If you’re considering a career as a medical coder, one of the first things you’re probably curious about is:
How long will it take to become one?
You might be wondering how much schooling is required, what options are available, and how soon you can begin working in this in-demand field.
The good news? Becoming a medical coder doesn’t have to take years or cost a lot of money.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly how long it takes to become a medical coder. Whether you’re looking at degrees, certificate programs, or flexible online training options, we’ll explain the timelines with different paths.
Also see: What Does a Medical Coder Do?
How Long is Medical Billing & Coding School?
Your formal training is the foundation of your career as a medical coder, but how long it takes to complete this training depends on the type of program you choose.
There is more than one path to becoming a medical coder, and each comes with its own timeline, pros and cons.
Broadly, there are three options you can consider:
- Medical Coding Degree
- Medical Coding Certificate
- Medical Coding Online Programs
Let’s break these down one by one so you can find the option that best fits your goals and lifestyle.
Medical Coding Degree
Completing your medical coding training via the degree route is often considered the most traditional and “safest” way to start a career in medical coding, as a healthcare-related degree holds significant value and is widely respected by employers.
Completing a traditional on-campus college degree program typically takes about two years.
However, while a degree may offer credibility, it’s not without significant drawbacks, that might hinder your medical coding journey.
Let’s take a closer look at some challenges that come with pursuing a medical coding degree:
Long Time Commitment
Two years is a significant investment of time, especially if you’re looking to switch careers quickly or enter the workforce faster.
This lengthy timeline might not be ideal for individuals balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
Also, degree programs often include general courses that may have little to do with medical coding. You might find yourself spending extra time and money on courses that don’t directly contribute to the skills needed for this role.
High Costs
Traditional on-campus degree programs can be highly expensive. Between tuition, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses, the total cost of a two-year program can easily reach upwards of $30,000.
For many, this financial burden can be overwhelming, and this may result in students having to take some sort of financial aid to complete their education, such as an education loan. This can take years to repay, adding to the hassle.
Rigid Schedules
On-campus programs typically come with strict class schedules, which may not be practical for working adults or those with family commitments.
Missing a class could mean waiting weeks—or even months—to retake it. This can set you back further and make getting that medical coding degree even longer than two years.
Commuting and Accessibility
Attending classes in person can also mean long commutes, additional travel expenses, and time spent on campus. This added inconvenience makes pursuing a degree less feasible.
Medical Coding Certificate Programs
Medical coding certificate programs are another popular option students tend to consider while exploring a career in this field.
These programs, generally offered by community colleges, typically take about 12 months to complete, making them faster than traditional degree programs.
They’re also more affordable compared to a two-year degree, with tuition costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
However, despite these benefits, certificate programs still come with their own set of challenges:
Cost
While certificate programs are less expensive than degrees, they can still be quite costly, with tuition costs up to $10,000.
Tuition, supplies, and additional expenses can add up quickly, putting a strain on your budget.
Strict Class Schedules
Much like degree programs, certificate courses often follow rigid class schedules, which means you might have to attend on-campus classes.
This also means dealing with commuting time, travel expenses, and the inconvenience of being tied to a physical classroom setting.
Limited Flexibility
Missing classes or falling behind in coursework can be a setback, as certificate programs may not offer flexible rescheduling options, like degree programs. You might end up waiting weeks or months to make up for lost time.
Medical Coding Online Programs
Online programs are recently gaining popularity among aspiring medical coders, and for good reason.
If you’re looking for a faster, more convenient, and affordable way to become a medical coder, online programs are the most recommended alternative you can consider.
Unlike traditional degrees or certificate programs, online medical coding programs are usually designed to help with all the drawbacks of other options—making them an ideal choice for busy individuals who want to kickstart towards their careers without unnecessary hurdles.
Here’s why online medical coding programs stand out:
Faster Completion
Some online programs offer 100% online and self-paced courses, allowing you to complete your training in a matter of months, not years.
This means you can start your career quickly without spending endless time in classrooms or lecture halls.
Read: Medical Billing and Coding Training
Affordable Costs
Compared to traditional degrees and on-campus certificates, some online programs are far more budget-friendly, with their tuition costs ranging between $2,000 to $5,000. These costs are generally transparent, including additional learning materials.
This means you won’t have to worry about paying high tuition costs for general education courses, commuting costs, or expensive textbooks—making quality education far more accessible.
Flexible
One of the biggest advantages of online programs is the flexibility they offer. Whether you’re balancing a full-time job, caring for your family, or just managing a busy schedule, you can learn at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.
There are no rigid class schedules or commuting hassles—just the freedom to study when and from wherever it works for you.
Also See: Medical Billing and Coding Classes Online
Focused, Practical Learning
Online programs focus solely on what you need to succeed as a medical coder. There’s no additional generalized coursework.
Instead, you’ll get practical, career-specific training that prepares you for the real-world responsibilities of a medical coder.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how long it takes to become a medical coder ultimately depends on the type of program you choose.
If you opt for a traditional degree program, it could take two to three years to complete your training.
However, with online programs, you can become job-ready in as little as 6-8 months.
Online programs offer the perfect combination of faster course completion, affordability, and flexibility, making it easier than ever to start your career in medical coding without putting your life on hold.
Read More:
- 4 Week Online Course For Medical Coding and Billing
- Medical Coding Certification
- How You Could Get a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate in 4 Months
- How Much Does a Medical Coder Make?
