2024 Best Online Medical Billing & Coding Certificate Programs

Gwinnett Technical College (GTC) is a public institution that offers an online Certificate in Medical Billing Clerk. GTC’s program focuses on critical office and technology skills and teaches students to use a wide range of hardware, software, and services. Some core classes for this certificate include Medical Office Billing/Coding/Insurance, Records Management, and Medical Terminology for Allied Health Sciences. This program can be completed in two to three semesters with a full-time schedule, and graduates go on to work as administrative assistants and medical insurance coders.

Why we like them: The program's requirement for a minimum typing speed ensures students are adequately prepared for success in the field. This skill not only improves job efficiency but helps maintain high levels of accuracy and productivity.

Students at Anoka Technical College (ATC) with an interest in medical coding have the option to pursue an online Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist. This program teaches students to oversee medical data to ensure quality, accuracy, and confidentiality. Course offerings include Introduction to Health Information Management, Disease Conditions, and Microsoft Excel. Graduates are positioned for careers as health information clerks, medical records specialists, and medical coders.

Why we like them: This ATC program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). You can choose to study at a part-time or full-time pace. Graduation can be achieved in three semesters by taking the full-time sequence. Part-time students may take up to two years to complete all requirements.

Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) is a public institution that offers an online Technical Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist. In about a year, students can learn how to review medical documentation and translate it into an alphanumeric classification system. Some core classes in this program include Healthcare Revenue Management, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding, and Medical Terminology. Graduates may go on to work as hospital outpatient coders, charge master auditors, and insurance claims clerks, among other options.

Why we like them: Students use Canvas to access their coursework which is entirely online and asynchronous. This learning format encourages thoughtful reflection and deeper engagement with course content, as students have the opportunity to absorb information at their own speed and revisit materials as needed.

Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) is a public university with a 100% online Diploma in Coding Specialist. The medical coding diploma's curriculum is designed to train students in the skills needed to code, classify, and index various procedures and diagnoses while also covering the laws and policies that protect patient data. Among the required classes are Medical Terminology for Health Professions, CPT Coding, and Pharmacology. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Certified Professional Coder exam. Career opportunities may be available as medical secretaries, medical transcriptionists, and health information technicians.

Why we like them: The healthcare industry often has varying demands for skilled professionals in medical billing and coding. RCTC also offers a Diploma in Healthcare Informatics that focuses more on securing and analyzing patient information. Having two diploma options in medical billing and coding benefits students by providing customization, so students can choose the best pathway that aligns with their career goals.

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) is a public university that hosts an online Technical Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist. The curriculum teaches students the fundamentals of coding and billing along with diseases, anatomy, and other medical terminology used in professional settings. Required courses include Digital Literacy Healthcare, Healthcare Revenue Management, and Intermed Coding. The credits earned while earning this diploma can count toward an associate degree. Graduates may seek employment as medical coding specialists, coding analysts, and outpatient coders.

Why we like them: Online students at NWTC use Blackboard to complete their coursework online in an asynchronous format. This can promote inclusivity, accommodating various learning styles and preferences, and enabling students to participate in discussions and activities at times that suit them best.

Northcentral Technical College (NTC) is a public institution that offers an online Technical Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist. Students can complete this online diploma in one to two years. Some core classes in this program are Digital Literacy for Healthcare, Foundations of HIM, and Healthcare Revenue Management. NTC graduates possess the skills to utilize electronic applications for coding and data collection, exhibit professional behavior and ethical conduct, and proficiently apply coding and reimbursement systems while collecting health data. They often work as coding specialists in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, consulting firms, and governmental agencies.

Why we like them: At NTC, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is all online and asynchronous, allowing learners to access course materials and complete assignments at their own pace and convenience. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for individuals with busy schedules or those in different time zones.

Sullivan University (SU) is a private institution that hosts an online Certificate in Medical Coding. The goal of this certificate program in medical coding is to transform students into valuable assets within various healthcare settings. The curriculum is designed to help them acquire the expertise to convert medical documentation into diagnostic and procedural codes and utilize these codes following reimbursement protocols. Courses for this certificate include Advanced Medical Coding, Health Information Technology, and Pathophysiology with Pharmacology. SU graduates go on to work at doctors’ offices, clinics, hospitals, insurance companies, and medical billing agencies.

