For healthcare professionals, access to patient medical records can be the difference between life and death. You can become a vital player in this important segment of the medical industry by completing one of the 25 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Health Informatics. This is the field where healthcare meets technology. HIM experts pull together computer information technologies, management, and health care. They serve as the connection between patients and caregivers. With a degree in Health Informatics, you learn to work with medical coding and reimbursement, data analytics, privacy and security, electronic health records, and clinical documentation
These schools help you become an expert in collecting, storing, retrieving, and interpreting health care data. Students learn medical terminology, clinical processes, medical-legal issues, research, and computers. You will often see Health Informatics and Health Information Management used interchangeably. Yet some schools distinguish between the two areas of interest. Health Informatics focuses on applying information technology to the healthcare industry. Health Informatics experts design and develop ways to store and analyze patient data. You might conduct research using large amounts of patient data and help healthcare providers make the best choices based on healthcare records. Those who specialize in Health Information Management collect and organize patient data, ensuring accuracy and reliability. You will become an expert in managing health records, coding, and data analysis. You will work closely with individual patients to ensure their data is accurate. This is crucial in helping medical experts treat their patients.
Why Become a Health Information Manager?
There is an increased need for experts who can manage the personal health information collected and to be able to store, retrieve, and help interpret that data. This is a growing industry, with estimates by the Bureau of Labor Statistics that jobs for Medical and Health Services Managers will see a 20 percent increase by 2026. Laws mandate the type of electronic health records necessary. Health Informatics professionals determine the best balance between health care providers and consumers. They work with health care information systems, evaluate those systems and customize them for optimal delivery. Those choosing to become health information management professionals manage electronic health records and the daily operations of health information. According to PayScale, those with a Bachelor's degree in Health Information Management can expect an average salary of $60,000. Those who move up in their organizations into management positions can expect more. For example, PayScale suggests that the salary for a Coding Manager can range from just under $50,000 to more than $90,000 per year. There is a range of jobs you can hold with a bachelor's degree in Health Informatics and Health Information Management, including Billing & Coding Specialist, Clinical Data Analyst/Specialist, Health Data Analyst, and Medical Records Manager.
You will find the list of organizations hiring HIM specialists is quite broad. It can include things like Education, Government Agencies, Hospitals and Healthcare Organizations, and many more. According to the BLS, those working in hospitals can expect the highest salaries as medical and health services managers.
How to Choose a Degree in Health Informatics
Social Work Degree Guide is here to help you find the perfect program for you. We factor in Student Satisfaction and Affordability as our primary metrics, at 30 percent of the total ranking each. From there Alumni Salaries, SAT Scores, and the school's retention rate each represent 10 percent. For more information on how SWG ranks Social Work degrees, please visit our About Us page.
#25. Franklin University – Columbus, OH
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 24,779
Score: 66.09
Unique Features
Franklin University, based in Columbus, Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate degrees for working adults. For more than 115 years Franklin has encouraged adult students to learn and prepare for career advances. Now, you can complete your degree online while you meet family and work obligations. One of those degrees is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. Franklin's HIM program helps you learn to work in the critical healthcare field. You will discover ways to develop policies and processes for documenting patient care. You learn from real-world practitioners during the 120 semester hours of coursework. Franklin accepts up to 94 college transfer credits toward your BSHIM. Due to the stringent requirements of the healthcare industry, you will need to complete a background check before acceptance. Along with a general education core and basic classes in computers and communications, you will complete 22 hours in the professional core. These courses can include Medical Terminology and Clinical Classification Systems. You will complete 35 hours in your HIM major. Those classes include Health Data, Health Informatics, and Medical Reimbursement. As a Franklin student, you will also complete a Professional Practice Experience in HIM. This four-credit course gives you an opportunity to work with a healthcare agency, insurance company, or government agency. You will complete at least 80 on-site hours plus coursework, showing the practical application of your classroom theory. You will also take a one-credit RHIA Exam Preparation course. This gives you a chance to practice the exam and learn test-taking strategies.
