Crack the Code to a Health Care Career with Clinical Coding
Master the skill of translating complex medical information into standardized codes with STLCC's clinical coding programs. Our hands-on curriculum bridges the gap between medical knowledge and coding expertise. After completing the program, you'll be able to support hospitals, clinics and medical practices with accurate coding and documentation skills.
What is Clinical Coding at St. Louis Community College?
Through STLCC's clinical coding programs, you'll gain the skills and knowledge to successfully apply codes to diagnoses and procedures. You'll learn about key topics such as coding concepts, regulatory compliance and provider queries, ensuring that you'll be with the necessary coding skills needed in the field.
We offer two programs to meet your needs:
- Certificate of specialization (CS): introductory certificate program ideal for students and professionals seeking coding credentials for outpatient settings. After completing the program, you'll be prepared to become a Certified Coding Associate (CCA) after passing the national exam.
- Certificate of proficiency (CP): in-depth certificate program that develops advanced skills in both inpatient and outpatient medical coding. After completing the program, you'll be prepared to become a CCA or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) after passing the national exam.
What Can You Do with a Clinical Coding Certificate?
Both clinical coding programs prepare you to take the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) national certification exams—either the CCA or CCS certification, depending on your program path. With these industry-recognized credentials, you'll be prepared for roles as a clinical coding practitioner or specialist.
Clinical Coding Program Information
- Degrees offered: Certificate of specialization, certificate of proficiency
- Locations: Forest Park, Online
- CS hours to complete: 24
- CP hours to complete: 35
- Program contact name: Patricia Sherman
- Program contact email: psherman@stlcc.edu
- Accreditation:
The clinical coding programs align with the American Health Information Management Association’s (AHIMA) coding education curriculum guidelines and provide the foundation to pursue additional study in health information technology. The Professional Certificate Approval Program (PCAP) has approved these programs.
Tuition for district residents is $122 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Related Programs
At STLCC, you can combine this degree with other programs to enhance your career opportunities, including:
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Clinical Coding Programs
Flexibility for Working Students
Because these programs are geared toward students with full-time jobs, evening courses are available. The programs offer a mixture of face-to-face and online courses.
Stackable Credentials
Stackable credentials help you level up your career opportunities without investing a large amount of time and resources.
Graduate With Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save over $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third lower than other local institutions. Plus, we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
STLCC. What's your reason?