Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Online Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding

Break into this in-demand1 healthcare field. Prepare for the CCA, CCS or CPC exams.

Be ready to help healthcare companies provide more effective care by earning an online medical billing and coding certificate. Our 100% online medical billing and coding classes start every 8 weeks. Explore natural sciences, anatomy and health information technology courses in our Medical Billing and Coding Undergraduate Certificate program.

As an option, you can further your studies and dive deeper into procedural terminology as well as legal and regulatory issues by specializing in Health Information Coding (HIC). This addition introduces three more classes designed to provide you with more detailed instruction on related concepts.

Classes Start Every 8 Weeks

Earn your Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding in as little as 1 year*—or even more quickly with qualifying transfer credits.

*Not including breaks. Assumes year-round, full-time enrollment.


Availability

Reasons to Choose DeVry:

  • AHIMA’s Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification exam prep is built into our Medical Billing and Coding Certificate programs.
  • Our MBC undergraduate certificate program can also help prepare you to pursue the AAPC’s Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam.
  • We offer 100% online classes – with sessions starting every 8 weeks, allowing you to attend classes on your schedule.
  • Gain first-hand experience in medical billing and coding with simulated medical records in a web-based learning platform.
  • Take advantage of Career Services support to help you with your resume and job search.


Questions for our admissions team?

Request info about our online medical billing and coding program now.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Amy Brewer

Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding, 2020

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Attending DeVry University has given my life a new direction and hope. Thank you DeVry University for empowering me to a successful future!

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Patricia Cairns

Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding

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DeVry has been extremely helpful from Day One. From inquiring about their programs to where to start and what to do, they have been there with me every step of the way. They know what they are doing and want to help all their students to pursue success..

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Online Medical Billing and Coding Program – What You'll Learn

Learn fundamental concepts through classification courses and practice in hands-on virtual lab environments. Additional skills that can be gained in our Undergraduate Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program include:

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Health Insurance and Reimbursement

Explore reimbursement and payment methodologies applicable to healthcare provided in various US settings.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Classifying Medical Data

Abstract, classify and code medical data while also ensuring data quality and integrity.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Process Information

Compile codes, categories, calculations, tabulations and audits, or verify information or data.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Current Procedural Terminology

Study the principles and guidelines for using the Current Procedural Terminology system for reporting physician and other healthcare services, including non-inpatient procedures.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Health Services and Information Systems

Explore the history and organization of, and current issues in, the US healthcare delivery system.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Document and Record Information

Enter, transcribe, store or maintain information in written or electronic form.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

International Classification of Diseases Coding

Study the principles and guidelines for using the International Classification of Diseases system to code diagnoses and procedures.

Accredited medical billing and coding online certificate programs

Medical Terminology

Learn medical terminology, including word etymology.

Career Opportunities in Medical Billing and Coding

Some careers you may consider after completing our online Medical Billing and Coding Undergraduate Certificate include, but are not limited to:

  • Medical Records and Health Information Technician
    These technicians organize, manage and code health information data using medical billing and coding skills to ensure that records are easy to access and interpret.
  • Billing Specialist
    Billing specialists help keep care facilities running by overseeing the billing process for customers and patients, including processing and organizing payments and financial records.
  • Insurance Claims Specialist
    These individuals facilitate the processing of claims and may serve as the liaison between the insurance company, the provider and the insured. Claims specialists help patients receive the proper contribution from their insurance and make sure they don't overpay for their procedures.

  • Medical Biller
    Medical billers manage payments and insurance claims for the provider to ensure that payments come through on time and accurately reflect the procedures that a patient received.
  • Collections Specialist
    Collections specialists work with patients to resolve bills, collect payments and resolve any billing or coding errors.
  • Coding Professional
    Coding professionals ensure that patient records are entered with the correct codes and manage billing with patients and insurance companies.

