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There is a wide range of factors to consider when choosing the best online medical billing and coding associate degrees. Prospective students should consider the course content, accreditation, student-teacher ratio, employment outcomes, and graduation rates.
This guide contains all the information you need if you are considering an online associate degree in medical billing and coding. It outlines different programs, types of medical billing and coding associate degree jobs, and whether online medical billing and coding associate degrees are worth it.
Where Can I Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Online?
Some of the best schools to get an online medical billing and coding associate degree are Davenport University, Herzing University, Central Maine Community College, Northwest Iowa Community College, and Keiser University. If you are considering where to get your medical billing and coding associate degree online, keep reading for a detailed list of schools to choose from.
What Schools Offer the Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degrees?
- Davenport University
- Herzing University
- Central Maine Community College
- Northwest Iowa Community College
- Keiser University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
The admission requirements for an online medical billing and associate degree are a high school diploma or general education diploma (GED) and high school transcripts. Some schools require standardized test scores, such as SAT or ACT, while non-native English speakers may be required to submit proof of English proficiency.
Prospective students can begin their application on the official school page of the associate degree program. An application fee is sometimes required during the college application process. Less common requirements for an associate in medical billing and coding online program include letters of recommendation and a GPA of at least 2.0.
Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or general education diploma (GED)
- Letters of recommendation
- Standardized test scores
- Proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers
How to Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Online
You can get a medical billing and coding associate degree online by fulfilling all the education requirements for graduation. This includes completing a minimum of 60 credit courses comprising major core courses, general education courses, and electives.
Medical Billing and Coding Degree Requirements
- Major core courses
- 15 credits of general education courses
- Elective courses
- GPA of at least 2.0
Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
| Central Maine Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Davenport University | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Herzing University | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Highland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Indian Hills Community College | Association of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Keiser University | Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology/Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northwest Iowa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northwest Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Weber State University | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Medical Billing and Coding: Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs
The best online schools for an associate degree in medical billing and coding will provide all the hard skills you need to land an entry-level job. Keep reading to learn more about the top schools for an online medical billing and coding associate degree program.
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Central Maine Community College | Auburn, Maine
Founded in 1963, Central Maine Community College has established itself as one of the best community colleges in the country. It is well-known for its affordable tuition – as low as $96 per credit. It offers over 40 academic degrees, certificates, and advanced certificates in a wide range of subjects.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records
The medical coding and electronic health record associate degree at Central Maine Community College equips students with in-demand skills in the medical coding industry. Students also learn about personal and professional ethics in medical practice. It covers specialized topics such as data entry, classification, record-keeping procedures, and insurance documentation.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $96/credit (in-state); $192/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 – 62 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at approximately 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- CMCC Graduation Rate: 25%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Test-optional
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Central Maine Community College
- Click the “ Apply now” button on the program page
- Fill out the form containing bio, contact, candidacy, education, student life, and other additional information
- Upload official transcripts, GED, or HiSET
- Click submit
- Wait for an admission decision
Davenport University | Grand Rapids, Michigan
Davenport University was founded in 1866 and has grown to become the second-largest private, non-profit university in Michigan. It offers over 60 flexible, career-focused programs that provide the education, skills, and real-world experience students need to begin their careers.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The health information technology associate degree program at Davenport University is a 69-credit hour program that teaches students to use patient data and health information resources to manage medical records. The program will prepare you for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $885/credit (in-state); $598/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 69 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 17 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Davenport University Graduation Rate: 52%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Davenport University
- Go to the Davenport University Online Application for Admission page
- Create a profile and fill out the general admissions application
- Submit official transcripts and standardized test scores
- Wait for an admission decision
- Pay your tuition fees and enroll in your courses
Herzing University | Atlanta, Georgia
Herzing University was founded in 1965. It ranks as one of the schools with the best online programs in the country, according to US News and World Reports. They offer a wide variety of career-focused academic programs at all educational levels.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Billing and Coding
The medical coding associate of applied science degree program at Herzing University provides a solid foundation in healthcare concepts such as anatomy, disease processes, physiology, and medical terminology.
