Online Medical Billing & Coding Programs in Illinois
If you want to work in medical billing and coding in Illinois, an online degree, diploma, or certificate program can be a convenient and affordable way to learn the skills and earn the qualifications you need. Because programs can vary in requirements, cost, and length, let EduMed show you what to expect and which Illinois online medical billing and coding program might be right for you.
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Looking Inside Medical Coding Programs in Illinois
As you consider your future career in medical billing and coding, it’s important to know your options for different online programs in Illinois. These programs can grant a diploma, a certificate, or an associate degree (AAS). Which one is right for you will depend on your education and work history, as well as financial considerations, your stance on synchronous vs asynchronous vs self-paced classes, and more. Below are a few high-quality online medical billing and coding programs in Illinois to give you an idea of what to potentially expect and get you started in your research:
Online Medical Billing and Coding Training Certificate — Governors State University
The online medical billing and coding training program with Governors State University is designed to help students like you prepare for the certification that suits your needs and career goals, with the ability for students to enroll and start at any time. You will gain hands-on experience in coding and medical billing software. The curriculum will show students how to use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes, ensuring that they gain full knowledge on how to assign them in standard procedures. An externship starter kit is also part of the course, directing students onto a path of success after graduation. Students will receive a voucher for the CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification exam upon completion of the course.
Duration: Four to six months
Mode: Online
Cost: $3,250.00
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
Curriculum:
Medical Terminology
- Introduction to Medical Terminology
- The Musculoskeletal System
- The Cardiovascular System
- The Lymphatic and Immune Systems
- The Respiratory System
- The Digestive System
- The Urinary System
- The Nervous System
- The Special Senses the Eyes and Ears
- The Integumentary System
- The Endocrine System
- The Reproductive System
- Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacology
Medical Billing and Coding
- Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
- Introduction to Health Insurance
- Managed Healthcare
- Revenue Cycle Management
- Legal Aspects of Health Insurance and Reimbursement
- ICD-10-CM Coding
- CPT Coding
- HCPCS Level II Coding
- ICD-10-PCS Coding
- Pharmacology for Coders
- Midterm
- Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
- Insurance Claims
- Commercial Insurance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Medicare
- Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
- Certification
- How to Find a Job in Medical Billing and Coding
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Medical Coding Certificate — Southern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University, or SIU, offers a medical coding certificate that teaches students proficiency in CPT Category II codes and ICD-10 codes, and prepares you to sit the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders. The course is fully online, and you can enroll at any time throughout the year. You’ll master the Healthcare Common procedure Coding System, and will be prepared to apply for work as a certified coder in the healthcare field at the end of the one-year program, in a hospital, medical office, or other clinical setting.
Duration: One Year
Mode: Online
Cost: $9,638
Admissions Requirements:
- Online Application
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Introduction to Billing and Coding
- Healthcare Law
- Introduction to Health Insurance Terms
- Pharmacology for Coders
- ICD-10-CM
- CPT and HCPCS Level II Coding
- Abstracting Information from Medical Documents
- New Patients, Insurance Claims and EOBS
- Submitting Electronic Claims and CMS 1500
- Blue Cross/Blue Shield
- Medicare
- Other Healthcare Programs
- ICD-10-PCS (Optional Lesson)
- Survey of Hospital Billing
- Career Roadmap for Medical Billing and Coding – Find a Job Fast
Medical Billing and Coding Certificate — University of Illinois at Springfield
The University of Illinois at Springfield offers a fully-online certificate program in medical billing and coding. With a strong emphasis on coding, you’ll be studying a variety of different coding types, as well as pharmacology from a coding perspective. In addition, you’ll be studying the insurance and claims industry in the United States, and how to handle different varieties of claims. The program will also prepare you to take a nationally-recognized exam to become certified. Course fees include a voucher to sit for the certification exam of your choice upon course completion.
Duration: One Year
Mode: Online
Cost: $2,995
Admissions Requirements:
- Online Application
- A high school diploma or GED is required to sit the certification exams
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
- Introduction to Health Insurance
- Managed Healthcare
- Revenue Cycle Management
- Legal Aspects of Health Insurance and Reimbursement
- VI. ICD-10-CM Coding
- CPT Coding
- HCPCS Level II Coding
- ICD-10-PCS Coding
- Pharmacology for Coders
- Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
- Coding with Your Codify Encoder
- Insurance Claims
- Commercial Insurance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Medicare
- Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
- Certification
- How to Find a Job in Medical Billing and Coding
- Land the Job
- Mock Exam
- Final Exam
- ICD-11 Preview
FAQs for Illinois Medical Coding Students
It’s natural to have more questions before applying to online medical billing and coding programs in Illinois. In fact, most prospective students will want questions answered before making the commitment of enrolling in a program. To that end, here are some of the most commonly-asked questions and their answers for you:
How do I become a medical coder in Illinois?
