Logo MBC

Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Louisiana 2025

Best medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana. Certificate programs and associate degrees in New Orleans, Baton Rouge. Online and campus training.

Staff Writers

If you're looking for a solid career path in Louisiana that doesn't require a four-year degree, medical billing is definitely worth a look. It’s a crucial part of the healthcare system that offers stability, since every doctor's office, clinic, and hospital needs someone to manage the financial side. This role is what ensures healthcare providers get paid for their services.

Louisiana's healthcare sector is a major employer, with large hospital systems and countless clinics centered in cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. This constant activity creates a steady demand for skilled people who can accurately handle medical coding and billing. It’s a foundational role that supports the state's entire health economy.

Getting started usually involves completing a certificate program, which are available throughout the state and often designed to be finished in under a year. These programs focus on the practical skills you'll need, like learning industry-standard coding systems and billing software. Earning a professional certification afterward is what really makes your resume stand out to employers.

The career outlook is promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting consistent growth for health information roles. Many positions offer the flexibility of remote work, which is a huge plus, and the salary potential is solid for a career you can enter relatively quickly. It’s a practical way to build a professional career in a growing field, whether you're in Lake Charles or working from home.

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

Louisiana's healthcare industry is growing, especially in cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and that means there's a need for skilled medical billers and coders. With a significant portion of the population facing unique health challenges and a large number of uninsured residents, accurate and efficient billing is more important than ever. These programs can help you get the skills you need to fill those roles and contribute to the healthcare system.

How I Ranked These Medical Billing and Coding Programs

When ranking these medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana, I looked at several key factors. First, I considered the cost of the program, weighing net price against the potential salary you could earn after graduation. I also looked at graduation rates, because a higher rate suggests the school provides good support to help students succeed. The program format (online vs. on-campus) and duration were also important, as flexibility and speed can be crucial for working adults. Finally, I considered whether the program prepared you for industry-recognized certifications like the AAPC certification, which can significantly boost your job prospects.

Beyond the numbers, I also considered what each program uniquely offered. Did it have an externship for real-world experience? Did it offer career services? Was it designed to prepare you for specific certifications? Louisiana has a diverse economic landscape, and the skills needed in a bustling New Orleans clinic might differ from those in a rural Shreveport practice. I tried to highlight programs that offered a well-rounded education applicable to various healthcare settings across the state. It's also important to remember that salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is just an average; your actual earnings will depend on your experience, location, and employer.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Louisiana

1. Compass Career College

Compass Career College in Hammond stands out because it's so focused on getting you certified. Their medical billing and coding program specifically prepares you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB) exams. With a graduation rate of 41% and a net price of $11,810, it's a solid investment, especially considering the hands-on training with medical records and insurance software. Plus, they cover coding for both doctor's offices and hospitals, which is a big advantage.

2. Fletcher Technical Community College

Fletcher Technical Community College's online certificate program is a great option if you need flexibility. Their medical coding program is 100% online and designed to be completed in a year. With a net price of $10,430, it's one of the more affordable options. It also prepares you for certifications from both AHIMA (CCA) and AAPC (CPC-A, CPB), which is a major plus. The fact that it's one of their fastest-growing programs suggests it's a popular and effective choice.

3. ITI Technical College

Located in Baton Rouge, ITI Technical College offers a fast-track Medical Billing and Coding program that can be completed in just 12 months. The program is on-campus, which provides a structured learning environment. While the net price is higher at $19,423, the accelerated timeline means you can enter the workforce sooner. The program focuses specifically on the technical skills needed for the job, making it a good choice if you want a career-focused education.

4. Herzing University-New Orleans

Herzing University's New Orleans campus offers an online medical billing and coding program with both diploma and associate degree options. The online format provides flexibility, and the curriculum is designed to prepare you for industry certifications. The net price is $20,824, and they offer lifelong support, which is a valuable resource even after graduation. Rolling admissions mean you can start the program sooner rather than later.

5. Blue Cliff College-Alexandria

Blue Cliff College in Alexandria offers a medical billing and coding diploma program that can be completed in 12-15 months. The program is hybrid, with most classes on-campus, and includes an externship for real-world experience. They offer both daytime and evening classes, making it easier to fit school into your schedule. However, the net price is relatively high at $22,164, and the graduation rate is 33%.

6. Infinity College

Infinity College in Lafayette offers a Medical Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist program with both online and on-campus options. What stands out is their incredibly high graduation rate of 89%, suggesting strong student support. While specific details on program length and cost aren't readily available, the flexible format and small class sizes could be a good fit for some students.

