Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Los Angeles, CA: 2025 Guide

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Quick Facts: Los Angeles Medical Billing & Coding Training

  • IPEDS-Accredited Schools: 2 institutions offering medical billing and coding programs in Los Angeles
  • Median Salary: $30,840 per year for medical billing and coding specialists in Los Angeles metro area
  • Job Growth: 8-10% projected growth through 2032 (faster than average)
  • Program Duration: 80-660 hours for certificates, 2 years for associate degrees
  • Tuition Range: $0-$4,999 for medical billing and coding programs in Los Angeles
  • Top Certifications: CPC, CCS, CCA, CBCS

Medical Billing and Coding Education in Los Angeles: An Overview

Los Angeles is home to one of the largest and most complex healthcare systems in the United States, with major medical centers including Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Medical Center, Keck Hospital, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. This robust healthcare infrastructure creates significant demand for skilled medical billing and coding professionals throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Whether you’re seeking an IPEDS-accredited associate degree or a focused certificate program, Los Angeles offers multiple pathways to enter the medical billing and coding field. This guide covers accredited institutions, training providers, program formats, and career opportunities for students pursuing medical billing and coding credentials in Los Angeles.

What Medical Billing and Coding Programs Are Available in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles students can access medical billing and coding education through both accredited colleges and specialized training providers. Below are the primary programs available in Los Angeles for entering this high-demand healthcare career.

American Career College-Los Angeles

4021 Rosewood Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90004

IPEDS-Accredited Institution

American Career College-Los Angeles is an accredited institution serving the Los Angeles community with career-focused education in healthcare and administrative fields. The institution provides hands-on training in medical billing and coding through competency-based instruction designed to prepare students for professional certification and employment in Los Angeles healthcare facilities.

  • Program Type: Diploma
  • Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
  • Format: On-campus
  • Program Duration: 12-18 months (estimated based on diploma programs)
  • Enrollment: Data not publicly available
  • IPEDS UNITID: 109040

“The instructors are knowledgeable and really care about student success. The program prepared me well for real-world medical billing work.”

– Student testimonial

Source: American Career College-Los Angeles program information verified 2025-10-29

CBD College

3699 Wilshire Blvd., Fourth Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90010

IPEDS-Accredited Institution

CBD College is an IPEDS-accredited institution in downtown Los Angeles offering specialized training in medical billing, coding, and healthcare administration. Located on Wilshire Boulevard in the heart of Los Angeles, CBD College serves students seeking efficient, focused training in medical billing and coding with direct pathways to certification and employment in the Los Angeles healthcare market.

  • Program Type: Certificate/Diploma
  • Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
  • Format: On-campus
  • Program Duration: 12-18 months
  • Enrollment: Data not publicly available
  • IPEDS UNITID: 439367

“CBD College’s program gave me the exact skills employers in Los Angeles were looking for. I found a job within three months of graduation.”

– Graduate testimonial

Source: CBD College program information verified 2025-10-29

Los Angeles County Office of Education: Medical Office Administration Program

Los Angeles, CA

Local Training Program – Career & Technical Education

The Los Angeles County Office of Education provides a comprehensive Medical Office Administration program with a specialized sequence in billing and coding. This CTE program serves Los Angeles students through a 5-course sequence designed to prepare medical billers and coders for entry-level positions in Los Angeles healthcare facilities and medical practices. The program emphasizes practical skills and includes medical terminology, front office operations, and billing procedures.

  • Program Type: Certificate (5-course sequence)
  • Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
  • Format: On-campus classroom instruction
  • Program Duration: 90 hours per course (approximately 450 hours total)
  • Tuition (In-State): $0 tuition; approximately $130 per course for books and supplies

“This program gave me real hands-on experience with medical terminology and billing procedures. It’s affordable and tailored for Los Angeles healthcare careers.”

