Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs of 2025
Discover the best online associate in medical billing and coding programs and learn about career options, salaries, and more in this comprehensive guide.
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As the healthcare industry converts to digital records, professionals skilled in medical billing and coding are in high demand. An online associate degree in medical billing and coding is one possible pathway to this rewarding career.
This guide will explore the ins and outs of these programs, the jobs you can pursue after graduation, and how to decide whether this path is right for you.
Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2025. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
Central Maine Community College
Auburn, ME2 yearCampus + Online
$2,880
$5,760
83%
55%
Enrolling in CMCC's online associate in applied science (AAS) in medical coding and electronic health records can prepare you for entry-level healthcare administration careers and professional certification.
The program runs entirely online and features 60-62 credits covering topics in medical ethics and law, healthcare statistics, and interpersonal communication. There's also a practicum component that you can complete at a site of your choosing.
We like that CMCC provides ample support, such as academic advising, tutoring, research assistance, and financial aid.
Highlights
- Relatively affordable
- Test-optional admissions
- Average of $5,400 in scholarships and grants awarded
Know Before You Apply
- Out-of-state tuition rates double in-state rates
- Practicum with in-person attendance
- Synchronous sessions possible
N/A
N/A
52%
3,376
Public
Yes
$2,880
$5,760
Auburn, ME2 yearCampus + Online
$2,880
$5,760
83%
55%
N/A
N/A
52%
3,376
Public
Yes
Enrolling in CMCC's online associate in applied science (AAS) in medical coding and electronic health records can prepare you for entry-level healthcare administration careers and professional certification.
The program runs entirely online and features 60-62 credits covering topics in medical ethics and law, healthcare statistics, and interpersonal communication. There's also a practicum component that you can complete at a site of your choosing.
We like that CMCC provides ample support, such as academic advising, tutoring, research assistance, and financial aid.
Highlights
- Relatively affordable
- Test-optional admissions
- Average of $5,400 in scholarships and grants awarded
Know Before You Apply
- Out-of-state tuition rates double in-state rates
- Practicum with in-person attendance
- Synchronous sessions possible
Mt Hood Community College
Gresham, OR2 yearOnline
$4,245
$7,935
N/A
46%
Why We Chose This School
During MHCC's AAS in medical office specialist: billing and coding program, you can develop the in-demand skills required to work in various medical facilities. The program also runs entirely online and offers you start dates in each of the three semesters.
At MHCC, you'll complete between 91 and 94 credits and take courses like understanding medical insurance, hospital administrative procedures, and healthcare documentation. You'll also complete a medical office billing practicum that offers hands-on training through a job placement and a live learning lab.
We particularly like the career planning and counseling MHCC provides as you near the end of the program, ensuring you hit the ground running.
Highlights
- Nearly $1 million awarded in scholarships
- 18-month completion time
- High school diploma or GED certificate not required
Know Before You Apply
- Computer experience encouraged
- Online courses offered regularly but not guaranteed
- Placement tests required
N/A
N/A
59%
6,012
Public
Yes
$4,245
$7,935
Gresham, OR2 yearOnline
$4,245
$7,935
N/A
46%
N/A
N/A
59%
6,012
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
During MHCC's AAS in medical office specialist: billing and coding program, you can develop the in-demand skills required to work in various medical facilities. The program also runs entirely online and offers you start dates in each of the three semesters.
At MHCC, you'll complete between 91 and 94 credits and take courses like understanding medical insurance, hospital administrative procedures, and healthcare documentation. You'll also complete a medical office billing practicum that offers hands-on training through a job placement and a live learning lab.
We particularly like the career planning and counseling MHCC provides as you near the end of the program, ensuring you hit the ground running.