What These Medical Billing Programs Have in Common

All of these programs aim to equip you with the skills needed to enter the medical billing and coding field. They all cover essential topics like medical terminology, coding systems (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS), and insurance claim processes. Many also focus on preparing you for industry certifications, which are highly valued by employers. The programs vary in length, format, and cost, but they all offer a pathway to a career in this growing field.

Which Medical Billing and Coding Program Should You Choose?

Choosing the right medical billing and coding program in Louisiana depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you're looking for the most affordable option with maximum flexibility, Fletcher Technical Community College's online certificate might be a good fit. If you want a program that's laser-focused on certification and provides hands-on experience, Compass Career College is a strong contender. If you prefer a more structured, on-campus environment, ITI Technical College could be a good choice. Consider your budget, learning style, and career goals when making your decision. Also, remember that organizations like AHIMA offer resources and support for professionals in health information management.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Louisiana Students

If you're looking for flexibility but still want a solid program, online options are actually pretty great. Most Louisiana programs are campus-based, but I found several quality online programs that serve Louisiana residents. Here are some of my top picks:

1. Louisiana State University Eunice - Medical Billing and Coding | Online Certificate of Technical Studies

What's cool about this program is that it's a formal Certificate of Technical Studies offered directly through the LSU system. That's awesome! You get the prestige of an LSU education, but completely online. If you're looking for a recognized credential from a respected Louisiana institution, this is a great option.

2. Northwestern State University of Louisiana - Online Medical Billing and Coding Course

Offered by NSULA, another reputable state university, this 100% online program is designed to prep you for the CPC exam from AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders). That's a huge plus because the CPC is a highly valued certification in the medical coding world. You can learn more about the AAPC and its certifications at AAPC.com.

3. LSU of Alexandria - Medical Billing and Coding Training

Another great option within the LSU system! This is a fully online certification preparation program. What I noticed is that they specifically mention preparing you for the AAPC, AHIMA, and CPC exams. This could make you a more versatile candidate when you're looking for a job. Plus, having clinical experience is a huge plus.

4. AAPC - Medical Coding and Billing Training Classes in Louisiana

Okay, so AAPC isn't a university, but they are the main credentialing body for medical coders. Their training is basically the gold standard for preparing for the CPC certification. If you want to get into the workforce ASAP and focus on getting certified, this is a really direct route. While details are limited on the page, AAPC is a trusted source.

5. Louisiana Delta Community College - Medical Billing and Coding | Workforce

If you want to get into the workforce ASAP, Louisiana Delta Community College offers a workforce training program. What I found that is really helpful is that the cost of the NHA certification exam is included in the program fee. That's awesome!

6. Dillard University - Online Medical Billing & Coding Certification Prep

Dillard University, a reputable private university in Louisiana, offers a 100% online certification prep course. It prepares you for the AAPC, AHIMA, and CPC certifications. AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) is another important organization in this field, so preparing for their certifications is a plus. You can check them out at AHIMA.org.

Medical Billing And Coding Programs In Louisiana

Blue Cliff College-Alexandria - Health Information Management, Billing and Coding Diploma Program

1505 Metro Dr Ste 1, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301 • 479 students • 33% graduation rate • Diploma
View Program

This program at Blue Cliff College's Alexandria campus is designed to get you into a healthcare office career pretty quickly. In about 12 to 15 months, you'll learn the skills needed for jobs like a coding specialist, insurance claims representative, or billing specialist. The curriculum covers the important stuff like electronic health records, medical billing and coding, and office administration.

Duration:12 months (daytime) to 15 months (evening)
Cost:25409
Format:Hybrid (Mostly On-Campus)

What We Love

  • The program includes an externship, which is a huge plus because you get real-world experience before you graduate.
  • They offer both daytime and evening class options, making it much easier to fit school into your life if you're already working.
  • It's very career-focused, preparing you for several different types of entry-level jobs in the medical office field.

Key Features

  • Offers multiple pathways: you can choose this mostly on-campus diploma, or look into their fully online diploma and associate degree options.
  • The program is fast-paced, allowing you to finish in as little as 12 months with the daytime schedule.
  • Coursework covers practical skills like data management, health information security, patient billing, and reimbursement.

Compass Career College - Medical Billing and Coding

42353 Deluxe Plaza, Suite 16, Hammond, Louisiana 70403 • 159 students • 41% graduation rate • Training Program
View Program

This program at Compass Career College gets you ready for a job in medical billing and coding. You'll learn the essentials like medical terminology, anatomy, and how to use specific insurance software. The training covers how to accurately code procedures and diagnoses using ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS codes for both doctor's offices and hospitals. The goal is to make you a skilled professional who can handle the entire billing and claims process, both electronically and on paper.