#24. University of Mississippi Medical Center – Jackson, MS
Bachelor of Health Informatics and Information Management
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Tuition: N/A
Score: 75.22
Unique Features
The University of Mississippi, founded in 1848, is the largest university in the state. Ole Miss has a health sciences campus in Jackson, which opened in 1955. The University of Mississippi Medical Center is home to The School of Health Related Professions. UMMC offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. One of those is the Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management. Students have the option to complete the BSHIIM degree online if they choose. There are two options for the BSHIIM: a Traditional Program or a Progression Program. The Traditional Program is for new Health Informatics students. The Progression Program allows those with an RHIT credential to receive credit toward the BSHIIM. The Traditional Program requires 61 semester hours in Health Informatics coursework. You will take courses in Coding & Classification Systems, Research Design & Healthcare Statistics, and Electronic Health Records & Informatics. You will complete a one-credit seminar that prepares you for the RHIA exam. As a traditional student, you will also complete a Capstone Experience. This gives you a chance to apply the principles you've learned to the real world. If you hold RHIT certification, you need to complete 38 semester hours. Courses include Healthcare Database Design & Administration and Revenue Cycle and Reimbursement Management. You will complete a three-credit Directed Study, with HIM projects that let you show your health informatics skills. You will also complete a final HIA Professional Practicum. This is a project-based course where you work with a healthcare organization. In both programs, once you have your BSHIIM, you are able to apply to sit for the exam to receive RHIA certification.
#23. Capella University – Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Health Information Management Specialization
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Tuition: $ 15,667
Score: 75.25
Unique Features
Capella University is a completely online higher education institution. There are 38,000 students enrolled in the undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Capella offers two different bachelors programs with a focus on Health Information Management. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Health Information Management degree focuses on healthcare technology. As a student working toward the BSIT, you concentrate on web and database systems and network technology. It is all within the framework of the healthcare industry. The IT degree is ideal for those who want to work as a network administrator or data architect. Capella also offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration, Health Information Management. If you select the BSHCA, you examine the administrative side of HIM. Classes emphasize health care regulation, budgeting, patient safety, and quality. This degree is for those who want a career as a Patient Registrar or Health Informatics Specialist. In both programs, you complete courses in Medical Terminology, Data Management in Health Information Systems, and Electronic Health Records. Those pursuing the BSIT complete 16 core courses and nine specialization courses. Those courses include Database Systems, Web Development, and Javascript. You will also take a Capstone during your final quarter. The program prepares you for technical certifications, including the CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications. Courses take place over 10-week quarters and you can enroll in one to three courses per quarter. For those planning to pursue the BSHCA degree through the School of Nursing & Health Science, you complete eight core courses and nine specialization courses. Those courses include Ethics in Health Care, Health Care Regulation, and Health Care Research. As with the BSIT, there is a Capstone course in your final quarter. You may complete the BSHCA in as little as 13 months through the optional self-paced FlexPath format.
#22. Oregon Institute of Technology – Klamath Fallas, OR
Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
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Tuition: $ 16,503
Score: 78.56
Unique Features
Oregon Institute of Technology, established 15 years ago, provides online education for adults. It offers 15 degree programs that you can complete online. One of those is the Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics. It gives you a background in business management, information systems, and computers within a healthcare setting. The Oregon Tech program ranked as one of the Best Online Bachelor's in Health Informatics by BestColleges. It is also ranked as a Best Buy in Online Bachelors for Health Science by GetEducated. Oregon Tech uses a hands-on approach for the BS in Health Informatics. The online courses at Oregon Tech use a variety of learning approaches. Your classes include lectures, case studies, group work, discussions, assignments, and hands-on exercises. You will complete general education courses in Communication, Humanities, Math, Science, and Social Science. Your Information Technology courses include Health Care Marketing, Health Care Management, and Health Informatics. You also complete a 10-credit senior project. This gives you a chance to use the program theories and apply them to the real world of healthcare. You can start the program in January, April, June, or September.
