Degree in Medical Billing/Coding but what now?

I recently graduated with an associates degree in medical billing and coding from University of Phoenix. I am now trying to decide where to go and what to do now that I am completely done with school. I have probably read hundreds of comments/forums/discussions where people are saying how hard it is to find a job, and there is really nothing you can do without experience except start from the bottom.

I am just wondering if anyone has any suggestions on what I should do now. Should I go ahead and study for and take the cpc test to become certified, or should I wait and just try to find a job that is more along the lines of medical billing? I am just afraid that if I pay for the study materials and test, and I pass, that I will still be rejected for coding jobs because of my lack of professional experience. There is no possible way that I can volunteer, or do an "internship" because I have a daughter, and money is very tight.

I feel competent with my knowledge of the basics in both the billing and coding, but I am just feeling scared or worried about not being able to get hired even though I have a degree and will earn my cpc (or cpc-h) certification.

Any help or suggestions is appreciated. Oh and I live in TN. Thank you!

Why would you consider having a degree from there a problem?

University of Phoenix does not appear to be accredited by Ahima or Cahiim. There are the two nationally accrediting organizations for Health Information Management careers.Since you have just completed your associate degree, you might still be able to apply it towards an accredited program. I would highly recommend that you consider Univ of Tenn Health Sciences Center. They have an entry level program where you could possibly apply those credits towards a Master Degree. Their program does NOT require a bachelors degree. Please go to their websites to learn more. In the meantime, you could try to ease your way into the career. You could try looking for jobs located in a medical setting. These include medical receptionist, unit secretary,patient accounts, billing, etc. Good luck