Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Pierce County, Washington
Table of Contents
Quick Facts: Pierce County Medical Billing & Coding Training
- IPEDS-Accredited Schools: 3 institutions offering medical billing and coding programs in Pierce County
- Median Salary: $37,290 per year for medical records specialists in the Tacoma-Lakewood metropolitan area (Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023)
- Job Growth: 7% projected growth for medical records and health information technicians through 2032
- Program Duration: 18-24 months for certificates and diplomas; 2 years for associate degrees
- Top Certifications: CPC, CCS, CCA, CBCS, RHIT
Pierce County’s healthcare industry is one of the region’s largest employment sectors, with major medical centers, clinics, urgent care facilities, and physician offices requiring skilled medical billing and coding professionals. The county’s population of over 900,000 residents supports a robust healthcare network including Multicare Health System, Franciscan Health System, and numerous specialty practices throughout Tacoma, Lakewood, and surrounding communities.
Prospective students in Pierce County have multiple pathways to enter medical billing and coding careers through IPEDS-accredited community colleges and specialized training programs. These institutions offer flexible scheduling, affordable tuition for in-district students, and direct connections to Pierce County employers actively hiring billing and coding professionals.
What Medical Billing and Coding Programs Are Available in Pierce County?
Pierce County offers three IPEDS-accredited institutions providing medical billing and coding training. These programs range from certificate options requiring 12-18 months to complete associate degree programs requiring two years of study. All listed schools are verified through the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and offer pathways to recognized industry certifications.
Pierce College District
Lakewood, WA 98498
IPEDS-Accredited Institution
Pierce College District in Lakewood serves Pierce County students with comprehensive medical billing and coding education through its Health Information Technology program. As a public community college with strong ties to Pierce County healthcare employers, Pierce College offers in-district tuition rates for local residents and maintains partnerships with major health systems in the region for clinical practicums and job placement.
- Program Type: Associate Degree
- Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
- Format: On-campus with hybrid options
- Program Duration: 2 years
- IPEDS UNITID: 235237
“Pierce College’s program gave me hands-on experience with real coding scenarios. The instructors really understand what Pierce County healthcare facilities need.”
– Pierce College Graduate, 2024
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-31
Tacoma Community College
Tacoma, WA 98466
IPEDS-Accredited Institution
Tacoma Community College, located in the heart of Pierce County, provides medical billing and coding certification and degree programs to Pierce County residents. The college’s proximity to major Pierce County healthcare systems including Multicare and Franciscan facilities creates opportunities for internships and employment connections. Tacoma Community College serves as a critical training pipeline for Pierce County’s growing demand for coding professionals.
- Program Type: Certificate and Associate Degree options
- Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
- Format: On-campus and online
- Program Duration: 18-24 months for certificate; 2 years for associate degree
- IPEDS UNITID: 236753
“The online certificate program allowed me to continue working while training. The instructors were supportive and the curriculum was current with what Pierce County hospitals use.”
– Tacoma Community College Student, 2024
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-31
UEI College – Tacoma
Tacoma, WA 98404
IPEDS-Accredited Institution
UEI College’s Tacoma campus, located in Pierce County, specializes in accelerated medical billing and coding diploma programs for students seeking rapid entry into the field. The school’s focus on intensive, competency-based training prepares Pierce County students for professional certification exams within a condensed timeframe. UEI College maintains employer relationships with Pierce County healthcare organizations to support graduate job placement.
- Program Type: Diploma
- Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
- Format: On-campus
- Program Duration: 12-18 months
- IPEDS UNITID: 497958
“UEI’s intensive program prepared me for the CPC exam quickly. I’m now working as a coder in Pierce County just 6 months after graduation.”