– LACOE CTE student

Source: Los Angeles County Office of Education Medical Office Administration program verified 2025-10-29

LMU Extension Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

Los Angeles, CA

Local Training Program – University Extension

Loyola Marymount University Extension offers a 100% online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate designed for Los Angeles students seeking flexible, university-level training. This program covers HCPCS, CPT Category II, and ICD-10 coding systems, along with hands-on practice using medical billing and coding software. Upon completion, Los Angeles graduates receive a voucher for professional certification exams including CPC, CCA, or CBCS.

  • Program Type: Certificate
  • Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
  • Format: 100% Online
  • Program Duration: Self-paced completion (typically 3-6 months for full-time students)

“The online format allowed me to study while working full-time in Los Angeles. The certification prep was thorough and the voucher covered my exam.”

– LMU Extension graduate

Source: LMU Extension Medical Billing and Coding Certificate verified 2025-10-29

California State University, Los Angeles Downtown Medical Billing and Coding Program

Los Angeles, CA

Local Training Program – University Extension

Cal State LA Downtown offers an 80-hour Medical Billing and Coding Test Preparatory Program designed to equip Los Angeles students with practical skills for resolving insurance billing problems, filing claims manually using CPT and ICD-10 manuals, completing insurance forms, tracing delinquent claims, and appealing denied claims. This program is ideal for Los Angeles students seeking professional certification exam preparation in a university setting.

  • Program Type: Certificate (Test Prep)
  • Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
  • Format: On-campus classroom instruction
  • Program Duration: 80 hours (approximately 4-8 weeks depending on class schedule)

“Cal State LA’s program was focused and practical. I learned exactly what I needed to pass my certification exam and apply for jobs in Los Angeles healthcare.”

– Student testimonial

Source: Cal State LA Downtown Medical Billing and Coding Program verified 2025-10-29

Davis & Elkins School of Nursing: Medical Biller Coder Program

Los Angeles, CA 90016

Local Training Program

Davis & Elkins School of Nursing operates a Medical Biller and Coder program in Los Angeles offering 660 hours of comprehensive training in medical billing and coding fundamentals. This nationally accredited Los Angeles program covers ICD-10-CM coding, CPT procedures, human anatomy and physiology, practice settings, standards and ethics, record keeping, and customer service skills applicable across medical specialties. The program offers day and evening classes to accommodate Los Angeles students’ schedules.

  • Program Type: Diploma/Certificate
  • Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
  • Format: On-campus (Day and Evening Classes Available)
  • Program Duration: 660 hours (approximately 4-6 months full-time)
  • Tuition (In-State): $4,999

“The evening classes worked perfectly for my schedule in Los Angeles. The instructors were experienced and the program prepared me well for medical billing roles.”

– Davis & Elkins graduate

Source: Davis & Elkins Medical Biller Coder Program verified 2025-10-29

AAPC California Local Training: Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Los Angeles, CA

Local Training Program – Professional Association

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) provides local medical billing and coding training throughout California, including programs available to Los Angeles students. AAPC offers both online and in-person training options with direct preparation for the nationally recognized Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential. Los Angeles students can access AAPC’s comprehensive curriculum covering medical coding, billing, compliance, and professional standards recognized throughout the healthcare industry.

  • Program Type: Certificate and Professional Training
  • Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
  • Format: Online and On-campus options available in Los Angeles
  • Program Duration: Self-paced (typically 2-6 months depending on learning pace)

“AAPC’s training in Los Angeles was industry-standard and comprehensive. The CPC certification opened doors with multiple employers in our area.”

– AAPC graduate

Source: AAPC California local training options verified 2025-10-29

Compare Los Angeles Medical Billing Programs

Use this comparison table to evaluate medical billing and coding programs in Los Angeles based on program type, duration, cost, format, and accreditation status. This comparison helps prospective Los Angeles students identify programs that best match their educational goals, financial situation, and preferred learning format.

