CIP 51.0707
Degree: Career Studies Certificate
Program Code: 221-152-02
Program Length: 1 Year - 2 Semesters
Minimum Credits: 24
Distance Learning Option Available

Program Advisor
Margaret Dye 
276.964.7308
Davis Hall 230

Purpose: The health care industry has the need for trained individuals who can provide the necessary skills for medical coding. This course is designed to prepare individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment as a medical coder. This objective is fulfilled through study and application by coding medical records using a variety of nomenclatures and classification systems.

Admission Requirements: The student in Medical Coding must be a high school graduate or equivalent. Students should be proficient in reading, writing, and English skills. The student in Medical Coding must abide by all community college policies as well as hospital policies while enrolled in the program.

Criminal Background Checks/Drug Testing: 
Background checks for criminal history and sex offender crimes against minors are required for entrance into some clinical agencies. Students with convictions may be prohibited from clinical practice and may not complete the program. Clinical agencies may require drug testing prior to placement of students for clinical rotations. Students with positive drug test results may be prohibited from clinical practice and may not complete the program. Cost for criminal background checks and drug testing will be the responsibility of the student.

Program Requirements: A final grade of “C” or better is required for all courses in the program. Students receiving less than a “C” in the first semester for any course(s), must take the course(s) over prior to continuation into the second semester. A grade less than a “C” in any second semester course must be repeated prior to receiving the certificate.