Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Duval County, Florida
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Quick Facts: Duval County Medical Billing & Coding Training
- IPEDS-Accredited Schools: 1 institution offering medical billing and coding programs in Duval County
- Median Salary: $42,630 per year for medical records specialists in the Jacksonville metropolitan area (Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023)
- Job Growth: 6% projected employment growth through 2033 nationally for medical records specialists
- Program Duration: 18-24 months for associate degree programs
- Top Certifications: CPC, CCS, CCA, CBCS
Duval County’s robust healthcare sector—anchored by major medical centers, physician networks, and health insurance operations in Jacksonville—creates consistent demand for skilled medical billing and coding professionals. Whether you’re pursuing an entry-level certification like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or an associate degree, Duval County offers training pathways to launch your career in this growing field.
This guide covers IPEDS-accredited programs available in Duval County, program formats, certification requirements, salary expectations, and actionable steps to launch your medical billing and coding career in Jacksonville and the surrounding area.
What Medical Billing and Coding Programs Are Available in Duval County?
Duval County residents have access to one IPEDS-accredited institution offering comprehensive medical billing and coding training. This program is designed for students seeking formal credentials in medical coding, billing, and health information management.
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL 32202
IPEDS-Accredited Institution
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is a comprehensive public college serving Duval County and the North Florida region with accredited medical billing and coding training. As an IPEDS-listed institution with multiple campuses throughout Duval County, FSCJ offers students flexible on-campus and hybrid options for earning credentials in medical records and coding. The college’s proximity to major Jacksonville healthcare employers—including UF Health Jacksonville, Ascension St. Vincent’s, and Mayo Clinic Jacksonville—provides internship and employment networking opportunities for Duval County students.
- Program Type: Associate Degree
- Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
- Format: On-campus and Hybrid
- Program Duration: 24 months (2 years)
- Enrollment: Comprehensive college with multiple programs serving thousands of Duval County students
- IPEDS UNITID: 133702
“FSCJ’s medical billing program prepared me well for the workforce. The instructors were knowledgeable, and I appreciated having evening classes available while working full-time in Duval County.”
– Student Review, School Website
Source: Florida State College at Jacksonville program information verified 2025-10-31
Compare Duval County Medical Billing Programs
Use this comparison table to evaluate medical billing and coding programs in Duval County based on program type, duration, format, and accreditation status. This overview helps you identify which training pathway aligns with your career goals and schedule.
| School Name | Program Type | Duration | Format | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Associate Degree | 24 months | On-campus / Hybrid | IPEDS ✓ |
Tuition rates are for in-district students and may vary. Contact the school directly for current pricing, financial aid options, and specific program details. FSCJ serves multiple districts in Duval County with varying tuition rates.
How to Choose a Medical Billing Program in Duval County
Selecting the right medical billing and coding program requires evaluating accreditation, program format, cost, certification alignment, and career support. Follow these steps to make an informed decision.
Step 1: Verify Accreditation Status
Confirm that the program is accredited by recognized agencies. IPEDS accreditation ensures quality standards and eligibility for federal financial aid. Look for institutional accreditation (regional or national) and check whether the program is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For Duval County programs, verify the school’s standing through the IPEDS database and your state’s higher education authority.
Step 2: Compare Program Formats and Schedules
Evaluate whether on-campus, hybrid, or online formats fit your lifestyle. Duval County students may benefit from on-campus options at FSCJ for hands-on learning with medical coding software, while hybrid formats offer flexibility for working professionals. Consider whether evening or weekend classes are available to accommodate your schedule.
Step 3: Assess Certification Preparation Alignment
Confirm the program prepares you for professional certifications like the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) or CPC credential. Quality programs include certification exam study materials, practice exams, and instructor support for passing your credential exams on the first attempt. Ask about pass rates and graduate outcomes related to certification success.
Step 4: Review Career Services and Employer Connections
Select a program with robust career services, job placement assistance, and connections to Duval County employers. Schools with strong relationships to local hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and physician practices increase your networking and job placement opportunities. Request information about graduate employment rates and employers actively hiring from the program.
Step 5: Evaluate Total Cost and Financial Aid Options
Calculate the total cost including tuition, fees, textbooks, and certification exam fees. Explore federal grants (Pell), loans, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs. FSCJ and other Duval County institutions offer financial aid counseling—use it to understand your total cost of attendance and monthly payment obligations.