Students also develop coding skills for both inpatient and outpatient care contexts. The coursework prepares students for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) examination from the American Management Association (AHIMA).
Associate and Associate of Applied Science in Medical Billing and Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $490/credit (in-state); $490/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Herzing University Graduation Rate: 18%
Associate and Associate of Applied Science in Medical Billing and Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Wonderlic, ACT, or SAT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Herzing University
- Schedule a meeting with the academic advisor
- Submit your application and upload your transcripts
- Submit standardized test scores
- Create a funding plan with the educational funding advisor
- Start online classes.
Highland Community College | Highland, Kansas
Highland Community College was established in 1858, making it the first community college in Kansas. It offers 30 associate degrees and technical certificates in different fields to over 4,000 students. Its academic programs prepare students for further education at baccalaureate institutions.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding
This degree program is a 65-credit hour program that equips students with the technical skills and knowledge to work as medical coders in healthcare organizations. Students will learn how to analyze and assign codes to medical procedures and diagnoses for billing and insurance purposes.
The program prepares students for the national Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification exams by the American Management Association (AHIMA).
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $105/credit (in-state); $105/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 65 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 16 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Highland Community College Graduation Rate: 37%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT, or take the appropriate placement test
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Highland Community College
- Complete the online application form
- Submit official high school transcripts and standardized test scores
- Wait for admission decision
- Look into your financial aid options
- Enroll in your courses
Indian Hills Community College | Ottumwa, Iowa
Indian Hills Community College was founded in 1966. It ranks among the top 500 community colleges in the country and offers over 70 programs and 250 courses. It also has over 40 student clubs and organizations that students can join to improve their portfolios.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The health information technology associate degree at Indian Hills Community College teaches students to maintain health information, analyze health records, and use health information technology. The coursework covers revenue cycle management, disease processes, anatomy and physiology, and reimbursement methodologies. Students also learn how to classify and use coding nomenclatures and health information systems.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $190/credit (in-state); $250/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 67 credits
- Program Length: 7 terms with 8-11 credits per term
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Indian Hills Community College Graduation Rate: 35%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT or Accuplacer
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Students must also pass a criminal background check, drug screen, and provide immunization records.
Applying to Indian Hills Community
- Fill out the online application on the admissions portal.
- Submit official high school transcripts and standardized test scores
- Wait for admission decision
Keiser University | Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Keiser University was founded in 1977 to provide career-focused education to adult learners looking to gain education in in-demand fields. It has become one of the largest private, not-for-profit schools in Florida, with over 20,000 students. It has over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding
This associate degree develops the student’s ability to use medical code for diagnostic procedures and other healthcare services. Students will also learn how to perform clerical and administrative duties like insurance claims, compliance, and reimbursement in healthcare organizations. At the end of the program, students will be able to take the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) examination.
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $346/credit
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% Online
- Keiser University Graduation Rate: 71%
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.8
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers, essay, letters of recommendation
Applying to Keiser University
- Fill out the online application on Keiser University’s admissions portal.
- Submit official high school transcripts and other admission requirements
- Schedule a meeting with the admissions counselor.
