Degrees in health information management offer training in compiling and maintaining health care records. Choosing a degree program from an accredited institution prepares a graduate for various careers in this field. Read on for information about associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs.
Degree Program Overview and Career Information
Health information management is the collection and maintenance of health care records. Degree programs in the field require courses in management, medicine, finance, law and technology. Many schools offer degree programs in health information management that prepare graduates for various occupations. The career options depend upon the level of education achieved but can include:
- Medical coding
- Technology support
- System security
- Strategic management
- Compliance officer
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutDegreesInHealthInformationManagement">Important Facts About Degrees in Health Information Management</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Specializations</td><td> Provide students with skills for entry-level, management and leadership roles</td></tr>
<tr><td>Prerequisites </td><td> Vary by program</td></tr>
<tr><td> Courses </td><td>Electronic Health Records, Health Information Technology, Issues in Legal Aspects & Healthcare Delivery, Health Data Management, Leadership in Healthcare, Healthcare Financial Management and more</td></tr>
<tr><td>Online Availability </td><td> Online programs are available</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $46,660 <i>(for all medical records specialists)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031) </td><td> 7% <i>(for all medical records specialists)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AssociateSDegreeProgramInformation"> Associate's Degree Program Information</h3><p>An associate's degree in health information management prepares a graduate to assist in accurate and efficient health care management and delivery in entry-level positions. An associate's degree program often focuses on using technology to capture, manipulate and report patient information and records. An associate's degree program can be found online or at many community colleges and trade schools and usually takes two years to complete.
</p><h3 id="section---BachelorSDegreeProgramInformation">Bachelor's Degree Program Information</h3><p>A four-year bachelor's degree program in health information management prepares a graduate for health care positions in system security, databases, data analysis, information systems, strategic management and decision support. A bachelor's degree program can be an end point in formal education or can be a stepping stone to a graduate degree. Some colleges offer a bachelor's degree program in health information management online, usually with an in-person internship component.
</p><h3 id="section---MasterSDegreeProgramInformation">Master's Degree Program Information</h3><p>Students seeking a master's degree in this field can pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a health information management specialty or a Master of Science in Health Information Management. A graduate degree in health information management is recommended for an information technology (IT) professional who is pursuing a career in health information management. Some programs are available online.
</p><p>A master's or doctoral level degree program prepares a graduate for management positions in the health care industry. Positions as consultants and educators within the fields of technology or health care are possible career options with an advanced health information management degree.</p>
