Logo MBC

Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Arkansas 2025

Best medical billing and coding programs in Arkansas. Certificate programs and associate degrees in Little Rock. Online and on-campus training options.

Staff Writers

If you've considered a career in healthcare but aren't drawn to the clinical side, medical billing is a really practical option. It's a crucial role that keeps the business side of medicine running, and it's a field with a lot of stability here in Arkansas.

Arkansas's healthcare industry is a major economic driver, with constant growth in cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Springdale. This expansion isn't just about new hospitals; it means more clinics and administrative offices in places like Fort Smith and Jonesboro, all of which rely on skilled billers to manage their revenue.

The path to getting started usually involves a certification program, and there are several training options available in Arkansas to prepare you for the national exams. These programs are focused, teaching you the specific coding systems and insurance claim processes so you gain job-ready skills in a relatively short amount of time.

After getting certified, you'll find opportunities in different settings, from large hospital networks to small private practices. One of the biggest advantages is the potential for remote work, which is becoming more common. The career outlook is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady nationwide growth, and salaries in Arkansas are competitive when you factor in the state's cost of living.

Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Arkansas - Ranked by Value

Arkansas's healthcare sector is growing, especially in cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville. This growth, coupled with the state's aging population and higher rates of chronic disease, means there's a steady demand for skilled medical billers and coders. These professionals are essential for ensuring healthcare providers get properly reimbursed for their services, making accurate coding and billing skills valuable assets in the Arkansas job market.

How I Ranked These Medical Billing and Coding Programs

When ranking these medical billing and coding programs in Arkansas, I focused on what gives you the best value for your time and money. That means looking at factors like tuition costs, program length, and graduation rates. I also considered whether the program prepares you for industry-recognized certifications, like those offered by the AAPC, which can significantly boost your job prospects. A lower net price and a higher graduation rate generally indicate a better return on investment.

Beyond the numbers, I also looked at program features that cater to different learning styles and career goals. For example, some programs offer flexible online options, which can be ideal for working adults or those in rural areas of Arkansas with limited access to on-campus programs. Others offer specialized tracks in billing or coding, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific interests. I also considered accreditation, with programs accredited by organizations like AHIMA often being preferred by employers.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Arkansas

1. Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech University, specifically at its Ozark campus, stands out due to its CAHIIM accreditation, which extends through 2030. This accreditation is a major plus for employers. The program offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, a Technical Certificate (TC), and Certificates of Proficiency (CP) in both Medical Billing and Medical Coding. With a net price of $11,443 and a graduation rate of 49%, it's a solid investment, especially considering the career-focused curriculum. Check out Arkansas Tech University's Health Information Technology program for more details.

2. Arkansas State University-Mountain Home

ASU-Mountain Home offers a Certificate of Proficiency designed to be completed in two semesters. The estimated tuition cost is relatively low at $1,853 (based on 17 credit hours). The program focuses on teaching you how to use CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding systems to maximize reimbursement for healthcare providers. With a 50% graduation rate and a net price of $9,661, it's a cost-effective option. You can find more information on ASU-Mountain Home's medical coding program page.

3. Southeast Arkansas College

Southeast Arkansas College in Pine Bluff offers a Certificate of Proficiency that prepares you for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam. The program covers both hospital and physician's office coding, making you a more versatile candidate. While the net price is higher at $11,203, the curriculum's focus on exam preparation and the inclusion of Anatomy & Physiology courses make it a strong contender. The graduation rate is lower at 18%. Learn more at Southeast Arkansas College's medical coding certificate page.

4. Black River Technical College

Black River Technical College offers two certificate options: a Technical Certificate (TC) for beginners and a Certificate of Proficiency (CP) for those with healthcare experience. Both paths prepare you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam. With a net price of $6,407, it's an affordable option, though the graduation rate is 34%. Check out Black River Tech's medical coding program for details.

5. Arkansas State University Mid-South

Arkansas State University Mid-South offers a short-term online course through Ed2Go. This introductory course is a low-cost way to explore the field of medical coding. At only $154, it's incredibly budget-friendly. The course teaches you the basics of CPT and ICD-10-CM coding manuals. While it's not a comprehensive program, it's a great starting point. You can find this course at Arkansas State University Mid-South's Ed2Go page.

6. South Arkansas College

Unfortunately, the program page for Medical Coding at South Arkansas College is currently unavailable. This makes it difficult to assess the program's strengths and weaknesses. I recommend checking their program link directly or contacting the college for more information.

