Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
The best medical billing and coding associate degrees can meet the increasing demand for professionals in the health information technology sector. It can be difficult to decide whether to earn a health information technology degree online or on-campus, and which program and school to select. This guide helps answer all of your questions.
Earning an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding gives those aspiring to enter this growing field a pathway to an entry-level job. Medical billing and coding associate degree jobs require a specific skillset and specific experience that the best medical billing and coding associate degree programs provide.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
You can get an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding through tech universities and colleges. Some of the best schools to get a medical billing and coding associate degree are Arkansas Tech University, Keiser University, and Tulsa Community College.
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What Schools Offer the Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degrees?
- Keiser University
- Arkansas Tech University
- Northwest Technical College
- Cowley County Community College
- Tulsa Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
The admission requirements for a medical billing and coding associate degree are usually an application form, a high school diploma, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Some schools may also require you to fill out a FAFSA form along with the application form.
Each school has different admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. An application form is usually required by all schools, while recommendation letters might be optional. Some also want students to submit their high school transcripts and other documents such as credit transfer or a certification.
Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 2.5 CGPA
- ACT or SAT scores
- Recommendation letter
- FAFSA form
How to Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree
You can get a medical billing and coding associate degree by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Otherwise, they might not get an associate degree even after taking part in a two-year program. These requirements usually include completion of credit hours and other standards, such as a minimum CGPA or a certain level of experience through coursework and fieldwork.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
You need 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. The credits are usually broken down into 15 credit hours per semester, which is 30 credit hours per year. Some schools may follow a quarterly program instead of a semester-based program. Their credit hours requirement might vary slightly.
Medical Billing and Coding Degree Requirements
- Completion of 60 credit hours
- 2.5 CGPA
- Coursework
- Practicum
- Internship
Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Tech University | Associate Degree in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Cowley County Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Keiser University | Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | Associate of Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northwest Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding | Higher Learning Commission |
| Saint Paul College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Tulsa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Tyler Junior College | Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Volunteer State Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Medical Billing and Coding: Top Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs
Many coding schools offer on-campus and hybrid associate degree programs in medical billing and coding and related fields. Here is a list of some of the best schools for medical billing and coding associate degree programs for you to consider.
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, AK
Arkansas Tech University was founded in 1909 as a public university. It offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees in various fields of study. It also offers certification programs. Out of 10,829 total enrolled students, 10,110 are undergraduates.
Associate Degree in Health Information Technology
Arkansas Tech University offers an associate degree program in health information technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education. The program consists of 60 credit hours that prepare students for the RHIT exam. It also requires a 120-hour practicum to provide hands-on experience in the healthcare industry.
Associate Degree in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $232/credit (in-state); $464/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credit hours
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 44%
Associate Degree in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $25
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Appropriate immunization records
Applying to Arkansas Tech University
- Complete the online application available on the school’s website.
- Submit high school transcripts and college credentialing exam scores.
- Submit official proof of immunization.
- Pay the nonrefundable application fee.
Cowley County Community College
Arkansas City, KS
Cowley County Community College was founded in 1922 as a public community college. It specializes in providing one to two-year certificates and associate degree programs to students. The college offers both in-person and online programs. The current enrollment at the college is 2,475 undergraduate students.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding
The medical coder Associate of Applied Science degree is a program focused on developing basic medical coding skills, helping graduates land entry-level tech jobs at healthcare companies , clinics, and hospitals.
Graduates can apply for American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) credentials. This degree develops students’ proficiency in technical and communication skills through its 65-credit associate degree program.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $65 or $75/credit (in-state); $85 or $125/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 65 credit hours
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Prerequisite courses
Applying to Cowley County Community College
- Access the free online application form on the website and complete it.
- Apply for financial aid, if desired.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Take a placement assessment or submit your SAT or ACT score.
- Meet an admission advisor and get enrolled in classes.
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Keiser University was founded in 1977 as a private, nonprofit institution. The university offers different programs including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees. The university has a student enrollment of 20,330 with 18,146 undergraduate students. It offers a small class size with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to one.
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding
The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding prepares students to learn the fundamentals of medical coding. It also introduces them to different administrative and clerical functions performed in the healthcare industry. The degree certificate program requires the completion of 60 credit hours.