What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Duval County Medical Billing Program?
Graduates of medical billing and coding programs in Duval County pursue diverse career paths across healthcare settings. The healthcare sector’s significant presence in Jacksonville—with major employers like UF Health Jacksonville, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, and numerous physician practices—creates substantial employment opportunities for credential-holding professionals.
Salary Expectations for Duval County Medical Billing Professionals
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from May 2023, medical records specialists in the Jacksonville metropolitan area (which encompasses Duval County) earn a median annual wage of $42,630. Salary ranges vary by experience and specialization:
- 10th Percentile (Entry-Level): $28,940 annually
- 25th Percentile: $34,180 annually
- Median (50th Percentile): $42,630 annually
- 75th Percentile: $52,870 annually
- 90th Percentile (Experienced): $65,250 annually
Professional certifications, specialized coding skills (such as outpatient or surgical coding), and advanced credentials like the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) often command higher salaries in the Duval County healthcare market.
Popular Career Paths for Duval County Medical Coding Graduates
Duval County residents with medical billing and coding credentials work in varied healthcare settings and specialties:
- Medical Coder: Code diagnoses, procedures, and medical services in hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers throughout Duval County
- Inpatient Coder: Specialize in hospital inpatient claims and documentation at major Jacksonville healthcare systems
- Outpatient Coder: Process outpatient and emergency department coding in clinic networks and urgent care facilities in Duval County
- Physician Coder: Code patient encounters for individual practices and multi-specialty physician groups in the Jacksonville area
- Billing Specialist: Process claims, follow up on denials, and manage patient accounts for Duval County healthcare organizations
- Health Information Management Professional: Oversee medical records, privacy compliance, and health data systems in Duval County hospitals and clinics
- Auditor: Review coding accuracy and compliance for healthcare organizations across Duval County
Duval County Employers Actively Hiring Medical Coders and Billers
The Duval County healthcare market includes major employers and healthcare networks that regularly hire medical billing and coding professionals:
- UF Health Jacksonville (major academic medical center and hospital system)
- Ascension St. Vincent’s Healthcare (regional hospital network)
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville (specialty care and research)
- Baptist Health (regional hospital system)
- Regency Medical Group and affiliated physician practices
- Cigna Healthcare (insurance operations in Jacksonville)
- Private physician practices and multi-specialty clinics
- Ambulatory surgery centers throughout Duval County
- Urgent care and occupational health clinics
- Medical billing and collections agencies serving Duval County providers
Job growth in the medical coding field remains steady. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% employment growth through 2033 for medical records specialists nationally, reflecting the healthcare sector’s ongoing need for coding expertise and compliance professionals.
Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Duval County Students
Duval County 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 Duval County-area students.
Popular online medical billing and coding programs available to Duval County students include:
- AAPC Online Training: The American Academy of Professional Coders offers self-paced online courses with CPC exam preparation and lifetime access to course materials.
- 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.
- Penn Foster Career School: Nationally accredited online medical billing and coding diploma program with flexible payment plans and certification exam preparation.
When evaluating online programs, Duval County students should verify that the program provides:
- Accreditation from recognized agencies (Distance Education Accrediting Commission, etc.)
- Preparation for professional certifications (CPC, CCS, CCA)
- Access to practice management software and coding tools
- Career services and job placement assistance for Duval County graduates
- Instructor support and student community forums
For more information about medical billing and coding classes, explore available training formats and program types available to Duval County residents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing Training in Duval County
How much do medical billers and coders earn in Duval County?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023, medical records specialists in the Duval County metropolitan area earn a median annual wage of $42,630, with entry-level positions starting around $28,940 and experienced professionals earning up to $65,250 annually. Salary varies based on experience, certification credentials, specialization (inpatient vs. outpatient coding), and employer type.
Which Duval County schools offer IPEDS-accredited medical billing programs?
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is the primary IPEDS-accredited institution in Duval County offering medical billing and coding programs. FSCJ provides associate degree programs in medical records and health information technology with flexible scheduling for Duval County students. Additional online training options from national providers are also available to Duval County residents.
How long does it take to become a medical biller in Duval County?
