Online Medical Coding Certificates
| TBS Staff
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A medical coding certificate program provides a quick, cost-effective option for students looking to enter the healthcare field.
Medical coders help streamline the communication and record-keeping processes in the healthcare system. They translate physicians' notes, diagnoses, and procedures into medical codes and input them into patient record systems, streamlining the process for medical professionals to access and share information.
The medical coding field offers many different careers, including those that require specialized knowledge and certifications. Coding certifications can lead to additional employment opportunities and higher earnings as well. According to the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), certified coders earn an average of close to $14,000 more per year than those without certifications.
This page outlines educational options and certifications available to coders, along with viable career pathways.
The Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Certificates
HutchCC's healthcare coding specialist - CERT C trains students to work in hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, insurance companies, and other settings in which diagnostic and procedural data are coded in ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT.
Curriculum competencies focus on data content, structure, and standards, revenue management and compliance, and leadership. Program credits earned may apply to the school's health information technology associate in applied science degree.
Program applicants must demonstrate graduation from high school (cumulative GPA of 2.0) and submit transcripts.
BARTonline's 44-credit medical coding certification provides students with training in ICD-9, CPT and HCPCS coding systems, backed by medical and professional courses necessary for successful employment in healthcare settings. Following coursework completion, students may sit for CCA or CPC industry certifications.
Studies encompass medical terminology and coding and healthcare legal and ethical issues, medical administration, and anatomy and physiology. Students are not required to submit transcripts for admission into the certificate program unless applying for a Barton degree.
The 19-credit medical coding specialist certificate offered through ATCC helps students understand medical language and apply it to professional coding standards.
The curriculum covers ICD and CPT coding and medicolegal and reimbursement issues. Students may continue to earn a medical coding specialist diploma, qualifying them to earn national certification through AHIMA or AAPC.
Admission requirements include a high school transcript or GED certificate and official transcripts from previously attended colleges.
CGTC's medical coding technical certificate provides a short-term academic credential, leading to the potential for future program credit. The program provides advanced training in coding skills for those wanting full- or part-time medical field employment.
The 24-credit curriculum includes studies in billing and coding, medical terminology for the allied health sciences, document production, and human diseases.
Applicants must demonstrate proof of high school graduation (official transcript or GED). The minimum acceptance age is 17 years old.
DSU's health care coding certificate program teaches students industry standards for coding and billing, using ICD and CPT code sets. The 36-credit curriculum offers the entry-level skills necessary to code, classify, and index diagnoses and procedures.
In addition to coding skills, classes focus on anatomy and physiology, basic medical terminology, legal aspects of health information, and revenue cycle management. Certificate recipients may also take the AHIMA certified coding associate exam.
Applicants must submit an official high school transcript or GED.
NTC's 30-credit certificate-medical coding prepares students for entry-level medical coding positions or to work toward a diploma or associate of applied science degree in medical coding. The program relies on training using nationally recognized coding systems to classify procedures and diagnoses related to medical treatment.
Studies include office procedures, medical coding, medical terminology, and anatomy and physiology.
Applicants must submit high school and/or college transcripts to Distance Minnesota, NTC's distance learning component. Students may need to enroll in reading, writing, and math college readiness courses, as determined through the Accuplacer assessment.
M State's 50-credit medical coding and insurance diploma trains students in medical billing processes, such as patient account management, diagnosis and procedure coding, and medical insurance claim completion and processing. Graduates may be eligible to sit for several national coding certification exams.
Studies focus on medical documentation and billing, Medicare coding and billing applications, anatomy and physiology, and hospital billing. A medical office capstone is required.
Applicants must submit high school/GED and all college transcripts.
The coding specialist/physician-based certificate taught through GOCC trains students as practitioners of accurate healthcare documentation and integrity based on the CPT, ICD-9-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.
The 31-36-credit program covers medical terminology, pharmacology, procedural coding, and medical law and bioethics. Graduates from the program may also qualify to take the AHIMA coding specialist exams.
The application process involves registering for college admission and meeting appropriate course-placement studies, including basic math and English. Additional prerequisites classes may also be required.