#21. Rasmussen College – Bloomington, MN
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 17,861
Score: 80.01
Unique Features
Rasmussen College, founded in 1900 as a Minnesota business school now offers degrees at 23 campuses across the country and online. There are more than 15,000 students enrolled in programs. You can complete an online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. The program, which you can complete in as little as 18 months, will prepare you for a career as a medical records manager or clinical data analyst. Every 11-week quarter includes two separate five and a half week terms. The HIM program includes RHIA exam preparation. The RHIA exam fee is even built into your tuition costs. Besides general education courses, you will need 24 courses in the HIM program. You will learn skills in the management of health information systems and financial management. Courses include Health Information Management Systems, Electronic Health Record Application, and Electronic Data Security. The coursework includes two on-site experiences in healthcare including Applied Research in Health Information Management. Rasmussen offers a Flex Choice option for the BSHIM. With Flex Choice students blend online courses with self-directed assessments. This competency-based format lets you work with an academic coach to take independent courses. Rasmussen also works with you to provide credit for prior learning including military experience, past college classes, and industry certifications.
#20. Dakota State University – Madison, SD
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration
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Tuition: $ 16,513
Score: 80.31
Unique Features
Dakota State University, founded as a teacher education school in 1881, is a technology-forward school. DSU has its main campus in Madison and the University Center in Sioux Falls. They also offer convenient online classes taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Between online and on-campus students there are now more than 3,300 students. One of the online programs is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration. DSU's HIA program is selective and students must first have either completed the health information technology program or have RHIT certification. While the HIT program is an introduction to health information systems, the HIA program is for those who plan to go on to manage records departments. HIM courses include Disease Coding, Revenue Cycle Management, HIM Quality Management, and Management of HIM Centers. As an online HIM student, you will use DSU's Desire2Learn. This online course management system is where you will get assignments, read lecture notes, and take exams. You will set your own schedule and be able to interact with other classmates. Webcasting videos give you the feeling of being in the physical classroom. As a DSU student, you will also be able to take part in the university's Health Information Management Club.
#19. King University – Bristol, TN
Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
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Tuition: $ 18,197
Score: 80.64
Unique Features
King University, founded in 1867, is a Presbyterian Christian school. King offers liberal arts degrees that integrate faith. Brookings Institution ranked King third in the state for preparing students for high-paying careers. While the Bristol campus is beautiful, it may be more convenient for you to complete your degree online. The online programs have multiple starts throughout the year. You can also accelerate your program to complete a bachelor's degree in less than 16 months. King offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics. The BS degree requires 124 semester hours, 48 hours of which is in the Health Informatics major. The BSHI program is interdisciplinary with courses in Health Informatics, Healthcare Administration, and Information Technology. You will examine project management, healthcare ethics, and legal issues. As a student at King, you must also take a course in Foundations of Christian Thought and Practice. All students must have 30 semester hours in common experience and general education. You will need to show coursework in citizenship, English, human creative products, quantitative literacy, and science. You must have 45 semester hours toward your bachelor's degree before admission to the BSHI program. For those who want to work in healthcare administration, King offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration. The BSHA is for those who want to work in healthcare administration and lead healthcare teams.
#18. Augusta University – Augusta, GA
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration
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Tuition: $ 13,381
Score: 85.16
Unique Features
Founded in 1828 in Georgia, Augusta University is a major research university and medical center. There are more than 9,000 students at Augusta, including medical and dental residents. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration through the College of Allied Health Sciences. CAHS stays on the cutting edge of national healthcare trends. It focuses on science, technology, and professionalism. Even those students in the online program have an opportunity for clinical studies while earning a degree. The BS-HIA is a 2+2 program: you complete two years in liberal arts and science courses and then two years in HIA. The entire four-year program requires 124 semester hours. If you transfer with less than 60 credit hours, you must complete a wellness course and two activity courses. You begin actual coursework for the BS-HIA during your junior year. Courses include Human Resource Management for Healthcare, Healthcare Financial Management, and Electronic Health Information Systems. In your final semester, you complete a Health Informatics and Information Management Leadership Capstone. This four-credit course integrates all aspects of your coursework. The capstone helps build leadership skills and gives you a chance for creative problem-solving. As a BS-HIA graduate, you are eligible to apply to sit for the RHIA exam.