Format:On-Campus
Contact:985-419-2050

What We Love

  • The program is laser-focused on getting you certified, specifically preparing you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB) exams from the AAPC, which are a big deal to employers.
  • You'll get a well-rounded education covering coding for different healthcare settings, including both hospitals and private practices.
  • They teach you how to use actual medical records and insurance software, so you're learning on the kind of tools you'll use on the job.

Key Features

  • Prepares you for two key industry certifications: CPC and CPB.
  • Curriculum covers both physician and hospital (inpatient/outpatient) coding.
  • Includes hands-on instruction with medical billing and coding software.

Program Video

Fletcher Technical Community College - Medical Coding/Insurance Billing Specialist

1407 Highway 311, Schriever, Louisiana 70395 • 2426 students • 25% graduation rate • Certificate
View Program

This is a fast-paced, 100% online certificate program at Fletcher Technical Community College designed for detail-oriented students who enjoy solving puzzles. The program focuses on providing the skills needed for coding and billing jobs in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies. It's one of the college's fastest-growing programs and is built to prepare you for key industry certification exams.

Duration:1 Year
Format:Online
Contact:Ashley Zeringue: [email protected]

What We Love

  • The program is built around preparing you for real, industry-recognized certifications from both AHIMA (CCA) and AAPC (CPC-A, CPB) that employers look for.
  • You can complete the certificate in as little as one year, which is great if you want to get into the workforce quickly.
  • Since it's one of Fletcher's 'fastest growing programs,' it suggests there's strong student interest and good career potential in the field.

Key Features

  • Offers multiple certificate options, including a Certificate of Technical Studies in Medical Coding/Insurance Specialist and a Career and Technical Certification for a Medical Office Assistant.
  • Prepares students for several key industry-based certifications, including Certified Professional Coder (CPC-A) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB).
  • The curriculum moves quickly to cover complex topics and high-level skills, so you'll be challenged and well-prepared for the demands of the job.

Herzing University-New Orleans - Medical Billing & Coding Online Programs

3900 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, Louisiana 70002 • 368 students • 29% graduation rate • Diploma, Associate Degree
View Program

Herzing's online program is designed to get you into the healthcare field by specializing in medical billing and coding. It's career-focused, offering different pathways like a diploma or an associate degree, so you can choose the level of education that fits your goals. The whole program is built around preparing you for the certifications that employers look for.

Format:Online
Contact:(800) 596-0724

What We Love

  • They offer lifelong support, which is a fantastic resource to have even after you graduate.
  • The curriculum is specifically designed to prepare you for industry certifications, which is a huge plus for getting hired.
  • Rolling admissions means you can start the program sooner without having to wait for a traditional fall or spring semester.

Key Features

  • Offers multiple pathways: You can choose between a faster Diploma or a more in-depth Associate Degree.
  • Prepares you for certification eligibility, a key requirement for many jobs in the field.
  • Career-focused curriculum helps you learn the skills you'll actually use on the job.

Infinity College - Medical Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist

2600 Louisiana Avenue, Lafayette, Louisiana 70501-8833 • 104 students • 89% graduation rate • Certificate / Diploma
View Program

Infinity College offers a Medical Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist program that gives you the choice to study either online or right on their campus in Lafayette. It's a small, private college with a very impressive graduation rate, which suggests they provide a lot of support to help students succeed. While specific details on the program's length and cost aren't available on the website, the flexible format is a huge plus for students who need to fit school around their life.

Format:Online, On-Campus
Contact:[email protected] | (337) 261-9009

What We Love

  • The option to take the program completely online or in-person is fantastic flexibility.
  • The school's super high 89% graduation rate is a great sign that they support their students all the way to the finish line.
  • With a total student population of just over 100, you can likely expect small class sizes and more direct help from your instructors.

Key Features

  • Flexible learning formats: choose between online or on-campus classes.
  • Part of a small college environment focused on student success.

ITI Technical College - Medical Billing & Coding Course

13944 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70817 • 513 students • 56% graduation rate • Certificate / Diploma
View Program

ITI Technical College offers a focused Medical Billing and Coding program designed to get you into the healthcare industry quickly. Instead of a multi-year degree, this is an intensive, 12-month course that concentrates on the specific, technical skills needed for the job. The school describes the program as challenging and notes that it requires dedicated study to become proficient in data entry and medical coding.

Duration:12 months
Format:On-Campus
Contact:(877) 591-1070

What We Love

  • It's a fast-track program designed to get you career-ready in just 12 months, which is much faster than a traditional associate's degree.
  • The curriculum is highly specialized, focusing only on the essential skills for medical billing and coding without the extra general education classes.
  • The school highlights that students receive structured lessons and support to help them succeed in what they describe as an intensive program.

