CPC vs CCS Certification: Differences, Cost and Salary Prospects for 2025

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Choosing the right medical coding certification can feel overwhelming, especially with so many credentials available. For high school graduates exploring career options, it’s not always clear which certification offers the best fit for their goals, timeline, and budget.

Medical records specialist roles are growing fast—projected at 9% from 2023 to 2033—and while a high school diploma can open doors, many positions now expect certification from programs that include courses in anatomy, medical terminology, and coding systems. This article—prepared by career planning experts—compares the CPC and CCS certifications in depth, examining their differences, costs, and salary outcomes to help readers make a confident, informed choice.

Key Things You Should Know About CPC vs CCS

CPC certification is ideal for outpatient coding, while CCS is suited for inpatient and hospital coding roles.
CPC is best for beginners or career changers; CCS is geared toward experienced professionals with prior coding exposure.
CPC exams test CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS codes, while CCS exams cover inpatient-specific systems like ICD-10-PCS and compliance.

What is the difference between CPC and CCS certifications?
Which certification is best for entry-level medical coders?
How do CPC and CCS exam requirements compare?
How do you prepare for CPC and CCS certification exams?
How long does it take to get CPC vs CCS certified?
What are the costs of CPC vs CCS certification for 2025?
What jobs can you get with CPC vs CCS?
What financing options can help manage certification-related expenses?
How much do CPC and CCS certified coders earn?
Can CPC and CCS certifications lead to career advancement?
What’s the industry outlook for CPC and CCS holders for 2025?
Is combining medical coding certification with a fast degree in healthcare administration programs beneficial?
Should I pursue complementary academic degrees alongside my certification?
Can further education boost your post-certification career growth?
Other Things You Should Know About CPC and CCS

What is the difference between CPC and CCS certifications?

The CPC and CCS certifications serve different career paths in medical coding, with each tailored to specific healthcare settings and experience levels.

CPC Certification

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is best for those who want to work in outpatient settings like physician offices or clinics. It’s the most widely recognized credential for outpatient medical coding. The CPC exam focuses on accurately assigning CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM codes, making it ideal for beginners or those entering from non-clinical backgrounds.

CCS Certification

The Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification suits individuals with more experience, especially those handling inpatient or hospital-based records. It demonstrates advanced coding proficiency, attention to data quality, and skill in navigating complex reimbursement systems like Medicare and Medicaid. Professionals with a CCA or prior coding experience often view the CCS as a next step in their career.

While both CPC certification and CCS certification can boost earning potential—certified coders make up to 20% more than non-certified ones—choosing the right one depends on your target work environment and experience level. If you’re looking to get started quickly, some programs offer a medical billing and coding certification online fast, which can be a helpful starting point before deciding which exam to pursue.

Which certification is best for entry-level medical coders?

The CPC certification is the best choice for entry-level medical coders starting their careers. It also focuses on outpatient coding, which is common in clinics and doctor’s offices—making it easier for new coders to apply what they’ve learned. The exam tests your ability to assign codes accurately and understand medical documentation, but it doesn't require hospital coding experience. This makes it more accessible for people fresh out of school or switching careers.

Employers value the CPC certification because it shows foundational coding knowledge and a commitment to professional development. In fact, the American Academy of Professional Coders reports that about 70% of professionals pursue certification to unlock better job opportunities and higher pay. Starting with CPC also opens doors to more advanced certifications later, such as the CCS.

How do CPC and CCS exam requirements compare?

The CPC and CCS exams both test your ability to accurately assign medical codes, but they focus on different coding systems and healthcare settings.

CPC Certification (Certified Professional Coder)

The CPC exam, offered by AAPC, evaluates your knowledge of coding for outpatient and physician-based settings. It focuses on:

CPT (Current Procedural Terminology): for outpatient procedures and services
ICD-10-CM (Diagnosis Coding): for identifying patient conditions
HCPCS Level II: for billing supplies, equipment, and non-physician services
Medical terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines are also tested

This makes CPC certification ideal for those working in clinics, private practices, or outpatient departments.