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition (and Fees): $8,014/semester (in-state); $8,014/semester (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
Associate of Science in Medical Administrative Billing and Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Keiser University
- Contact the admission counselor to discuss the admission procedure.
- Visit the campus or attend an open house.
- Calculate the estimated tuition rates through the net price calculator.
- Submit the online application.
- Pay the application fee.
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Granite Falls, MN
Minnesota West Community and Technical College was founded in 1997. It is a public institution offering certificates and associate degree programs to prospective students. It offers on-campus classes and also facilitates online students through credible online courses. The total number of students enrolled at the college is 3,253 and all of them are undergraduates.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology is a comprehensive learning program that covers significant learning areas including informatics, healthcare software, health information management, and revenue cycle management. The 60-credit program introduces prospective students to the advanced application of spreadsheets, word processing, and databases in medical coding and billing.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $210/credit (in-person); $222/credit (online)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 45%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Minnesota West Community and Technical College
- Complete the online admission application and submit it.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Apply for financial aid by filling in the FAFSA form.
- Pay the admission fee.
- Follow the directions in the letter for ACCUPLACER assessment and registration.
- Submit your immunization form.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, WI
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is a public institute that was founded in 1912. It offers certificate programs and associate degree programs. There are 10,763 students enrolled in undergraduate programs at the college. It offers small class sizes with a student-to-teacher ratio of 15 to one.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The health information technology associate degree offered by Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is a comprehensive learning program. It covers key subjects including health data collection and analysis, computerized medical office management, and coding skills. Graduates of the program can take national certification exams to become registered health information technicians.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $160/credit (in-state); $232/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 62 credits
- Program Length: 2.5 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 43%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.6
- Standardized Tests: ACT
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
- Submit an online application.
- Submit your high school transcript or GED.
- Complete placement evaluation if your GPA is less than 2.6.
- Take an admission assessment or submit your ACT score.
- Submit your official immunization record.
- Complete a background check.
Northwest Technical College
Bemidji, MN
Northwest Technical College was founded in 1965 as a public institution. It offers certification courses and associate degree programs. The college is known for providing quality skill-based education to students. Currently, the college has 825 students enrolled and all of them are undergraduates.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding
The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding is a 60-credit hour coding degree program that prepares students for careers as medical office professionals. It provides training to efficiently use the coding systems nationally recognized. After the completion of the degree, students can enroll in a bachelor’s degree program to become expert medical coders.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $190/credit (in-state); $190/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 36%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum
- 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 on the school’s website.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your official high school transcripts.
- Contact an admission counselor to confirm the next steps.
Saint Paul College
Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul College is a public school that was founded in 1910 in Minnesota. It offers certificate and associate degree programs in a wide range of fields of study. The student population at Saint Paul College is 5,823 undergraduate students. The college offers online, on-campus, and hybrid study programs.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology deals with the in-depth study of key areas in health information departments. It introduces students to documentation, processing, coding, and abstracting health-related data and information. The program consists of 64 credit hours including general education studies and a capstone project.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $177 to $268/credit (in-state); $177 to $268/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 31%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.8
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Saint Paul College
- Fill out and submit an online application.
- Pay the application fee and submit the required documents.
- Fill out an assessment waiver form.
Tulsa Community College
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa Community College was founded in 1970. It is a public institution offering certificates and associate degrees that take between one and two years to complete. Currently, 15,568 undergraduate students are enrolled at Tulsa Community College. The college has a high acceptance rate, facilitating access to education for as many students as possible.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
The associate degree program in health information technology prepares students for entry-level positions in clinical coding, health data analysis, clinical data specialization, and revenue integrity. The 64-credit program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education and graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam to become registered health information technicians.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition (and Fees): $113/credit (in-state); $338/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Extensive criminal background check, Medicare fraud screening, Social Security check, English language proficiency test
Applying to Tulsa Community College
- Complete the online admission application.
- Submit your high school transcripts or equivalent.
- Submit your SAT or ACT scores.
- Complete placement testing.
- Prepare and appear for the interview.