What These Medical Billing Programs Have in Common

Most of these programs aim to equip you with the skills needed to understand and apply coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. Several programs also focus on preparing you for professional certifications, which are highly valued by employers. The programs vary in length and format, with some offering short-term online courses and others providing more comprehensive certificate or degree programs. They all recognize the importance of accurate coding for proper reimbursement, a critical aspect of healthcare finance. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides further insights into the job outlook for medical billers and coders.

Which Medical Billing and Coding Program Should You Choose?

Choosing the right medical billing and coding program in Arkansas depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you're just starting out and want to test the waters, the short-term online course at Arkansas State University Mid-South is a great option. If you're looking for a more comprehensive program with strong accreditation, Arkansas Tech University is a solid choice. For those seeking a focused program that prepares you for a specific certification, Southeast Arkansas College or Black River Technical College might be a better fit. Consider your budget, learning style, and career aspirations when making your decision. Remember that Arkansas's healthcare landscape, with its mix of urban and rural settings, offers diverse opportunities for skilled medical billers and coders.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Arkansas Students

If you're looking for flexibility but still want a solid program, online options are actually pretty great. Most Arkansas programs are campus-based, but I found several quality online programs that serve Arkansas residents. These are perfect if you need to study around a busy schedule!

1. University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville - Medical Billing and Coding

What's cool about this program is that it's a fully online certification preparation course from UACCB, a reputable community college within the University of Arkansas system. It's designed to get you ready for certifications from AAPC, AHIMA, and as a CPC, which is awesome! Plus, the program page is super clear and specific, which I always appreciate.

2. NorthWest Arkansas Community College - Medical Billing and Coding Course

This program is offered by NWACC, another really solid community college in Arkansas. It's part of their online training division, which means it's designed for people who need to learn remotely. It prepares you for certifications from AAPC, NHA, and AHIMA, which are all major players in the industry.

3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock - Online Medical Billing and Coding Course

UALR is a major state university, so you know you're getting a quality education. This fully online course explicitly prepares you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, which is a key industry certification. If you want to get into the workforce ASAP, this could be a great option.

4. University of Arkansas Grantham - Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program

UA Grantham is the online-focused university within the UA System, which makes this a highly legitimate online certificate program. For only $305, you can prepare for the CPC certification. What I noticed is that the program has a detailed curriculum and clear outcomes, so you know exactly what you're getting.

5. University of Arkansas (Professional and Workforce Development) - Medical Billing and Coding

This program is offered by the flagship state university's workforce development division. It's primarily online and prepares learners for national certification, specifically the CPC. The self-paced format is really helpful because you can work through the material at your own speed.

6. University of Central Arkansas - Online Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)

UCA offers a comprehensive online training program, and the inclusion of a certification exam voucher demonstrates its completeness and career focus. It prepares you for certifications from AAPC, AHIMA, and as a CPC. That's awesome!

Medical Billing And Coding Programs In Arkansas

Arkansas State University Mid-South - Medical Coding

2000 W. Broadway, West Memphis, Arkansas 72301-3829 • 1021 students • 50% graduation rate • Short-Term Online Course
View Program

This is a short, introductory online course designed to help you explore a career in medical coding. Offered through a partnership with Ed2Go, the program teaches you how to use the essential CPT and ICD-10-CM coding manuals. You'll also learn the basics of medical terminology and anatomy for major body systems. It's a great starting point to see if this field is right for you, with flexible options to either learn on your own or with an instructor's guidance.

Duration:6 weeks (Instructor-Moderated) or 3 months (Self-Guided)
Cost:$154.00
Format:Online

What We Love

  • The cost is incredibly low, making it a budget-friendly way to test out the medical coding field without a big commitment.
  • You get to choose how you learn: a self-guided option with 3 months of access or a more structured 6-week course with an instructor.
  • It jumps right into the practical stuff, teaching you how to use the CPT and ICD-10-CM manuals that are used on the job every day.

Key Features

  • Offered entirely online through the Ed2Go platform.
  • Two learning formats available: Self-Guided or Instructor-Moderated.
  • Focuses on foundational skills for new coders.

Arkansas State University-Mountain Home - Professional Medical Coding

1600 South College Street, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653 • 1284 students • 50% graduation rate • Certificate of Proficiency
View Program

This program at ASU-Mountain Home is designed to give you the specific skills needed for a career in medical coding. The main goal is to teach you how to use the CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding systems to ensure healthcare providers receive proper payment. You'll learn to interpret medical documents by combining your coding skills with foundational knowledge in anatomy and medical terminology.

Duration:2 Semesters
Cost:$1,853 for tuition (based on 17 credit hours at $109/credit hour)
Contact:Nancee Sherick, 870-508-6340, [email protected]

What We Love

  • The program is laser-focused on the practical skills employers want, specifically teaching you how to achieve 'optimum reimbursement' for providers.
  • It provides a solid foundation by including essential courses like 'Human Anatomy and Physiology' and 'Healthcare Billing, Compliance, and Reimbursement' alongside core coding classes.
  • The curriculum is very transparent, so you know exactly what classes you'll be taking to build your skills.