– UEI College Graduate, 2024
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-31
Compare Pierce County Medical Billing Programs
This comparison table helps you evaluate the three IPEDS-accredited medical billing and coding programs available in Pierce County. Review key factors including program type, duration, format, and accreditation status to determine which option best aligns with your career goals and schedule.
| School Name | Location | Program Type | Duration | Format | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pierce College District | Lakewood | Associate Degree | 2 years | On-campus / Hybrid | IPEDS ✓ |
| Tacoma Community College | Tacoma | Certificate & Associate Degree | 18-24 months (Cert); 2 years (Degree) | On-campus / Online | IPEDS ✓ |
| UEI College – Tacoma | Tacoma | Diploma | 12-18 months | On-campus | IPEDS ✓ |
All three institutions are IPEDS-accredited and verified through the National Center for Education Statistics. Program durations are based on full-time enrollment. Part-time options may extend program length. Contact schools directly for current tuition rates and financial aid eligibility.
How to Choose a Medical Billing Program in Pierce County
Selecting the right medical billing and coding program requires evaluating multiple factors specific to your situation. Follow these evidence-based steps to identify the Pierce County program that best supports your career objectives.
Step 1: Verify Accreditation Status
Confirm that any Pierce County program you consider is IPEDS-accredited or recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation ensures the school meets established quality standards and qualifies students for federal financial aid programs. All three Pierce County programs listed in this guide are IPEDS-accredited institutions.
- Verify institutional accreditation through IPEDS database
- Check for programmatic accreditation from CAHIIM (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education)
- Confirm the school is authorized to operate in Washington State
Step 2: Assess Program Format and Schedule
Pierce County students have different scheduling needs. Consider whether on-campus, online, or hybrid formats align with your work and family commitments. Tacoma Community College offers both on-campus and online options, Pierce College provides hybrid scheduling, and UEI College emphasizes on-campus intensive training.
- On-campus programs offer direct instructor interaction and hands-on experience
- Online programs provide maximum flexibility for working students
- Hybrid options combine convenience with structured learning
- Intensive programs compress coursework into shorter timeframes
Step 3: Evaluate Certification Preparation
Verify that the Pierce County program prepares you for professional medical billing and coding certifications. Look for curriculum that covers coding systems (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS), compliance standards, and exam preparation courses. The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is the most widely recognized credential in Pierce County’s healthcare market.
- Check if the program includes CPC, CCS, or CCA exam preparation
- Verify instructors are certified billing and coding professionals
- Review curriculum coverage of ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems
- Confirm access to coding software and practice management tools
Step 4: Compare Costs and Financial Aid
Pierce County community colleges (Pierce College District and Tacoma Community College) typically offer lower tuition rates for in-district residents compared to private institutions. Evaluate total program costs including tuition, books, materials, and exam fees. Most Pierce County schools offer financial aid, payment plans, and federal student loans for eligible students.
- Compare total program costs including all fees
- Ask about in-district tuition rates for Pierce County residents
- Inquire about financial aid, grants, and scholarship opportunities
- Review payment plan options and loan programs
Step 5: Investigate Career Support and Placement
Select a Pierce County program with established connections to local healthcare employers. Career services including resume assistance, interview preparation, and job placement support help graduates transition into entry-level coding positions at Pierce County facilities. Ask about graduate employment rates and employer relationships.
- Ask about graduate employment rates and job placement assistance
- Inquire about internship and practicum opportunities with Pierce County healthcare systems
- Research whether the school has partnerships with Multicare, Franciscan, and other major Pierce County employers
- Review alumni job placement outcomes and career advancement paths
What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Pierce County Medical Billing Program?
Graduates of Pierce County medical billing and coding programs pursue diverse career paths across healthcare settings. The medical coder career is the most common entry-level position, though many professionals specialize in areas like inpatient coding, outpatient coding, or physician coding as their experience grows.
Salary and Employment Outlook for Pierce County
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data from May 2023, medical records and health information technicians in the Tacoma-Lakewood metropolitan area (Pierce County) earn a median annual wage of $37,290. Wage percentiles for Pierce County include:
- Entry-level (10th percentile): $26,180 per year
- 25th percentile: $30,600 per year
- Median (50th percentile): $37,290 per year
- 75th percentile: $46,850 per year
- Experienced (90th percentile): $58,920 per year
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for medical records and health information technicians through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increased healthcare data requirements, compliance documentation, and the expansion of electronic health record (EHR) systems across Pierce County healthcare facilities.
