical coding and billing field.
The program’s curriculum immerses students in subjects like medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, medical billing, and health information management. Students can tailor their pace and schedule to complete the program while honing their skills.
Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to take the Certified Coding Associate exam or the Certified Professional Coder exam. These are the two most important certifications for medical coders.
The University of Cincinnati Clermont College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This means the program meets the highest quality and academic rigor standards.
Vista College-Online
- Percentage of students receiving financial aid: 100%
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 27 to 1
Vista College-Online offers an online medical coding and billing program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The curriculum has been crafted to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a profession in medical coding and billing.
The program includes courses in medical terminology, medical coding, medical billing, and health information management. An option available to students is the completion of an externship program alongside a healthcare provider.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam, which is a nationally recognized certification for medical coding and billing specialists.