Tyler Junior College
Tyler, TX
Tyler Junior College is a public institution that was founded in 1926. Known as one of the largest community colleges in Texas, Tyler offers associate and bachelor’s degrees and certification programs. The college currently has 11,749 undergraduate students enrolled. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to one.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management
The Associate Degree in Medical Office Management includes courses on medical coding and database management. You can either start your career or pursue a bachelor’s degree in the same field after graduating. Students must complete 41 credit hours of major courses and 19 credits of general education courses to fulfill the 60-credit requirement.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition (and Fees): $211/credit (in-district); $271/credit (in-state); $295/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Office Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum
- Standardized Tests: TSI (the school offers testing if you have not taken the TSI)
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Tyler Junior College
- Submit the online application.
- Submit official high school transcripts.
- Explore major courses.
- Apply for financial aid.
- Submit test score.
- Submit your vaccination form.
Volunteer State Community College
Gallatin, TN
Volunteer State Community College was founded in 1971 as a public institution. It offers various certificate programs, ranging from one to two years, and associate degree programs. The college has 8,832 students enrolled in different undergraduate certification and associate degree programs.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management
The Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management is designed to prepare students for a career in the field of health data management and coding. The program consists of 66 credits divided into general education and major core courses. Students must complete 20 credit hours of general education and 46 credits of core courses to become eligible for the degree.
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition (and Fees): $171/credit (in-state); $773/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 66 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: On-campus
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 25%
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $20
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Volunteer State Community College
- Submit an online application.
- Pay your application fee.
- Submit official high school transcripts.
- Submit official transcripts of all colleges attended.
What Is a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
A medical billing and coding associate degree is a two-year program to learn about efficient maintenance of patient records and medical coding. This degree paves the way to enter a career in the field of healthcare administration. The program covers skills development and learning concepts related to medical billing and coding.
Earning an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding prepares students for entry-level jobs in a relevant field. The basic skills taught in this program include medical records analysis, classification of medical processes, and coding. It is not directly related to medicine but rather concerned with healthcare information technology.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
An Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding is very important. It offers a quick pathway to prepare students for entry-level jobs in the field of healthcare information technology. This is a good start to a career in healthcare, with opportunities to find credible jobs at health agencies. The degree provides the basic fundamental knowledge required to earn further degrees and certifications in this field.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Medical Billing and Coding?
You can get different types of Associate Degrees in Medical Billing and Coding. The most common types of degrees offered in this subject include an Associate of Science and an Associate of Applied Science.
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 Applied Science in Medical Billing and Coding. An Associate of Applied Science is better than an Associate of Science in Medical Billing and Coding because it offers more opportunities for skill-based learning.
The field of health information technology involves practical experiences and work including the use of different tools and techniques. An applied science associate degree is better for this type of study that covers hands-on learning.
What Is the Difference Between a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree and a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate?
The difference between a medical billing and coding associate degree and a medical billing and coding certificate is the duration of program completion. A coding certification program or diploma in medical billing and coding offered by a community college or professional organization takes nine to 12 months to complete. It takes two years to earn an associate degree.
Due to the longer duration of an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding, you obtain in-depth knowledge of the fundamental concepts of health information technology. It also allows you to transfer credits if you plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the same field of study.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
It costs an average of $16,445 per year to get an on-campus Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding, as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics. An off-campus associate degree costs around $19,304 on average, unless the student is living with family when it is $10,024 on average per year.
The total cost includes different educational expenditures including tuition, fees, books, and supplies, as well as traveling and accommodation. It may vary slightly depending on the school and the program.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get a medical billing and coding associate degree. The duration remains the same whether you are pursuing an on-campus degree or an online degree. The completion of a degree depends on the completion of credits allocated to these years.
An associate degree usually requires you to complete 60 credits divided into either four semesters or six quarters. One must complete 15 credit hours per semester to complete the degree in two years. In case a student fails to do so, they might have to spend additional time completing the credit hours and qualifying to earn the degree.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
It is not very hard to get an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. It requires the completion of the required coursework. Colleges usually offer personalized instruction during the completion of the degree program. Students can get professional practice experience under the supervision of experts to refine their skills.
