Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Illinois: View Top Programs

Looking at Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes 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:

Your Questions, Answered: FAQs for Students in Illinois

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.

Ranking the Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Program in Illinois

We use rankings to determine the best medical billing and coding online program in Illinois. While you can see the full details of how our rankings work in the “About the Rankings” section, you should know that we evaluate schools based on a variety of criteria. These include online course offerings and ease of online learning, average tuition costs and typical financial aid packages, graduation and completion rates, and more. Discover which school made its way onto our list as the top option for students like you by continuing on below.

Continuing Education and Certification Options 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: How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Make in Illinois?

Illinois offers a wide range of earning potential for medical billing and coding professionals, with a median salary of $49,900. Statewide, top earners bring in up to $75,850, while certain regions outshine even this impressive figure. The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area leads in median pay at $51,040, with high-end salaries reaching $79,710. Danville, however, boasts the highest potential, with 90th-percentile earners making $82,910. For those seeking maximum earnings, Kankakee stands out with top salaries of $89,010, making it one of the most lucrative regions in the state. Smaller areas like Champaign-Urbana and Decatur offer lower medians but remain competitive in more affordable markets.

Despite its high salaries, job growth in Illinois is slower than the national average, at just 6%. The field is projected to add 340 new jobs by 2030, bringing the total to 6,030, with 420 annual openings. While opportunities may be limited compared to other states, Illinois remains an attractive option for professionals aiming to maximize their earning potential. Explore the tables below to learn more about your career prospects in the Prairie State.