While many medical billing and coding online schools in Illinois do not require any prerequisites, a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED, is often recommended. Next, you will need to complete a post-secondary education program in medical billing and coding, usually either a diploma, a certificate, or an associate degree (AAS). Completing this education can take months to years based on many different factors. Once you have completed your education, consider obtaining a professional certification, such as the CPC, CDCS, or CCA, to improve your job prospects and earning potential.
How much does medical billing and coding pay in Illinois?
Per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical records specialists in Illinois have some of the highest average annual earnings in the nation as of 2023. This is especially true in the Chicago area, Illinois’ largest metro area, where the average salary for a medical records specialist in 2023 was $56,150. However, even within state and local averages, salaries will still vary, and generally speaking, more experienced medical billing and coding professionals as well as those with degrees or nationally-recognized certifications are more likely to have higher-paid positions.
Is medical billing and coding worth it?
The short answer is yes. Medical billing and coding can be a worthwhile career choice for those interested in healthcare. The profession allows individuals to enter the medical field quickly while also offering stable job security and room for professional growth. On top of these benefits, medical billing and coding roles are often remote, allowing you the flexibility to work from the comfort of your home while still making a difference in patients’ lives. Depending on the type of career you’re looking for, this medical career can be the ideal fit for a future professional like you.
Is medical billing and coding hard?
While medical billing and coding can be challenging, it is a skill that can be learned with proper education and training. How “hard” you find your medical billing and coding classes will depend highly on your pre-existing skills and how you learn best. If you have a keen eye for detail, an interest in medical systems, and the willingness to learn how to navigate complex healthcare regulations then you are well suited for medical billing and coding. People who are natural problem-solvers may even find the challenges of the job rewarding and interesting.
Is medical coding a good remote job?
Absolutely. Medical billing and coding is an excellent choice for peopleseeking remote work. Today, many healthcare organizations and insurance companies offer remote positions, and if you’ve already accustomed yourself to working remotely through an online program, you’ll be able to get started at a remote job with relative ease. Working remotely can help promote a healthy work-life balance, especially as you save time and energy by avoiding a lengthy commute. The opportunities for remote medical coding jobs are expected to grow due to increasing adoption of electronic medical records and remote access technologies.
MB&C Certification in Illinois
At present, there are no official education or licensure requirements to work as a medical billing and coding professional in the State of Illinois. However, according to Southern Illinois University, most Illinois entry-level jobs in medical billing and coding, as well as more advanced roles, will want you to hold an associate’s degree or higher, or at least some form of specialized medical billing and coding training. In the case of the latter, you should also be prepared to prove your high school diploma or GED upon applying for jobs.
While certification is not a requirement to work in medical billing and coding in Illinois, you may want to consider taking a nationally-recognized certification exam. This can help you stand out to prospective employers, especially if you don’t have prior medical billing and coding work experience and are looking at competitive positions.
Salary Potential: Medical Billers and Coders in Illinois
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,780 | $50,250 | $80,950 |
| Illinois | $36,900 | $49,420 | $74,520 |
| Bloomington, IL | $34,400 | $44,570 | $62,100 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $32,460 | $46,450 | $70,200 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $38,680 | $49,790 | $79,190 |
| Decatur, IL | $36,070 | $48,400 | $63,870 |
| Kankakee, IL | $34,690 | $54,720 | $77,400 |
| Peoria, IL | $35,150 | $48,120 | $73,520 |
| Rockford, IL | $35,980 | $52,070 | $65,310 |
| Springfield, IL | $37,570 | $49,360 | $65,710 |
Source: Medical Records Specialists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 194,300 | 210,900 | 16,600 | 8.50% | 15,000 |
| Illinois | 5,690 | 6,030 | 340 | 6.00% | 420 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online Medical/Billing Coding Programs in Illinois
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Shawnee Community College
- Shawnee Community College’s Medical Coding Specialist program allows graduates to take the Certified Coding and Billing Specialist (CBCS) certification exam on campus, facilitating convenient professional certification.