Why Should You Get a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
You should get a medical billing and coding associate degree if you plan to pursue a career in this field. It familiarizes you with the key medical terminology used at the workplace. You also get to learn fundamental computer knowledge, problem-solving skills, and coding skills. This degree opens pathways for starting a healthcare information technology career or pursuing continuing education.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Medical Billing and Coding?
You need to take a combination of medical and coding courses in an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. This degree program requires a strong foundation in some core medical subjects. Every school might have a slightly different curriculum but the courses are intended to develop knowledge in the same areas. Here are some of the common courses for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding.
Anatomy and Physiology
In this course, students learn the basic concepts of the human body and several systems of the body. They develop an understanding of the skeletal, endocrine, nervous, and muscular systems along with the related key medical terminology. This course also deals with the study of the relation of each system in the functioning of the human body.
Health Information Systems
A course on health information systems focuses on the study of common practices and procedures followed in the American healthcare system. It introduces students to filing and data storage practices to manage data and maintain its confidentiality in medical facilities.
Pathology
This course introduces students to different types of common diseases, their impact on the human body, and the response of the human body. It is a crucial course for developing an understanding of fundamental healthcare concepts. The medical terminology learned in this course helps students perform better in the workplace.
Medical Billing and Health Insurance
The basic understanding of health insurance concepts is vital for an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. It deals with topics such as procedures with health insurance companies, reimbursement and payment systems, auditing practices, coding systems, and fee schedules.
Basic Coding
Medical coding includes assigning a unique code to each disease, sickness, and diagnosis. The coding makes it easy for doctors and other health professionals to quickly identify the disease. It also makes it easier for database management and medical billing. Basic coding covers learning ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding.
Continuing Education Paths for Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Graduates
The continuing education paths for medical billing and coding associate degree graduates include a bachelor’s degree and certifications. Students can apply for admission to a bachelor’s degree program after earning their associate degree or get enrolled in certification programs such as Certified Professional Biller (CPB) and Certified Professional Coder (CPC).
Related Medical Billing and Coding Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best medical billing and coding associate degree programs are accreditation, the flexibility of the program, cost, and career services. These factors determine the credibility and suitability of the degree program for you. Considering these factors can help you make a better decision.
Accreditation
Accreditation helps determine whether the school offering the degree program meets a standard level of quality. It also determines the transferability of credits. Accreditation of coding schools and programs is determined by authorities that ensure that students get a quality education. It is better to choose an accredited school for your associate degree.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the degree program varies from school to school. If you want to maintain a balance between your work, personal, and professional life, you must choose a program that is flexible enough to support your schedule. You can choose from online, on-campus, and hybrid degree programs according to your preference.
Cost
The cost of an associate degree program stands as one of the most crucial factors to consider before applying for admission. The cost consists of educational expenditures besides tuition and fees, including books, supplies, and accommodation.
Specialization Option
If a school does not offer a degree in medical billing and coding, you can choose to pursue a broader degree and specialize in your desired field. You must make sure that the degree program you are choosing offers a specialization option to both on-campus and online students.
Career Services
If you plan to enter a career in health information technology , you might be interested in the career services offered by the school. These services help you develop required skills, examine your market readiness, explore career goals and opportunities, and land entry-level jobs conveniently.
What Is the Most Affordable Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
The most affordable medical billing and coding associate degree is offered by Tulsa Community College. The program charges $3,445 as annual tuition. The total cost of the program for two years would then be about $6,890. This is the most affordable associate degree program on the list. The total cost includes books, supplies, and other expenditures besides tuition fees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Graduates
Health information technology is one of the fastest-growing fields offering some of the best medical billing and coding associate degree jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for medical records and health information specialists are expected to grow nine percent from 2020 to 2030. Those who earn an associate degree can apply for a job right after graduating.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a medical billing and coding associate degree. There are several job opportunities in medical billing and coding open for these graduates. One must have a good portfolio, including the projects completed during the successful completion of the degree. This helps when applying for high-paying job opportunities.
What’s the Average Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary is about $50,000 for someone with a medical billing and coding associate degree, according to PayScale. The salary may deviate from the average stated salary based on your experience and qualifications.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree?
The jobs you can do with a medical billing and coding associate degree are medical records and health information specialist, information clerk, medical assistant, pharmacy technician, and medical transcriptionist. These jobs are related to the healthcare field and health information technology industry. With advanced qualifications, you can enhance your job opportunities and earning capacity.