#17. Clarkson College – Riverside, CA
Bachelor of Science in Health Care Business with a major in Health Information Administration
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Tuition: $ 21,655
Score: 85.69
Unique Features
Clarkson College has always had its roots in healthcare. It began in 1888 as a school of nursing. Today Clarkson offers eight fields and 20 majors. You can complete a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Business with a major in Health Information Administration online. The program is available for both full-time and part-time students. Unique to HIM programs, the Clarkson degree integrates the RHIA exam early in the curriculum. This enables you to sit for the RHIA exam and receive certification before graduation. During the 128 semester hour HIM program, you will develop the skills necessary to succeed in health information management. Those include communication, critical thinking, technology, diversity, and health information. You will complete 38 hours in general education and 16 hours in support courses. The remaining 74 hours are in Health Information and Health Care Business. The support courses include Computer Applications, Medical Terminology, and Essentials of Pharmacology. Courses in the major include Health Care Delivery Systems, Revenue Cycle Management, and Managing Healthcare Departments. Healthcare Business electives might include Financial Accounting, Management, and Marketing. You will complete a Health Information Administration assessment which helps you review for and register to complete the RHIA certification exam. You will take a practice experience/internship during your last two semesters. This is a field experience working in the healthcare industry. Finally, during your last semester, you complete a Capstone course. In the Capstone, you practice the theories and concepts of the HIM program and put them to use in the real world.
#16. Regis University – Denver, CO
Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 25,615
Score: 87.32
Unique Features
Regis University, established in New Mexico in 1877, moved to Denver in 1887. Regis is a Jesuit university. Jesuit education has six core values that guide students and faculty. Those values are Cura Personali or care for the person, Magis or more for the greater good, Men and Women For and With Others, Unity of Mind and Heart, Contemplatives in Action, and Finding God in All Things. There are now four Regis campuses in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Thornton. There are 132 degree programs, of which 78 are available online. One of those is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. It ranked No. 6 in the U.S. for online Bachelor's degrees in Health Information Management by BestColleges. During the BS HIM program, you will learn business software and database systems. You will also explore management and administrative practices, medical terminology, classifications, and research practices. The program explores the legality, ethics, and morality of technology in health information. To receive your BS-HIM from Regis you will complete 45 credit hours in General Core Studies, 24 credit hours in Foundational Courses, and 27 hours in Upper Division Courses. Those courses include Ethics in Health Care Services, Medical Terminology, Foundations of Information Services, Health Care Informatics, and Organizational Management. You will select a specialization in either Information Technology or Health Care Services. As an IT specialist, you will take courses in Systems Analysis & Design as well as Database Management. Those who choose the HCS specialization will take courses in Medical Practice Management and Leading Effective Organizations. Both specializations must complete a project management capstone. Regis does offer transfer credit for those who hold an RHIT certification or if you are a Certified Coding Specialist, Certified Professional Coder, Registered Nurse, or Project Management Professional.
#15. University of South Carolina-Columbia – Columbia, SC
Bachelor of Arts in Health Informatics
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Tuition: $ 20,271
Score: 87.33
Unique Features
The University of South Carolina, established in 1801, is home to nearly 35,000 students. USC established Palmetto College to offer online bachelor's degree completion programs. Once completing your first two years, you can finish your bachelor's degree online. One of the completion degrees available through USC's Palmetto College is the Bachelor of Arts in Health Informatics. The BAHI degree requires 121 to 122 credits, including lower-level non-major courses. The same professors who teach on campus also teach the online courses. Once you have at least 45 hours, you can apply to the BAHI program. There are start dates in January, May, and August each year. Your courses include Information Technology, Communications, and Health Information. Some of those IT courses include Network Technology, Relational Databases, and IT Project Management. Healthcare courses include Understanding Healthcare Organizations, Healthcare Informatics, and Healthcare Data Management. You will also take a senior seminar on IT. That seminar integrates information management through case studies and portfolio development. A practicum in Healthcare Information Management is required during your senior year. In the practicum, you will complete supervised practice in a healthcare organization.
