Health information managers implement and maintain electronic record systems in hospitals and other medical facilities, ensuring that patients' information remains secure. Collecting, organizing, and recording this information involves people at several different levels of responsibility and training. Because of this, health information management education may range from a 2-year associate's degree through master's degrees and post graduate training.
Schools with Health Information Management Programs
The following are some of the top schools that offer one or more degree programs in health information management.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition & Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport | Williamsport, PA | 4-year, primarily associates, Public | Bachelor's | $16,740 (in-state) $23,880 (out-of-state) |
| University of Illinois at Chicago | Chicago, IL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Post-baccalaureate Certificate | $13,764 (in-state) $26,980 (out-of-state) |
| Regis University | Denver, CO | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Post- baccalaureate certificate | $36,810 |
| Indiana University - Purdue Global Indianapolis | Indianapolis, IN | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $9,465 (in-state) $29,821 (out-of-state) |
| Ferris State University | Big Rapids, MI | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $11,788 |
| University of Washington in Seattle | Seattle, WA | 4-year, Public | Post-baccalaureate Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's | $11,207 (in-state) $36,588 (out-of-state) |
| University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $19,080 (in-state) $32,052 (out-of-state) |
| Boise State University | Boise, ID | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $7,694 (in-state) $23,776 (out-of-state) |
| Temple University | Philadelphia, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $16,970 (in-state) $29,066 (out-of-state) |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
School Selection Criteria
Consider these factors when choosing a school for a health information management program:
- Depending on whether you are an incoming student or a health professional will determine which degree/program level is most useful for your career goals.
- Some programs offer part-time or online courses, enabling the student to continue working while completing degree requirements.
- Some health information management programs are offered as a standalone major, a concentration within a broader field of study or as a combined major with health informatics.
- If you are interested in certification from the American Health Information Management Association, double check that the program you are considering will prepare you for the exam.
Associate of Science in Health Information Management
Associate degree programs in health information management typically consist of 65-90 credit hours. Internships are components of most programs.
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Health information management bachelor's degree programs typically require four years of study and include general education classes. Students typically must complete multiple internships in the field prior to graduation.
Post-Baccalaureate Health Information Management Certificate
Certificate programs in health information management are designed for working nurses, physicians, office managers and information technology (IT) developers who are interested in learning about medical record technology systems implementation and analysis. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree in health information management or a related field. Depending on the program, graduates may be eligible for the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) exam. These programs usually require one year of study.
Master of Science in Health Information Management
Health information management master's degree programs focus on the design and implementation of health care information systems in treatment facilities or research clinics. These programs consist of at least two years of study, and part-time studies can take up to four years. Program instruction focuses on research, and students are required to complete a thesis paper or capstone project prior to graduation.
The National Center for Education Statistics notes that as of 2016, there are over 50 public and private, not-for-profit schools in the United States offering programs in health information administration. Tuition and fees vary according to institution type, degree level and your student status.