Why we like them: Graduates of SU's medical coding program can enter the field in just nine months, as they will have a specialized skillset, including knowledge of anatomy, medical terminology, and coding methodologies. With a promising job outlook and adherence to education standards set by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), this program offers a fast-track route to a rewarding career in the growing field of medical coding.

Fisher College (FC) is a small, private institution featuring an online Certificate in Medical Coding. This online certificate program can be entirely completed online, and most of the credits earned can be applied toward the Associate of Science degree in Health Information Technology. Some core classes for this certificate include Healthcare Reimbursement Methodologies, Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology, and Medical Terminology. At FC, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is fully online and asynchronous. This program prepares graduates to work at hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, insurance, and more.

Why we like them: Students have the option to take the certification exam to achieve either Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials. This enhances student employability by aligning FC's medical coding program with industry standards, giving students a competitive edge.

Minnesota State Community and Technical College (MSCTC) students pursuing medical coding can enroll in an online Diploma in Medical Coding and Insurance. This program requires 50 credits to build skills in patient registration procedures, data management systems, and diagnosis coding. Included in the program are Medical Language Applications, Outpatient Coding, and Hospital Billing courses. Students must also complete a medical office capstone. Graduates may seek opportunities as medical secretaries, medical transcriptionists, and medical records and health information technicians.

Why we like them: You receive training in a wide range of insurance programs, from Medicaid and Medicare to workers compensation and disability payers. In addition to technical training, you'll also develop soft skills in communication, professionalism, critical thinking, and organization.

Pittsburgh Technical College (PTC) is a small, private institution that offers an online Certificate in Medical Coding. This program can be completed in one to two years with a full-time schedule. PTC’s certificate program in medical coding provides students with experience in transforming written descriptions of medical data into alphanumeric designations. Some core classes in this program include Healthcare Delivery in the Medical Office, Diseases & Diagnostic Methods, and Foundations of Health Insurance. Graduates enter careers in the medical billing and coding field in settings such as hospitals, medical offices, and clinics.

Why we like them: At PTC, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is fully online and asynchronous. Asynchronous discussions and forums enable students to engage in thoughtful, well-reasoned discussions with peers, enhancing the learning experience. Without the pressure of real-time participation, students may feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (SWTC) is a small, public institution that features an online Technical Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist for students who possess analytical skills, attention to detail, an affinity for working with data, and a keen interest in the healthcare sector. Some core classes in this program are Health Revenue Management, Digital Literacy for Healthcare, and Medical Terminology. This program can be completed in one to two years with a full-time schedule. This diploma program prepares students for employment as outpatient coders, medical coding specialists, and claims analysts.

Why we like them: At SWTC, students use Schoology to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. This learning format allows students from different time zones and locations to participate in the same course, promoting diversity and varied perspectives. Students also have more time to absorb and reflect on the material, potentially leading to better comprehension and retention.

Carrington College is a private university with an online Certificate of Achievement in Medical Billing and Coding. Carrington students use a learning management system, where they can complete courses 100% online. The curriculum for this program teaches students how to prepare digital patient forms using medical software. Anatomy, medical terminology, medical records management, and regulatory standards are also explored. Students take five iterations of the core course Medical Billing and Coding Theory, along with separate application courses, before participating in an externship and career development seminar. Career opportunities may be available in entry-level roles as medical secretaries, medical records specialists, and administrative assistants.

Why we like them: Students must complete an externship in order to graduate, which can be a highly beneficial experience for individuals looking to kickstart their careers. This firsthand experience allows you to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world situations, helping you develop a deeper understanding of the medical billing and coding industry.

Students wanting to pursue medical coding at Laramie County Community College (LCCC) can apply for an online Associate Credit Certificate in Medical Claims Coding. Enrolled students must complete courses that cover basic and advanced medical coding and reimbursement practices. The curriculum features Computer Software for Medical Software Professionals, Medical Office Administrative Procedures, and Disease Processes for Coding. Virtual lab experiences are also required. This program trains graduates for careers as medical information technology specialists.