Highlights
- Nearly $1 million awarded in scholarships
- 18-month completion time
- High school diploma or GED certificate not required
Know Before You Apply
- Computer experience encouraged
- Online courses offered regularly but not guaranteed
- Placement tests required
Northland Community and Technical College
Thief River Falls, MN2 yearCampus + Online
$5,435
$5,435
67%
52%
Why We Chose This School
By completing Northland's AAS in medical coding specialist program, you can qualify for a national coding certification exam, along with many careers in medical billing and insurance claims processing. The program features 60 credits and includes courses in medical language and coding using the International Classification of Diseases.
Near the end of the program, you'll participate in an internship-like medical office simulation course that provides hands-on training. Northland's online classes typically run asynchronously, though some courses, like the office simulation course, may run synchronously.
Highlights
- Primarily asynchronous online classes
- Free textbooks
- Over $200,000 in scholarships annually
Know Before You Apply
- One of the costliest programs on this list
- Placement tests required
- Online classes cost more than on-campus
N/A
N/A
66%
2,495
Public
Yes
$5,435
$5,435
Thief River Falls, MN2 yearCampus + Online
$5,435
$5,435
67%
52%
N/A
N/A
66%
2,495
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
By completing Northland's AAS in medical coding specialist program, you can qualify for a national coding certification exam, along with many careers in medical billing and insurance claims processing. The program features 60 credits and includes courses in medical language and coding using the International Classification of Diseases.
Near the end of the program, you'll participate in an internship-like medical office simulation course that provides hands-on training. Northland's online classes typically run asynchronously, though some courses, like the office simulation course, may run synchronously.
Highlights
- Primarily asynchronous online classes
- Free textbooks
- Over $200,000 in scholarships annually
Know Before You Apply
- One of the costliest programs on this list
- Placement tests required
- Online classes cost more than on-campus
Southeast Technical College
Sioux Falls, SD2 yearCampus + Online
$3,720
$3,720
N/A
41%
Why We Chose This School
Southeast Tech's AAS in medical coding: professional and facility program offers you inpatient and outpatient administrative career preparation in a flexible package. The program features a hybrid delivery option that combines interactive in-person courses with flexible online classes.
As part of the 61-credit program, you will study topics like compliance and regulations, basic pharmacology, and interprofessional healthcare. You will also complete a virtual practicum in a simulated medical office setting.
All Southeast Tech students enjoy access to the school's student success center and its academic support, career services, and community and wellness resources.
Highlights
- Less stringent admission requirements
- 100% job placement rate in 2023
- Transfer pathway to bachelor's programs
Know Before You Apply
- Costliest program on this list
- Online fee of $50 per credit
- Placement, SAT, or ACT scores may be required
N/A
N/A
72%
2,453
Public
Yes
$3,720
$3,720
Sioux Falls, SD2 yearCampus + Online
$3,720
$3,720
N/A
41%
N/A
N/A
72%
2,453
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Southeast Tech's AAS in medical coding: professional and facility program offers you inpatient and outpatient administrative career preparation in a flexible package. The program features a hybrid delivery option that combines interactive in-person courses with flexible online classes.
As part of the 61-credit program, you will study topics like compliance and regulations, basic pharmacology, and interprofessional healthcare. You will also complete a virtual practicum in a simulated medical office setting.
All Southeast Tech students enjoy access to the school's student success center and its academic support, career services, and community and wellness resources.
Highlights
- Less stringent admission requirements
- 100% job placement rate in 2023
- Transfer pathway to bachelor's programs
Know Before You Apply
- Costliest program on this list
- Online fee of $50 per credit
- Placement, SAT, or ACT scores may be required
Everett Community College
Everett, WA2 yearCampus + Online
$4,599
$9,576
N/A
68%
Why We Chose This School
Students in EvCC's associate of technical arts (ATA) program in medical coding and billing can prepare for national coding certification and many promising medical office careers. The program runs entirely online with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous classes to accommodate students' diverse needs and schedules.
The ATA degree requires students to earn 90 credits, and courses include medical reception, advanced procedural coding, and reimbursement and legal compensation. Approved by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), this program also includes a professional practice experience course during your final semester.