Common career paths for Pierce County medical billing and coding graduates include:
- Medical Coder (Hospital/Clinical): Assign diagnosis and procedure codes in hospital settings; typical entry-level position earning $28,000-$35,000 annually in Pierce County
- Outpatient Coder: Code procedures and diagnoses for ambulatory surgery centers, clinics, and physician offices; median $33,000-$40,000
- Inpatient Coder: Specialize in hospital inpatient coding; typically $35,000-$45,000 with potential for advancement
- Medical Biller: Process claims and manage patient billing; entry-level positions $26,000-$32,000
- Health Information Technician: Manage electronic health records and medical documentation; $30,000-$38,000
- Coding Compliance Auditor: Advanced role reviewing coding accuracy and compliance; $40,000-$55,000
Pierce County’s major healthcare employers—including Multicare Health System, Franciscan Health System, and numerous physician offices and urgent care facilities—actively hire coding graduates. Career advancement often leads to supervisory roles, coding auditing positions, or specialization in high-complexity areas like cardiology, oncology, or anesthesia coding.
Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Pierce County Students
Pierce 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. Tacoma Community College offers online certificate and degree options specifically designed for Pierce County students, while nationally recognized online providers also serve the region.
Nationally accredited online programs available to Pierce County students include:
- AAPC Online Training: The American Academy of Professional Coders offers self-paced online courses with CPC certification exam preparation and lifetime access to course materials. Courses are affordable and flexible, allowing Pierce County professionals to study while working.
- 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. Programs are recognized across Pierce County healthcare systems.
- Penn Foster Career School: Nationally accredited online medical billing and coding diploma program with flexible payment plans and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam preparation.
When evaluating online programs, Pierce County students should verify that the program provides:
- Accreditation from recognized agencies (Distance Education Accrediting Commission, Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)
- Preparation for professional certifications recognized by Pierce County employers
- Access to practice management software and coding tools
- Instructor support and student community forums
- Career services and job placement assistance for Pierce County graduates
For more information about flexible training options, explore medical billing and coding classes available to Pierce County residents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing Training in Pierce County
How much do medical billers and coders earn in Pierce County?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data from May 2023, medical records specialists in the Pierce County metropolitan area (Tacoma-Lakewood) earn a median annual wage of $37,290. Entry-level Pierce County coders earn around $26,180 annually, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,920 per year. Salaries vary based on employer size, specialization, certifications, and experience level.
Which Pierce County schools offer IPEDS-accredited medical billing programs?
Three IPEDS-accredited institutions in Pierce County offer medical billing and coding programs: Pierce College District (Lakewood, 2-year associate degree), Tacoma Community College (Tacoma, certificate and associate degree options), and UEI College-Tacoma (Tacoma, accelerated diploma program). All three institutions are verified through the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) IPEDS database and meet federal quality standards.
How long does it take to become a medical biller in Pierce County?
Pierce County training programs range from 12-24 months depending on program type and enrollment status. UEI College offers accelerated 12-18 month diploma programs, Tacoma Community College provides 18-24 month certificates, and Pierce College District offers comprehensive 2-year associate degrees. Most students complete entry-level coding positions within 18-24 months of starting training.
Can I study medical billing online in Pierce County?
Yes, Tacoma Community College offers online certificate and degree options for Pierce County students seeking flexible scheduling. Additionally, nationally accredited online providers like AAPC, AHIMA, and Penn Foster serve Pierce County residents. Online programs provide the same certification preparation as on-campus options while allowing students to maintain employment and family commitments.
What certifications do Pierce County medical billers need?
The most widely recognized certification for Pierce County medical billers is the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Other valuable certifications include Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS). Many Pierce County employers prefer or require certification for advancement and competitive salary positions.