Timeline varies by credential level. Associate degree programs in Duval County typically require 24 months of full-time study. Certificate programs or specialized credential preparation may require 6-18 months. Additionally, earning professional certifications like the CPC or CBCS requires passing the certification exam, typically after 2-4 months of focused study after program completion. Total time from start to employment ranges from 12-30 months depending on your path.
Can I study medical billing online in Duval County?
Yes. While Florida State College at Jacksonville offers on-campus and hybrid options, numerous accredited online programs serve Duval County students. Online options include AAPC, AHIMA, Penn Foster, and Career Step. Online learning offers flexibility for working professionals while maintaining access to the same certification preparation and career support available in traditional programs.
What certifications do Duval County medical billers need?
The most recognized certifications in Duval County’s healthcare market include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) from AHIMA, Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), and Certified Coding Associate (CCA). Many Duval County employers prefer or require at least one certification. Medical billing and coding certifications typically require passing a proctored exam after completing required education or work experience hours.
How much does medical billing training cost in Duval County?
Costs vary significantly. Florida State College at Jacksonville offers in-district tuition rates substantially lower than private training providers. Contact FSCJ directly for current tuition rates for Duval County residents. Online programs range from $2,000-$8,000 depending on program length and provider. Additionally, budget for certification exam fees ($200-$400) and study materials. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available.
What are the job prospects for medical billers in Duval County?
Job prospects remain favorable in Duval County. The Jacksonville metropolitan area has a robust healthcare sector with major employers like UF Health Jacksonville, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, and numerous physician practices actively hiring coding and billing professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% employment growth through 2033 for medical records specialists nationally. Credential-holders with current coding knowledge are particularly competitive in Duval County’s job market.
Do I need a degree to work in medical billing in Duval County?
No formal degree is always required, but most Duval County employers prefer candidates with either an associate degree or professional certification. Many entry-level positions require a high school diploma plus certification (CPC, CBCS, or CCA). However, advancing to supervisory roles, auditing positions, or specialty coding often requires an associate degree or higher. Your specific qualification requirements depend on the employer and position level in Duval County.
What’s the difference between medical billing and medical coding?
Medical coding involves converting patient encounters, diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized codes (using CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS code sets) for documentation and analysis. Medical billing uses those codes to generate insurance claims, process payments, and manage patient accounts. Coders work with clinical documentation; billers work with claims and financial transactions. Many professionals perform both functions, especially in smaller Duval County healthcare organizations. Understanding CPT codes, ICD-10 coding systems, and HCPCS guidelines is essential for both roles.
Which Duval County employers hire medical billers and coders most actively?
Major Duval County employers actively hiring medical billing and coding professionals include UF Health Jacksonville, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Baptist Health, and numerous independent physician practices. Additionally, regional billing services, medical transcription companies, and insurance operations in Jacksonville regularly hire coders and billers. Networking through professional organizations like AAPC and AHIMA can connect you with Duval County employers seeking qualified professionals.
Getting Started: Career Pathways in Duval County Medical Billing
Ready to launch your medical billing career in Duval County? Begin by exploring career pathways in medical billing and coding to understand multiple credential routes. Then, research programs offered at Florida State College at Jacksonville and evaluate whether on-campus, hybrid, or online learning fits your situation.
Key next steps include:
- Contacting FSCJ admissions to discuss program requirements and enrollment
- Exploring medical billing and coding certification options and certification exam requirements
- Connecting with medical billing and coding schools in Florida for additional program research
- Learning from the comprehensive guide on how to become a medical billing and coding specialist
- Obtaining information about top medical billing and coding certifications and credential pathways
Data Sources
- IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) – School data, enrollment, and accreditation verified 2025-10-31
- Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS – Salary and employment data (May 2023)
- Florida State College at Jacksonville official website – Program details and institutional information verified 2025-10-31
- AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) – Certification requirements and exam information
- AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) – Credentialing standards and health information management guidelines
Start Your Medical Billing Career in Duval County Today
The Duval County healthcare market needs qualified medical billing and coding professionals. Whether you’re pursuing an associate degree at Florida State College at Jacksonville, earning a professional certification, or advancing through specialized credentials, today is the time to invest in your healthcare career. Contact FSCJ admissions to learn about enrollment deadlines, financial aid, and program start dates. Your career in medical billing and coding in Duval County begins with a single step.