CCS Certification (Certified Coding Specialist)

The CCS exam, offered by AHIMA, is more focused on inpatient and hospital coding. It covers:

ICD-10-CM: diagnosis coding
ICD-10-PCS (Procedure Coding System): used for hospital inpatient procedures
CPT coding: to a lesser extent, for outpatient services
Compliance, reimbursement methodologies, and coding guidelines

CCS certification is better suited for coders in hospitals or larger healthcare systems dealing with complex inpatient cases.

If you're still deciding your entry point in healthcare, exploring the best medical assistant trade schools may help you gain relevant experience before specializing in coding.

How do you prepare for CPC and CCS certification exams?

You prepare for CPC and CCS exams by studying medical coding systems, taking practice tests, and completing formal or informal training programs. Preparation time and strategy depend on your background and learning style. If you're wondering how to become a certified professional coder, understanding the preparation process is a crucial first step toward achieving that goal.

Study the core materials

CPC certification requires strong knowledge of CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.
CCS certification focuses more on ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and inpatient coding guidelines. Review official coding manuals and coding standards provided by AAPC (for CPC) and AHIMA (for CCS).

Take prep courses or attend training

Many candidates enroll in coding bootcamps, community college programs, or self-paced online courses. Some medical trade schools offer integrated coding options. Look for programs that include practice tests and exam readiness strategies.

Practice with mock exams

Simulated exams help build test-taking stamina and reveal weak areas. Both AAPC and AHIMA offer official practice exams modeled after their actual tests.

Use study guides and CE resources

Supplement your study with official prep books, CE-approved content, and flashcards. Consider joining online study groups or forums for added accountability and support.

Consistent, focused preparation is key to earning your CPC or CCS certification successfully.

How long does it take to get CPC vs CCS certified?

It usually takes less time to earn a CPC certification than a CCS certification.

CPC certification timeline

Most CPC candidates complete training in 4 to 9 months through certificate programs or online courses. If you’ve been wondering how long is schooling for medical billing and coding, this timeframe typically covers the duration of most programs.
Students who already have a background in anatomy, medical terminology, or billing may finish sooner.
After training, exam preparation typically takes several weeks.
Since no formal experience is required, many use this path to enter the field quickly.

CCS certification timeline

CCS certification takes longer because it requires more coding experience.
AHIMA recommends at least 1–2 years of experience in coding inpatient and outpatient records.
Preparation for the CCS exam also takes more time due to its broader and more complex content.
Some candidates pursue a CPC first, then transition to CCS after gaining experience.

What are the costs of CPC vs CCS certification for 2025?

The CPC certification is generally less expensive than the CCS certification, especially for entry-level coders.

CPC certification costs

To take the CPC exam, you must first become a member of AAPC. This costs around $180 per year.
The exam fee ranges from $300 to $400, with discounts available for students.
Optional study materials and practice exams can add $100 to $300.
In total, most candidates spend between $500 and $800 to prepare for and take the CPC exam.

CCS certification costs

CCS candidates must be AHIMA members, which costs about $79 for students or $135 for professionals.
The exam fee is typically $299 for members and $399 for non-members.
Due to the exam’s complexity, many candidates invest in more intensive prep materials or formal coursework.
Overall, total costs range from $700 to over $1,000 depending on your level of preparation.

Those looking to minimize expenses and begin quickly should consider a accredited medical billing and coding schools online with financial aid as a low-cost way to build foundational skills before committing to either the CPC certification or the CCS certification.

What jobs can you get with CPC vs CCS?

A CPC certification typically leads to outpatient coding jobs, while a CCS certification opens doors in hospital and inpatient settings.

CPC-certified coders usually work in:

Physician offices
Outpatient clinics
Ambulatory surgical centers

Their focus is on coding for services performed by providers such as physicians and nurse practitioners. The CPC certification is often considered the gold standard for these settings. Many CPC professionals go on to become medical auditors, billing managers, or compliance specialists.

CCS-certified coders usually work in:

Hospitals
Inpatient rehabilitation centers
Long-term care facilities

CCS coders handle more complex data, including diagnostic and surgical codes. Their role ensures providers get paid correctly and data supports research and public health effort. Both the CPC certification and CCS certification offer strong career prospects, but your ideal path depends on your preferred work setting and coding focus.

