When we think of getting trained for medical coding or for any career, the common advice we get is to enroll in a degree program.
For years, these programs have been considered the gold standard for starting a career in healthcare administration.
But is a medical coding degree truly worth the time, money, and effort? We’ll discuss that in this article.
Moreover, we’ll also explore the types of medical coding degrees, and examine the problems associated with these programs.
Lastly, we’ll introduce you to a better approach that could make you job-ready from the comfort of your home, without the need to drive to college or without any student loan debt.
So, if you’re ready to challenge the outdated idea that a degree is the only path to a successful medical coding career, keep reading!
Types of Medical Coding Degrees
If you’re considering a formal education path to become a medical coder, you’ll likely encounter two primary types of degree programs: Associate Degree and Bachelor’s Degree.
Here’s what you need to know about each:
Associate Degree in Medical Coding
An associate degree is an undergraduate program that provides a solid foundation in medical coding, billing, and related healthcare administrative skills. Community colleges, technical schools, and some universities offer them.
Most associate degree programs take about 2 years to complete for full-time students. Some schools offer accelerated options, allowing you to finish in less time.
Tuition for an associate degree in medical coding varies widely but generally ranges from $10,000 to $40,000 for the entire program. Additional costs may include books, supplies, and administrative fees.
Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Coding
To pursue a bachelor’s degree in medical coding you need to enroll in a bachelor’s in health care management or health information management program.
This degree is aimed at individuals seeking leadership or managerial roles in the healthcare field and you can pursue this degree from universities or colleges.
A bachelor’s degree typically takes 4 years to complete for full-time students. Some institutions offer accelerated programs for those who already hold an associate degree or relevant work experience.
Bachelor’s degree programs are significantly more expensive, with tuition ranging from $40,000 to $120,000 or more. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants can help offset the costs.
Is a Medical Coding Degree Worth It?
The short answer to this is NO!
A medical coding degree is generally not worth the time, expense, or effort for most aspiring medical coders.
The major problem with us is that we don’t understand what employers want. The employers in the field prioritize certification—not degrees.
So, a credential like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC is considered the gold standard for employment.
Moreover, the other downside of a degree program is cost, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars, leaving you with substantial debt. Additionally, they often take two to four years to complete, delaying your entry into the workforce.
We’ll discuss the problems in detail in the next section.
So, if you’re aiming for a career in medical coding, a focused certification program that gives out an externship could be a more affordable and effective route.
Problems With the Degree Programs
Pursuing a degree in medical coding might seem like a solid investment, but for many, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits.
Here’s why:
Expensive Tuition
Degree programs often come with hefty price tags, $10,000 to $40,000 in tuition alone. This significant financial commitment can be overwhelming, especially when more affordable certification programs that provide the same career opportunities are available.
Added Expenses
Beyond tuition, students are often burdened with costs for textbooks, administrative fees, and other miscellaneous expenses like parking bills, food, and rent.
These additional costs can quickly add up, making the total investment even more daunting. For many, this financial strain leads to student loan debt, which can take years, or even decades, to repay.
Longer Duration
Unlike certification programs that can be completed in a matter of months, degree programs typically take two to four years to finish. This extended timeline delays your entry into the workforce, prolonging the time it takes to start earning a salary and gaining valuable industry experience.
Not Made for Busy Adults
Degree programs often follow rigid schedules and require on-campus attendance, which can be difficult for adults balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. This lack of flexibility makes it challenging for working professionals or parents to pursue their career goals without sacrificing other aspects of their lives.
For aspiring medical coders, these challenges make degree programs less appealing.
So, what could be the better approach? Let’s dive in.
Alternate Approach – Go for Online Programs
If you want to start a career as a medical coder, all you need is a better approach. An approach that allows you to get affordable training, an externship so you gain real-world experience, and could make you ready for the certification.
For that, an online training program is a practical and efficient solution compared to traditional degree programs.
Here’s why online programs are better:
Convenient
Online programs are designed with flexibility in mind, making them ideal for busy adults. With a self-paced format, you can learn from the comfort of your home, at a time that works best for your schedule.
Whether you’re juggling work, family, or other responsibilities, these programs allow you to balance your commitments while advancing your career.
Faster Completion
Unlike degree programs that take years to finish, online medical coding and billing programs can often be completed in as little as 6 months. This accelerated timeline lets you start your career faster and begin earning a steady income sooner.
Affordable Tuition – No Student Loan Debt
Online programs are significantly more affordable than degree programs, helping you avoid burdensome student loan debt. With tuition costs often under $2,000, you can gain the skills and credentials you need without breaking the bank.
