Accurate medical coding and billing ensure patients receive the care they need, and insurance companies can expedite insurance claims. Earning an online medical billing and coding certificate gives students the skills and knowledge they need to pursue jobs in this important and fast-growing field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of medical record specialists will increase by 8% through 2032. The median annual salary for these jobs is $47,180. This position also sets individuals up to advance in the healthcare administration field to roles like health information technologists and health services managers.
The cost and number of required credits for medical billing and coding certificate programs vary widely. Most programs selected for this list require 20-30 credit hours, and their average per-credit tuition rate is $234.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Medical Billing and Coding degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 11 Accredited Online Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Gwinnett Technical College
Intelligent Score: 99.29In-state: $15,058
Out-of-state: $18,268
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
In-State: $578
Out-of-State: $678
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
20
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Intelligent Score: 97.31In-state: $27,590
Out-of-state: $44,590
In-state: $29,182
Out-of-state: $29,182
SAT: 1110-1360
ACT: 17-27
$381
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
12
Fisher College
Intelligent Score: 95.9In-state: $31,700
Out-of-state: $31,700
In-state: $26,166
Out-of-state: $26,166
SAT: 820-1060
ACT: 13-20
$420
Online
Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education
37-39
Kirtland Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.37In-state: $14,310
Out-of-state: $16,500
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-District: $260Out-of-District: $347
Online
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
31
Northwest Technical College
Intelligent Score: 92.15In-state: $28,490
Out-of-state: $28,490
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$211
Online
Higher Learning Commission
29
Laramie County Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.15In-state: $16,557
Out-of-state: $22,362
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: 18 and above
In-State: $153
Out-of-State: $363
Online
Higher Learning Commission
48
West Georgia Technical College
Intelligent Score: 91.65In-state: $13,315
Out-of-state: $15,715
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$100
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
24
Stark State College
Intelligent Score: 91.45In-state: $14,674
Out-of-state: $17,770
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $194
Out-of-State: $323
Online
Higher Learning Commission
21
National University
Intelligent Score: 91.1In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
In-state: $15,480
Out-of-state: $15,480
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$2,995 per program
Online, On-Campus
WASC Senior College and University Commission
5.3 Continuing Education Units
Columbus State Community College
Intelligent Score: 90.18In-state: $19,991
Out-of-state: $24,581
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident: $177
Non-Resident: $363
Online
Higher Learning Commission
22
Sinclair College
Intelligent Score: 89.92In-state: $15,526
Out-of-state: $19,273
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$146
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
24
How to Choose an Online Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding Program
Choose your area of study
A post-secondary certificate is the minimum level of education required to qualify for most medical coding and billing jobs. However, some schools offer associate or bachelor’s degrees in the subject, which you may also want to consider. Even if you don’t want to pursue a full degree at this time, attending a certificate program that allows you to apply credits towards a degree can save you time and money later.
You’ll also want to think about what type of professional certifications you’ll seek after completing your certificate program. The primary organizations that offer professional certifications in medical coding and billing include the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and the Practice Management Institute (PMI). Many medical coding and billing certificate programs design their curriculums to meet the educational requirements for these professional certifications, so look for a program that aligns with the certification you seek.
Lastly, now is a good time to think about your logistical needs. Will you enroll in a program full-time or part-time? Do you need an asynchronous program with coursework you can complete entirely on your own schedule, or do you prefer a synchronous program with virtual class meetings? Setting these parameters will help you narrow your search once you explore programs.
Research schools and programs
Once you establish your parameters, you can begin researching programs. Most schools publish essential program information on their website, including cost, curriculum, start terms and enrollment procedures, and student outcomes. You can also contact the school’s admissions office to speak to an admissions counselor or program representative or participate in virtual information sessions or open houses.
A key piece of information to gather is the school’s accreditation status. In the U.S., all public and most private 2- and 4-year institutions are regionally accredited, while trade schools and career colleges tend to have national accreditation. Both types of accreditation are valid, but attending a regionally accredited school gives students more flexibility to transfer credits between schools and is typically valued more by employers. A school’s accreditation status can also impact a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid. Students can check their school’s accreditation status via the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) database.
Prepare for applications
Individual schools and programs establish their own policies and procedures for admissions and enrollment. To get the most accurate information about how to apply to a medical billing and coding certificate program, speak to an admissions representative.
Some programs require an application, while others allow students to enroll directly without applying first. A standard application for an online certificate in medical coding and billing includes:
- Completed application and fee
- Official high school transcript
- Resume or CV
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- SAT or ACT scores
Select your program
Once you’ve collected enough research to make an informed decision, compare programs based on your priorities to determine which best meets your goals and personal needs. If multiple programs seem like a good fit, you can apply to all of them and choose based on where you are accepted.
Some things to consider when comparing programs are curriculum, faculty qualifications and areas of expertise, cost, available financial aid, course delivery method, and completion time.
Determine how you’ll pay for your certificate
If you still need to speak with a financial aid counselor to get specific information on tuition costs and available financial aid resources, now is a good time to do so. Also, confirm that the certificate program is eligible for federal financial aid, like student loans, grants, and work-study. Not all certificate programs are eligible for this type of financial support, so it’s important to clarify this before proceeding.
