Online Medical Billing & Coding Programs in WA: Choosing a School
Read a complete breakdown of online medical billing and coding programs in the state of Washington, including the different types, how each works, the admissions process, and more. Online programs in Washington can prepare you for a successful career in medical billing and coding. Take your first steps with this guide and learn about the top medical billing and coding programs in Washington and what your potential pay and job prospects will be after graduating.
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In Focus: How the Programs Work
Online medical billing and coding programs in Washington offer flexible options for students at different stages of their careers. Most programs can be completed in four months to a year, with accelerated options finishing in as little as four weeks. Certificate and diploma programs are ideal for those looking to start quickly, while a two-year associate degree is a better choice for students planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree later.
These programs are designed to accommodate busy schedules, with resources that allow for evening, weekend, and asynchronous classes. Online students gain the medical and technical knowledge employers expect and are prepared to sit for certification exams, which many employers require. Here’s what to consider when exploring programs:
- Program type (certificate, diploma, associate degree)
- Duration and pacing options
- Flexibility for full-time workers or students with family obligations
- Preparation for certification exams
The following spotlights highlight some of Washington’s top online medical billing and coding programs to help guide your search.
Certificate or Associate in Technical Arts (ATA) in Medical Billing and Coding — Everett Community College
Students who enroll in Everett Community College have three options specific to medical coding and billing: they can pursue medical coding or medical billing certificates as standalone programs, or they can complete elements of both to earn an associate in technical arts in medical billing and coding program. During each of these programs, students learn about the delivery of healthcare and the terminology professionals are expected to understand. The ATA offers further coursework in pharmacology, insurance reimbursement, and diagnosis and coding procedures, and students are required to complete a practicum to further reinforce what they’ve learned.
To earn the medical coding certificate, students take coursework in business communications, advanced procedural and diagnostic coding, and healthcare terminology. In the medical billing certificate, the curriculum covers computer literacy, the structure and function of the human body, pathopharmacology, and healthcare law and ethics.
Duration: 1-3 years depending on the level of education
Mode: Fully Online
Cost: Washington residents pay $122.76 per credit for tuition, and non-residents pay $317.13.
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the online EvCC application
- Be at least 18 years old
- Submit your high school diploma or GED
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Healthcare Career
- Business Communications
- Business Computations
- College Writing
- Intro to Administrative Medical Office
- Healthcare Vocabulary
- Structure/Function Body
- Pathopharmacology
- Intro to Diagnosis Code
- Procedural Coding
- Principles of Medical Insurance
- Medical Reception
- Health Info and Delivery
- Reimbursement and Legal Comp
- Advanced Diagnosis and Procedural Coding
Programs that might interest you:
Medical Billing and Coding Training — Pierce College
Another standout online medical billing and coding training program in Washington is Pierce College, which prepares students to pass the Certified Professional Coder, Certified Coding Associate, and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist exams by providing expertise in medical terminology, software, and practices of medical billing and coding.
During the medical terminology portion of the curriculum, students learn about the endocrine, reproductive, nervous, urinary, and cardiovascular systems. Students are also introduced to pharmacology and diagnostic procedures. These concepts allow them to understand the services their medical offices provide so they’re able to bill patients correctly.
During medical billing coursework, students begin to understand how health insurance, managed care, and revenue cycle management work. They study the different types of commercial insurance, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, and become familiar with the types of claims that may be filed. In addition, the program covers the kinds of codes professionals use, such as ICD-10-CM, CPT, and ICD-10-PCS.
Duration: 1 year
Mode: Fully Online
Cost: Tuition for in-state residents is $123.58 per credit, while out-of-state residents pay $317.95.
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete the online application
- Complete the Guided Self Placement tests for English and math
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
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
- ICD-10-CM Coding
- CPT Coding
- HCPCS Level II Coding
- ICD-10-PCS Coding
- Pharmacology for Coders
- Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
- Insurance Claims
- Commercial Insurance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Medicare
- Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
- Certification
Medical Billing Specialist Certificate Program — Tacoma Community College
Tacoma Community College offers a medical billing specialist certificate program that is delivered entirely online and can be completed in one year. When students finish this program, they’re able to understand outpatient coding guidelines, medical reimbursement regulations, and the ethics medical billers and coders are expected to adhere to at work. Also, as they complete the program, students gain the strong written and verbal communication skills needed to work effectively in a busy healthcare setting.
In order to prepare students for the realities of working as a medical biller and coder, Tacoma Community College’s curriculum includes classes covering medical office procedures, insurance claims processing, and outpatient coding. Students learn about the different types of computer programs professionals use every day and the specific medical codes they’re required to know. To put this knowledge to the test, students participate in a practicum that allows them to demonstrate that they can apply what they’ve learned in class to a simulated experience.