WGTC's medical coding certificate helps students ensure the accuracy, security, and completion of medical records. The program provides training for those wishing to progress in their occupations or prepare for full- or part-time employment in the medical field without providing direct patient care.
Studies focus on medical billing and coding, human diseases, allied health medical terminology, human body structure, and document production.
Applicants must be able to key at least 30 words per minute and submit applicable transcripts and test scores.
EGCC's medical coding specialist certificate program prepares students to assign ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT-4, and HCPCS Level II coding procedures.
The curriculum includes reimbursement methodologies, medical terminology, introduction to health records, and clinical classification systems. Graduates from the 38-credit program may also sit for the AHIMA certification exam.
Applicants must submit a final high school transcript or GED plus ACT, Accuplacer, or SAT scores.
LIT offers its medical coding specialist certificate program teaches participants to code, classify, and index diagnoses using ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT, and HCPCS systems.
Studies include anatomy and physiology, legal and ethical aspects, coding and classification systems, and reimbursement methodologies; the program includes a practicum. Students may take the CCA exam or continue to earn LIT's AAS degree in medical coding.
LIT's open-admissions policy only requires an application for the certificate program.
SouthArk's medical coding program prepares students for diagnostic and procedural coding positions in hospitals, healthcare provider offices, long-term care facilities, and insurance companies.
The 37-credit program consists of online instruction and clinic and hospital practicum experiences. Studies include reimbursement methodology, ethics and law, and medical terminology, in addition to coding skills.
Applicants must submit official transcripts from high school/GED or previously attended colleges and placement testing scores.
Developed and taught by industry experts, Collin College's online medical billing and coding certificate mixes credit and non-credit students in the same learning environment. It encourages all certificate students to take the Certified Professional Coder exam from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) on completion for career enhancement.
Studies in this continuing education program include medical terminology, healthcare ethics, medical coding, and pathophysiology. Applicants must submit an online application.
CSCC's medical coding certificate program provides students with the entry-level skills needed to code, classify, and index diagnoses and procedures in healthcare situations. Students learn fundamental concepts of medical coding and reimbursement.
Classes required in the 22-credit curriculum include medical coding, pharmacology, clinical documentation, medical reimbursement; field experience is a requirement. While primarily web-based, some courses are only offered on campus.
Program applicants must submit a high school/GED transcript, complete the HIM Technician Certificate, and place into English and math classes.
Mountwest's certificate of applied science/certified coding specialist trains students to serve as qualified technicians in analyzing and classifying medical data. Using the ICD -10-CM/PCS and CPT-4 coding systems, students learn to assign appropriate codes to diagnoses, injuries, and procedures, to streamline reimbursement processes.
Classes required for the 42-credit program include medical terminology, principles of disease, legal and ethical issues, and healthcare statistics. The certificate includes professional practical experience.
Mountwest's open admissions policy means anyone 18 or older may attend. A high school diploma or GED is necessary for financial aid.
WSU's institutional certification in healthcare coding and classification trains students to use ICD-10-CM and CPT classifications to assist in healthcare reimbursements. Certificate recipients qualify for coding positions in outpatient practices and inpatient healthcare systems.
Coursework for the 27-credit program includes medical terminology, coding, anatomy and physiology, and pathophysiology. Participants may also opt to continue toward the associate of applied science in health information technology or the bachelor of science in health information management.
Interested students must submit an online application and meet prerequisite class requirements with a minimum 2.0 GPA. WSU is an open-enrollment institution.
EvCC's AHIMA-approved medical coding certificate trains students to ensure streamlined reimbursement through proper data abstraction and coding knowledge.
The 65-credit certificate focuses on topics including health information and delivery, pathopharmacology, and the human body. Professional practice experience completes the program. Students may also complete additional credits leading to medical specialist billing certification and qualify to sit for AAPC and AHIMA certification exams.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and submit proof of high school graduation or GED.
The occupational endorsement certificate in medical office coding offered through UAA trains proficiency in Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding, Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) coding, and International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modification diagnostic coding. Students may study online or on campus.
The 17-credit program includes classes in medical terminology, human biology, healthcare documentation, and human disease, in addition to coding studies. Students may sit for the AAPC national certification exam on completion.