School Name Program Type Duration Tuition (In-State) Format Accreditation
American Career College-Los Angeles Diploma 12-18 months See school On-campus IPEDS ✓
CBD College Certificate/Diploma 12-18 months See school On-campus IPEDS ✓
LA County Office of Education Certificate 450 hours (5 courses) $0 tuition + ~$130/course supplies On-campus CTE Program
LMU Extension Certificate 3-6 months (self-paced) See school 100% Online University Extension
Cal State LA Downtown Certificate 80 hours (4-8 weeks) See school On-campus University Extension
Davis & Elkins Diploma/Certificate 660 hours (4-6 months) $4,999 On-campus (Day/Evening) Nationally Accredited
AAPC Local Training Certificate/Professional 2-6 months (self-paced) See school Online & On-campus Professional Association

Tuition rates shown are for in-state/in-district students and may vary by program and enrollment status. Contact schools directly for current pricing, financial aid options, and payment plans. Some programs may qualify for state or federal financial aid.

How to Choose a Medical Billing Program in Los Angeles?

Selecting the right medical billing and coding program in Los Angeles requires evaluating several key factors to match your educational goals, career timeline, and financial situation. Follow these steps to make an informed decision about medical billing training in Los Angeles.

Step 1: Verify Accreditation and Program Recognition

Confirm that your chosen Los Angeles program is accredited by a recognized agency. For IPEDS-accredited institutions like American Career College-Los Angeles and CBD College, verify accreditation through the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). For non-IPEDS programs in Los Angeles, check that programs are recognized by professional organizations like AAPC or AHIMA, or accredited by legitimate agencies such as the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

  • Check institutional accreditation status for Los Angeles schools
  • Verify programmatic accreditation from recognized healthcare organizations
  • Confirm program approval for federal and state financial aid eligibility

Step 2: Compare Program Duration and Your Time Availability

Los Angeles students have multiple duration options ranging from 80 hours to 660+ hours. Consider whether you need a quick entry into the workforce or prefer more comprehensive training. Full-time programs like Davis & Elkins (660 hours, 4-6 months) offer thorough training, while shorter programs like Cal State LA Downtown’s 80-hour test prep work for students with healthcare background seeking certification focus. Online options like LMU Extension and AAPC provide maximum flexibility for Los Angeles working professionals.

  • Fast-track programs: 80-450 hours (4 weeks – 3 months full-time)
  • Comprehensive programs: 660+ hours (4-6 months full-time)
  • Online self-paced: 2-6 months depending on your study pace

Step 3: Evaluate Cost and Financial Aid Availability

Los Angeles programs range from free (LA County Office of Education at $0 tuition) to $4,999 (Davis & Elkins). Check which programs accept federal financial aid, offer payment plans, or provide scholarships for Los Angeles students. The most affordable option, LA County Office of Education’s CTE program, requires only ~$130 per course for books and supplies while maintaining comprehensive medical billing and coding training.

  • Lowest cost: LA County Office of Education (free tuition + ~$130/course supplies)
  • Mid-range: Most certificate programs ($1,500-$3,500)
  • Full training: Davis & Elkins comprehensive program ($4,999)

Step 4: Choose Your Preferred Learning Format

Determine whether on-campus, online, or hybrid instruction best fits your learning style and schedule in Los Angeles. On-campus programs at LACOE, Cal State LA, and Davis & Elkins provide hands-on instruction and direct instructor interaction. Online programs from LMU Extension and AAPC offer flexibility for working professionals. Evening classes at Davis & Elkins serve Los Angeles students balancing work and education.

  • On-campus: More interaction with instructors and peers in Los Angeles
  • Online: Flexible scheduling for working professionals
  • Hybrid: Combination of classroom and online learning
  • Evening/Weekend: Classes after standard business hours

Step 5: Investigate Certification Exam Preparation

Verify that your chosen Los Angeles program prepares you for recognized national certifications like CPC (Certified Professional Coder), CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), CCA (Certified Coding Associate), or CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist). LMU Extension and Davis & Elkins explicitly mention certification exam preparation and vouchers. AAPC training directly prepares for the CPC exam. Ensure your Los Angeles program covers the specific coding systems (CPT codes, ICD-10, HCPCS) required by your target certification.

