Programs
Take the first step
Complete the interest form, and an Admissions Representative will reach out to help you learn more about the Medical Billing and Coding program and your next steps.
Step 1
"*" indicates required fields
Program Overview
HDMC’s Medical Billing and Coding program is offered in a hybrid format, combining online classroom theory with hands-on training in on-campus labs and real-world experience through an externship.
Program Length
- 35 weeks – morning/afternoon
- 43 weeks – evening
Program Details
- 940 total clock hours
- 740 classroom hours
- 200 externship hours
- 44 semester credits
Morning/afternoon and evening schedules are available depending on campus and class availability.
High Desert Medical College offers its Medical Billing and Coding program at its Bakersfield, Lancaster, and Temecula, California campuses. Students’ complete hybrid classroom instruction along with hands-on training at their selected HDMC campus.
See Which Campus Is Closest to You
The Medical Billing and Coding curriculum combines medical knowledge, coding and billing procedures, insurance processes and medical office skills to prepare students for administrative healthcare roles.
Coursework and training include:
- Medical Terminology
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Medical Office Procedures
- Electronic Health Records
- Medical Law & Ethics
- Medical Billing & Coding
- Medical Billing Software
- Insurance Claims & Benefits
- Career Development
- Externship
Students learn to interpret medical records, assign codes to diagnoses and procedures, prepare insurance claims, and use current medical billing software while developing an understanding of legal, ethical, and regulatory standards.
Applicants must meet HDMC’s admissions requirements, including having a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
Don’t have your high school diploma yet? HDMC offers high school completion options that may help eligible students get started.
An Admissions Representative can review the requirements with you and help determine your next steps.
For the most current Medical Billing and Coding tuition and fee information, refer to the HDMC School Catalog or speak with an Admissions Representative.
Financial aid, grants, scholarships, and student loans may be available to those who qualify. HDMC’s Financial Aid team can help you understand available options and determine what you may be eligible for.
High Desert Medical College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET).
HDMC is also approved to operate by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
What you’ll learn
HDMC’s Medical Billing and Coding program combines healthcare knowledge with administrative and technical training to help you develop skills used in medical offices and billing departments.
Is a Career in Medical Billing and Coding Right for You?
Take the HDMC Healthcare Career Readiness Quiz.
This fun, online quiz takes just 3 minutes to complete and will give you a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.
Support beyond the classroom
HDMC supports students beyond the classroom with career-focused guidance, professional development resources, and personalized support designed to help graduates feel confident entering the healthcare field.
Resume &
Interview Support
Career
Preparation
Professional
Development
Student
Support Resources
What you walk away with
Build your skills and prepare for your career.
Medical Billing &
Coding Certificate
Graduate with a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate of Completion from HDMC.
CPR & First Aid
Certification
Earn CPR and First Aid Certification through the American Red Cross as part of your training.
Real-World
Experience
Complete a 200-hour externship where you can apply your billing, coding, and medical office skills in a professional environment.
Where you could work
Medical Billing and Coding professionals work across a variety of healthcare and insurance settings. Picture yourself working in:
Hospitals
Support hospital billing departments
Medical Offices
Support everyday billing operations
Dental Offices
Manage dental billing information
Insurance Companies
Process healthcare insurance claims
Billing Companies
Provide specialized billing services
Public Health Departments
Support healthcare administration services
Potential Careers
A Medical Billing and Coding certification could lead to jobs with titles like:
Medical Biller
Billing Coordinator
Claims Technician
Claims Processor
Medical Secretary
Clinic Office Assistant
Patient Account Representative
Billing and Coding Specialist
Potential Careers
A Medical Billing and Coding certification could lead to jobs with titles like:
Medical Biller
Billing Coordinator
Claims Technician
Claims Processor
Medical Secretary
Clinic Office Assistant
Patient Account Representative
Billing and Coding Specialist
Real Students.
Real Stories.
Blanca B.
Medical Billing & Coding
“I decided to take this course because I suffer from a muscle disorder that makes physical work difficult. Now that I’m taking this class, I don’t regret it. It will help me for the rest of my life. HDMC is the best decision. They make me feel at home.”
Sherry O.
Medical Billing & Coding
“I chose HDMC based on accreditation and reviews. Then I called to take a tour and was very impressed. HDMC really cares about what career will suit you! I was going to be in the pharmacy technician program but can not stand long hours. They recommended Medical Billing and Coding so I can sit down. I had to quit various jobs because of knee issues, but I really wanted to work! HDMC is an awesome college! I look forward to school every evening! Who can say that? I can!”
Takami M.
Medical Billing & Coding
“I chose HDMC because I felt that this company believes in students. I already liked the school from what I researched online, but I was convinced even more when I visited and spoke to an admissions rep. She explained the programs, costs, and what happens after graduation. [She] gave me very honest and realistic opinions about the field I was about to enter. I am halfway through my course now, and I am confident I have been given the tools and confidence I need to build a new career.”
Questions?
Here are a few things everyone asks. If you don’t see your question, reach out to see whether our Medical Billing & Coding program is right for you.
Medical Billing and Coding Specialists translate healthcare diagnoses, services and procedures into standardized codes used for medical records and insurance claims. They may also prepare and submit claims, verify insurance information, maintain patient records and help healthcare providers receive payment for services.
HDMC’s Medical Billing and Coding program can be completed in as few as 35 weeks with the morning/afternoon schedule or 43 weeks with the evening schedule. The program includes 940 total clock hours and 44 semester credits, including a 200-hour externship.
The program is offered in a hybrid format. Students complete classroom theory online while gaining hands-on experience with medical records, billing systems and other administrative healthcare skills. Students also complete an externship in a professional environment.
No prior healthcare, billing or coding experience is required. The program is designed for beginners and teaches the foundational medical knowledge, coding procedures and administrative skills needed to prepare for entry-level opportunities.
Financial aid, grants, scholarships, and student loans may be available to those who qualify. HDMC’s Financial Aid team can help you review available options and determine what you may be eligible for.
Additional Resources
to help you build confidence before entering the workforce