Key Features

  • It's a fast-track program, designed to be completed in just two semesters.
  • The curriculum is concise at only 17 credit hours, focusing on the most critical knowledge needed for the job.
  • You get a direct contact person for the program, which makes it easy to ask questions and get more information.

Arkansas Tech University - Health Information Technology

305 West Q Street, Russellville, Arkansas 72801 • 9487 students • 49% graduation rate • Associate of Applied Science, Technical Certificate, Certificate of Proficiency
View Program

Arkansas Tech's Health Information Technology program, based at their Ozark campus, is designed to get you ready for the technical side of healthcare. You'll learn the essentials of managing health data, understanding information systems, and navigating the administrative and clinical workflows you'll see on the job. The best part is that you can choose your own path, whether you want a full Associate degree or a more focused Certificate in either Medical Billing or Medical Coding.

Format:On-Campus
Contact:Lisa Snow, Instructor | [email protected] | (479) 508-8500 ext 6301

What We Love

  • This program is officially accredited by CAHIIM (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education), a huge seal of approval that employers really value.
  • You have options! You can go for a full Associate's degree or earn a faster Certificate of Proficiency in just Medical Billing or Medical Coding, which is great for fitting your education to your career goals.
  • The program focuses on skills directly tied to jobs like 'Medical billing specialist' and 'Medical coder,' so you know you're learning what you need for the real world.

Key Features

  • Offers multiple educational paths: an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), a Technical Certificate (TC), and Certificates of Proficiency (CP) in Medical Billing and Medical Coding.
  • Holds national accreditation from CAHIIM, which has been reaffirmed through 2030, showing a strong, stable program.
  • Curriculum focuses on practical skills in health data management, information policy, and clinical workflow.

Black River Technical College - Medical Coding

1410 Hwy 304 East, Pocahontas, Arkansas 72455 • 1544 students • 34% graduation rate • Certificate
View Program

Black River Technical College's Medical Coding program is designed to get you ready for a career as a medical coder. You'll learn medical terminology and how to translate medical records into the standardized codes used for billing, insurance, and referrals. The program offers a couple of different certificate paths depending on your background and prepares you to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, which is what you'll need to land a job in the field.

What We Love

  • They offer two different certificate options, one for total beginners and another for people already working in healthcare, which is super thoughtful.
  • The whole program is built to get you ready for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, a certification employers really look for.
  • It's reassuring to know the curriculum meets the state's educational requirements for certification, so you know you're learning the right stuff.

Key Features

  • Offers a Technical Certificate (TC) for students new to the medical field.
  • Provides a Certificate of Proficiency (CP) for those with prior healthcare experience seeking a career change.
  • Prepares students to sit for the national Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification exam upon completion.

South Arkansas College - Medical Coding

300 S West Ave, El Dorado, Arkansas 71731-7010 • 1190 students • 25% graduation rate
View Program

Unfortunately, the program page for Medical Coding at South Arkansas College seems to be experiencing a technical issue, as the main content couldn't be loaded. This means specific details about the curriculum, program length, and requirements aren't available right now. Your best bet is to check the program link directly to see if the page is working again or to contact the college's admissions department for the most current information.

What We Love

  • Since the program's webpage isn't working, we can't highlight specific strengths. We recommend reaching out to the school's health sciences department to learn more about what makes their program unique.

Southeast Arkansas College - Medical Coding Certificate

1900 S Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71603 • 810 students • 18% graduation rate • Certificate of Proficiency
View Program

This program at Southeast Arkansas College is designed to give you the essential knowledge and skills for a career in medical coding. You'll get an in-depth look at procedural coding using the industry-standard ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT-4 systems. The curriculum focuses on building your coding competency for both hospital and physician's office environments, which makes you a more versatile job candidate. A major goal of the program is to prepare you to sit for and pass the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam offered by AHIMA, a key credential in the field.

Duration:2 Semesters
Contact:Email: [email protected] | Phone: 870-543-5917

What We Love

  • The curriculum is built specifically to prepare you for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam, which is a crucial certification employers look for.
  • You'll learn coding for both hospital and physician practice settings, which opens up more job opportunities after graduation.
  • The program includes core science classes like Anatomy & Physiology I and II, giving you the strong medical foundation needed to be an accurate and effective coder.

Key Features

  • Focuses on the essential ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT-4 classification systems used in the healthcare industry.
  • The college is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, which is important for credit transfer and quality assurance.
  • Leads to a Certificate of Proficiency upon completion of the 22 required credit hours.

