Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

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Updated May 8, 2023

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The best online medical billing and coding schools award an associate degree and prepare you for certification at a flexible pace and affordable rate.

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Accredited Best Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs Online

Medical billing and coding degrees help students learn how to keep hospitals running behind the scenes. Medical billing and coding — the processes used to communicate between healthcare providers and insurance companies, as well as patients — is a rapidly growing field within the healthcare industry. Employment of health information technicians is projected to grow 11% between 2018-2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — much faster than the average for all other occupations.

Medical billing and coding careers offer excellent pay. With just an associate degree, health information professionals earn a median annual salary of $40,350 per year. According to the BLS, the top 10% of earners bring home more than $66,260.

Dozens of online education programs have emerged to meet demand for skilled health information professionals. Included below is a compilation of the 25 best online accredited medical billing and coding schools. This ranking offers important information for prospective online students, covering curriculum content, course delivery details, and admission requirements.

Featured Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs

Common Questions About Medical Billing and Coding Programs

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Program?

An associate degree in medical billing and coding takes approximately two years of full-time study to complete. Many online programs also allow part-time enrollment, which takes longer.

What Can I Do With an Associate in Medical Billing and Coding?

An associate degree provides students with the knowledge and skills required for entry-level careers in medical billing and coding. Top employers include hospitals and physicians' offices.

How Much Do You Make in Medical Billing and Coding?

According to the BLS, medical records and health information technicians — including medical coders — earn a median salary of $40,350. Wages vary by employer, location, and experience.

Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Degree Programs

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

#1 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Community Care College

  • Tulsa, OK
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

At Community Care College, the medical billing and coding program prepares students for industry certification. Students complete the program online in 20 months. Enrollees can apply their associate degree credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The curriculum covers topics such as medical terminology and diagnostic and procedural coding. The college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other services. The online format lets learners continue to work while earning their degree. If they choose, online students can visit the campus to meet with instructors. 

About 86% of enrollees receive aid and 39% receive loans.

Community Care College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, 2-year

Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
658
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
71% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

#2 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale, a leader in distance education, offers an associate in medical administrative billing and coding online. The curriculum prepares students for the American Academy of Professional Coders credentialing examination at the apprentice level. Associate degree-holders can apply their college credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

The curriculum teaches students how to use disease classification and procedure coding systems. Enrollees also learn how to perform other clerical and administrative duties. Learners benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies.

The college notes that 92% of all students receive financial aid and 64% receive loans.

Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Admission Rate: 97%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
20,330
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Ross College-Sylvania

  • Sylvania, OH
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners can pursue career training for various healthcare professions at Ross College, located in Sylvania, Ohio. The online medical insurance billing and office administration program prepares enrollees for entry-level jobs. 

The curriculum teaches skills such as financial recordkeeping and medical insurance claim processing. Participants also learn important  communication and customer service skills. Students can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. 

Of its enrollees, the college reports that 78% receive financial aid and 51% receive loans.

Ross College-Sylvania at a Glance:

Type of School: Private for-profit, 2-year

Location: Sylvania, Ohio

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 43-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
557
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

#4 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown

  • Morgantown, WV
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown offers an online medical coding associate degree. The 18-month program prepares students for certification by the American Association of Professional Coders. This leads to credentialing as a certified professional coder-apprentice.

Enrollees complete a robust course curriculum that provides preparation in areas such as health information management and medical insurance and billing. Participants apply their skills during medical coding externships. Enrollees can access tech support and career services. This program helps learners prepare for a career while balancing other obligations.

Typically, 97% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 75% receiving loans.

West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 2-year

Location: Morgantown, West Virginia

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,361

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,361

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,361
Out-of-state
$12,361
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
622
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

#5 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Cowley County Community College

  • Arkansas City, KS
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners should consider Cowley County Community College's online associate in medical coding for a flexible program that leads to professional certification. Students receive training through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees complete medical coding coursework. They develop oral communication skills and learn how to use spreadsheets and database management software programs.  