- Wait for admission decision
Minnesota State Community and Technical College | Fergus Falls, Minnesota
Minnesota State Community and Technical College provides affordable education and workforce training for adult learners and students who want to transfer to a baccalaureate institution. They offer a wide range of academic programs in agriculture, business, human services, health science technology, administration, management, and computer information systems.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology/ Coding
This associate degree program prepares students for careers as health information technicians. It is a well-rounded 64-credit program that combines general education, technical courses, and on-site internships. Students learn to manage patient health information, perform diagnostic and procedural coding, and use electronic systems for the revenue cycle and data management process.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology/ Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $198.95/credit (online)
- Required Credits: 64 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 16 credits per semester
- Learning Format: Online
- MSCTC Graduation Rate: 42%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology/ Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: None required
- Application Fee: High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Meet the computer requirements
Applying to Minnesota State Community and Technical College
- Fill out the online application form before the application deadline
- Submit your official high school transcripts or GED in a PDF format
- Wait for the admission decision
Northwest Iowa Community College | Sheldon, Iowa
Located in Sheldon, Iowa Northwest Iowa Community College provides a wide variety of associate degrees in business, IT, construction, general studies, health, manufacturing, and transportation. It offers quality instruction and equips students with job-ready skills to begin their careers.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The health information technology associate degree at Northwest Iowa Community College equips students with the necessary skills to become expert health information technicians. Students will learn to collect patient health data, process billing, and manage healthcare records according to medical, ethical, and legal requirements.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $200/credit
- Required Credits: 69 credits
- Program Length: 5 semesters at 9 – 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NICC Graduation Rate: 61%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Social Security Number
Applying to Northwest Iowa Community College
- Create an account with your personal email
- Fill out the application form.
- Schedule a placement test
- Submit your official transcripts
- Wait for admission decision
Northwest Technical College | Bemidji, Minnesota
Northwest Technical College was founded in 1965. It offers certificate, diploma, and degree programs to prepare students for employment in in-demand fields such as automotive, business, industrial technology, human services, and healthcare. It has over 1,100 students learning under the guidance of faculty and staff advisers who support students with their career goals.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding
This 60-credit associate of applied science degree program prepares students for a career in medical coding. Students learn how to use nationally recognized coding systems to classify medical diagnoses and procedures. The coursework includes anatomy and physiology, US healthcare systems, medical billing and insurance, pharmacology, and general psychology.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $205.15/credit (distance learning)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Northwest Technical College Graduation Rate: 36%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Northwest Technical College
- Complete the online application
- Pay the non-refundable application fee
- Submit high school transcript or GED
- Wait for admission decision
Weber State University | Ogden, Utah
Weber State University was founded in 1889. It ranks as one of the top public schools in the US News and World Report school rankings. It has over 29,744 student enrollments in 225 certificate and degree programs.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
This degree program provides students with technical skills and knowledge to begin a career in healthcare coding and information management. Students will develop expertise in coding human diseases and operations, statistical measures, and medical information management.
Graduates of this program can work in insurance companies, medical clinics, health agencies, and health maintenance organizations.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $492/credit (in-state); $1455/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 56 – 58 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- Weber State University Graduation Rate: 36%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5
- Standardized Tests: Test-optional
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Background check, drug screening, and proof of immunizations.
Applying to Weber State University
- Apply for enrollment by visiting the application page
- Review the admission requirement
- Complete the application form
- Pay application fee
- Wait for admission decision
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What Is an Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
An online medical billing and coding associate degree is a two-year program that equips students with technical skills and practical experience for entry-level careers in the health information field.
It covers specialized courses such as human anatomy, ethical issues, diagnosis, procedural coding, patient account management, US healthcare systems, and insurance plans and regulations. Getting your medical billing and coding associate degree online can also prepare you to take medical coding certification exams.
Online vs In-Person Medical Billing and Coding Degrees
The main difference between online and in-person medical billing and coding associate degrees is that students do not have to go to campus to attend classes. Students learn through digital instruction and lectures that are pre-recorded or offered live.
Online medical billing and coding degrees are a great choice for students who want to balance academics with family, work, and other personal commitments. Below are some benefits of both options to help you decide if you want to earn your associate in medical billing and coding online vs on campus.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding
- Flexibility. Online degrees offer more flexibility than in-person degrees. They allow you to take classes on your own schedule and at your own pace.
- Accessibility. Online medical billing and coding degrees remove geographical barriers. They enable students to attend university from anywhere in the world.
- Lower tuition rates. Online programs have more affordable tuition rates. Students spend less on tuition and other educational expenses. They are also spared from miscellaneous expenses, such as transportation, accommodation, and parking.