Salary Information for Arkansas

💰 Medical Billing and Coding Salary Calculator for Arkansas

$33,750/year
~$16/hour • Medical Billing & Coding Professional in Arkansas

Medical Billing & Coding Videos

Loading medical billing videos...

Medical Billing And Coding In Arkansas FAQs

Get answers to common questions about medical billing careers in Arkansas

How much do medical billers make in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, medical billers can expect to make around $17.59 per hour, according to data from Indeed https://www.indeed.com/career/medical-biller/salaries/AR. Another source indicates the average hourly pay for a Medical Coding Billing role in Arkansas is $18.16 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Coding-Billing-Salary--in-Arkansas. These figures give you a good idea of entry-level and average hourly earnings in the state.

When looking at annual salaries, medical billing and coding specialists in Arkansas earn an average of $40,350 per year. This information, cited by the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) https://www.uaccb.edu/pages/main/175/cpc-medical-billing-and-coding/. Your specific earnings will depend on factors like experience, location within Arkansas, and the type of healthcare facility you work for.

What are the certification requirements for medical billing in Arkansas?

For medical billing certification in Arkansas, you'll generally pursue credentials from national organizations. Key certifications include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) UALR, and the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) UACCB. Training programs in the state often prepare you for these exams, validating your knowledge of coding guidelines and payer requirements.

Meeting these certification requirements typically involves completing a dedicated training program. Institutions like the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) offer courses specifically designed to prepare you for these national certification exams. Upon successful completion of a program, you receive a Certificate of Completion, which then qualifies you to sit for your chosen industry certification exam.

How long does it take to become a medical biller in Arkansas?

Becoming a medical biller in Arkansas typically involves completing a training program, which can vary significantly in length. Some comprehensive programs, like those listed on Arkansas JobLink, run for about 52 weeks, totaling 370 hours of instruction https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/etp/public/institution_programs/483525. These longer options usually prepare you for industry-recognized certifications such as the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam offered by the NHA.

You can also find shorter, more focused options. For instance, another program found through Arkansas JobLink offers a 16-week course with 120 hours of training https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/etp/public/institution_programs/484002. Additionally, the Arkansas Department of Human Services provides "quick track training" with short videos and webinars to help you grasp specific skills or Medicaid policies quickly https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/medical-services/helpful-information-for-providers/training/. This allows for varied learning paths depending on your needs.

Can I work from home as a medical biller in Arkansas?

Yes, you can work from home as a medical biller in Arkansas. Many remote opportunities are available, with Indeed listing 112 remote medical billing job openings in Arkansas alone. ZipRecruiter also shows 159 remote medical billing and coding jobs across the state, indicating a solid presence of work-from-home roles in this field ZipRecruiter. These positions often involve managing patient and insurance billing information.

When it comes to earning potential, remote medical coding jobs in Arkansas can range from $14 to $86 per hour ZipRecruiter. For remote medical billing and coding positions, you might expect hourly rates of $14 to $72. More general remote billing roles, like a Billing Coordinator III, often pay around $20 to $22 per hour, and some remote Accounting Associate II positions offer annual salaries between $58,500 and $61,000.

What is the job outlook for medical billers in Arkansas?

The job outlook for medical billers in Arkansas appears solid, aligning with national healthcare industry growth. Employment for medical records specialists, a closely related field, is projected to grow 7 percent from 2024 to 2034 nationally, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations bls.gov. This indicates a healthy and expanding demand for technical roles like medical billing and coding.

Within Arkansas, "Medical Insurance Specialist/Medical Biller" roles are consistently listed on the state's projected employment opportunities, suggesting ongoing demand across the region discover.arkansas.gov. Medical billing is a technical job vital for healthcare operations, requiring accuracy and up-to-date knowledge of billing procedures.

For professionals in this field, you can generally expect to earn around $22.83 per hour, which often translates to about $50,250 per year, according to employment outlook information such as that referenced by the University of Arkansas at Little Rock ualr.edu/extended/2025/08/22/online-medical-billing-and-coding-course/. This consistent demand positions medical billing as a reliable career in the evolving healthcare sector.

How much does medical billing school cost in Arkansas?

Information regarding the exact cost of medical billing school in Arkansas is not detailed in the available program descriptions. Institutions like the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville and NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) NorthWest Arkansas Community College offer medical billing and coding courses.

These programs, also available online through the University of Arkansas at Little Rock University of Arkansas at Little Rock, generally prepare you for certifications such as the NHA's CBCS or the AAPC's CPC exams. To get precise tuition and fee schedules for any medical billing program in Arkansas, you'll need to contact the individual schools or training providers directly.