Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Illinois

Updated August 13, 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources. Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.

If you want to work in healthcare but avoid direct patient care, medical billing and coding can be a strong career choice. These roles are essential in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies. In Illinois, you have several good schools and training programs to choose from.

The right school will prepare you to handle patient data, code procedures, file insurance claims, and follow privacy laws. Training can often be completed in under two years, and some programs allow you to work while you study.

What to Look for in a Billing and Coding Program

Not every program offers the same level of training or recognition. Before you enroll, check these key points:

  • Accreditation - Look for programs accredited by a recognized body like the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
  • Exam Preparation - The program should prepare you for certifications such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA).
  • Flexible Schedules - Many programs offer evening, weekend, or online classes for working students.
  • Internship Opportunities - Hands-on experience in a real healthcare setting improves job readiness.
  • Job Placement Support - Schools with strong employer networks can help you find work faster.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Illinois

Here are some of the best options based on accreditation, curriculum, and career services:

  1. College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn, IL)
    Offers a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate with evening and online classes. Includes training in ICD-10, CPT coding, and healthcare law. Prepares graduates for national certification exams.

  2. Harper College (Palatine, IL)
    Provides an AAS degree in Health Information Technology with a coding emphasis. Features internship placements and exam prep built into the program.

  3. Moraine Valley Community College (Palos Hills, IL)
    Offers both certificate and degree options. Strong relationships with area hospitals for externships.

  4. Illinois Central College (East Peoria, IL)
    Flexible online and hybrid classes. Focuses heavily on insurance claim processing and compliance training.

  5. Midwestern Career College (Chicago, IL)
    Shorter diploma tracks available for quick entry into the field. Dedicated career services department.

Quick Program Comparison

School Program Type Format Certification Prep Internship
College of DuPage Certificate Evening/Online CPC, CCA Yes
Harper College AAS Degree Day/Evening CPC, CCS Yes
Moraine Valley CC Cert/AAS Day/Online CPC, CCA Yes
Illinois Central College Certificate Online/Hybrid CPC, CCA Optional
Midwestern Career College Diploma Day/Evening CPC No

Certification Requirements in Illinois

Illinois does not require state licensing for medical billing and coding specialists. However, employers almost always prefer or require a recognized national certification.

Tip: Earning a credential like the CPC from the AAPC or the CCA/CCS from AHIMA can significantly improve your job prospects.

Common certifications include:

  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) - Offered by AAPC, focuses on physician-based coding.
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) - Offered by AHIMA, suitable for entry-level roles.
  • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) - Advanced AHIMA certification for hospital-based coding.

Most exams require a combination of formal education and practical experience.

Steps to Start Your Career

  1. Decide on a Program Type - Certificates are faster to complete, degrees give more depth.
  2. Apply to an Accredited School - Choose from one of the Illinois programs listed above.
  3. Complete Your Training - Usually 9-24 months of classes and lab work.
  4. Take a Certification Exam - Schedule your CPC, CCA, or CCS exam soon after graduation.
  5. Apply for Entry-Level Jobs - Hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies are common employers.
  6. Continue Professional Development - Certifications require ongoing education to stay valid.

Online and Hybrid Options

Many students in Illinois choose online programs to fit training around work and family responsibilities. Schools like Illinois Central College and College of DuPage offer fully online billing and coding classes, while others use hybrid schedules.

Online learning can be just as rigorous as in-person training, but you must be self-motivated. Look for programs that give you regular feedback from instructors and access to coding simulations.

Why Choose a Local Illinois School

While you can enroll in a national online program, local Illinois schools have advantages:

  • Networking with local healthcare employers
  • Internships in Illinois-based hospitals and clinics
  • Greater understanding of state-specific medical policies

Choosing a local program can help you connect directly with employers who hire in your area.

Final Advice

If you are serious about starting in medical billing and coding in Illinois, the key steps are simple: pick an accredited program, complete your training, earn certification, and start applying for jobs. Most accredited schools in Illinois can get you from start to working in under two years.

Here's what you should do next:
Make a shortlist of two or three schools from the programs above. Contact each one for current enrollment dates, costs, and schedule options. Compare their certification pass rates and internship opportunities. Once you have that information, you can choose the program that best matches your goals.

Explore Related Topics:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.