Applicants must show proof of high school graduation or GED through official transcripts from all schools attended. Test scores are not required.
Mercy's online medical coding certificate prepares students to sit for the AHIMA's CCA exam. Individuals who earn their medical coding certificate may transition to the college's health information technology program.
The 26-credit program incorporates the ICD-10 coding system. Additional coursework includes medical terminology, health information technology, medical reimbursement, and pathophysiology. Students also benefit from a professional practice lab.
Applicants must submit proof of high school graduation with a minimum 2.0 GPA or GED with a minimum score of 500.
The medical coding specialist certificate offered through Midland College is part of the institution's health information management program.
In addition to coding and classification systems, the 34-credit curriculum consists of health data content and structure, legal and ethical aspects of health information management, health information systems, and pathophysiology.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts or GED certification if seeking financial aid. Those interested may apply online.
Online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these certificate programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Data Sources
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Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
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What Is a Medical Coding Certificate?
Students can complete a certificate in medical coding in 1-2 years. Programs include 18-30 credits, and students can often take medical coding classes online or on campus. Whether attending part or full time, students should keep in mind that medical coding coursework may be offered in a sequence, potentially influencing the length of a program. Many medical coding certificates are offered through community and technical colleges, although four-year institutions may have programs as well.
Unlike a degree, a certificate program is designed to train learners for specific careers. Individuals with a medical coding certificate can enter the workforce in less time than learners who earn a degree in the field.
Medical coding certificates are different from certifications. Certificates are earned through educational institutions, while certifications come from professional organizations, like the American Academy of Professional Coders.
The cost for medical coding programs varies by program type and student status. Residence may also factor into the cost of enrollment, though many online coding certificates offer lump-sum tuition rates for students regardless of where they live. Per-credit tuition rates can benefit part-time learners who only take 1-2 classes at a time, while full-time learners can take heavier course loads to accelerate graduation times. Students can also complete medical coding training online.
Featured Medical Billing and Coding Programs
What Can You Do With a Medical Coding Certificate?
Medical coding certificates train students to use standard coding languages — ideal for a job as a medical billing and coding specialist. The curriculum also introduces learners to medical records technologies and practices, medical data collection, and health information processes. This prepares students to work as health information technology associates or medical office administrators. Additional career options include medical records coordinator and claims coding specialist.
Alongside professional opportunities, a medical certificate can be a pathway to continued education. Students can go on to pursue an undergraduate degree in disciplines like nursing or healthcare administration.
While a medical coding certificate opens opportunities for entry-level careers in healthcare, insurance, and information technology, most employers also require a professional certification in medical coding to enter the field.
What Kinds of Medical Coding Certifications Are There?
The AAPC offers many unique certifications for aspiring medical coders. Some recognize coders in specific facilities, with others focusing on specific professions. The following sections explore available options, including information on costs and exam requirements.
The certified professional coder (CPC) certification tests professionals in their understanding of 17 areas of knowledge, including procedure, supply, and diagnosis codes. Successful candidates must complete the 150-question exam in less than 5 hours and 40 minutes and achieve a minimum of 70% correct responses.
For preparation, applicants should possess anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology knowledge. Aspiring coders can take the CPC exam online for $299 or in person for $399. The AAPC provides a preparation course and practice exams.
The certified outpatient coder (COC) certification covers the requirements for coders in ambulatory surgical centers and hospital outpatient settings. Professionals with COC certification demonstrate medical terminology, anatomy, coding, billing, and compliance expertise. Candidates must complete the 150-question examination in less than 5 hours and 40 minutes with a minimum of 70% correct responses.
Candidates need at least two years of coding experience and an AAPC membership to qualify. Most test-takers possess associate degrees, and applicants can take exam preparation courses and practice exams through the academy. The examination costs $399, but AAPC members pay $325 with one available free retake.
The certified inpatient coder (CIC) certification recognizes professional coders in inpatient hospitals and facilities. These coders possess knowledge about specialized inpatient diagnoses, procedures, rules, and payment methodologies and systems. For the exam, successful candidates need to complete 60 questions and 10 inpatient cases in less than 5 hours and 40 minutes with a minimum of 70% on the exam.