#14. Davenport University – Grand Rapids, MI
Health Information Management Bachelor of Science
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Tuition: $ 16,788
Score: 88.33
Unique Features
Davenport University is a private non-profit university in Michigan. It has been serving students for more than 150 years. Today 7,000 students study in five colleges along with the Global Campus. Classes are online and can be either at your own time and schedule or through the Real-Time Virtual Learning format. With the real-time format, your classes are at a scheduled time so you collaborate with other students online. Classes include lectures, discussions, assessments, assignments, activities, and group projects. One of the online programs offers at DU is the Health Information Management Bachelor of Science. The HIM degree requires 120 credits. During the program, you complete 38 credits in Foundations of Excellence courses. Those are your general education courses in Sciences, Communication, English, Math, and Psychology. You also take 15 to 16 credits in Foundations of Health Professions. Courses include Medical Terminology, Health Care Management, as well as Health Care Law and Ethics. You complete 66 to 67 credits in your major. Major courses include Health Care Finance, Health Information Technology, and Clinical Information Systems. As part of your major, you will also complete two professional practice experience courses. These experiential courses give you a chance to learn within the healthcare environment. DU requires a four-credit HIM Capstone in your last semester. This brings together theoretical studies with the technical content of the HIM program. The capstone includes review and assessment for the RHIA certification exam. You will also choose one course in a HIM Internship, Coding Professional Practice Experience, Health Care Risk Management, Disaster Recovery, or a Study Abroad Experience. When you complete your HIM program at DU, you are eligible to apply to sit for the RHIA exam.
#13. University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 11,884
Score: 89.30
Unique Features
The University of Illinois at Chicago has its origins in several health colleges from the 19th century. Today, UIC is one of the country's top research institutes and now offers its exceptional education online. It ranks No. 5 on the list of Best Online Bachelor's Programs by U.S. News & World Report. One of the programs is a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. The BS HIM, based on the on-campus program, gives you the tools to manage and use healthcare information and IT systems. You can complete the BS HIM program in as little as two years. The bachelor's degree requires 60 hours of Pre-HIM courses. Those are general education courses and there are 63 hours required in the major. Major courses include Medical Terminology, Health Informatics, and Legal Aspects of Health Information Management. If you have the RHIT certification, you can get credit for up to 24 hours of coursework. All BS HIM students, even those with an RHIT, must complete a Clinical Practicum. This five-hour program gives you a chance to work in the healthcare field to practice HIM theories. The program prepares you to apply to sit for the RHIA exam.
#12. Granite State College – Concord, NH
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 12,905
Score: 90.26
Unique Features
Granite State College, established in 1972, wants to make education accessible to everyone. Granite State began by offering evening and weekend courses for working adults. Today, you can complete your degree online on your own schedule. The school, located in New Hampshire, has more than 3,000 students located across the country. Granite State's online programs ranked as one of the Best Online Degree Programs by U.S. News & World Report. One online program is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. To begin the BS in HIM at Granite State College you must have an associate degree in Health Information Technology or Health Information Management. Some working adults can get college credit by creating an Experiential Learning Portfolio. A counselor can assist you in determining how your work experience may count for your bachelor's degree. The major coursework in HIM includes Health Care Policy, Managing Information Technology, and Organizational Behavior.
#11. Louisiana Tech University – Ruston, LA
Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics & Information Management
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Tuition: $ 10,683
Score: 92.37
Unique Features
Louisiana Tech University, established in 1894, is about one hour east of Shreveport. The research university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. There are more than 12,000 students enrolled at LTU. The Department of Health Informatics and Information Management offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics & Information Management. The 120-hour program is available online. You complete general education courses along with courses in your major. HIIM courses include Medical Terminology, Health Care Systems, Health Information Technology, and Management of Organizations. During your senior year, you will complete an internship in Health Information Management. This gives you supervised, structured work experience while still completing your education. You will need to complete five milestone exams throughout your degree program and you can complete these exams through your online program, but they must be with an approved proctor. During your last quarter, you will be eligible to sit for the RHIA certification exam. You will also need to have six hours of professional education experience before graduation for the RHIA certification. You can get those hours in many ways, including seminars and field trips to healthcare facilities. Finally, you will need to complete four hours of volunteer service before graduation.