Why we like them: LCCC offers stacked certificates in health information technology and management. Once your medical claims coding certificate is complete, you can choose to enter the workforce, pursue a credit degree covering medical office essentials, or enroll in a full associate degree.

Rasmussen University is a two-year institution that offers an online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate. Through Rasmussen’s fully remote classwork and virtual labs, students of the medical billing and coding program earn valuable hands-on coding and billing skills that will help them in their careers. All of the credits earned from this accredited school can also be applied toward associate and bachelor’s degrees at Rasmussen if students want to continue their education beyond the certificate level. With this certificate alone, students can pursue roles as medical billers and coders, of course, but also patient services team members or patient registrars.

Why we like them: With a total of ten classes, distance learners can complete this degree with 36 credit hours. Since there are eight start times throughout the school year, students can start sooner when they are ready to begin. Rasmussen’s site claims that students can finish in as few as nine months, allowing them to enter the workforce faster.

Students enrolled at Alexandria Technical and Community College (ATCC) can study medical coding through an online Medical Coding Specialist Diploma. Students gain an understanding of coding systems, human anatomy, and physiology. The curriculum includes required courses such as Electronic Health Records, Inpatient Coding, Electronic Health Records, and Medical Billing. Upon graduation, individuals may venture into professions like coding specialists, auditors, and reimbursement specialists.

Why we like them: If you're a military student, you can use your experience towards medical coding credits through Minnesota's Global Military Learning Network (MN-GMLN). ATCC also offers resources to various scholarships for medical coding students.

At Northwood Technical College, students interested in studying medical coding can pursue an online Technical Diploma in Medical Coding Specialist. This one-year program provides students with the skills needed to assign, sequence, and process medical information. Example coursework includes Intermediate Coding, Human Disease for the Health Professions, and ICD Diagnosis Coding. Future careers for graduates include entry-level medical coding roles at physician practice groups, hospitals, and healthcare agencies.

Why we like them: Flexible scheduling options and various start dates are available for working students, allowing you to study while gaining relevant work experience. You can apply the credits earned in your technical diploma toward Northwood Technical College's online Associate in Health Information Technology.

Students at Northwest Technical College (NTC) may pursue medical coding through an online Certificate in Medical Coding. The program teaches students how to manage and process patient accounts using medical language applications and health insurance procedures. Core coursework includes Medical Office Procedures, Inpatient Billing, and Medical Terminology. Potential medical coding jobs can be found in hospitals, insurance companies, and public health agencies.

Why we like them: NTC works with Minnesota employers to help them hire qualified residents through their Workforce Development Program. This program also offers scholarships for full-time medical coding students who are also Minnesota residents. Free tutoring services, library resources, and proctored exams are available for online students.

National American University Online (NAU) offers medical coding students an online Diploma in Medical Billing and Coding. Although not a complete associate degree, this 60-credit program is designed to take two years and features general education requirements and a medical billing and coding core. Sample courses include Medical Records Management, Healthcare Coding and Billing, and Medical Terminology for Health Professions. Graduates may find careers as medical records technicians, health information specialists, and medical records analysts.

Why we like them: The general education requirements have anatomy, English, and mathematics courses but also include career management and professional strategic studies to help prepare you for the workforce. You'll also be tested on your effectiveness and accuracy when it comes to inputting vital patient information.

Interested medical coding students at Central Maine Community College (CMCC) have the opportunity to take an online Certificate in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records. This program focuses on data management, classification, and record keeping. Students must participate in courses such as Medical Specialities and Pathophysiology, Medical Terminology, and Health Information Management. Upon completion, graduates can explore medical coding careers in hospitals, home health agencies, and physician practices.

Why we like them: CMCC provides a clear path to earning your undergraduate degree with an online medical coding and electronic health records associate degree and a transfer agreement with Saint Joseph's College of Maine, a 4-year university with an online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management.

Northland Community and Technical College (NCTC) offers medical coding students an online Medical Office Specialist Diploma. This program incorporates basic administrative and more advanced medical billing processes to provide students with a well-rounded curriculum. Coursework includes Medical Office Procedures, Medical Billing-Insurance, and Business Communications. Graduates can aspire to careers as medical secretaries, medical transcriptionists, and medical records and health information technicians.

