If you want to start a career in healthcare without directly working with patients, medical billing and coding might be the right path for you. In Virginia, there are several accredited programs that can prepare you for certification and get you working in a year or less. Here’s what you need to know before choosing a school.
What Medical Billing and coding professionals do
Medical billing and coding specialists work behind the scenes in healthcare. They review patient records, assign standard codes to procedures, and prepare billing information for insurance companies. Your work helps keep hospitals, clinics, and private practices running smoothly.
In Virginia, most employers will expect you to have completed a training program and earned certification from a recognized body such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
How to choose a medical billing and coding school in virginia
When looking for a program, focus on these key points:
Accreditation Choose a school recognized by agencies like the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). This ensures employers will accept your training.
Certification Prep. Make sure the coursework prepares you for exams like the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) or CCA (Certified Coding Associate).
Flexible Scheduling Some. Schools offer evening, weekend, or online classes so you can work while you study.
Externship Opportunities A good program will give you hands-on practice in a real medical office.
Graduate Support Career services and career services can help you support your first job search.
Virginia does not issue a state license for medical billing and coding professionals. Employers set their own requirements, but most prefer candidates with formal training and certification.
Top Medical Billing and coding schools in Virginia
Here are some of the known and accredited options in the state. Always confirm details directly with the school before enrolling.
#1
Tidewater Community College
📍
Norfolk, VA
•In-state option
Located in Norfolk, VA Tidewater Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.
Located in Annandale, VA Northern Virginia Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice.
Located in Virginia Beach, VA ECPI University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Computer Programming, Computer Support Specialist, and Criminal Justice.
Located in Roanoke, VA Virginia Western Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice.
While courses vary by school, most Virginia programs cover:
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
ICD-10-CM and CPT coding
Healthcare law and ethics
Health insurance and reimbursement
Electronic health records
Compliance and HIPAA regulations
Hands-on training is common through externships or simulated healthcare software. This experience is valuable when applying for your first job.
Course Area
Why It Matters
Medical Terminology
Helps you understand diagnoses and procedures
Anatomy & Physiology
Provides context for coding accuracy
Coding Systems (ICD, CPT)
Core skill for assigning correct procedure and diagnosis codes
Insurance & Reimbursement
Teaches billing processes and payment cycles
Compliance & HIPAA
Keeps you compliant with privacy laws
Getting certified after graduation
After you complete your program, the next step is to get certified through a national organization.
Common certifications include:
Certified Professional Coder (CPC) - Offered by AAPC
Certified Coding Associate (CCA) - Offered by AHIMA
Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) - Also offered by AHIMA
Each certification has its own exam requirements, fees, and continuing education rules.
Most certification exams require a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, coding guidelines, and real-world coding scenarios.
Steps to start your Medical Billing and coding career in Virginia
Research schools - Compare accredited programs near you and online.
Enroll - Choose part-time or full-time based on your situation.
Complete your coursework - Focus on both academic and practical skills.
Gain practical experience - Through an externship or internship.
Earn certification - Take the CPC or CCA exam as soon as you’re ready.
Apply for jobs - Look for roles in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, or billing firms.
Costs and payment options
Final Advice
If you want a stable job supporting the healthcare system, medical billing and coding is a solid choice. Training in Virginia can take about 6 months or up to 2 years, depending on your path. The key is to choose an accredited school with good career services and prepare for your certification exam as soon as you graduate.
Here’s what you need to do next:
Make a shortlist of 2-3 accredited Virginia. Programs.
Contact each school to. Confirm costs, schedules, and certification prep.
Apply early to. Confirm availability-many healthcare programs fill fast.
Once you finish your training and certification, you’ll be ready to work anywhere in Virginia and beyond.