Program Course Options

Option 1

Medical Billing & Coding

Natural Sciences

BIOS105 Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology with Lab
BIOS268 Pathopharmacology

Health Information Technology

HIT111 Basic Medical Terminology
HIT120 Introduction to Health Services and Information Systems
HIT141 Health Information Processes with Lab
HIT203 International Classification of Diseases Coding I with Lab
HIT205 International Classification of Diseases Coding II with Lab
HIT211 Current Procedural Terminology Coding with Lab
HIT230 Health Insurance and Reimbursement

Career Preparation

HIT253 Coding Practicum and Review (CCA Exam)

Option 2

Medical Billing & Coding - Health Information Coding

Natural Sciences

BIOS105 Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology with Lab
BIOS268 Pathopharmacology

Health Information Technology

HIT111 Basic Medical Terminology
HIT120 Introduction to Health Services and Information Systems
HIT141 Health Information Processes with Lab
HIT203 International Classification of Diseases I with Lab
HIT205 International Classification of Diseases II with Lab
HIT211 Current Procedural Terminology Coding with Lab
HIT213 Current Procedure Terminology Coding II w/ Lab
HIT220 Legal and Regulatory Issues in Health Information
HIT230 Health Insurance and Reimbursement

Career Preparation

HIT260 Coding Practicum w/Lab
HIT262 CCS Review (CCS Exam)

Medical Billing and Coding Course Previews

The Medical Billing and Coding certificate programs may include these courses:

BIOS105
Fundamentals of Human Anatomy & Physiology with Lab

This course covers the basics of the human body. You'll explore topics related to cell structure and function and learn about the major systems of the human body. During lab work, you'll utilize computer exercises and simulation activities, as well as observation related to the topics covered.

BIOS268
Pathopharmacology

This course involves the study of notable human diseases and how they are treated using drug therapies. It also explores the fundamentals of disease processes and integrates those concepts with basic pharmacology and drug therapy strategies. An emphasis is placed on disease etiology, sights, symptoms and diagnostic measures, as well as dosage, actions and administration routes.

HIT203 & HIT205
International Classification of Diseases

Build your ability to accurately dissect and code operative reports using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). You will also learn about anatomy and code structure for body systems, health records, manual and computerized coding methods and references. You’ll have hands-on opportunities to use coding manuals and software tools to become comfortable with sequencing diagnoses and procedures. Coding ethics, data quality and application of coding principles to electronic record systems are also covered.

HIT211 & HIT213
Current Procedural Terminology Coding with Lab

Develop your knowledge of clinical classification systems through current procedural terminology (CPT). Practice using CPT to assign procedure codes and apply guidelines for assigning evaluation and management (E/M) codes and modifiers to typical case examples. Also covered are healthcare common procedure coding system (HCPCS) codes and the application of coding principles to an electronic record system.

"The medical industry is ever-changing. Keeping up with the latest terminology for medical billing and coding is essential."

MBA, RHIA - Associate Professor and College of Health Sciences National Faculty

To pursue opportunities in the growing field of medical billing and coding,1 consider earning an undergraduate certificate that helps prepares you to pursue the CPC, CCS or CCA certification exams after graduation.2In general, your medical billing and coding classes should cover:

  • Human anatomy and physiology
  • Pathopharmacology
  • Basic medical terminology
  • Health services and information systems
  • Health information processes
  • The International Classification of Diseases coding system (ICD-10)
  • Current procedural terminology
  • Legal and regulatory issues related to health information

Your medical billing and coding training should also provide ample hands-on opportunities with healthcare applications such as encoders and electronic health record systems.

Online Virtual Lab Training

Our online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program is designed to help you learn how to accurately record, register, submit and track patient information. During this program, you will work in a web-based learning platform designed to encourage you to see the holistic nature of healthcare. You can access simulated medical health records to perform real-world health information and coding activities.

Built-in Prep for AHIMA’S Certification Exams

  • Our MBC program helps prepare you to pursue the CCA Certification Exam.
  • Our MBC-HIC program helps prepare you to pursue the CCS Certification Exam.

Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Pursuing a career in medical coding and billing requires you to have both financial acumen and medical knowledge. You need the skills to accurately bill patients, send insurance claims and create accurate patient health records. To pursue a medical coding job, you'll typically need to obtain at least one of these medical billing and coding certifications:

  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC): This certification indicates that you have a strong grasp of medical billing code sets and evaluation and management (E/M) principles. The CPC exam also tests your ability to adhere to documentation and coding guidelines.
  • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS): The CCS certification requires you to demonstrate a high level coding knowledge and commitment in all medical settings. Passing the CCS exam may be useful for people who are more interested in the coding side of medical billing and coding versus the billing side.
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA): The CCA certification indicates your competency with the processes and skills needed for classifying medical data using patient records.

About Medical Billing and Coding Certification Exams

Medical billing and coding specialists typically pursue an industry certification to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and experience to employers. These certifications include the AAPC’s Certified Professional Coder exam and AHIMA’s Certified Coding Associate and Certified Coding Specialist exams. We can help you understand the specifics of the medical billing and coding exams and determine which is the right fit for you.

Questions for our admissions team?

Request info about our medical billing and coding classes now.

Build Skills with Stackable Degrees

You don’t have to wait four years to show a credential on your resume. At DeVry, several of our programs are designed to stack.

A stackable program can enable you to start with a shorter credential, such as an Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding, knowing that most of the courses you take can apply to the next degree level too. You can also take advantage of flexible online and on-site classes to build your professional skills, which can make education more affordable and adherent to your personal timeline.

Medical Billing and Coding FAQs

What skills will I learn in Medical Billing and Coding training?

DeVry’s Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program is designed to teach medical terminology, health services and information systems, health insurance and reimbursement, classifying medical data and much more. Explore additional skills taught in our Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program by visiting our Medical Billing and Coding Training page.

Learn more about medical billing and medical coding training on our medical billing training and medical coding training pages.

What certifications will I have when I complete the MBC certificate?

When you earn your uUndergraduate Certificate in medical billing and coding, you can pursue an industry-recognized medical billing and coding certification, such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) Exam with AHIMA or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Exam with the AACP after graduation.

What are the prerequisites for the medical billing and coding program?

In addition to meeting admissions requirements, the only pre-requisite for enrollment in medical billing and coding schools is a high school diploma or equivalent. Please see the academic catalog for complete admissions requirements. You can also view our Medical Billing and Coding FAQs.

What is medical billing and coding?

Medical billing and coding involves reviewing medical records and determining the diagnosis and procedures the patient received. It is an essential component of the healthcare system in that it allows medical providers to be reimbursed for the services delivered. Medical billing and coding are distinct yet related processes. Medical coding involves documenting and categorizing billable information from a patient’s medical record into standardized codes. Once that is done, medical billing professionals use those codes to submit insurance claims and invoice patients.

What does a medical biller and coder do?

Medical billing and coding duties vary but include working with healthcare professionals to determine care services and managing the claim process. Essentially, medical billing and coding professionals manage the end-to-end billing cycle for healthcare services and act as liaisons between clinical providers and insurance companies. It is a role that many healthcare providers require.

There are two paths you can explore after receiving your Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding at DeVry – medical billing or medical coding.

A medical billing specialist would:

  • Submit claims to insurance companies
  • Ensure that the responsible party pays for claims
  • Manage payments and invoices

A medical coding specialist would:

  • Work with healthcare professionals to correctly identify the services and treatments a patient has received
  • Ensure that medical records correctly reflect their patients' care
  • Stay up-to-date with new coding regulations and standards

What is the difference between medical coding and billing?

Medical billing and coding depend on one another, yet represent different points in the healthcare payment process. Medical coding generally comes first and involves working with healthcare providers and clinicians to identify and align on the healthcare services provided, then assign the appropriate codes to accurately represent those services. With that information, medical billing professionals can then use those CPT codes to develop billing statements to file insurance claims and ensure patients are appropriately invoiced.

Where do medical billers and coders work?

Virtually every type of healthcare provider requires the services of medical billers and coders. However, the career opportunities go beyond just organizations that provide direct care. In addition to working in hospitals and doctor’s offices, those with medical billing and coding training can also explore careers with health insurance companies, law firms and governmental agencies.

What is a medical billing and coding certification?