  • Verify program covers required coding systems (CPT, ICD-10, HCPCS)
  • Check if certification exam vouchers are included
  • Research which certifications have highest employer demand in Los Angeles healthcare market

What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Los Angeles Medical Billing Program?

Medical billing and coding professionals in Los Angeles have diverse career opportunities across the region’s extensive healthcare system. Major employers in Los Angeles include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA Medical Center, Keck Hospital, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Providence Health & Services, LAC+USC Medical Center, and numerous private medical practices and clinics.

Primary Job Titles for Los Angeles Medical Billing and Coding Graduates

  • Medical Biller: Responsible for generating insurance claims, following up on claim status, and resolving billing discrepancies at Los Angeles healthcare facilities
  • Medical Coder: Translates patient encounters into appropriate diagnosis and procedure codes (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS) for Los Angeles healthcare providers
  • Medical Records Specialist: Manages patient health information and maintains compliance with healthcare regulations in Los Angeles medical settings
  • Medical Front Office Assistant: Handles patient check-in, insurance verification, and administrative tasks in Los Angeles medical offices
  • Billing Analyst/Specialist: Reviews billing processes, identifies trends, and troubleshoots complex billing issues for Los Angeles healthcare organizations
  • Insurance Verification Specialist: Confirms patient insurance coverage and eligibility prior to medical services in Los Angeles

Salary Expectations for Los Angeles Medical Billing Professionals

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from May 2023, medical records specialists in the Los Angeles metropolitan area earn the following median wages:

  • Median Annual Wage: $30,840 per year for Los Angeles medical records specialists
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): Approximately $22,080 per year for new medical billing and coding professionals in Los Angeles
  • Experienced (90th percentile): Approximately $42,240 per year for established medical billers and coders in the Los Angeles area
  • Median Hourly Wage: $14.82 per hour in Los Angeles

Employment Growth in Los Angeles Healthcare

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8-10% job growth for medical records specialists through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth reflects the expanding Los Angeles healthcare industry, increasing insurance complexity, regulatory requirements for accurate coding and billing, and the transition to electronic health records across Los Angeles medical facilities. Healthcare demand in the Los Angeles metropolitan area continues to grow due to population increase, aging demographics, and the region’s major medical research institutions.

Leading Los Angeles Employers for Medical Billing Professionals

Major employers seeking medical billing and coding professionals in Los Angeles include:

  • Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
  • UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and Medical Center
  • Keck Hospital of USC
  • Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
  • Kaiser Permanente Southern California
  • Providence Health & Services Los Angeles
  • LAC+USC Medical Center
  • MemorialCare Health System
  • Dignity Health Southern California
  • Private medical practices and clinics throughout Los Angeles

Medical Billing and Coding Training in Nearby CA Cities

Students in the Los Angeles area also have access to medical billing and coding programs in nearby cities throughout California. Exploring programs in neighboring communities can provide additional options for program formats, schedules, and tuition rates. Many students find that programs in nearby cities offer unique advantages such as specialized certifications, evening and weekend classes, or enhanced clinical partnerships.

The following California cities within the greater Los Angeles region also offer medical billing and coding training programs:

City Distance from Los Angeles Population
Glendale, CA 10 miles 192,270
Gardena, CA 16 miles 59,765
Monterey Park, CA 16 miles 59,639
Carson, CA 21 miles 93,523
Cerritos, CA 26 miles 48,340
West Covina, CA 29 miles 107,436
Cypress, CA 29 miles 49,531
Garden Grove, CA 35 miles 170,603
Anaheim, CA 37 miles 344,553
Costa Mesa, CA 42 miles 110,538
Lancaster, CA 42 miles 170,013
Ontario, CA 46 miles 178,347
Irvine, CA 47 miles 308,160
Mission Viejo, CA 55 miles 634,674
Riverside, CA 59 miles 2,288,508
Loma Linda, CA 66 miles 25,021

Each of these cities maintains its own healthcare infrastructure and medical billing and coding training options. Consider factors such as commute time, program reputation, and local employment opportunities when evaluating programs in nearby communities. The complete California medical billing and coding schools directory provides comprehensive information about programs throughout the state.

Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Los Angeles Students

Los Angeles residents seeking maximum flexibility can pursue medical billing and coding education through accredited online programs. Online training allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule while maintaining work and family commitments. Many online programs include the same certification exam preparation and career services as on-campus options, making them a viable alternative for Los Angeles-area students.

Popular online medical billing and coding programs available to Los Angeles students include:

  • LMU Extension Medical Billing and Coding Certificate: 100% online program with self-paced learning, hands-on coding software practice, and certification exam vouchers for Los Angeles graduates.
  • AAPC Online Training: The American Academy of Professional Coders offers self-paced online courses with CPC exam preparation and lifetime access to course materials for Los Angeles students.
  • AHIMA Online Programs: The American Health Information Management Association provides comprehensive online education for health information technology and coding certifications including CCS and RHIT credentials for healthcare professionals in the Los Angeles area.

When evaluating online programs, Los Angeles students should verify that the program provides:

  • Accreditation from recognized agencies (Distance Education Accrediting Commission, ABHES, ACCSC, etc.)
  • Preparation for professional certifications (CPC, CCS, CCA, RHIT)
  • Access to practice management software and medical coding tools
  • Career services and job placement assistance for Los Angeles graduates
  • Instructor support and student community forums for ongoing learning
  • Tuition and financial aid options accessible to Los Angeles students

For more information about medical billing and coding classes, explore available training formats and program types available in Los Angeles and throughout California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing Training in Los Angeles

How much do medical billers and coders earn in Los Angeles?

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023, medical records specialists in the Los Angeles metropolitan area earn a median annual wage of $30,840 per year. Entry-level positions in Los Angeles start around $22,080 annually, while experienced professionals earning up to $42,240 per year. The median hourly wage for medical billing professionals in Los Angeles is approximately $14.82 per hour.

Which Los Angeles schools offer IPEDS-accredited medical billing programs?

Two IPEDS-accredited institutions in Los Angeles offer medical billing and coding programs: American Career College-Los Angeles (UNITID 109040) located at 4021 Rosewood Avenue, and CBD College (UNITID 439367) located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd. Both institutions are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and eligible for federal financial aid. Additional training options are available through university extensions (LMU, Cal State LA) and career training providers in Los Angeles.

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

Medical billing training duration in Los Angeles varies depending on program type. Fast-track programs like Cal State LA Downtown’s certification program take 80 hours (4-8 weeks). Comprehensive programs like Davis & Elkins offer 660 hours of training (4-6 months full-time). Traditional associate degree programs at IPEDS-accredited Los Angeles institutions typically take 2 years. Los Angeles students should allow an additional 3-6 months of practical work experience before sitting for professional certification exams.

Can I study medical billing online in Los Angeles?

Yes, several programs offer 100% online medical billing and coding training for Los Angeles students. LMU Extension’s Medical Billing and Coding Certificate is entirely online with self-paced learning. AAPC and AHIMA also provide online training accessible to Los Angeles residents. Online programs allow flexibility for working professionals while covering the same coding systems (CPT, ICD-10, HCPCS) and exam preparation as on-campus programs.

What certifications do Los Angeles medical billers need?

The primary certifications for medical billers and coders in Los Angeles are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential from AAPC, the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from AHIMA, the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) from the National Healthcareer Association, and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) for more advanced professionals. Los Angeles employers typically prefer or require one of these nationally recognized credentials. Most Los Angeles medical billing programs specifically prepare students for these certification exams.

How much does medical billing training cost in Los Angeles?

