Medical Coding
Associate Degree - Diploma - Certificate
As the link between healthcare providers, insurance companies and patients, Medical Coders analyze health information data and use coding guidelines to categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement.
At Southeast Technical College, you have several options to get you started in this ever-growing industry. You can choose to earn an associate degree, a one-year diploma or get into the workforce sooner with a Medical Coding certificate. Students will study in the STC's Terrence Sullivan Health Science Center.
Job Placement Rate
100%
Southeast Tech's Medical Coding degree program boasts a 100% job placement rate among its 2023 graduates.*
* View details and methodology of the Graduate Outcome Report.
What Do Medical Coders Do?
Your goal as a medical coding technician is to maintain accessibility, accuracy and security of paper and electronic medical records. After graduation, you will find opportunities to use your specialized skills in:
- Independent clinics
- Healthcare systems
- Outpatient surgical centers
- Auditing firms
- Insurance companies
- Home healthcare agencies
Medical coders use problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They identify and correct coding issues, understand and employ coding methodology and maintain professional and ethical standards.
Explore Program Options
Medical Coding: Professional and Facility
This 61-credit associate degree program teaches code sets for inpatient and outpatient applications. The professional services side focuses on the skills and knowledge for which patients see healthcare providers. The facility side focuses on the use of resources, including facility stays, medications, nurse time and medical equipment.
Medical Coding Associate Degree
Medical Coding: Professional Services
This is a 35-credit diploma program designed to be competed in one year. Students learn about revenue cycles pertaining to a medical professional's service - any reason why a patient would see a doctor.
Certified Professional Coder
This 18-credit certificate provides seven courses in basic and intermediate coding along with essential skills in anatomy, physiology and medical terminology. Graduates will learn to ensure that information related to coding maintains its quality, accuracy, accessibility and security in both paper files and electronic systems.
This one-year certificate allows people to enter the workforce sooner and is stackable, meaning coursework completed can be applied to a medical coding diploma or associate degree, should the student wish to continue his or her education.
Become Certified After Graduation
As a graduate of Southeast Technical College’s Medical Coding program, you are eligible to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam or Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) exam. The American Academy of Professional Coders sponsors both. The Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) exam, through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), is also available to you.
Where Do Medical Coders Work?
Some professionals in health information may have the opportunity to work as an independent contractor or work from home for their employer. Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a regional hub for many healthcare centers, which draw rural residents to the area. Graduates find employment with the following healthcare and medical technology employers:
- Avera
- Mercy Medical Center
- Sanford Health
- Sioux Falls Veteran’s Administration Health Care System
Cost
Costs are calculated based on a charge of $263 per credit hour, plus applicable fees.
Total Costs Cost and Fee Breakdown
Job Outlook
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Faculty
Other Programs Related to Medical Coding
If you’re interested in medical coding, you also might be interested in these other healthcare programs at Southeast Tech:
“Choosing STC helped me get to work faster. I also built relationships with my classmates through hands-on activities. We started as strangers and became a family.”
“I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field, and I wanted to be able to get into the field as soon as possible with a hands-on experience as part of my education. Southeast Technical College was the best choice for me because of the direct correlation between what I learned in class and what I do on the job.”
"My experience at Southeast Technical College has been incredibly fulfilling. I have been able to deepen my understanding of students with different backgrounds, and the interactive nature of STC allows students like me to actively participate in hands-on learning. Faculty have played a critical role in creating a positive and supportive environment."
“I chose to attend Southeast Tech because it is a cost-effective way to get my nursing degree at a faster rate, and it also sets me up for financial success in the future.”
"I really like seeing real-life situations in the LPN program. My teachers are there, doing hands-on learning, with me."
“I chose Southeast Technical College for its Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program and because it is close to home. I like STC for its location, small campus size and full-ride scholarship opportunities through Build Dakota.”
Southeast Technical College provided me with a ton of on-the-job experience, and I was ready to go to work in the field when I graduated. I loved having the option to stay in my hometown and still get an education.
"Southeast Tech faculty and programs set you up for nothing but success. You grow close relationships with your instructors who want you to do your best, and push you to do your best."