Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Texas: Compare Programs

In-Depth Look at Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Texas

In our review of online medical billing and coding programs in Texas, we found a wide array of options that are student-focused and each offers something different. As you consider your options, think about whether you prefer to learn synchronously or asynchronously, a cohort or solo approach, and whether you want to apply credits down the line toward an associate’s degree or beyond. Additionally, consider if you are most interested in medical billing, coding, or a combination program.

Providing Answers to Common Student Questions

If you still have some lingering questions about pursuing a career in medical billing and coding in Texas, then you’re not alone. We’ve compiled prospective billing and coding students’ most frequently asked questions to address any concerns you may still have.

So, let’s talk all things course structure, prerequisites, salary, and certification!

Are medical billing and coding classes ever offered online or part-time?

Medical billing and coding classes are often offered online, in-person, or in a hybrid format. For example, Central Texas College offers online courses for its Medical Coding and Billing program. The Medical Billing and Coding Program at the College of Health Care Professions, on the other hand, offers both virtual classes and hybrid courses.

Most programs where you accumulate credits are technically classified as part-time, as the number of credits per term falls below the full-time status for the institution. Online asynchronous programs allow students to complete courses at their own pace, often with a deadline when your accompanying resources may expire and you may have to renew the course.

Are there any prerequisites for medical billing and coding programs?

Some institutions require a high school diploma or equivalent for admission. While most online billing & coding programs themselves do not require a high school diploma or GED, the certification exams typically do require a high school diploma, so consider that along with your timeline for applying and studying.

Some programs do require students to take an entrance exam. For example, the College of Health Care Professions requires students to earn a score of 17 or higher on the Scholastic Level Exam in order to apply to its Medical Billing and Coding Program.

Lone Star College also requires students to take a pre-assessment activity and placement test, and you may find it helpful to have some background knowledge in anatomy and physiology, as this is in the curriculum of every program.

How much do medical billing and coding professionals make in Texas?

How much a medical billing or coding professional makes in Texas depends on the city, the level of education, the type and number of certificates they hold, and the experience they have. However, the prevalence of remote work means that you may be able to reside somewhere with a lower cost of living while working in an area that boasts higher salaries.

Medical billing and coding professionals’ salaries in Texas are on par with the national average. Certified Medical Coders with 0-1 years of experience earn an average of $39,335, while those with 5-9 years of experience earn an average of $50,318.

What certification exam(s) do I need to take before I can start working?

The certification exam you choose depends on your career goals. Keep in mind that medical billing and coding are two different responsibilities that can require separate certifications, although you can become certified in both. After completing your coding program, you will be prepared to sit for any of the following exams: Certified Coding Associate (CCA); Certified Coding Specialist (CCS); or Certified Professional Coder (CPC).

If you’re interested in working exclusively in billing, you can sit for the Certified Professional Biller (CPB) exam, or the Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS) exam, among others.

If you’re interested in both areas for maximum employability, you can work to earn the Certified Billing and Coding Specialists (CBCS) credential or take both the CPC and CPB exams.

What is the process for applying to a medical billing and coding program?

Most institutions require students to apply to both the school and the program. Many medical billing and coding programs also require you to submit an official transcript. Some may require test scores, and others may require proof of vaccination, particularly if you enroll in traditional in-person classes. Some fully virtual programs allow you to sign up today to begin your studies immediately, although these programs may not offer credits to apply towards a degree later. Each program has its unique application process but these are the general admissions processes that you can expect to encounter.

Ranking the Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Classes in Texas

Finding the right school is key because it will guide your academic experience and professional trajectory. To highlight some of the best programs out there, we’ve created a rigorous ranking system. For Michigan, only one medical assistant program received a coveted spot on our list. Siena Heights University’s medical assistant program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and checks all the boxes when it comes to a comprehensive curriculum, cutting-edge teaching modalities, flexible online instruction, and affordable tuition. For more details on our ranking system, see the methodology pop-up.

Certifications and Continuing Education Requirements

Certification in medical billing and coding is typically recognized at the national level by three main bodies, the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The best way to decide what certification might be the best fit for you is to look at some job postings that interest you and see which credentials they prefer or require. Once you determine the likely best certification for you, you can look at that certification body and its requirements.

Across the board, you will want to ensure you select a program that meets accreditation standards, some of which are set by the AAPC and the Commission of Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). Look for programs/schools that prominently feature their accreditation by one of these organizations.

Once you earn your certification, you will have to recertify and pay a fee approximately every two years to keep your professional status and remain connected to current information. You will have to earn a variety of continuing education units (CEUs), between 10-36 CEUs, depending on your certification.

How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Earn in Texas?