#10. Ferris State University – Big Rapids, MI
Bachelor of Science Degree with a Major in Public Health
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Tuition: $ 12,973
Score: 92.79
Unique Features
Ferris State University, founded in 1884 as an industrial school, prepares students for today's global society. There are 190 degree programs available throughout the state of Michigan and online. The College of Health Professions offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. This is a completion degree program, which requires an associate degree in Health Information Technology or Medical Records Technology. The major requires 91 credits. The ten COHP core courses include Safety Issues in Health Care, Statistics in Health Care, and Evidence-Based Health Practice. You will complete 58 credits in Medical Records Information Science. Those courses include Medical Terminology, Coding, and Health Information Technology Review. Finally, you complete 23 credits of Professional Support courses. Those include Principles of Financial Accounting, Health Care Finance, and Health Care Supervisory Practices. You must complete 30 credits through FSU. When you complete the HIM degree program, you will be eligible to apply to sit for the RHIA certification exam.
#9. Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs, CO
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management – Health Informatics
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Tuition: $ NA
Score: 92.85
Unique Features
Colorado Technical University, founded in 1965, offers degrees through an award-winning virtual campus. CTU is a military-friendly school and commits to serving students around the world. CTU ranks as one of the Best Online Bachelor's Programs and Best for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. One of the online degrees is a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management – Health Informatics. The BSHM offers CTU Fast Track exams, giving you a chance to get credit for existing career knowledge. You need to complete 180 credits to receive the BSHM, including general education courses. Courses in Healthcare Management include Healthcare Delivery Systems, Medical Terminology, Ethics in Healthcare, Economics of Healthcare, and Global Health Systems. You will complete 20 credits in the Health Informatics concentration. Those courses include DBMS for Healthcare, Security of Electronic Health Information, and Health Analytics. To receive the BSHM you will need to complete a Healthcare Management Capstone and a Health Informatics Capstone. In the capstone courses, students apply HIM coursework to the real world through an in-depth project. You do have the option of completing the capstone within your own organization. CTU also offers frequent class starts to promote flexibility.
#8. Western Governors University – Salt Lake City, UT
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ NA
Score: 94.00
Unique Features
Western Governors University is a non-profit online university. Founded by a group of governors in 1997, it has four online colleges offering more than 60 degrees. WGU focuses on business, teaching, information technology, and health professions. Courses begin on the first day of each month. One of those degrees is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. As part of the program, you will earn CompTIA Project+ certification and be eligible to sit for the RHIA exam. The HIM program offers you a chance to use previous credentials, such as an RHIT, other HIM programs, and IT certifications, as course credit. For those with no transfer credits, the program takes an average of 39 months for completion. The HIM program evolves with input from WGU's Health Professions Program Council. You get a foundation in information technology as it pertains to healthcare organizations. Along with general education courses, you will complete 36 courses in HIM. You create a personal degree plan to help you target your education toward your interests. Your courses might include Healthcare IT Systems, Medical Terminology, Healthcare Reimbursement, and Healthcare Financial Resource Management. You will complete a Professional Practice Experience at both management and technical levels. This gives you supervised experience within a healthcare organization. You will also need to take a Health Information Management Capstone. This is a culmination of your studies through a comprehensive research project.
#7. University of Cincinnati – Cincinnati, OH
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 21,050
Score: 96.71
Unique Features
The University of Cincinnati blends education with the real world for 46,000 students. Founded in 1819, it has a solid history of innovation. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, UC is a research heavyweight. It ranked among the Best National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. UC Online lets you complete your degree with the flexibility you need. You still learn from the same faculty as on-campus students and you will have advisors and coordinators to help you through the process. You can graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management through UC Online. The 52-credit program, which you can complete in as few as two years, is ideal for those with an RHIT certification. The program helps prepare you to sit for the RHIA exam. There are three start dates each year. When you begin the HIM bachelor's degree program at UC, you become part of a small cohort of students. This gives you a support system, led by a faculty member, as you continue your studies. With the seven and 14-week format for classes, you can focus on one class at a time and still complete your degree in two years. Your classes include Legal Aspects & Health Care Delivery, Health Data Management, Health Care Statistics, and Human Resources in Health Care. You will take courses in Financial Management and Project Management. These give you a chance to learn strategies necessary for problem-solving and decision-making within the healthcare industry. After completing all coursework for the HIM, you will take a final seven-credit Capstone & Practicum. During the practicum, you develop an individual, cumulative project to integrate all your studies into the HIM profession.