What financing options can help manage certification-related expenses?

Medical coding certifications often require a significant financial commitment that includes exam fees, prep courses, and ongoing education. Evaluating financing options—such as employer tuition reimbursement programs, scholarships, and installment plans—can ease the upfront burden while delivering long-term career benefits. For professionals considering allied healthcare training pathways, comparing investments by reviewing our article on medical assistant tuition cost may offer useful insights into affordability and strategic financial planning.

How much do CPC and CCS certified coders earn?

CPC and CCS certified coders both earn competitive salaries, but CCS professionals often have a higher earning potential due to their specialized inpatient skills.

CPC certification salary outlook

Certified Professional Coders (CPCs) typically earn between $40,000 and $50,000 per year in the U.S. Entry-level coders may start on the lower end, while those with experience, additional credentials, or leadership roles can earn more.

Work Setting: CPCs mainly work in outpatient settings like physician offices or ambulatory care centers.
Job Demand: Steady, with growth driven by the expansion of outpatient care and a rising need for accurate reimbursement.

For those considering a career related to healthcare administration, understanding the skills needed to be a medical assistant—such as attention to detail, communication, and familiarity with medical terminology—can also complement coding expertise and open additional career doors.

CCS certification salary outlook

Certified Coding Specialists (CCSs) generally earn $45,000 to $65,000 annually. Because CCS roles require deeper knowledge of inpatient coding and regulatory compliance, they often come with higher pay and increased responsibility.

Work Setting: Hospitals, inpatient facilities, and specialty medical centers.
Career Advantage: CCS coders face less competition and tend to hold more senior roles over time.

While CCS certification offers strong earning potential, some healthcare professionals compare this with roles such as traveling medical assistants, where the traveling medical assistant salary can be quite competitive depending on the assignment and location.

Both certifications lead to stable, well-paying careers, but CCS-certified professionals often edge ahead in salary due to the complexity of their work.

Can CPC and CCS certifications lead to career advancement?

Yes, both CPC and CCS certifications can lead to career advancement, especially when combined with continuing education and specialized credentials.

Continuing education requirements

To stay certified, both CPC and CCS professionals must complete ongoing training:

CPC certification: Requires 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years. CEUs can be earned through approved courses, webinars, or conferences.
CCS certification: Requires 20 CEUs every two years, along with an annual coding self-assessment.

Specialization opportunities

After gaining experience, many coders choose to earn additional certifications that focus on specific healthcare environments:

COC (Certified Outpatient Coder) – for coders in hospital outpatient departments and ambulatory surgical centers.
CIC (Certified Inpatient Coder) – for inpatient hospital settings, validating expertise in ICD-10 and inpatient payment systems.
CEMC (Certified Evaluation and Management Coder) – for those focused on E/M services across multiple specialties.
CRC (Certified Risk Adjustment Coder) – for professionals coding in risk adjustment models used by insurance programs.

Graduates from top accredited online medical billing and coding schools often pursue CPC certification or CCS certification first, then advance their careers through these specialized credentials. This pathway can lead to higher salaries, leadership roles, and long-term job security in the healthcare industry.

What’s the industry outlook for CPC and CCS holders for 2025?

The industry outlook for CPC and CCS holders this year is strong, with growing demand across inpatient and outpatient healthcare settings.

Steady job growth in healthcare

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations are expected to grow much faster than average between 2022 and 2032. This includes over 2.4 million existing medical office and administrative roles, with about 1.8 million new job openings projected each year. Many of these roles involve coding, billing, and health information management.

While some medical billing and coding jobs are entry-level and don’t require a certification, holding a CPC certification or CCS certification offers a major advantage. Certified professionals are more likely to qualify for higher-paying positions and stand out in competitive job markets.

Increasing value of certification

Employers are increasingly seeking candidates who can accurately code records, ensure regulatory compliance, and streamline billing operations. CPCs are especially valuable in physician practices and clinics, while CCS-certified professionals are in demand at hospitals and inpatient facilities.

For those seeking a low-cost medical coding and billing online program, certification can be the next step toward a stable, upward-moving career in healthcare.