Upon completion, students can earn a credential such as certified coding associate from the American Health Information Management Association. The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. 

Learners receive an average of $5,390 in financial aid. Students can explore numerous funding options, with 94% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 25% opting for student loans.

Cowley County Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 2-year

Location: Arkansas City, Kansas

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,040

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,480

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,040
Out-of-state
$3,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,475
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Blue Cliff College-Alexandria

  • Alexandria, LA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

At Blue Cliff College, located in Alexandria, Louisiana, the associate in health information management, billing, and coding runs exclusively online. Learners study in an immersive classroom that teaches topics such as anatomy, medical terminology, and medical office administration. Students can transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year college.

During their studies, enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. The institution also provides online enrollees with virtual academic tutoring resources.

The institution reports that 93% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 76% receive student loans.

Blue Cliff College-Alexandria at a Glance:

Type of School: Private for-profit, 2-year

Location: Alexandria, Louisiana

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
30%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
521
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

#7 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Daytona College

  • Ormond Beach, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students at Daytona College can earn the associate in coding and billing for electronic medical records online in 75 weeks. The Florida college provides enrollees with a robust course curriculum that prepares them for work in hospitals, physicians' practices, and other healthcare facilities. 

In addition to medical coding practices, participants learn how to perform clinical and administrative functions. They develop essential skills such as critical thinking and leadership. An associate degree is a great stepping stone toward a bachelor's. Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. 

Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 79% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 81% opting for student loans.

Daytona College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: Ormond Beach, Florida

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
236
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

#8 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Bryan University

  • Springfield, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online

Bryan University, located in Springfield, Missouri, specializes in career-training programs. The associate in medical billing and coding continues that tradition. Students can complete the program online in 70 weeks. They develop expertise in areas such as healthcare management, medical terminology, and electronic medical records management.

Enrollees apply their skills during an externship in a healthcare setting. The program prepares students  for the certified professional coder exam administered by the American Academy of Professional Coders. Learners receive guidance throughout the duration of their studies and can access career services and academic advising. The institution also provides online enrollees with virtual services such as academic tutoring.

Of its enrollees, the college reports that 90% receive financial aid and 71% receive loans.

Bryan University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: Springfield, Missouri

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,494

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,494

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,494
Out-of-state
$14,494
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,810
Out-of-state
$13,810
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
275
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

#9 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College

  • Johnstown, PA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Johnstown, Pennsylvania Highlands Community College delivers several online degrees, including an associate in medical coding and billing. The program runs exclusively online and provides entry-level training. 

The degree plan includes coursework in medical coding, medical billing, and financial management. An internship provides hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Penn Highlands has articulation agreements that allow enrollees to seamlessly transfer to a bachelor's program.

Students receive an average of $5,632 in financial aid. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 96% receive financial aid and 20% receive loans.

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 2-year

Location: Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,540

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,960

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$9,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,456
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

ATA Career Education

  • Spring Hill, FL
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for an accessible online degree in healthcare should consider ATA Career Education, a Florida-based institution. The associate in medical coding prepares students for the certified professional coder exam administered by the American Association of Professional Coders.

The 17-month curriculum teaches about the human body and diseases, coding concepts, and the administration of insurance payments. Typically, learners can apply their associate credits toward future educational endeavors like a bachelor's degree.

The college prioritizes student success through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Around 100% of incoming students receive financial aid and 96% receive student loans.

ATA Career Education at a Glance:

Type of School: Private for-profit, 2-year

Location: Spring Hill, Florida

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,780

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,780

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,780
Out-of-state
$12,780
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
230
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

#11 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Bryant & Stratton College-Online

  • Orchard Park, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Bryant & Stratton College-Online develops training programs that provide a relatively quick entrance into in-demand professions. The associate in medical reimbursement and coding offers both fully online and blended learning formats. Enrollees gain foundational and advanced knowledge relevant to the field. 