Key Features

  • Certificate-focused training
  • Accelerated 12-month timeline
  • Career-specific curriculum

Salary Information for Louisiana

💰 Medical Billing and Coding Salary Calculator for Louisiana

$45,000/year
~$22/hour • Medical Billing & Coding Professional in Louisiana

Medical Billing & Coding Videos

Loading medical billing videos...

Medical Billing And Coding In Louisiana FAQs

Get answers to common questions about medical billing careers in Louisiana

How much do medical billers make in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the average salary for a Medical Biller is around $17.01 per hour https://www.indeed.com/career/medical-biller/salaries/LA. This figure represents a common starting point for professionals focused primarily on billing tasks within the healthcare industry in the state.

If you're looking at a role that combines both billing and coding, such as a Medical Billing And Coding Specialist or Medical Coding Billing position, the average hourly pay in Louisiana is slightly higher. As of September 2025, you can expect an average of $18.78 an hour https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Billing-And-Coding-Specialist-Salary--in-Louisiana, according to recent data.

What are the certification requirements for medical billing in Louisiana?

For medical billing in Louisiana, there isn't one singular certification requirement. Instead, you'll find various training programs designed to prepare you for national certifications, which are highly valued by employers. You typically need to complete specific training or gain practical experience to qualify for these national exams. For example, some programs, like the Certificate of Technical Studies from LSU Eunice, have admission criteria such as being a Louisiana resident, 21 or older, and meeting income guidelines LSU Online Medical Billing and Coding.

Two prominent certifications you might pursue are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC®) and the Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS). For AAPC's CPC® exam, their bootcamp suggests one year of medical coding experience AAPC Training in Louisiana. A University of Louisiana program can also prepare you for the CEHRS certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Online Medical Billing Specialist with Electronic Health Records. Your main focus should be acquiring the knowledge to pass these national certification exams.

While the specific certification requirements can vary by the certifying body, focus on getting solid training. It's a technical role where precision matters. Medical billers in Louisiana typically make around $22.83 per hour, which translates to about $50,250 per year Career Pathways Louisiana. Gaining certification can certainly enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise, making you a more competitive candidate in the field.

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

To become a medical biller in Louisiana, you're generally looking at short-term training programs designed for efficient entry into the workforce. Many institutions, such as Louisiana State University Eunice and South Louisiana Community College, offer Medical Billing and Coding Certificate of Technical Studies or similar short-term courses. These programs are structured to provide the essential skills needed for the role without requiring several years of study.

While specific timelines can vary based on the program structure and whether you opt for an online format, such as those available through ULM, most certificate programs can be completed in a matter of months, often within a year. These courses are designed to prepare you for industry certification, a crucial step for employment. Medical billers in Louisiana can expect to earn around $22.83 per hour, indicating a stable technical role in healthcare.

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

Yes, working from home as a medical biller in Louisiana is definitely possible, and the job market shows various opportunities. You can find a significant number of remote positions; for instance, there are 182 remote medical billing specialist job openings across Louisiana Indeed. Specifically in New Orleans, you'll see 21 remote medical billing jobs available ZipRecruiter, indicating a solid demand for remote billers in the state.

Regarding compensation, hourly rates for remote medical billers and related roles in Louisiana vary based on experience and specific duties. You might find positions offering $16-$144 per hour for remote medical billing in New Orleans ZipRecruiter. Other remote billing jobs in Louisiana advertise wages such as $20-$22 per hour for a Billing Coordinator III, $18.50-$38.82 per hour for a Medical Claim Analyst, and $14 per hour for a Client Service Analyst Indeed.

What is the job outlook for medical billers in Louisiana?

The job outlook for medical billers in Louisiana is strong and stable. You'll find consistent demand due to ongoing healthcare expansion and increasing digitization in the industry research.com. The field is projected to see robust growth rates, exceeding 8% annually, which is considered faster than average through 2032.

By 2032, Louisiana is expected to have approximately 2,280 jobs in medical coding and billing uscareerinstitute.edu. The median salary for medical billers in Louisiana is around $43,820 per year uscareerinstitute.edu.

How much does medical billing school cost in Louisiana?

For medical billing school in Louisiana, you can expect program costs to vary. For example, the Medical Billing and Coding certification program at South Louisiana Community College costs $5,500. Additionally, you should budget around $700 for books, bringing the total to $6,200 for this specific program. You may also qualify for tuition assistance depending on your eligibility.

Other institutions across Louisiana also offer programs, though specific upfront costs aren't always listed directly. LSU Online, LSU Eunice, Nunez Community College, and Louisiana Delta Community College all provide medical billing and coding options, which might involve different tuition and fee structures. It's wise to contact these schools directly to inquire about their estimated costs, payment plans, and potential financial aid or scholarships.