Medical Coding Specialist w/ Computer (Hybrid)
Medical Coding Specialist w/ Computer (Hybrid)
Prepare students with core medical coding skills, medical insurance/billing knowledge, and hands-on experience through an externship, leading toward national certification eligibility.
The Medical Coding program introduces students to diagnostic and procedural coding used in healthcare reimbursement systems. Instructions include coding principles, documentation review, and compliance considerations. Computer training supports the use of electronic health records and coding related software.
Online classes start immediately after acceptance. Upon successful completion of the required online instructional component of the program requirements students will be notified of their eligibility to sit for the applicable national certification examination through MedCA recognized credentialing body where applicable to the program.
Eligibility to test does not guarantee certification and is subject to the policies and requirements of the credentialing organization. Externship placement is subject to availability and is not guaranteed. Completion of an externship does not guarantee employment. Externship participation where applicable is optional and is not a condition of program completion or graduation. Students who request externship consideration will be notified following completion of the certification exam and in accordance with instructional of externship policies. Certain externship sites may require additional documentation, background checks, health screenings or compliance with site specific policies. Failure to meet externship site requirements may result in denial of placement without refund or program extension.
Our record of job placement assistance is currently 90%. Recruiters pay for access to recruit Dorson VTI graduates.
Admission Requirements & Eligibility
Review the requirements below to see if you qualify for our Medical Coding Specialist program.
To Enroll, You'll Need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card or proof of legal work status
- Basic computer and typing proficiency
- Basic reading and communication skills in English
Upon Completion You Will Receive:
- Dorson VTI Certificate of Completion – Medical Coding Specialist
- Eligibility to sit for MedCa National Certificate exam
- Resume writing and interview coaching
- Job placement assistance with local employers
- Career advancement pathway guidance
- Dorson VTI certificate of completion
Program Cost:
- Full Course: $5,000
- Registration Fee: $75 (non-refundable)
- Total: $5,075
- MedCA certification fee billed separately
- WIOA funding may be available for eligible students
- Payment plans available — contact admissions
Program Schedule:
- 170 hour program cycle
- Estimated duration: ~9 weeks (4 hrs/day, Mon–Fri)
- Online classes start immediately after acceptance
- Multiple start dates throughout the year
- Classes held in East Orange, NJ
Course Outcomes
Graduates will be prepared for entry-level employment as Medical Coding Specialists in hospitals, physician offices, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and health information management departments.
Diagnosis & Procedure Coding
- ICD-10-CM diagnosis code assignment
- CPT evaluation and management (E&M) coding
- Surgical and procedural CPT coding
- HCPCS Level II supply and drug coding
- Specialty-specific coding guidelines
Clinical Documentation Review
- Interpreting physician notes and operative reports
- Identifying principal and secondary diagnoses
- Querying physicians for documentation clarification
- DRG and APC grouping concepts
- Coding for inpatient and outpatient settings
Coding Tools & Technology
- Encoder and grouper software proficiency
- ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS code books
- Electronic health record (EHR) navigation
- Computer skills for health information environments
- Medical terminology and anatomy for coders
Compliance & Professional Standards
- HIPAA and health information privacy rules
- Healthcare fraud and abuse regulations
- Official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines
- AHIMA or AAPC certification readiness
- Career readiness and job search preparation
Average Annual Salary in NJ
Job Market Growth (2022–2032)
Local Job Openings in NJ
Practicum Training
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our Medical Coding Specialist program? Find answers below.
• WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) — federally funded assistance that may cover tuition for eligible students.
• Bank Financing — low-interest education financing through our banking partners.
• Corporate / Employer Sponsored — if your employer offers tuition assistance, we can work directly with them.
• Other Funding Sources — we work with various community and government funding organizations.
• Flexible Payment Plans — ask our admissions team about installment options.
Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more, or call us at 973-676-6300.