Students receive training in areas such as electronic health records management, diagnostic and reimbursement coding, and effective clinical documentation. Degree-seekers complete a professional coder practicum that demonstrates their proficiency. Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support during their studies. Online learners can receive further guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring. The institution reports that 94% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 84% receive student loans.

Bryant & Stratton College-Online at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: Orchard Park, New York

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 28-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,928

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,928

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,928
Out-of-state
$14,928
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
14%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,594
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#12 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Laurus College

  • San Luis Obispo, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Laurus College, located in San Luis Obispo, California, offers an online associate in medical billing and coding. The program builds foundational knowledge in areas such as medical terminology, health insurance, and various coding systems.

Students also learn about staff management and how to effectively communicate in the workplace. Graduates qualify for positions such as medical coding specialist or records and health information technician. Typically, 91% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 75% receiving loans.

Laurus College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: San Luis Obispo, California

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
897
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

#13 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia

  • Visalia, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia, the associate in medical billing and coding offers an accelerated 15-month curriculum. Students develop proficiency in key areas such as medical insurance reimbursement and patient registration and intake. Enrollees also learn how to effectively provide support in a medical office.  

Throughout the program, degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. 

Students can explore numerous funding options, with 100% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 64% opting for student loans.

San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, for-profit, 4-year or above

Location: Visalia, California

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: Data not available

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: Data not available

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
49%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,927
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
No

#14 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Northland Community and Technical College

  • Thief River Falls, MN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Northland Community and Technical College administers a comprehensive catalog of online programs in various fields. The associate in medical coding specialist prepares learners in areas such as ICD coding and medical billing and insurance.

Students learn how to use specialized computer technology, build strong professional relationships, and prevent and resolve conflicts in the workplace. Graduates qualify to sit for entry-level national coding certification exams. 

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. Distance learners can use virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources. The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,158. Approximately 94% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 33% receiving student loans.

Northland Community and Technical College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 2-year

Location: Thief River Falls, Minnesota

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,176

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,176

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,176
Out-of-state
$5,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,962
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Northwest Technical College

  • Bemidji, MN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

From a main campus in Bemidji, Minnesota, Northwest Technical College offers an associate in medical coding. The two-year program equips students with knowledge and skills in areas such as medical billing and insurance, medical language applications, and healthcare leadership. 

Degree-seekers receive guidance throughout the duration of their studies and can access career services and academic advising. Students can transfer their credits to a bachelor's at a four-year college with whom NTC partners. The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,152. Students pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. Typically, 90% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 38% receiving loans.

Northwest Technical College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, 2-year

Location: Bemidji, Minnesota

Admission Rate: Data not available

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,415

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,415

Transfer Credit Accepted: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,415
Out-of-state
$5,415
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
43%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
825
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Central Maine Community College

  • Auburn, ME
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,880
Out-of-state
$5,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,115
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#17 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

ATA College

  • Louisville, KY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,420
Out-of-state
$12,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
54%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
298
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

#18 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Grantham University

  • Lenexa, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,080
Out-of-state
$7,080
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,200
Out-of-state
$4,200
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,465
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Distance Education Accrediting Commission

#19 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

Stratford University

  • Alexandria, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,980
Out-of-state
$14,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,368
Out-of-state
$13,368
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,947
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
81% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

#20 Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding

ATA College-Cincinnati

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,420
Out-of-state
$12,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
40%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
231
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

What Is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical billing and coding is the process by which medical providers and an insurance companies communicate. They ensure that healthcare providers are properly paid for their services.

What Is an Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Degree?

An associate degree in medical billing and coding is a two-year technical program designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the growing field of health information. Online accredited medical billing and coding schools attract a variety of students, including high school graduates pursuing their first career-track jobs and adults looking to change occupations.

Degrees in medical billing and coding prepare students for national coding certification exams and entry-level positions. They do this through a combination of course lectures, readings, and practical assignments.