If your program is eligible for federal student aid, the next step is to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Schools use this information to determine your eligibility for need-based aid like federal student loans, grants, scholarships, and more. You can also explore merit-based aid resources, like scholarships from your school, private organizations, non-profit foundations, or community groups.
Students working while earning an online graduate certificate should inquire with their employer to see if they can receive tuition assistance benefits.
What Can You Expect From an Online Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding Program
Medical records specialists are responsible for keeping track of patient information in databases used by healthcare networks, health insurance companies, and others. Medical coders require knowledge of specialized coding systems and qualities like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and an aptitude for working with numbers.
An online medical billing and coding certificate introduces students to the various coding systems and procedures they’ll use in professional settings like hospitals, physicians’ offices, clinics, and more. In addition to technical skills, students will learn about laws and regulations governing confidentiality and healthcare systems, gain familiarity with health insurance companies and policies, and master formulas for calculating reimbursements.
Many programs also include an experiential learning component, such as an internship, allowing students hands-on experience. Even if coursework is delivered online, the program may require students to complete this part of the curriculum in person. Students should verify any in-person requirements and confirm they can accommodate them before enrolling in a program.
Depending on the program, students will complete their coursework synchronously, meeting virtually at regularly scheduled times, or asynchronously, meaning students complete lessons and assignments according to their own schedule, with no set class meetings. Students who prefer to learn through discussion and interaction may choose a synchronous program. Those who need maximum flexibility may find an asynchronous program works best for them.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online certificate in medical billing and coding program
- Medical Coding: A foundational course that introduces students to medical coding principles and practices. Usually follows the guidance of one of the professional certification bodies, such as the AAPC or AHIMA.
- Advanced Medical Coding: Covers advanced medical coding skills and practices once students have established a basic understanding of medical coding.
- Medical Billing and Insurance: Gives students an overview of all the components needed to successfully manage the medical insurance claims process in various healthcare settings, including inpatient and outpatient hospitals and outpatient physician offices.
- Medical Office Procedures: Introduces students to tasks performed by administrative personnel in medical settings. Topics include healthcare careers, legal and ethical responsibilities, medical appointments, telephone techniques, medical records management, medical office management, and more.
- U.S. Healthcare Systems: Studies the historical development of the healthcare delivery system in the U.S. and gives students an understanding of the role of the health information professional.
What Can I Do With an Online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate?
Graduates can apply the skills and knowledge they develop in a medical billing and coding degree across various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and education.
The program provides students with a strong understanding of data analysis, medical terminology, software, and regulatory compliance, which qualifies them for positions such as medical coder, healthcare IT specialist, and data analyst.
A certificate in medical billing and coding qualifies graduates for most entry-level positions. Students can also pursue further education, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, to prepare for advanced roles in the field.
Career outlook
- Medical records specialist — Perform data entry and recordkeeping tasks for patients, including entering medical histories, symptoms, treatments, and test results into electronic health records systems.
- Median annual salary: $48,780
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 8%
- New jobs projected: 15,000
- Health information technologist — Advise, design, and develop electronic healthcare systems by determining requirements, supporting implementation, and compiling data and reports.
- Median annual salary: $62,990
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 16%
- New jobs projected: 3,100
- Information clerk — These individuals perform clerical tasks, including collecting data, preparing reports, and maintaining records for businesses, organizations, or the government.
- Median annual salary: $40,540
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): -4%
- New jobs projected: 154,100
Online Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online certificate in medical billing and coding program?
First, determine if the program requires an application or if students can enroll directly. If it’s a direct enrollment program, students typically need to complete an enrollment form, show proof of a high school diploma or GED, and submit a registration deposit.
A standard online medical billing and coding certification program application typically requires official transcripts from previously attended schools, a resume or CV, a personal statement, a letter of recommendation, and SAT or ACT scores.
Students should also be mindful of application deadlines and start terms. Some programs offer multiple start dates throughout the year, while others only admit new students once or twice a year. Missing application deadlines can delay the start of your program.
How much does an online certificate in medical billing and coding program cost?
The cost of an online certificate in medical billing and coding varies widely. For example, of the programs on our list, the least expensive charges $46 per credit hour, while the most expensive charges $446. The total number of credit hours a program requires will impact the overall cost, as will factors like whether the institution is public or private and whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student at a public college.
It’s also important to remember that financial aid like scholarships, loans, grants, and employer tuition assistance benefits will impact the total amount you pay out of pocket. Students should also be aware that there may be other fees they have to pay for online classroom technology or resources in addition to tuition.
How long does it take to earn an online certificate in medical billing and coding?
The number of required credits and the program’s pace determine how long it takes to complete an online medical billing and coding certificate. The required number of credits for programs on this list ranges from 15 to 57. Some programs can be completed in as little as six months of full-time study, while others may take up to two years. Also, students who attend classes part-time will typically take longer to finish their program than those who attend full-time.
Is a medical billing and coding certificate worth it?
Individuals who complete a medical billing and coding certificate have strong career opportunities and earning potential. Many positions require applicants to have a completed certificate due to the specialized knowledge and skills required.
Completing a certificate helps applicants stand out to employers and gives them a competitive edge in the job market. However, those with professional experience looking for a faster, more cost-effective way to enter the field can complete individual courses to develop the required skills.
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