Here’s What People Have to Say about Getting CPC or CCS Certified

Earning my CPC certification helped me land my first job in a busy outpatient clinic just two months after passing the exam. The process gave me confidence and a real sense of purpose knowing I was contributing to better patient care. — Laura

I chose the CCS certification because I wanted to move into a hospital setting, and it paid off. It was challenging, but the career growth and sense of accomplishment have been totally worth it. — Denzel

What surprised me most was how much my coding accuracy improved during the certification process. It’s a skill-building journey that made me feel ready and respected in the workplace. — Precy

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Integrating a medical coding certification with advanced healthcare administration studies equips professionals with both technical and strategic expertise. This blended approach not only enhances regulatory and reimbursement insight but also strengthens leadership and operational decision-making capabilities. Candidates who seek broadened career prospects and a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems may consider enrollment in fast degree in healthcare administration programs, which is designed to complement technical credentials with accelerated administrative training.

Should I pursue complementary academic degrees alongside my certification?

Expanding your academic background beyond coding certifications can offer a strategic advantage in complex healthcare environments. Complementary degrees in life sciences or related fields support an enhanced understanding of medical research, data interpretation, and clinical practice integration. This interdisciplinary approach may open avenues for roles that require both technical coding expertise and advanced scientific insight. Explore cost-effective programs like the cheapest biochemistry online degree to broaden your knowledge base and differentiate your career profile.

Can further education boost your post-certification career growth?

While professional certification demonstrates core coding expertise, additional academic credentials can enhance managerial capabilities and strategic decision-making skills in healthcare. Advanced programs such as healthcare administration degrees online provide insights into healthcare policies, finance, and operations, empowering certified coders to pursue leadership roles and broaden their career opportunities.

Key Findings

70% of professionals pursue certification to access better job opportunities and higher salaries, according to AAPC.
CPC-certified coders earn around $40,000 to $50,000 annually, while CCS-certified coders typically make between $45,000 and $65,000.
Most CPC programs take 4 to 9 months to complete, making it a faster path for entry into medical coding.
Healthcare occupations are expected to grow faster than average, with over 1.8 million new job openings projected each year through 2032.
Certified coders can earn up to 20% more than non-certified peers, highlighting the value of CPC and CCS credentials in the job market.

Other Things You Should Know about Getting CPC or CCS Certified

Can you hold both CPC and CCS certifications?

Yes, it’s possible—and often beneficial—to hold both CPC and CCS certifications. Many professionals start with the CPC to gain outpatient experience and later pursue the CCS to expand their qualifications into inpatient coding. Holding both credentials can significantly improve your job flexibility and earning potential. AAPC and AHIMA continue to recognize dual-certified professionals as highly skilled and versatile, often placing them in leadership or specialized roles across a broader range of healthcare settings.

Is remote work possible with CPC or CCS certification?

Yes, both CPC and CCS certified professionals can work remotely, especially as demand for flexible health information roles grows. According to AAPC’s Salary Survey, nearly 48% of certified coders reported working either fully remote or in hybrid roles. Outpatient coding (CPC) roles are more commonly remote due to easier access to electronic records, but many hospitals are also offering remote CCS positions, especially for experienced coders who can manage complex documentation independently.

Do CPC and CCS certifications expire?

Yes, both certifications require renewal to remain valid. CPC certification must be renewed every two years with 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), while CCS certification also requires biennial renewal with 20 CEUs and an annual self-assessment. As of 2025, failing to meet these requirements can result in credential suspension or revocation. Staying current not only keeps your certification active but also ensures your coding knowledge aligns with ongoing updates in coding systems, reimbursement policies, and healthcare regulations.

What is the pass rate for the CPC and CCS exams?

The CPC exam has a pass rate of about 70%, while the CCS exam is more challenging, with a pass rate around 60% based on 2024 data. The difference reflects the complexity of the exams—CPC focuses on outpatient coding and foundational knowledge, while CCS requires a deep understanding of inpatient procedures and regulatory compliance. Candidates are encouraged to complete exam prep programs and practice exams, especially for the CCS, to improve their chances of passing on the first attempt.