Throughout the program, students study medical terminology, human anatomy, and insurance plans and regulations, developing skills in medical ethics, patient account management, medical insurance claim processing, and diagnosis and procedure coding.

Choosing an Online Associate Program in Medical Billing and Coding

Deciding to pursue a medical billing and coding degree online may be an easy choice, but finding the right school requires careful consideration of factors like cost, program format, and required in-person components. Take a look at the guide linked below for comprehensive tips regarding online program selection.

What Else Can I Expect From an Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Program?

An online associate degree in medical billing and coding usually consists of 60 credits of coursework, including general education classes, major core classes, and electives. The curriculum prepares students for professional certification through study of medical terminology, procedure coding systems, and software applications in healthcare.

Medical Billing and Coding Curriculum

Certifications and Licenses

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is the world's largest training and credentialing organization in the healthcare field, representing more than 190,000 members. Because medical coding regulations, requirements, and standards have become increasingly complex over the years, most employers prefer to hire medical billers and coders with AAPC certification, though they may allow new employees to earn certification shortly after being hired.

AAPC provides gold-standard credentials for medical billing and coding professionals, including the Certified Professional Coder and Certified Professional Biller. Certification exams consist of 150-200 multiple-choice questions that assess proper application of codes and procedures. AAPC recommends an associate degree but requires no specific educational attainment for test takers.

AAPC also offers specialized certification options like Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) and Certified Professional Coder-Payer (CPC-P). COC candidates must have at least two years of medical coding experience.

Continuing education is required to maintain AAPC certification.

Medical Billing and Coding Careers

Medical billing and coding accredited online schools prepare graduates for a number of entry-level careers in the healthcare industry. Prior to pursuing employment, most graduates obtain professional certification from AACP, AMBA, or AHIMA. Job openings can be found in hospitals, physician's offices, or outpatient facilities.

The majority of graduates with a medical billing and coding degree seek employment in billing and coding. However, they may choose to embark on careers as medical assistants, health information technicians, or data analysts. Additional education and certification may be required for upward mobility or placement in advanced positions.

Take a look at three career options for graduates below.

Medical Records Technician

Median Salary: $40,350 Projected Job Growth: 11%

Medical records technicians manage and organize patient records and other health information data. Using various classification systems, these professionals code and categorize information, assisting with insurance reimbursements, clinical database upkeep, and maintenance of patients' medical histories. They ensure the accuracy, accessibility, and security of both electronic and hard-copy files.

Education requirements can vary by position, but many employers prefer medical records technicians to hold an associate degree. Certification, such as the Registered Health Information Technician credential, is typically required. To excel in this career, professionals need keen analytical and technical skills, as well as a strong sense of ethics.

Median Salary: $40,350

Billing and Posting Clerk

Median Salary: $36,860 Projected Job Growth: 14%

Billing and posting clerks compile, compute, and record numerical data related to the sale of goods or services. In a healthcare setting, medical billing clerks primarily work to prepare bills and invoices for medical services. The position involves frequent contact with patients to establish and follow up on payment arrangements.

Education requirements for entry-level positions vary, but some employers prefer candidates with a two-year degree and relevant experience in a billing office. Billing and posting clerks in the medical industry need to understand medical terminology and must have excellent communication and computer skills.

Median Salary: $36,860

Medical Assistant

Median Salary: $34,800 Projected Job Growth: 23%

Medical assistants handle a variety of administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare facilities. Tasks may include recording patient history, measuring vital signs, giving injections or medication, and scheduling appointments. In larger practices, these professionals may specialize exclusively in administrative work, providing an ideal career for those with a degree in medical billing and coding.

Employers typically hire medical assistants with an associate degree or postsecondary certificate, though some have only a high school diploma and learn required skills through on-the-job training. These professionals need keen analytical, interpersonal, and technical skills.

Median Salary: $34,800

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