Why we like them: NCTC may waive certain credit requirements if you've already completed related medical, administrative, biology, or health training. Online students can adjust their semester schedules by working with an academic advisor.

Stark State College (SSC) offers students interested in medical coding an online Career Enhancement Certificate in Medical Billing Specialist. The curriculum covers various insurance processes, including claims, reimbursements, billing issues, audits, and appeals. Courses include Introduction to Medical Billing Graduates, Medical Claims Methodology, and Healthcare Legal and Ethical Issues. Graduates can go after careers as insurance claims and policy processing clerks, health information technologists, and medical billing clerks.

Why we like them: A special emphasis is placed on patient confidentiality and ethics, with additional coursework exploring the broader concept of healthcare delivery in the US. Upon completing this certificate, you'll be eligible to take certification exams like the Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB).

Minnesota West Community and Technical College (MWCTC) students have the opportunity to pursue medical coding through an online Diploma of Medical Coding Specialist. This 34-credit program asks that students have experience with spreadsheets and word processing applications. The curriculum incorporates beginner and advanced medical coding techniques, along with basic medical and physiological terminology. Courses include Body Structure and Function, Medical Office Procedures, and Diagnosis Coding. Graduates with similar diplomas work as billing clerks, health information technologists, and medical records specialists.

Why we like them: This diploma is approved by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) as part of their Professional Certificate Approval Program (PCAP). You can also pursue online professional development courses in medical coding from MWCTC. These can be taken individually for less than $200 each.

Students at Purdue Global with an interest in medical coding have the opportunity to take an online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate. Students take courses in business, information technology, and healthcare while developing administrative and software skills. Required courses include Reimbursement Methodologies, Pharmacology, and Medical Insurance and Billing, in addition to a final proctored exam and practicum. Graduates may seek jobs as medical records specialists, medical secretaries, and administrative assistants.

Why we like them: You can choose which proctored exam you take. Options include Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), among others. If you've worked in medical billing or coding prior to enrollment, you can use your experience to replace some required credits.

Students at Columbus State Community College (CSCC) with an interest in medical coding have the option to pursue an online Certificate in Medical Coding. This program provides entry-level skills, such as coding and classifying procedures, for aspiring medical office professionals. Coursework is mostly offered online, but students are required to come to campus for certain courses, proctored exams, and to attend class meetings. Requirements include Intermediate Coding, Medical Reimbursement, Human Anatomy, and a field experience project. Graduates are positioned for careers as medical secretaries, medical registrars, and medical transcriptionists.

Why we like them: Ohio's College Credit Plus (CCP) program allows high school students to take college courses to get a jump on their medical coding studies. CCP's Momentum Scholarship awards $1,000 per year for qualifying students who take part in the program.

Bryant & Stratton College Online (BSC) students pursuing medical coding can enroll in an online Certificate in Medical Coding. This program teaches students how to assign medical codes, maintain patient records, and review clinical records. Included in the program are Clinical Foundations, Introduction to Coding, and Electronic Health Records courses. Students may graduate in 16 months to seek medical coding jobs in hospitals, physician offices, and insurance companies.

Why we like them: BSC's Career LifePrep program offers resources to ensure you stay on track toward a medical coding career. You'll receive personal career consultations, professional network contacts, alum support, and advice from industry professionals to navigate life and career hurdles long after graduation.

At the Sinclair Community College (SCC), students interested in studying medical coding can pursue an online Technical Certificate in Medical Coding and Billing Specialist. This program provides training in diagnosis coding and medical reimbursement procedures. Students also learn about medical professionalism, ethics, and communication. Example coursework includes Introduction to Healthcare Delivery, Medical Terminology, and Introductory Medical Office Coding. Future careers for graduates include medical coding and billing specialists in physician offices, insurance companies, and outpatient billing services.

Why we like them: Coursework can be completed entirely online, or Ohio residents can choose to take some courses on campus in Dayton. Graduates will be prepared for a variety of credentialing exams, including Certified Coding Specialist - Physician (CCS-P) and Certified Professional Coder - Apprentice (CPC-A).