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Author: Maggie Aime, RN, MSN, CPC
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Maggie Aime is a freelance writer with over 25 years of healthcare experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Capella University. Her clinical expertise covers multiple specialties, including oncology, cardiology, kidney transplant, and pediatrics. In addition to her clinical background, Maggie has worked as a patient financial counselor and is a certified professional coder, providing her with insight into healthcare operations and finance. She applies this diverse experience to create content that supports students in both the clinical and business aspects of healthcare. Maggie’s writing has appeared in prominent healthcare and educational publications such as AARP, GoodRx, Next Avenue, Everyday Health, Fortune, and Well+Good.
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Editor: Sarah Mattie, MA
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Sarah Mattie has over five years of experience writing and editing for postsecondary education websites. She specializes in creating clear, accessible content and overseeing writers and editors. While earning her master’s degree at Emerson College, Sarah contributed articles to communication publications and wrote a thesis on the use of theatre in TESOL. Her work focuses on delivering accurate and engaging information that meets readers’ needs and supports their academic and career goals.
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Self-Paced Medical Billing & Coding Classes: Explore Options for 2026

If you’re looking for an essential healthcare career that doesn’t involve direct patient care — and you need flexibility to learn around work or family — self-paced medical billing and coding classes may be a perfect fit. They let you study on your own schedule, move at your own speed, and start building job-ready skills without giving up your current routine. This guide compares popular online self-paced billing and coding programs, explains what “self-paced” really looks like, and answers common FAQs.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

A woman with dark hair pulled back in a low bun smiles at the camera. She is wearing a single drop earring and is set against an orange circular background.
Author: Maggie Aime, RN, MSN, CPC
A woman with dark hair pulled back in a low bun smiles at the camera. She is wearing a single drop earring and is set against an orange circular background.
Maggie Aime, RN, MSN, CPC Arrow up right
Maggie Aime is a freelance writer with over 25 years of healthcare experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Capella University. Her clinical expertise covers multiple specialties, including oncology, cardiology, kidney transplant, and pediatrics. In addition to her clinical background, Maggie has worked as a patient financial counselor and is a certified professional coder, providing her with insight into healthcare operations and finance. She applies this diverse experience to create content that supports students in both the clinical and business aspects of healthcare. Maggie’s writing has appeared in prominent healthcare and educational publications such as AARP, GoodRx, Next Avenue, Everyday Health, Fortune, and Well+Good.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareMedical CodingNursing
HealthcareMedical CodingNursing
Editor: Sarah Mattie, MA
A woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair and a warm smile, wearing a dark button-up shirt, poses in front of a light, neutral background.
Sarah Mattie, MA Arrow up right
Sarah Mattie has over five years of experience writing and editing for postsecondary education websites. She specializes in creating clear, accessible content and overseeing writers and editors. While earning her master’s degree at Emerson College, Sarah contributed articles to communication publications and wrote a thesis on the use of theatre in TESOL. Her work focuses on delivering accurate and engaging information that meets readers’ needs and supports their academic and career goals.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareOnline Learning
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What Does “Self-Paced” Look Like in Medical Billing & Coding?

Self-paced medical billing and coding programs allow you to control your weekly study schedule while still receiving structured resources, instructional support, and exam preparation.

As someone who’s completed a self-paced billing and coding program, I can say it genuinely makes balancing school with life much more manageable.

Here’s what you can expect:

Asynchronous Learning

With asynchronous coursework, you can access your classes 24/7. You’ll watch pre-recorded lectures, complete assignments, and take quizzes whenever it fits your schedule.

Developing consistent study habits is key. For example, I found early mornings to be my most productive time: before work and before the day got busy.

Flexible Completion Times

Many self-paced billing and coding programs offer multiple suggested timelines — such as 4-week, 6-, or 12-month tracks — while also allowing extensions. In my program, I could take up to 18 months without paying extra, which reduced pressure when life got hectic.

Independent vs. Structured Self-Paced Models

Most self-paced programs fall into one of two categories:

  1. Independent Self-Paced
    1. Maximum flexibility
    2. Minimal required interaction
    3. Students set their own deadlines and pace
  2. Structured Self-Paced
    1. Regular instructor check-ins
    2. Recommended pacing guides
    3. More accountability while still flexible

Both options allow you to work at your own pace, but the right choice depends on how much support and structure you prefer.

There are many online billing and coding programs, but not all are self-paced or designed for busy adults. Below are several well-established self-paced options to help you compare formats, costs, and features.

Ashworth College – Online Medical Billing and Coding Career Diploma

Ashworth’s self-paced career diploma includes industry-standard software and coding books (which many other schools charge separately). Coursework covers medical terminology, body systems, ICD-10, CPT, and electronic medical records. Simulation software helps prepare you for real-world billing tasks.

A major perk: The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam from the NHA is included in tuition.

Program Format: Online, self-paced

Program Length: Up to 12 months

Penn Foster Training Institute – Online Medical Coding Training

Penn Foster offers a self-paced medical coding certificate aimed toward the CPC exam. Students can take up to 18 months, though many finish sooner.