Earn a University Certificate
Many online programs, such as Preppy, partner with accredited universities to offer a certificate of completion. This credential enhances your resume, signaling to employers that you’ve received high-quality training from a reputable institution.
You Could Become CPC Certification-Ready
The best thing about online programs is they could make you ready for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, a credential that demonstrates your expertise and boosts your employability. Becoming CPC certified sets, you apart in the competitive job market.
Externship Opportunity
Hands-on experience is critical in the healthcare field, and some online programs provide an externship opportunity. This real-world experience allows you to apply your skills in professional settings, ensuring you’re job-ready upon graduation.
Now the bigger question here is –
Is There a Program Like That?
Yes, we’ve created a program that fits the mold.
Preppy’s Online Self-Paced Medical Coding and Billing Program checks all these boxes. It’s affordable, flexible, and designed to provide you with the tools you need to succeed in your new career.
If you’re looking for a faster, more affordable, and more convenient path to becoming a certified medical coder, Preppy’s Online Self-Paced Medical Coding and Billing Training Program could be the perfect fit for you.
Here’s what you get with Preppy:
- Preppy’s program offers online, self-paced learning, which allows you to learn from the comfort of your home while balancing other responsibilities.
- You’ll earn a university certificate from the highly reputed, accredited, 150-year-old, non-profit institution – Auburn University.
- With Preppy, you could also become ready for the AAPC’s CPC exam, a critical certification in the field.
- Preppy costs only $1599, so it’s significantly more affordable, in fact, cheaper, than the traditional degree or certificate programs.
- Moreover, you could complete the program in as little as 6 months, which means you could start your career sooner.
- Plus, you get 24/7 support for both technical and course-related queries.
- Lastly, at this time, if you enroll in our program there’s a bonus where you can get a free laptop, and that’s yours to keep even after completion of your program.
Ultimately, if you want to become job-ready faster at an affordable price, without driving to college or without a student loan, then you could check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Coding and Billing Training Program.
Conclusion
While a medical coding degree might seem like the traditional route, it’s far from the most practical or efficient choice for aspiring coders today.
Instead, online medical coding programs offer a streamlined, affordable, and flexible solution.
They allow you to study at your own pace, avoid student loan debt, and become certification-ready faster—all from the comfort of your home.
So, why wait years and spend a fortune on a degree when you can achieve your goals in just a few months?
Take the smarter path and check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Coding and Billing Training Program today!
FAQs
Do I Need a Degree to Become a Medical Coder?
No, you do not need a degree to become a medical coder. While degree programs in medical coding are available, they are not the most practical or efficient path for most people.
As discussed, degree programs are expensive and often come with added expenses that can lead to significant student loan debt.
They also take longer to complete making them less suitable for adults with busy schedules or those who want to enter the workforce quickly.
Instead, a more affordable and flexible alternative like Preppy’s self-paced medical coding and billing training program can help you get started without the heavy financial burden or time commitment of a degree program.
Who Needs a Degree in Medical Coding?
In most cases, you don’t need a degree to build a successful career in medical coding. The field offers competitive pay, strong job security, and a promising career trajectory, even without a degree.
However, if you are deeply committed to advancing your career into leadership or specialized roles, a degree might be worth considering.
Keep This in Mind About Degree Programs:
- Degree programs can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 and take up to two years to complete, which may result in student loan debt.
- The rigorous nature of these programs demands significant time and effort, which can be challenging and stressful for busy adults juggling work and family.
What Are the Career Advancement Opportunities After a Medical Coding Degree Program?
Completing a degree program and earning certifications can open doors to advanced medical billing and coding roles.
Besides these qualifications, if you gain some experience, it can help you qualify for higher-level positions within your current organization or at other facilities.
Potential advanced roles include:
Health Information Manager: Oversee the management and security of health information systems.
Medical Records Director: Lead the department responsible for maintaining accurate patient records.
Hospital Coding Manager: Supervise coding teams and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Medical Coding Auditor: Review coding practices to ensure accuracy and regulatory adherence.
Medical Billing Manager: Manage the billing department and oversee reimbursement processes.
How Much Can a Medical Coder Earn in the U.S.?
According to BLS 2023 data, medical record specialists or medical coders earn around $48,780 annually, while the top earners make $77,810 per year.
In contrast, as per Glassdoor 2025 data, the average salary for a medical billing manager in the U.S. is $63,963 per year, while the top earners make $85,500 per year.