- Increased networking opportunities. Attending an online degree program will connect distance learners with fellow students and instructors from different parts of the world.
- Perfect for people with busy lives. Online medical billing and coding associate degrees require a smaller time commitment than in-person degrees.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding
- Interaction with the instructor and other students. In-person students enjoy direct interaction with the instructor and other students. They can ask questions directly and forge close relationships with other students.
- Hands-on training for a hands-on career. Medical billing and coding students need effective hands-on training and professional experience to succeed in their careers. It is easier to gain hands-on experience in physical classes than in online classes.
- Interpersonal skills. With opportunities for interaction with students and teachers, in-person degrees aid the development of interpersonal skills.
- Distraction-free environment. Universities provide facilities like classrooms, laboratories, and lecture halls. These offer a distraction-free environment for successful learning.
- Sense of motivation. Studying with other students on campus can provide motivation and improve academic performance.
What Types of Online Associate Degree Can You Get in Medical Billing and Coding?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for medical billing and coding:
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
An Associate of Science in medical billing and coding is primarily a transfer degree that prepares students to earn their bachelor’s degrees. On the other hand, an associate of applied science is more focused on equipping students with the technical skills to gain entry-level positions after the program. You can get either type of degree entirely online.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Medical Billing and Coding?
It is better to get an Associate of Science degree if you have an interest in pursuing a bachelor’s degree after the completion of the associate degree. If you want to seek employment in a medical coding position immediately after graduation, then it is better to get an Associate of Applied Science degree in medical billing and coding.
How Much Does a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Cost?
Online associate degree programs in medical billing and coding cost about $11,391, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Without paying for accommodation, a degree can cost as little as $3,377. These values will also vary depending on the type of school.
Students in private schools may spend as much as $26,749 to get the degree. You can sometimes lower your online associate in medical billing and coding cost of tuition by applying for scholarships and financial aid.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Online?
It takes about two years to get a medical billing and coding associate degree online. The program is a 60-credit hour program, consisting of core courses, general education courses, and elective courses. A student will have to take 15 credit units per semester to graduate in 2 years.
Are Online Medical Billing and Coding Degrees Respected?
Yes, online medical billing and coding degrees are respected. They are as thorough and intensive as traditional degrees. They also have the same coursework so online learners and in-person students gain the same knowledge and technical skills. Gaining an accredited online medical billing and coding degree is as good as an in-person one.
Online degrees are fast becoming the preferred option for students. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that over 3,450,125 students enrolled in exclusively distance education courses in 2019. Since the shift to online education with the COVID-19 pandemic, online degrees are popular as ever.
Is Medical Billing and Coding Hard to Learn Online?
Yes, medical billing and coding is hard to learn online. There are three major coding systems and learning each system is like learning a new language. Students will also need to learn the tactics of medical billing and become proficient with professional software to code records and bill patients. Many students find it is hard to take medical billing and coding online because it requires hard work to master the industry codes and classification systems.
Why You Should Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Online
You should get a medical billing and coding associate degree online because it provides flexibility, accessibility, and networking opportunities, and costs less than in-person degrees. You can take courses at your own pace and fit classes into your schedule. It is the best choice for people who prefer the distance learning model.
One of the main benefits of a medical billing and coding degree online program is that you can study from anywhere in the world. You also might be able to find a flexible program that allows you to work while you study.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Associate Degree Program in Medical Billing and Coding?
The courses you will take in an online associate degree program in medical billing and coding will provide all the knowledge you need to gain entry-level roles after graduation. Here are some of the associate in medical billing and coding courses that you should expect to take.
Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology
This course teaches students about the structure and function of the human body. It covers biological organization, processes, and organ systems. These include nervous systems, endocrine systems, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory systems, muscular systems, and reproductive systems.
Revenue Cycle Management
The revenue cycle management course introduces students to the revenue cycle systems used in the health care industry. It covers revenue cycle audits and reporting, reimbursement methodologies, utilization management, and regulatory requirements.
