Medical Coder
Certificate
Medical coders play a vital role in healthcare operations. A medical coder reviews patient charts and translates information to a universal coding system required by insurance companies. They are essential in tracking patient disease entities and the services patients receive.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
Students will learn fundamental concepts, knowledge, and skills in medical coding and be prepared for entry-level careers in medical offices, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, insurance companies and governmental agencies. Students will complete a coding internship in a hospital or other healthcare setting.
Admissions Office
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the certification exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Network with other students through ICC student organizations including the Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Medical Coder, Medical Records Coordinator, Medical Coding Specialist, Medical Billing Specialist, Medical Records Technician, Health Information Specialist, Medical Records Clerk, Health Information Clerk
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters
30 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$4,650
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2023-24
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
The faculty in the program are not only educators, but they continue to work as professional coders, bringing their experience and the latest industry knowledge to the classroom.
Kristine Cormany, Adjunct Faculty – Health Careers
How Do I Get Into the Medical Coder Program?
Trained medical coders are in-demand and are essential members of the healthcare team of many organizations. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy.
- Submit health science application.
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, math, biology, and keyboarding is beneficial.
- Applicants should be detail-oriented and exhibit professionalism.
What Can I Expect as a Medical Coder Student?
- Graduates will earn a Medical Coder Certificate.
- Graduates will be prepared for entry-level employment in organizations such as UnityPoint Health, OSF Healthcare, and Heartland Healthcare.
- Students will complete a Coding Internship in their fourth semester.
- Students who complete an ICC Medical Coder Certificate can apply earned credits to the Health Information Technology Associate in Applied Science degree.
Additional Information
Additional Opportunities
Innovative Bridge to Health Careers
The Innovative Bridge to Health Careers Program is an 8-week program that will engage participants in training designed to introduce and academically prepare them for entry into the various ICC Health Career opportunities.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.
Admissions
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Phone: (309) 694-5200
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Administrative Building
L220C
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Mon-Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm
Virtual Stretch Hours
Mon-Tue: 4:30 pm – 6pm