Medical Billing & Coding
Program FAQs

Will I receive a Certificate of Completion from an accredited university?

Yes! When you complete the program, you'll earn a Certificate of Completion from the regionally accredited SMU Continuing and Professional Education. The Medical Billing & Coding curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current healthcare industry standards, helping you build the coding, compliance, and claims management skills employers value while preparing for the CPC or CBCS exam.

How long does the Medical Billing & Coding program take to complete?

The Medical Billing & Coding program is 100% self-paced, so you can progress on your own schedule. While completion times vary, many students finish within 3–6 months. You'll have up to 12 months to complete the program.

What makes SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Medical Billing & Coding program different?

SMU Continuing and Professional Education offers a flexible way to prepare for a medical billing & coding career without putting your life on hold. The online Medical Billing & Coding program combines the credibility of a regionally accredited university with the flexibility of self-paced learning. You'll develop the coding, compliance, and claims management skills employers are looking for, prepare for the CPC or CBCS exam, get career and externship placement support, and earn a Certificate of Completion from SMU Continuing and Professional Education — all on a timeline that works for you.

Do I need any prior experience in this field to get started?

Our Medical Billing & Coding program is designed for beginners, so you don't need previous healthcare experience to get started. The curriculum is designed to help you develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for your next career opportunity.

What are the requirements for enrolling in the Medical Billing & Coding program?

The Medical Billing & Coding program is designed for beginners and does not require prior healthcare experience. There are no prerequisites or application requirements to enroll. Students should be prepared to complete coursework online and review any program-specific requirements before enrolling.

Are course materials included, or will I need to purchase textbooks or supplies?

All required digital course materials are included with your tuition at no additional cost. You'll have access to the online lessons, learning resources, quizzes, and other materials needed to complete your program and prepare for the certification exam. There are no required textbooks to purchase, so you can get started right away without worrying about unexpected costs.

Will this prepare me for the CPC or CBCS certification exam — even if I'm new to healthcare?

Yes! SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Medical Billing & Coding program is designed to help you build the knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for the CPC or CBCS exam — even if you're just starting your healthcare journey.

• Beginner-friendly: No prior experience required
• Career-focused: Learn the coding, compliance, and claims management skills medical billers & coders use every day
• Step by step: Build your knowledge and confidence through guided online coursework
• Practice along the way: Reinforce your learning with quizzes, assessments, and hands-on learning opportunities
• Certification preparation: Complete a curriculum designed to prepare you for the CPC or CBCS certification exam

Our goal is to help you feel confident, prepared for certification, and ready to begin your career as a medical biller & coder.

Are certification exam vouchers included in the cost of the program?

Yes, your voucher for the CPC or CBCS exam is included with tuition at no additional cost.

That means if you pursue the CPC or CBCS certification, you won't have to pay extra for the exam needed to earn your credential — you can focus on completing your training and preparing for certification.

If you choose to pursue an additional certification, you’ll be responsible for any associated exam fees. Exam preparation materials are available and provided for the CPC or CBCS exam only.

What's the difference between this program and the CPC or CBCS certification?

The Medical Billing & Coding program provides the education and training, while the CPC or CBCS is a nationally recognized credentials awarded after you pass the exam.

This program is designed to prepare you for the CPC or CBCS exam through:

• 100% online, self-paced coursework
• Curriculum aligned with industry standards and certification exam objectives
• A Certificate of Completion from SMU Continuing and Professional Education
• Interactive learning materials and certification exam preparation
• Career resources, with eligible students able to receive externship placement support or job opportunity assistance after program completion

The goal is to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently pursue CPC or CBCS certification and prepare for an entry-level medical billing & coding career.

Can I complete the Medical Billing & Coding program while working full-time?

Yes! SMU Continuing and Professional Education's Medical Billing & Coding program is built for busy adults. Whether you're working full-time, caring for your family, or balancing other responsibilities, you can complete your coursework on a schedule that works for you.

Because the program is self-paced, you can study when it's most convenient and move through the material at your own pace. While many students complete the program in 3–6 months, you'll have up to 12 months to finish your training. This flexibility makes it easier to prepare for the CPC or CBCS exam and a new healthcare career — without putting the rest of your life on hold.

What kind of support is included?

You'll have support throughout your learning journey. From your first lesson to your job search, we're here to help you succeed.

Learner Support: Get help with course content, assignments, and navigating the online learning platform whenever you need it.

Career Support: Receive guidance on resumes, interviews, and job readiness as you prepare to pursue opportunities in healthcare.

Does the Medical Billing & Coding program include career support?

Yes. Eligible students have access to career resources, including resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search support. Students may also be eligible for externship placement support to gain hands-on experience. While employment and externship placement cannot be guaranteed, the career support team is available to help you prepare for the next step in your career.