Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Tennessee 2025

In Tennessee, the average salary for a medical coding specialist is approximately $25.02 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of around $52,000. This figure is based on recent salary data collected from job postings across the state and serves as a solid baseline for what you can expect to earn.

However, your actual income can vary significantly based on several key factors. Coders in major metropolitan areas like Nashville or Memphis may see higher pay rates to offset a higher cost of living compared to more rural areas. Your level of experience, the specific certifications you hold (such as CPC, CCS, or specialized credentials), and the type of healthcare facility you work for will also play a major role in your earning potential.

As you gain experience and pursue advanced certifications, you can expect your salary to grow. For more detailed and up-to-date salary information, you can review average coding specialist salaries in Tennessee on Indeed.

While the state of Tennessee does not legally require a license or certification to work as a medical biller or coder, it is a practical necessity for securing a professional role. The vast majority of employers, from large hospital systems like HCA Healthcare in Nashville to smaller clinics, strongly prefer or outright require candidates to hold a nationally recognized certification.

A certification, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the AAPC, demonstrates to employers that you have mastered complex coding guidelines, possess a strong understanding of medical terminology, and are committed to maintaining high standards of accuracy and compliance. It validates your skills in a tangible way that a resume alone cannot, making you a much more competitive candidate in the job market.

Investing in a certification preparation course is the most effective path to a successful career.

Tennessee's robust healthcare industry provides ample opportunities across the state, but the highest concentration of jobs is found in its major metropolitan areas. Nashville, often called a national healthcare capital, is a primary hub, home to the headquarters of HCA Healthcare and major medical centers like Vanderbilt University Medical Center. These large organizations constantly seek skilled coders for both on-site and remote positions.

Other key cities include Memphis, with its extensive Baptist Memorial and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare systems; Knoxville, anchored by the University of Tennessee Medical Center; and Chattanooga, which also has a thriving healthcare sector. Beyond hospitals, opportunities exist in specialized clinics, physician groups, insurance companies, and third-party billing services located in these urban centers.

While cities offer the most options, the rise of remote work has opened up possibilities for residents in more rural parts of the state to work for these major employers.

Several excellent training options are available in Tennessee to prepare you for a successful career. When evaluating programs, you should prioritize those that are official AAPC Education Providers, as their curriculum is specifically designed to prepare you for the industry-standard CPC certification exam. These programs ensure you learn the most current coding practices and guidelines.

One prominent example is the program offered by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC). As an AAPC partner, UTC provides a comprehensive course designed to get you career-ready. You can also find strong programs at various Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs) and community colleges across the state, which often offer certificates in medical office technology with a coding focus.

Whether you prefer an in-person university setting or a flexible online format, it's crucial to choose a program with a proven track record of student success. For an overview of a top-tier local option, check out the Medical Billing & Coding program at UTC.

The time it takes to prepare for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam depends on the training program you choose and your personal study habits. Most reputable, comprehensive training programs are designed to be completed in a matter of months, not years, allowing for a quick transition into the workforce.

For example, dedicated certification prep courses, like the one offered by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, are structured to be completed in about 20 weeks. This focused timeline is ideal for students who are motivated to enter the job market quickly. These accelerated programs are intensive and cover all necessary topics, including medical terminology, anatomy, and the three main codebooks (CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II).

Self-study is an option but typically takes longer and requires immense discipline. Enrolling in a structured program provides expert instruction, peer support, and a clear path to exam readiness. Learn more about how you can prepare for the CPC certification with UTC in just 20 weeks.

In major Tennessee healthcare markets like Nashville and Memphis, a medical coding career offers a clear and rewarding path for advancement. Most professionals start in an entry-level role, often titled Coder I or Medical Coder Apprentice, where they handle less complex cases and work under close supervision to build their skills and speed.

After gaining one to three years of experience, you can advance to a Coder II or Coder III position, which involves handling more complex specialties (like cardiology or surgery) and may come with a significant pay increase. From there, many experienced coders pursue specialized certifications, such as the Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA), to move into roles like coding auditing, compliance analysis, or revenue integrity.

With leadership skills, you can also progress into management, becoming a coding supervisor or department manager overseeing a team of coders. The large hospital systems in Tennessee's major cities provide ample internal opportunities for this type of growth.

Yes, the availability of remote medical coding positions in Tennessee is excellent and continues to grow. Medical coding is one of the most remote-friendly careers in the healthcare industry, and major Tennessee-based employers have embraced this model. Large health systems like HCA Healthcare, Ballad Health, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center frequently hire remote coders who reside within the state and beyond.

This flexibility allows professionals to work for a major Nashville hospital while living in a quieter part of the state, like Clarksville or the Tri-Cities area. While fully remote roles are common for experienced coders, some companies may require new, entry-level coders to complete an initial training period on-site before transitioning to a full-time remote or hybrid schedule. This ensures they receive the hands-on support needed to succeed.

When searching for jobs, be sure to use keywords like "remote," "work from home," and "telecommute" to find these opportunities. Having a professional certification, a reliable high-speed internet connection, and a dedicated home office space will make you a strong candidate for these coveted roles.

The cost of a medical billing and coding training program in Tennessee can vary widely, typically ranging from $2,000 to over $10,000. The final price depends on the type of institution, the length of the program, and what's included in the tuition. For-profit online schools may fall on the higher end, while programs at community colleges or TCATs may be more affordable, especially for in-state residents.

When comparing costs, it's essential to look beyond the sticker price. A quality program, like the one offered by an AAPC-approved provider such as UTC, might seem more expensive initially but often provides better value. Check if the tuition includes essential materials like textbooks, codebooks, AAPC student membership, and, most importantly, the voucher to sit for the CPC certification exam, which can save you hundreds of dollars in separate fees.

Many schools also offer payment plans or financial aid assistance. We recommend contacting the admissions office of any program you're considering, such as the UTC Center for Professional Education, to get a detailed breakdown of their current course fees and included benefits.