Foundation of Medical Coding
In this course, students learn about coding and classification systems employed in healthcare delivery. It also covers standards of ethical coding according to the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), functions of Standard Nomenclature of Medical-Clinical Terminology (SNOMED CT), coding guidelines, and general equivalence mapping.
Medical Terminology
The essential course teaches students about the prefixes, suffixes, and root words that make up medical terms. Students will learn how to spell, pronounce, explain, and formulate medical technology.
US Healthcare Systems
The US Healthcare systems course teaches the history and development of the healthcare delivery system. It also explains the job description of a health information professional and their importance in the healthcare delivery system.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an online medical billing and coding associate degree is for graduates to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. This will provide a deeper knowledge of the subject and improve their resume. They can also go on to pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate in health informatics.
Medical billing and coding associate degree graduates can also write professional and national certification exams including the Certified Professional coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), Certified Coding Specialist-Physician (CCS-P), Certified Outpatient Coder (COC), and Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). These will certify them for jobs in the medical system.
Related Online Medical Billing and Coding Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs
For both in-person and online programs, the things to look for in the best medical billing and coding associate degree program include accreditation and learning format. During your online school search, it is crucial to complete a thorough review of the school before you apply. If you’re wondering what to look for in an online medical billing and coding program, check out our list of criteria below.
Accreditation
Inquiring about the accreditation status of the online medical billing and coding programs is a critical factor you should not overlook. Accredited schools have proven that they can provide quality education for success in the field.
You should only select medical billing and coding degree programs that have national or regional accreditation as well as accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). You can use the database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs to check the accreditation status of your choice school.
Learning Format
Prospective students need to be clear on the learning format before they commit to a school. Some online programs employ an online format and require no visits to the school campus, while others may have in-person clinical requirements, which may require you to come to campus. It is best to know how the online degree program works before starting the admissions process.
Student Services
Prospective students should prioritize schools that offer online student services and student support. These may include mentorship programs, internship opportunities, networking events, academic advising, and technical assistance. The level of student services may determine the quality of your learning experience.
Employment Outcomes
Most universities display the employment outcome statistics of graduates on the student’s-right-to-know page. The post-graduation success of students will indicate whether the program is recognized and valued by employers in the job market.
The Reputation of the School
The reputation of the school is important during your school search for an online degree. A good reputation gives credibility to your degree and this will translate to a favorable standing in the job market.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
The most affordable online medical billing and coding associate degree program is the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Electronic Health Record at Central Maine Community College. It is a 62-credit-hour program. It cost $96 per credit for both in-state and out-of-state students. Overall, it costs around $5,952 to obtain an online medical coding degree from this school.
Can I Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a free online associate degree in medical billing and coding. However, there are financial student aid programs that students can apply for to alleviate education costs. These include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Most schools encourage students to sign up for the Free Application for Federal Student Aids (FAFSA).
Students who are looking to learn medical billing and coding for free should consult massive open online courses (MOOCs) and resources such as Coursera, edX, and MIT OpenCourseWare.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Graduates
An online medical billing and coding associate degree is the fastest and cheapest way to become a medical coder. Upon completion of the online degree, graduates can seek entry-level positions in the healthcare field at hospitals, medical facilities, insurance companies, public health agencies, healthcare organizations, and other healthcare providers.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with an online medical billing and coding associate degree. It is a fast-growing field with massive demand for skilled medical coding professionals. Online medical coding programs employ a hands-on approach to learning and students gain the necessary practical skills they need to begin their careers immediately after graduation.
Moreover, some schools offer career services to help students position themselves for high-paying roles in the industry. This includes resume and cover letter assistance, exclusive job boards, and internships.
What’s the Average Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a medical billing and coding associate degree is $32,000 per year, according to PayScale. The salaries for medical billing and coding associate degree graduates may vary depending on the location, position, and expertise. You can increase your online associate degree in medical billing and coding salary by gaining additional experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
Some jobs you can do with an online medical billing and coding associate degree are as a health information management supervisor, medical records and information specialist, medical billing specialist, medical assistant, and medical transcriptionist. After you graduate, you will find it is not hard to get a job with an online medical billing and coding associate degree.