Highlights
- Lower tuition rates for heavier course loads
- Qualify for AHIMA's certified coding associate exam
Know Before You Apply
- Higher out-of-state tuition for some courses
- Prerequisites may be needed
N/A
N/A
46%
6,054
Public
Yes
$4,599
$9,576
Everett, WA2 yearCampus + Online
$4,599
$9,576
N/A
68%
N/A
N/A
46%
6,054
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Students in EvCC's associate of technical arts (ATA) program in medical coding and billing can prepare for national coding certification and many promising medical office careers. The program runs entirely online with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous classes to accommodate students' diverse needs and schedules.
The ATA degree requires students to earn 90 credits, and courses include medical reception, advanced procedural coding, and reimbursement and legal compensation. Approved by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), this program also includes a professional practice experience course during your final semester.
Highlights
- Lower tuition rates for heavier course loads
- Qualify for AHIMA's certified coding associate exam
Know Before You Apply
- Higher out-of-state tuition for some courses
- Prerequisites may be needed
5 Key Things Medical Billers and Coders Do
Medical billers and coders translate patient information and healthcare services into standardized codes, which are then used to generate bills to make accurate and timely reimbursements from insurance companies.
Accurate coding protects patients from incorrect billing, helps healthcare providers receive the necessary compensation to continue offering quality care, and keeps track of their medical records.
Key roles and responsibilities include:
- Reviewing patient records: Reviewing patient records, including physician’s notes, lab results, and radiology reports, to gather all necessary details for coding.
- Assigning accurate codes: Selecting and assigning appropriate codes from standardized coding systems like ICD (International Classification of Diseases), CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), and HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) to diagnoses, procedures, and services documented in the patient records.
- Ensuring accuracy: Verifying the accuracy of the codes to avoid errors that could lead to claim denials or incorrect patient records. This step is crucial for compliance with healthcare regulations and for preventing financial and legal issues for healthcare providers.
- Data entry: Entering assigned codes into medical records and billing systems so that healthcare providers receive proper reimbursement and patients’ medical records are accurate.
- Supporting healthcare operations: Checking for accurate and standardized documentation for efficiency in billing, reducing administrative costs, minimizing errors and fraud, and enhancing patient care and satisfaction. They also provide reliable data for healthcare research and policy making.
Medical Billing and Coding Associate vs. Certificate: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing between a medical billing and coding certificate and an associate degree, several factors come into play:
Salary
An associate degree provides a more comprehensive education and opens doors to higher-level roles and potentially higher salaries. Medical coders with an associate degree can earn more than those with just a certificate, with average salaries ranging from $46,660 to over $73,000 annually, depending on experience and additional certifications.
Cost
The cost of an associate degree program can vary widely, with tuition costs generally ranging from around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the institution and specific program. Factors that can influence these costs include the type of school, the duration of the program, and additional fees such as textbooks, lab fees, and certification exam fees.
Program Length
An associate degree in medical billing and coding usually takes about 18 months to two years to complete, depending on whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.
On the other hand, a certificate program can be completed in less than a year, making it a quick route to enter the field. However, the depth of study and the level of expertise gained can vary between the two programs.
Courses
Associate degree programs often offer a broader curriculum, encompassing not only specialized medical billing and coding courses but also general education classes in subjects like English, math, and social sciences. These programs provide a more comprehensive education, covering advanced topics like healthcare law, ethics, and data management.
In contrast, certificate programs are more narrowly focused on the fundamental skills required for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students pursuing an online associate degree in medical billing and coding have several financial aid options available to them, including federal financial aid, state aid, scholarships, and grants. Federal financial aid can be accessed by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which may offer grants, loans, and work-study programs.
While scholarships are also available for certificate programs, the variety and amount might not be as extensive as those available for degree programs.
Training
Both associate degree and certificate programs provide practical training and hands-on experience in key areas of medical billing and coding. Students learn essential topics such as medical terminology, ICD-10 and CPT coding systems, healthcare regulations, insurance processes, and patient privacy.