Medical Billing and Coding Degree Jobs
- Medical Records and Health Information Specialist
- Information Specialist
- Information Clerk
- Pharmacy Technician
- Medical Transcriptionist
Potential Careers With a Medical Billing and Coding Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
You can make between $35,000 to $50,000 per year with a medical billing and coding associate degree. This is the average salary that you can earn through entry-level jobs that are offered to associate degree graduates. If you have some additional skills or enhanced expertise, you can expect to earn more.
There is a wide range of jobs in the health information industry for graduates with an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. Here is a list of the highest-paying jobs for associate degree holders along with their job outlook and employment growth.
Highest-Paying Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Medical Records and Health Information Specialist | $45,240 |
| Information Clerk | $37,450 |
| Medical Assistant | $37,190 |
| Pharmacy Technicians | $36,740 |
| Medical Transcriptionist | $30,100 |
Best Jobs for Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Grads
Medical billing and coding associate degree grads can contend for the best medical billing and coding associate degree jobs soon after completing their degree. Here is a list of the most popular available job opportunities.
Medical Records and Health Information Specialist I Average Salary: $45,240
Medical records and health information specialists are responsible for organizing and managing health information. These specialists utilize different techniques, tools, and systems to organize and code available information. They maintain patients’ medical histories and update the records promptly.
- Average Salary: $45,240
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 416,400
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, California, Connecticut
Information Clerk I Average Salary: $37,450
Information clerks are responsible for the routine clerical activities involved in data collection, management, and analysis. They also prepare reports for the effective representation of data. This information is then presented to the customers.
- Average Salary: $37,450
- Job Outlook: 2% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,322,900
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maryland, South Dakota, California
Medical Assistant I Average Salary: $37,190
Medical assistants’ primary job responsibility is to handle administrative tasks at a clinic, hospital, or relevant healthcare organization. This includes recording patients’ history, facilitating their vital checks, assisting physicians in patients’ checkups, and preparing test samples.
- 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
Pharmacy Technician I Average Salary: $36,740
Pharmacy technicians work in hospitals and pharmacies and facilitate the dispensation of medicines to health professionals and customers. They collect necessary information and organize and update it regularly. They assist pharmacists and interact with customers.
- Average Salary: $36,740
- Job Outlook: 4% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 419,300
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Alaska, Oregon, District of Columbia
Medical Transcriptionist I Average Salary: $30,100/year
Medical transcriptionists are also known as healthcare documentation specialists. They convert audio files of doctors and physicians into written documents. They also analyze and edit reports and prepare patients’ medical histories in the light of the interpretation of medical and procedural terminology.
- Average Salary: $30,100/year
- Job Outlook: -7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 52,400
- Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, Alaska, Minnesota, New Jersey, Montana
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding is worth it. It is one of the best degrees for you to pursue if you want to get insight into what it is like to be a medical coder . Earning this degree introduces students to the basic knowledge of medical terminologies, practices, and procedures usually employed in health information technology.
It is vital for beginners and those who want to switch careers to enter the growing field of health information technology. It is necessary to complete all the defined courses, projects, practicums, and internships to gain meaningful knowledge and experiential learning at the same time.
Additional Reading About Medical Billing and Coding
Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree FAQ
After getting an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding, you can apply for certifications including Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), and Certified Outpatient Coding (COC).
It can be difficult to get a high-paying coding or billing job without experience. Usually, medical billers and coders begin by working in entry-level jobs to gain enough experience and learn more about medical office procedures. You can then use that experience to apply for high-paying jobs. As you build your expertise and technical skills, you can make the most of available opportunities in the job market.
Yes, medical billing and coding is a good career. With the increasing influence of technology in every walk of life, there is an increasing need for skilled professionals who can understand and use modern technology-based software. Health information technology is a growing field and medical billing and coding is a good career option in this field.
Yes, medical coders can work from home. Many see this as one of the biggest benefits of becoming a medical coder. You can offer your services as an independent contractor to a healthcare facility that outsources its coding work. For a reliable coding position, having an associate degree helps. As you gain professional experience you can earn more than the median salary.
