Need a plan to get an Associates fast and cheap

[smartiepants35]

Hi! I've been reading the threads on DF for about a year or so and I think I'm finally ready to get some advice about a degree. I haven't really seen any threads about the field I'm in though. I'm a Medical Coder and trying to advance in my career. I need at least an associates to sit for the RHIT cert. So I was thinking about Pierpont HIT AAS but I don't know if I can get credits through other sources ( like Sophia or study.com) or if I can get through it quickly and cheaply just like the Pierpont BOG. If so, then that's the route I'd like to take, but If not, then I was thinking to try to do the Pierpont BOG and then maybe transfer those credits to Purdue BS HIM. 

Whatever degree program I get into needs to be CAHIIM accredited and those were the only 2 I could find.

I'm new to this so I have no idea what to do or really where to start without wasting money and time. 
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!!


Your Location: NC, US

Your Age:35

What kind of degree do you want?: Pierpont HIT AAS or Pierpont BOG to Purdue BS Health information MGMT

Current Regional Accredited Credits:0

Current ACE, CLEP, or NCCRS Credits:0



Any certifications or military experience? AAPC CPC and CRC Certifications

[b]Budget:  I'd like to go the cheapest route possible, but will consider spending more for easy and fast.  
[/b]

Commitments: kids/spouse. I currently work full time and can work on my studies part time or in the evenings/weekends.



Dedicated time to study: I can study as much as is needed during the night or weekends as long as my schedule is free. I can give about an extra 30 hours a week to study


Timeline: Finishing the courses required for the degree as fast as possible would be ideal.  I would like to finish within 1 or 1.5 yr. (I've seen some threads where some have finished the Pierpont BOG in 6 months and that possibility motivates me)

[b]Tuition assistance/reimbursement: My job offers tuition [/b]