Associate degree programs often provide more comprehensive training and hands-on experience, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
Credit Transfers
When planning to transfer credits from previous coursework or from a certificate program to an associate degree program, it’s essential to check the transfer policies of the prospective school.
Schools usually require a grade of ‘C’ or better for courses to be eligible for transfer. Keep in mind that accepting transfer credits is at the discretion of the receiving institution, and not all credits may be transferable.
Career Benefits
Though both an associate degree and a certificate in medical billing and coding can open the door to various career opportunities in healthcare, an associate degree often provides a wider range of career options and greater potential for career advancement. Graduates with an associate degree are eligible for certifications like the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) after gaining some work experience, which can further enhance their career prospects.
A certificate can help you secure entry-level positions quickly, but may not offer the same career advancement opportunities.
Medical Billing and Coding Salary and Job Outlook
The job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals is promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% growth rate from 2023 to 2033 for medical records specialists, which include medical coders.
Several factors are driving this demand, including an increasing aging population pushing the need for healthcare services, the transition from paper-based records to electronic health records (EHRs), and the ongoing complexity of healthcare regulations.
According to the BLS, the median salary for medical billers and coders was $50,250 for 2024, with the highest 10% earning $80,950 and the lowest 10% earning less than $35,780. The highest levels of employment ranged from major hospitals to smaller facilities such as outpatient care centers. Those who get a certificate may earn a higher average salary.
As of 2024, the top three paying locations were Washington, D.C. ($64,690), Rhode Island ($63,330), and Hawaii ($62,990). Keep in mind that areas with a higher cost of living will sometimes be reflected by a higher salary. States with the highest employment for medical billing and coding were Texas, California, and Florida.
| Median Salary | Typical Entry-Level Education | On-the-Job Training | Job Outlook (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yearly: $50,250 Hourly: $24.16 | Postsecondary certificate | None | 9% |
| State | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 370 | $37.02 | $76,990 |
| California | 19,750 | $32.73 | $68,080 |
| Washington | 5,280 | $32.70 | $68,020 |
| Hawaii | 450 | $30.41 | $63,250 |
| Maryland | 3,040 | $31.10 | $64,690 |
| Industry | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 48,320 | $29.30 | $60,940 |
| Offices of Physicians | 36,690 | $22.96 | $47,760 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | 16,260 | $30.73 | $63,920 |
| Nursing Care Facilities | 9,530 | $23.17 | $48,190 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 8,510 | $27.93 | $58,100 |
| State | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 20,390 | $24.53 | $51,020 |
| California | 19,750 | $32.73/td> | $68,080/td> |
| Florida | 15,510 | $24.19 | $50,320 |
| New York | 9,120 | $31.03 | $64,550 |
| Ohio | 8,180 | $27.70 | $57,620 |
What Jobs Can I Get With an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
An associate degree in medical billing and coding can lead to a few different job opportunities. Here are some potential roles you could pursue, along with their average salaries:
| Job | Job Description | Median Annual Salary (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Records Coordinator | Compiles, processes, and maintains medical records of hospital and clinic patients | $46,000 |
| Medical Records Technician | Manages and organizes patient records to verify accuracy and accessibility | $46,000 |
| Health Information Clerk | Handles data entry tasks, monitors trends in audits and denials from payers, and analyzes clinical data | $43,000 |
| Medical Records Analyst | Organizes, evaluates, and maintains patient medical records to check for accuracy, completeness, and compliance | $46,000 |
| Health Information Technician | Organizes, manages, and disseminates patient health information within electronic health records (EHRs) | $67,310 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing and Coding Programs
Yes, it may be worth it if you are interested in a career in healthcare administration and technology. An associate degree program would provide comprehensive training in key areas like coding, electronic records, and billing, which can improve job prospects in various healthcare settings and serve as a stepping stone for further advancement.
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