Though applicants at any level can pursue the CIC certification, the AAPC recommends that each test-taker possesses an associate degree and a minimum of two years of coding experience. For support, the AAPC offers preparation courses and practice exams. Like the COC certification, the exam costs $399 or $325 for AAPC students and includes one free retake.
The certified risk adjustment coder (CRC) certification acknowledges coders with extensive knowledge in charts and codes within the risk adjustment model. These professionals must understand the procedures, guidelines, and regulations of risk adjustment set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The exam features 150 questions. Candidates must complete the exam within 5 hours 40 minutes and achieve a minimum score of 70%.
The AAPC recommends that each candidate possesses an associate degree and a minimum of two years of coding experience. They should also complete a risk adjustment coding course or a preparation course through the AAPC. AAPC members pay $325 to take the exam and receive one free retake, while others pay $399.
The AAPC offers several specialized certifications for experienced coders who wish to demonstrate their expertise in certain disciplines. Each certification includes its own compliance guidelines, procedures, and coding requirements. Some of the options include ambulatory surgical center, emergency department, hematology and oncology, and evaluation and management certifications.
Each exam includes 150 questions and must be completed in less than 5 hours and 40 minutes and with a minimum score of 70%. The AAPC recommends that candidates possess at least two years of professional coding experience and an associate degree, though specialized coding training or preparation courses can also help.
To take these exams, candidates must possess an AAPC membership and pay $299, which includes one free retake within a year after the first attempt. The academy also offers practice exams.
Developed by the American Medical Billing Association (AMBA), the certified medical coding specialist (CMCS) credential recognizes billing professionals who understand medical codes, coding guidelines, and procedures. The exam includes coding information from several medical settings and services, including surgery, radiology, anesthesia services.
Test-takers must possess AMBA membership and pay $325, which includes two free retakes. Test-takers then have 10 days to complete the exam online, during which they can use their books and notes to answer questions. For success, candidates need to achieve a minimum score of 80%.
To qualify for the exam, candidates need either one year of coding experience, a completed training program, or another recognized certification. The AMBA provides a study guide for interested applicants for an additional $199.
Accreditation for Medical Coding Certificate Programs
Prospective medical coders should always keep accreditation in mind when choosing a medical coding program or certification. Accreditation can affect employment, continuing education, and financial aid. For best results, medical coders should ensure that their program received recognition from either the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education or the AAPC.
What Kind of Salary Can I Earn With a Medical Coding Certificate?
The salaries available to medical coding professionals depend on their employer, location, specialty, certification, and experience. While certificates can lead to significant wage ranges across the field, the following table includes Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on nationwide career outlook, along with median salaries based on experience levels.
Medical Records Technician Career Outlook
$42,630
Median Salary
8%
Job Growth (2019-2029)
Source: BLS
| Position | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Average Medical Coder | $42,930 |
| Entry-Level | $36,540 |
| Mid-Career | $48,350 |
| Late-Career | $50,440 |
Medical Coding Professional Organizations
Frequently Asked Questions
People can enter the medical coding field several ways, but most possess formal training or credentials. Medical coders can, for example, pursue degrees in healthcare administration or complete medical certifications through the AAPC. Depending on the employer and the field, candidates may need both certification and experience.
Medical coding certificates are relatively short programs that have lasting benefits. The knowledge and skills gained through a medical coding certificate allow students to enter the in-demand field of medical records and health information technology. The value of a medical coding certificate also comes from opportunities for continued education and professional advancement.
Medical coders need a diverse skill set to find success in their daily work, but a few important skills stand out above the rest. Coders should possess strong attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of their work. They also need a solid understanding of medical terminology and policies.
The length of time required for a medical coding certification online depends on the specific credential. Some require only an examination, which can lead to certification in a day or two. Others require a minimum of two years of professional experience.
The best medical coding certification varies depending on each person's individual interests and goals. According to the AAPC, the certified professional compliance officer certification leads to the most lucrative positions, with a median salary of over $77,000. For those seeking job security, pursuing certifications that deal with elderly or cancer patients can lead to professional roles.
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