Duration: 9 months
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $127.59 per credit for tuition at Tacoma Community College, while non-residents pay $328.13.
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete the online application
- Be at least 18 years old
Curriculum:
- English Composition
- Word and Excel
- Healthcare Delivery and Alternate Care
- Medical Office Procedures
- Beginning Outpatient Dx Coding
- Medical Office Professional Development and Ethics
- Insurance Claims Processing
- Beginning Outpatient Px Coding
- Medical Billing Specialist (MBS) Practicum
- Medical Terminology
- Business Math
FAQs for Washington Medical Billing & Coding Students
Although you may be sure that this is the right educational and professional path for you, chances are, you still have some questions about medical billing and coding online schools in Washington. The following are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. Continue reading to find out additional information that will help you on your journey.
How much debt will I have from nursing school?
When working to earn your medical billing and coding certification in Washington State, you’ll want to ensure your school meets certain standards. This means you should research and identify educational options exclusively from accredited schools. Accreditation ensures that you’re getting quality program content because the college has been given the seal of approval from a group of education experts. For example, Everett Community College and Pierce College are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, while UEI College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
How much does medical billing and coding pay in Washington?
As noted above and according to the BLS, medical billing and coding jobs in Washington pay annual salaries between $41,130 and $86,880. The mean annual wage for these professionals is $64,250 per year. Some of the highest average earners in the state work in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($70,760), Bellingham ($66,650), and Olympia-Tumwater ($57,060). The lowest paid workers are in Spokane-Spokane Valley ($54,590), Yakima ($53,230), and Walla Walla ($53,000).
Is medical billing and coding worth it?
Absolutely. In addition to a healthy earning potential, there is also a good chance of finding a job after being awarded a medical billing and coding certification in Washington state. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there will be an 8% increase in jobs between 2022 and 2032. This is higher than the national average for all professions in the country. Also, medical billing and coding offers a stable job market with both in-office and remote job opportunities. If education seems like too big an investment, there are financial aid resources and accelerated four-week programs that can help you launch this stable and satisfying career.
Is medical billing and coding hard?
Medical billing and coding is not an easy field. The vast knowledge of medical terminology and coding guidelines can make this field particularly rigorous. However, once you acquire the needed skills, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the role’s challenges. Medical billers and coders should have strong technology, communication, and customer service skills. In addition, these professionals should have a strong attention to detail.
Is medical coding a good remote job?
Yes. Because much of the role can be accomplished through technology and cloud-based applications, medical billers and coders are able to work from home as long as they have a reliable Internet connection. It is important to note that the best certification to get for remote medical coding work is the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The exam costs $399 and is the most preferred certification among employers.
MB&C Certification in Washington
The first step to becoming a medical biller and coder is to complete a certificate program, which can generally be done in a year or less. After you complete your coursework in a medical billing and coding program, you’ll go on to take the certification exam. When choosing a school, it’s a good idea to look for a program that provides exam preparation, such as Spokane Community College, which has a five-credit CPC preparation course in its curriculum.
Although Washington doesn’t require medical billers and coders to have a license in order to work, companies do expect prospective employees to have certification from the AAPC or American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). There are several certification exam preparation courses available, such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Professional Biller (CPB), and Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). The AAPC even offers 5 classroom training programs in Washington to help you prepare for the exam, if your chosen program doesn’t already include preparation courses.
How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Earn in Washington?
Medical Records Specialists
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $45,500 | $62,270 | $98,130 |
| Bellingham, WA | $38,050 | $59,630 | $98,130 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA | $44,330 | $58,690 | $81,750 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | $39,420 | $58,330 | $82,990 |
| Lewiston, ID-WA | $40,070 | $48,950 | $77,590 |
| Longview-Kelso, WA | $42,390 | $60,700 | $94,450 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA | $46,610 | $63,360 | $101,770 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA | $34,650 | $51,580 | $80,590 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | $48,230 | $61,890 | $85,490 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $47,650 | $65,530 | $100,560 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | $40,490 | $56,750 | $82,050 |
| Walla Walla, WA | $46,510 | $56,620 | $81,410 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA | $43,100 | $52,060 | $65,780 |
| Yakima, WA | $44,000 | $52,500 | $76,210 |
Source: Medical Records Specialists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Top Online Medical Billing & Coding Programs in Washington State
Everett Community College
Program Details
- Location: Everett, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 31%Students W/ Aid
- $6,769Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Everett Community College
- The Medical Billing and Coding ATA degree is offered fully online, providing maximum flexibility for busy adults.
- The program charges fees instead of traditional tuition, significantly lowering costs for out-of-state online students.
