3 Degree Types to Become a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Certificate programs for medical billing and coding students typically take around 6 to 12 months to complete. These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to enter the workforce as quickly as possible.
Certificate programs may be offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or online. They typically consist of a series of courses that cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, and medical billing. Some programs may also include courses on healthcare law and ethics, healthcare delivery systems, and reimbursement systems.
Associate degree programs for medical billing and coding students typically take around 2 years to complete. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and some universities.
Associate degree programs provide a more comprehensive education than certificate programs and cover a wider range of topics. In addition to courses on medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, and medical billing, associate degree programs may also include courses on healthcare delivery systems, healthcare law and ethics, healthcare management, and healthcare informatics.
Bachelor’s degree programs in medical billing and coding are less common than associate degree programs, but they are available at some universities and colleges. These programs typically take around 4 years to complete, although some accelerated programs may be completed in as little as 3 years.
Bachelor’s degree programs in medical billing and coding provide a more in-depth education in the field and cover a wider range of topics than associate degree programs. In addition to courses on medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, and medical billing, bachelor’s degree programs may also include courses on healthcare economics, healthcare policy, healthcare management, and healthcare informatics.