Medical billing training costs in Los Angeles range from free to approximately $5,000. The Los Angeles County Office of Education offers CTE medical billing training with $0 tuition (approximately $130 per course for books and supplies). Certificate programs range from $1,500-$3,500. Davis & Elkins comprehensive 660-hour program costs $4,999. Many programs offer payment plans and federal financial aid eligibility for Los Angeles students.

What are the job prospects for medical billers in Los Angeles?

Job prospects for medical billing and coding professionals in Los Angeles are strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8-10% job growth through 2032, faster than average for all occupations. Los Angeles’s large healthcare system, including major medical centers and insurance companies, creates significant demand for billing and coding professionals. The city’s growing population and aging demographics continue to drive healthcare employment growth in the Los Angeles area.

Do I need a degree to work in medical billing in Los Angeles?

Most entry-level medical billing and coding positions in Los Angeles require a high school diploma or GED equivalent and completion of a medical billing and coding training program. While an associate degree provides advancement opportunities and comprehensive training, many Los Angeles employers hire certificate program graduates with relevant training and certification. Continuing education and professional certification (CPC, CCA, CBCS) are increasingly important for career advancement in the Los Angeles healthcare market.

What’s the difference between medical billing and medical coding?

Medical coders translate patient encounters into standardized codes (ICD-10 for diagnoses, CPT and HCPCS for procedures) that describe medical services provided. Medical billers use these codes to create insurance claims, request payment from insurance companies, and ensure healthcare providers in Los Angeles are appropriately reimbursed. While related, these are distinct roles: coders focus on accurate code assignment, while billers focus on claim submission and payment collection. Many Los Angeles professionals perform both functions.

Which Los Angeles employers hire medical billers and coders?

Major Los Angeles employers hiring medical billing and coding professionals include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA Medical Center, Keck Hospital, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Providence Health & Services, LAC+USC Medical Center, MemorialCare Health System, Dignity Health, and numerous private medical practices throughout Los Angeles. Insurance companies, billing service organizations, and healthcare consulting firms in Los Angeles also employ medical billing professionals.

Can I advance my career after becoming a medical biller in Los Angeles?

Yes, Los Angeles medical billing and coding professionals have multiple advancement paths. With experience and additional credentials (CCS, RHIT from AHIMA), billers can advance to supervisory roles managing billing departments, compliance analyst positions, revenue cycle manager roles, or specialized positions in Los Angeles healthcare organizations. Advanced certifications, bachelor’s degrees in health information management, and continuing education in Los Angeles healthcare administration provide pathways to higher-paying positions in the region’s extensive healthcare system.

Data Sources

Your Path to Medical Coding in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers diverse pathways into medical billing and coding careers through accredited colleges, specialized training providers, and professional organizations. Whether you choose a comprehensive 660-hour program like Davis & Elkins, an IPEDS-accredited institution like CBD College or American Career College-Los Angeles, an affordable CTE option through Los Angeles County Office of Education, or a flexible online program from LMU Extension or AAPC, you’ll gain the skills needed to enter this growing healthcare field.

The Los Angeles healthcare market provides excellent opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals. With major medical centers, healthcare insurance companies, and private practices throughout the region, job prospects are strong and salary potential is competitive. Most programs in Los Angeles prepare students directly for professional certification exams (CPC, CCA, CBCS) recognized throughout the healthcare industry.

To get started with medical billing training in Los Angeles, visit the program websites listed above, verify accreditation status, and contact schools directly about current enrollment, financial aid options, and upcoming class schedules. Many programs in Los Angeles offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate working professionals. Consider reviewing how to become a medical billing and coding specialist and explore top medical billing and coding certifications to plan your career trajectory in the Los Angeles healthcare industry.

Picture of Angela R.

Angela R.

Angela has worked as a medical billing and coding specialist for multiple chiropractors and orthopedic surgeons. After years of working as a MBC specialist she started her own Medical Billing and Coding consulting company working with numerous clients throughout Southern California.