- The program can be completed in one year, providing an accelerated path to entry-level employment in medical coding and billing, enabling students to quickly enter the workforce.
- As an approved testing site for the CBCS exam, Shawnee Community College offers direct institutional support and testing opportunities, increasing students’ chances for timely certification and career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Waubonsee Community College
- The program includes a voucher for the Certified Professional Billing (CPB™) exam, fully preparing students to earn certification without additional exam costs.
- Students benefit from 100% online, self-paced learning with scenario-based exercises and hands-on practice for real-world skill application.
- The curriculum covers comprehensive training on all phases of the medical revenue cycle, including legal, ethical, and regulatory aspects such as HIPAA compliance.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lake Land College
- The Lakeland College Medical Billing and Coding program includes an exam voucher covering certification fees for both the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) and a medical billing and coding certification exam, removing the financial barrier for credentialing.
- The program delivers specialized training in legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks such as HIPAA compliance and official coding guidelines, ensuring students gain crucial, job-ready knowledge specific to the complexities of medical billing and coding.
- This online course prepares students comprehensively for successful certification and career entry by covering all revenue cycle phases and offering focused exam prep, supporting accelerated skill acquisition and job readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rend Lake College
- Rend Lake College’s Medical Coding program offers a focused, two-semester certificate designed specifically to prepare students to sit for medical coder licensing exams, emphasizing practical, hands-on learning in a laboratory setting that enhances real-world readiness.
- The program integrates training on healthcare laws, ethics, and confidentiality, ensuring students gain a thorough understanding of legal regulations critical to managing sensitive medical records and billing processes.
- Rend Lake College requires a background check and drug screening, reinforcing a professional, trustworthy environment that is attractive to employers and enhances students' clinical placement and employment prospects.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Black Hawk College
- Blackhawk Technical College's Medical Coder program offers flexible learning options including evening and weekend classes through MyEdChoice, accommodating busy students with work and family commitments.
- The program allows for prior learning credit transfer, potentially accelerating completion by recognizing relevant previous education or work experience.
- Upon completion, students are prepared for specialized coding roles in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies, enhancing employment versatility and opportunities in high-demand medical coding positions.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,105 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Spoon River College
- The Medical Billing and Coding program includes a voucher for the professional certification exam, enabling students to become certified without additional cost, which enhances their job prospects.
- This program offers scenario-based learning with frequent interactivities and practical assignments, providing hands-on experience essential for mastering claims and coding processes.
- Students can complete the course 100% online at their own pace, allowing flexibility for those balancing other commitments while preparing for a career in medical billing and coding.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,105 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,715 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Highland Community College
- The Medical Billing and Coding program includes a voucher for the professional certification exam of the student's choice, enhancing career readiness without extra cost.
- Students have the option to test out of the Medical Terminology course with a minimum 80% score, allowing accelerated progression for those with prior knowledge.
- Certified graduates can expect a significant salary advantage, as certified medical records specialists earn 15% more than non-certified counterparts according to AAPC 2023 Salary Survey.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,715 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected William Rainey Harper College
- The Medical Billing and Coding program at Harper College includes a voucher for the professional medical billing and coding certification exam, allowing students to choose the certification that best fits their career goals.
- Students with prior knowledge can test out of the medical terminology course by scoring at least 80%, enabling personalized pacing and potential accelerated completion.
- The program offers comprehensive training on legal, ethical, and regulatory concepts, including HIPAA compliance and third-party payer requirements, preparing students thoroughly for industry demands.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Lewis and Clark Community College
Godfrey, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,935 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lewis and Clark Community College
- The Medical Billing and Coding program at South Louisiana Community College offers tuition assistance options including federal aid, grants, scholarships, and veterans assistance to help reduce financial barriers for students.
- Louisiana Delta Community College includes the NHA Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam and test prep resources in its course cost, ensuring students graduate ready and credentialed without extra fees.
- The LSU Eunice online certificate program provides personalized support from experienced instructors and success coaches, and allows current healthcare professionals to potentially reduce coursework through transcript evaluation.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,935 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,900 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected College of Lake County
- The Medical Billing Specialist Certificate program at College of Lake County offers some of the lowest tuition fees in the region, with accessible financial aid and scholarships available even for working adults, making it financially attractive to students.
- Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized instruction by experienced faculty, providing a more supportive and engaging learning environment.
- The program features an articulating pathway allowing earned credits to transfer towards an Associate degree and further to a bachelor's degree in Health Information Management, supporting long-term educational and career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,900 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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