- Graduates qualify to sit for nationally recognized AHIMA and AAPC certification exams, boosting employment prospects.
Program Details
- Location: Everett, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 31%Students W/ Aid
- $6,769Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Des Moines, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 36%Students W/ Aid
- $6,234Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Highline College
- The virtual practicum format lets students gain real-world coding experience remotely, closely simulating professional work.
- The course is designed specifically for students completing the professional coding program, reinforcing specialized career preparation.
- Focused training in medical coding practicum supports readiness for industry-recognized coding certification and employment opportunities.
Program Details
- Location: Des Moines, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 36%Students W/ Aid
- $6,234Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Renton Technical College
Program Details
- Location: Renton, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 42%Students W/ Aid
- $6,557Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Renton Technical College
- The entire Medical Coding Specialist program is available fully online, offering flexible, self-paced course scheduling.
- Students can earn both a certificate and an Associate of Applied Science degree, creating stacked credentials that enhance employability.
- The program prepares graduates for high-demand medical coding roles across clinics, insurance companies, and diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- Location: Renton, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 42%Students W/ Aid
- $6,557Avg. Aid Amount
- 19/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Yakima Valley College
Program Details
- Location: Yakima, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 56%Students W/ Aid
- $8,230Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Yakima Valley College
- The fully online Medical Billing/Coding certificate combines convenient remote instruction with practical, real-world experience in healthcare settings.
- A competitive admission process limits enrollment to about twenty students per year, allowing focused instruction and close faculty attention.
- Students complete a culminating practicum and exam review course that systematically prepares them for professional billing and coding roles and certification.
Program Details
- Location: Yakima, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 56%Students W/ Aid
- $8,230Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Lower Columbia College
Program Details
- Location: Longview, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 52%Students W/ Aid
- $7,586Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lower Columbia College
- Students choose one focused area of expertise, allowing tailored training in specialized billing or coding roles.
- Program includes dedicated Billing & Coding Exam Certification Preparation, supporting readiness for professional certification exams.
- Curriculum integrates business, technology, medical terminology, human anatomy, and law/ethics, creating a comprehensive, employer-relevant skill set.
Program Details
- Location: Longview, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 52%Students W/ Aid
- $7,586Avg. Aid Amount
- 15/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Spokane Community College
Program Details
- Location: Spokane, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 49%Students W/ Aid
- $7,431Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Spokane Community College
- Program includes a structured CPC exam preparation course, directly supporting certification readiness for coders.
- Students gain hands-on experience through a medical insurance billing internship, building real-world, employer-valued skills.
- Located in a major regional healthcare center, the program offers strong local employment opportunities across diverse medical settings.
Program Details
- Location: Spokane, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 49%Students W/ Aid
- $7,431Avg. Aid Amount
- 14/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Shoreline, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 27%Students W/ Aid
- $6,040Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Shoreline College
- Online students may qualify for tuition discounts, reducing overall program cost.
- The program is approved by AHIMA, strengthening its professional credibility and employer recognition.
- Veterans and military-connected students may be eligible for tuition waivers and priority enrollment.
Program Details
- Location: Shoreline, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 27%Students W/ Aid
- $6,040Avg. Aid Amount
- 13/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Tacoma Community College
Program Details
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 41%Students W/ Aid
- $6,836Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Tacoma Community College
- The Medical Billing Specialist certificate is offered in a fully online format, providing flexible access for working or remote students.
- The program’s internship uses computer-based simulations mirroring real billing environments, helping students gain practical, job-ready experience.
- Students are encouraged to secure their own internship locations for networking, creating direct connections with employers and professional contacts in the healthcare field.
Program Details
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 41%Students W/ Aid
- $6,836Avg. Aid Amount
- 17/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Skagit Valley College
Program Details
- Location: Mount Vernon, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 36%Students W/ Aid
- $7,933Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Skagit Valley College
- Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, enhancing employability.
- Students can enter the program any quarter and attend part-time or full-time, offering strong scheduling flexibility.
- Program completion allows application to Skagit Valley College’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management, supporting career advancement.
Program Details
- Location: Mount Vernon, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 36%Students W/ Aid
- $7,933Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Whatcom Community College
Program Details
- Location: Bellingham, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 33%Students W/ Aid
- $7,091Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Whatcom Community College
- Certification exam voucher included in tuition, covering your choice of major industry credential exams.
- Integrated access to AAPC’s Practicode practicum, providing hands-on experience equivalent to one year of coding.
- Course design lets you finish fully eligible for full CPC certification immediately upon program completion.
Program Details
- Location: Bellingham, WA
- NWCCUAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 33%Students W/ Aid
- $7,091Avg. Aid Amount
- 11/1Student/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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