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Program Details
The coder’s role is vital in ensuring the exchange of correct financial transactions between healthcare providers and payers. The program’s curriculum is designed for persons who seek entry-level employment as clinical data coding specialists by providing them with knowledge in anatomy, medical terminology, pathology and pharmacology, skill development in ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding classification systems, database management, and clinical data abstracting processes, prospective payment systems, and reimbursement strategies.
The Career Studies Certificate in Clinical Data Coding focuses on coding/classifications systems at both the inpatient and outpatient level. The certificate will allow students to obtain entry-level skills in healthcare coding and the opportunity to continue to earn an associate of applied science degree in Health Information Management. National credentialing exams are available at both the entry and advanced level.
Information Session
The first step to beginning health career training at NOVA/MEC is to attend a mandatory Information Session.
Please note that the online information sessions contain program information for the current academic year only.
Start the Information Session Online
There is no in-person Information Session for this program. You are required to include the code provided during the online session on your application as proof of completion.
Pre-Health students who have questions regarding program requirements or students who need academic advising are encouraged to visit Advising & Counseling.
Phone: 703.822.6570, Medical Education Campus, Room 302.
Documents
- How to Apply
- Health Sciences & Nursing Application
- Physical Form
- Essential Functions
- External Transcript Evaluation Process
- Transfer Credit Evaluation Request
Useful Resources
- NOVA College Admission -- Apply Online
Continue your HIM education with a four-year degree that leads to certification as a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA). NOVA's HIM Program has articulation agreements with several baccalaureate-level HIM programs nationwide like DeVry University.
Transfer Opportunities
Transfer is not the primary purpose of this credential; however, NOVA may have agreements that facilitate the transfer of this and other career-oriented programs to selected senior institutions. In order to learn more about possible transfer opportunities please visit: https://www.nvcc.edu/transfer/. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to discuss their options and plans.
Credit for Prior Learning
Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.
The most current information can be found here for CPL: Certifications and Credentials.
Career Prospects
Clinical Data Coding Specialists are in demand across the spectrum of healthcare organizations including hospitals, physician offices, insurance companies, managed care organizations, contracting groups, and accounting firms, state and federal government agencies, community healthcare organizations.
Get Started
Want to get started with this program? Speak with an adviser to start shaping your educational journey at NOVA.