Medical Billing and Coding Degree Jobs
- Health information management supervisor
- Medical records and information specialist
- Medical billing specialist
- Medical assistant
- Medical transcriptionist
Potential Careers With an Online Medical Billing and Coding Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
You can make between $35,850 and $52,101 per year with an online medical billing and coding associate degree. The annual salary will depend on where you work, your location, and your experience. Here are some of the highest-paying online medical and coding associate degree jobs and salaries.
Highest-Paying Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
| Health information management supervisor | $52,284 |
| Medical records and information specialist | $51,840 |
| Medical billing specialist | $40,242 |
| Medical assistants | $37,190 |
| Medical transcriptionists | $30,100 |
Best Jobs for Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Grads
This section contains a list of the best jobs for online medical billing and coding associate degree holders. It includes related information like the average salaries, job outlook, number of jobs, and highest-paying states.
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Health Information Management Supervisor | Average Salary: $52,284
Health information management supervisors coordinate a team of medical record specialists to ensure good work ethics and maintain the confidentiality of patient records. They transfer patients’ health data and test results to the appropriate departments.
- Average Salary: $52,284
- Job Outlook: 32% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 429,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey
Medical Records and Information Specialist | Average Salary: $51,840
Medical records and information specialists are responsible for organizing, managing, and coding healthcare data. They employ classification systems to code and organize patients’ medical information for storage, insurance reimbursement purposes, and treatment histories.
- Average Salary: $51,840
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 416,400
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, California
Medical Billing Specialist | Average Salary: $40,242
Medical billing specialists are in charge of all medical billing operations in a healthcare organization. They employ medical codes and billing procedures to facilitate billing processes. They also resolve conflicts that arise from billing errors.
- Average Salary: $40,242
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 416,400
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, California
Medical Assistant | Average Salary: $37,190
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical duties in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities. They take and record patients’ health information, including health measurement readings, treatment plans, and medical health history.
- Average Salary: $37,190
- Job Outlook: 18% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 720,900
- Highest-Paying States: Washington, District of Columbia, Alaska, California, Massachusetts
Medical Transcriptionist | Average Salary: $30,100
Also referred to as healthcare documentation specialists, medical transcriptionists listen to audio recordings by physicians and doctors, converting them into a written format. They transcribe dictations to save medical records into an electronic health records system.
- Average Salary: $30,100
- Job Outlook: -7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 52,400
- Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, Alaska, Minnesota, New Jersey, Montana
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Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online medical billing and coding associate degree is worth it for students who want to work in the health care field but not be directly involved in medical services. Upon graduation, you will be able to work in positions such as medical coder, health information manager, and medical assistant.
An associate degree in a medical coding program has lower tuition costs than an undergraduate degree in the field and provides the necessary skills and education to land entry-level jobs in healthcare. Students will also benefit from career services to help them kickstart their careers after graduation.
Additional Reading About Medical Billing and Coding
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/medical-billing-and-coding-online-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/medical-coding-certificate-online/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/how-to-become-a-medical-coder/
Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree FAQ
The best schools for medical and coding are Davenport University, Herzing University, Central Maine Community College, Northwest Iowa Community College, and Keiser University. All the schools in this guide are notable mentions.
The best certifications for medical coding are Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), and Certified Medical Coder (CMC). Medical coding associate degree graduates can also pursue more specialized certificate programs to advance their careers and earn higher salaries.
Yes, medical coders can work from home. This depends on the working arrangements with the employer. Working remotely promotes a healthy work-life balance, which helps to improve your job satisfaction.
Yes, you can become a medical coder online by earning an online medical billing and coding associate degree. There is a wide range of online schooling options for people who want to become medical coders.
The post Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries appeared first on Career Karma.
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Ajayi Abimbola Samuel
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