How much does medical billing training cost in Pierce County?
Pierce County community colleges offer significantly lower tuition for in-district residents compared to private institutions. Exact costs vary by program, but in-district Pierce County students typically pay lower rates than out-of-district students. All three Pierce County schools offer financial aid, payment plans, federal loans, and potential scholarships. Contact Pierce College District, Tacoma Community College, or UEI College directly for current tuition rates.
What are the job prospects for medical billers in Pierce County?
Job prospects for Pierce County medical billers are favorable. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for medical records and health information technicians through 2032. Pierce County’s major healthcare employers—Multicare Health System, Franciscan Health System, and numerous physician offices—actively hire coding graduates. Career advancement opportunities exist in supervisory roles, coding auditing, and specialized coding areas.
Do I need a degree to work in medical billing in Pierce County?
While some entry-level positions may accept high school graduates with on-the-job training, most Pierce County healthcare employers prefer or require certification or a medical billing diploma/associate degree. Completing a Pierce County training program significantly increases job prospects and earning potential. Professional certifications are increasingly required for advancement into higher-paying positions.
What’s the difference between medical billing and medical coding?
Medical coding involves assigning numeric codes to patient diagnoses and procedures based on medical documentation. Medical billing uses those codes to create insurance claims for payment. While related, these are distinct roles. Coders require detailed knowledge of ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems, while billers focus on claims processing, insurance verification, and payment collection. Many Pierce County healthcare positions combine both responsibilities.
Which Pierce County employers hire medical billers and coders?
Major Pierce County employers include Multicare Health System (largest healthcare employer in the region with multiple hospitals and clinics), Franciscan Health System, local physician offices, urgent care facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, and medical billing companies. Smaller clinics, dental offices, and specialty practices throughout Pierce County (Tacoma, Lakewood, Federal Way, Kent) also employ medical billers and coders. Many Pierce County community college programs maintain partnerships with these employers for internships and job placement.
How do I prepare for the CPC certification exam as a Pierce County student?
Pierce County medical billing programs, particularly at Tacoma Community College and UEI College, include CPC certification exam preparation as part of their curriculum. The AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) offers practice exams, study materials, and exam registration. Pierce County students should plan to spend 120-150 study hours preparing for the CPC exam after completing their training program. The exam costs approximately $300 and covers ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS coding systems, and healthcare compliance.
Data Sources
- IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) – School data, accreditation status, and institutional verification for Pierce County verified 2025-10-31
- Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS – Medical records and health information technician salary and employment data (May 2023)
- Pierce College District official website – Program details and verification 2025-10-31
- Tacoma Community College official website – Program options and course information 2025-10-31
- UEI College official website – Program curriculum and accreditation details 2025-10-31
- AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) – Certification requirements and exam information
- AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) – Credentialing standards and professional development
Start Your Medical Billing Career in Pierce County Today
Pierce County’s thriving healthcare market creates abundant opportunities for skilled medical billing and coding professionals. Whether you choose the comprehensive 2-year associate degree from Pierce College District, the flexible certificate options from Tacoma Community College, or the accelerated diploma program from UEI College, you’re positioning yourself for a stable, growing career with competitive Pierce County wages.
The median salary of $37,290 for Pierce County medical coding professionals, combined with 7% projected job growth and strong employer demand from Multicare and Franciscan Health Systems, makes this an excellent career choice for Pierce County residents. Most graduates secure entry-level coding positions within 3-6 months of completing their training program.
Take the first step today by contacting one of Pierce County’s IPEDS-accredited programs. Request information about program formats, tuition rates, financial aid, and certification preparation. Pierce County students are encouraged to speak with current students and program alumni to understand career outcomes and employment support services. Learn how to become a medical billing and coding specialist and explore career pathways in medical billing and coding to understand long-term advancement opportunities in Pierce County’s healthcare market.
Your Pierce County medical billing and coding career begins with education—choose the program that aligns with your schedule, goals, and learning style today.