A medical billing and coding certification signals to healthcare professionals that you have taken the time to study the complexity of billing and coding. It communicates that you’ve demonstrated proficient knowledge of the multitude of codes and billing processes that are required to process medical services for billing and reimbursement.
The two primary organizations that offer medical billing and coding certifications are the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Can you take online classes for medical billing and coding?

Yes. You can learn medical billing and coding online.

At DeVry, our medical billing and coding programs are 100% online. Class sessions start every 8 weeks so you can begin your studies any time that's convenient for you. You can complete your online courses at your own pace, enrolling full-time or part-time. Our advisors will help you design a plan that works for your career goals and personal schedule.

Is medical billing and coding hard?

A future in medical billing and coding can be more attainable than you might think. While medical billing and coding involves knowledge of numerous code sets and complex medical information, that doesn’t mean you have to memorize every code. At DeVry, our Medical Billing and Coding certificate programs are designed to help you gain hands-on experience with common billing and coding software using simulated patient records. You’ll gain the knowledge you need in common health-related subjects to prepare to pursue a career as a medical biller or coder.

Does an online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate require me to take math courses?

Our online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate programs do not require any math courses. Some math concepts are present in certain courses, but there are no classes that are explicitly focused on mathematics in this program.

Where can I work with a Medical Coding and Billing Certificate?

A career in medical billing and coding can help you stay on the cutting-edge of technologies within the healthcare industry. Positions for medical billers and coders may be available in a variety of healthcare settings, such as physicians' offices, hospitals, insurance companies, dental offices, emergency rooms, ambulatory centers, long-term care facilities and more.

With the proper professional training and certifications, you can prepare to take on many responsibilities when working with healthcare professionals. This can help you to improve patient care and facilitate best practice billing and coding procedures.

What Our Students Have to Say

"DeVry has given me such a positive experience. DeVry is completely different. I would receive phone calls, emails and text messages checking in to make sure I was happy and to see if I needed any assistance with documentation."

"In the beginning I was calling Student Central more than once a week to discuss documents I needed or to ask questions regarding my financial aid. Everyone I spoke with went above and beyond for me. If they didn't know the answer or weren't sure if they were giving me 100% accurate information, they would double and even triple check. I have never experienced this type of dedication when it comes to advisors."

"I have nothing but good things to say about DeVry and would definitely recommend this school to anyone and everyone looking to further their education."

Olivia Matson | Student — Undergraduate Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding

Program Overview

Medical Billing & Coding Certificate

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Program Overview

Medical Billing & Coding: Health Information Coding Certificate

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Program Overview

Medical Billing & Coding Certificate

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Program Overview

Medical Billing & Coding: Health Information Coding Certificate

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1Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm
2Eligible students who register for and complete the exams may be reimbursed for one exam sitting.
3For the MBC certificate program, all but one course stacks into our Associate Degree in Health Information Technology. For the AHIT program, all but one course stacks into our Bachelor’s in Technical Management degree with a Specialization in Health Information Management. Program availability varies by location. At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied.
4https://www.uscmed.com/blog/medical-billing-coding-important-to-healthcare-industry/
*The Health Information Coding (HIC) specialization requires 13 courses to complete, not considering any qualifying transfer credits. Additional program information may be found here.
**The figures displayed represent the minimum credit hours required for graduation. Additional coursework may be necessary to complete program requirements.

Last Updated February 3, 2022

Which certification is best for medical billing and coding?

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Offered by the AAPC, the CPC certification is the most popular in the medical coding field. It covers multiple aspects of the profession, including procedure codes for coding and billing for medical claims in a physician's office.

How many AAPC certifications are there?

As of April 2019, AAPC has over 190,000 worldwide members, of which nearly 155,000 are certified. ... AAPC (healthcare).

Can medical coding be done online?

Yes. However, this will vary depending on the healthcare organization that one works for and their level of experience within the medical billing and coding profession.

Is Branson online accredited?

Branson School Online (BSO) is a Colorado state-accredited online school and a proud member of Branson School District RE-82. BSO is free and available to all Colorado residents in grades K-12.