The $2,199 tuition includes:

  • CPC exam voucher
  • CPC practice tests
  • AAPC student membership
  • AAPC Practicode course (lets you bypass the CPC-A apprenticeship period)

Although Penn Foster is not accredited, the program is designed to build job-ready skills and prepare you for the CPC exam.

Program Format: Online, self-paced

Program Length: Up to 18 months

San Francisco State University – Medical Billing and Coding Online Course

SFSU’s self-paced program offers six months of access, with eBooks, workbooks, interactive modules, and 24/7 instructor support.

Curriculum includes:

  • ICD-10-CM and CPT coding
  • CMS 1500 forms
  • Claims, denials, and appeals
  • HIPAA and EDI
  • Coding practice across multiple specialties

Exam vouchers aren’t included, but the program prepares you for AAPC, AHIMA, and NHA certifications.

Program Format: Online, self-paced with instructor support

Program Length: 6 months of access

Texas State University – Online Medical Billing and Coding Course

Texas State’s self-paced program offers open enrollment and allows students to choose from three certifications:

  • CPC (AAPC)
  • CCA (AHIMA)
  • CBCS (NHA)

Exam vouchers and study materials for your chosen certification are included. Students receive both digital and physical coding manuals used in real coding environments.

Program Format: Online, self-paced

Program Length: Up to 12 months

U.S. Career Institute – Online Medical Coding & Billing Certificate Program

Perfect for mobile learners, this DEAC-accredited program is fully phone-friendly, allowing you to study anywhere. Students can begin immediately after enrolling and finish in as little as five months.

Additional highlights include:

  • 5-day money-back guarantee
  • Preparation for CBCS or CPC-A
  • Career Coach Program for job search assistance

Program Format: Online, self-paced

Program Length: 5-12 months

Questions About Self-Paced Medical Billing Classes

Can medical billing and coding be self-taught?

Yes, you can self-teach medical billing and coding, but formal training is usually more practical and effective.

Textbooks, YouTube tutorials, and practice cases can help you learn the basics, but certification exams like the CPC and CBCS require deeper knowledge. Most employers prefer candidates who’ve completed an accredited or structured training program.

Can you do medical billing and coding on your own time?

Yes, self-paced programs are specifically designed to let you study whenever it works for you.

You set your own schedule, move at your preferred pace, and take the certification exam when you feel ready. Many working adults complete these programs by studying just a few hours a week.

Is AAPC self-paced?

Yes, AAPC offers several self-paced training options, including its Self-Paced Max courses for certifications like the CPC.

Courses include online training modules, practice tests, and unlimited exam attempts for six months (with extension options available).

Can you take the CPC exam without going to school?

You can take the CPC exam without going to school, but passing it without formal training is challenging.

The CPC exam is rigorous and covers 17 major coding categories under timed conditions. Even with prior experience, many people choose structured prep programs to ensure they’re fully prepared.

Benefits of Self-Paced Billing & Coding Classes

Self-paced medical billing and coding programs offer multiple advantages, especially if you need flexibility.

Learning at Your Own Speed

While programs set maximum completion deadlines, you choose how quickly to move through each module based on your comfort and your schedule.

Balancing School with Work/Life Commitments

Self-paced programs are ideal for parents, full-time workers, and caregivers. If life gets busy, many schools allow pauses, extensions, or flexible pacing adjustments.

Controlling Costs

Self-paced programs often provide:

  • Flat-rate tuition
  • Payment plans
  • Included exam vouchers
  • Bundled textbooks + software

Studying online also means no commuting, no parking fees, and fewer missed work hours — helping lower your overall investment.

Keep Learning

Medical Billing and Coding Salary: Learn How Much You Can Make

If you’re wondering how much you can make in the...

Online Medical Billing & Coding Certifications: What's Best for You?

Learn the details of medical billing and coding...

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Explore accredited online medical billing &...

Maggie Aime, RN, MSN, CPC AUTHOR

Maggie Aime is a freelance writer with over 25 years of healthcare experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Capella University. Her clinical expertise covers multiple specialties, including oncology, cardiology, kidney transplant, and pediatrics. In addition to her clinical background, Maggie has worked as a patient financial counselor and is a certified professional coder, providing her with insight into healthcare operations and finance. She applies this diverse experience to create content that supports students in both the clinical and business aspects of healthcare. Maggie’s writing has appeared in prominent healthcare and educational publications such as AARP, GoodRx, Next Avenue, Everyday Health, Fortune, and Well+Good.

Read More About Maggie Aime

Sarah Mattie, MA EDITOR

Sarah Mattie has over five years of experience writing and editing for postsecondary education websites. She specializes in creating clear, accessible content and overseeing writers and editors. While earning her master’s degree at Emerson College, Sarah contributed articles to communication publications and wrote a thesis on the use of theatre in TESOL. Her work focuses on delivering accurate and engaging information that meets readers’ needs and supports their academic and career goals.

Read More About Sarah Mattie
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