#6. Rutgers University – Newark, NJ
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 12,020
Score: 96.88
Unique Features
Rutgers, the state university of New Jersey, is one of the country's oldest colleges. It started in 1766 and today has 29 schools and colleges with more than 70,000 students. One of those schools is the Rutgers School of Health Professions. Rutgers SHP, which offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees, is the country's largest school of health professions. There are 1700 students in the school and Rutgers has a clinical affiliation with some of the top medical facilities. This gives you both a great education and networking opportunities. Rutgers SHP ranks No. 1 in Best Colleges to Study Health Professions according to College Factual. One of the Rutgers online programs is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. The degree blends informatics, medical coding, and management. If you want to apply to the HIM at Rutgers you must first complete your General Education requirements. The BS HIM program has 61 credits you take after your General Education courses. The HIM program includes core courses in Medical Terminology, Health Data Management, Disease Pathology, HI Services Administration, and Electronic Health Records. You will also take electives that might include Coding, Healthcare Compliance, Ethics of Healthcare, and Health Care Finance Systems. As a HIM graduate, you will be eligible to apply to sit for the RHIA exam.
#5. Indiana University and Purdue University-Indianapolis – Indianapolis, IN
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 12,488
Score: 97.51
Unique Features
IUPUI is the joint campus, located in Indianapolis, for Indiana University and Purdue University. The two universities merged to form IUPUI in 1969. IUPUI ranks among the Top 20 Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report. IUPUI includes 17 schools with more than 350 degree programs. You can complete the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management online at IUPUI. It is available through the School of Informatics and Computing, blending information technology, healthcare, and law. The HIM is a 120-credit program. Along with General Education courses, you will complete courses in Health Information Management, Computer Concepts for Health Information, Medical Terminology, Health Information Management, and Quantitative Analysis of Health Information. You will take a final practicum during your senior year. You present your project during the first semester of your final year then complete research and the project-based Capstone during your final semester. IUPUI also offers an accelerated Health Information Management BS and a Health Informatics Master of Science. If you select this option, you apply for the program during your sixth semester of HIM studies. If accepted into the accelerated program, you take an RHIA exam preparation course during your senior year. You will take the Social Foundations of Informatics course before beginning year five. Then, during your final year, you complete courses in informatics and a final thesis or project in Health Informatics. Upon completion, you receive both the BS and MS in HIM. If you do not pursue the accelerated program, you receive your HIM BS and are eligible to sit for the RHIA exam.
#4. University of Wisconsin – Madison, WI
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and Technology
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Tuition: $ 15,910
Score: 98.58
Unique Features
The University of Wisconsin Extended Campus is a partnership between four UW campuses: Green Bay, La Crosse, Parkside, and Stevens Point. It offers many online degree completion programs. One of those is the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and Technology. You can complete all courses from your own desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone. There are no on-campus meetings and you study on your own schedule. UW's online courses do offer online discussion boards so you can stay in contact with your peers and instructors. The HIMT is a 61-credit program that combines Health Information Management and Health Information Technology. You will need at least 60 hours of college credit before beginning the HIMT. Once accepted into the program, you complete 17 core courses. Those include Information Technology in Healthcare, Health Billing and Coding, and Analysis and Design of Healthcare Systems. You will also choose one of two tracks and complete four courses in that track. You can select the HIM track, which focuses on the business side of healthcare. This track includes courses in Management for HIMT Professionals, Healthcare Economics, and Human Resource Management in Healthcare. This track prepares you to sit for the RHIA exam. The HIT track focuses on the technical side of healthcare. It includes courses in Programming and Software Development, Database Structures and Management Systems, and Data Warehousing and Mining. The HIT track prepares you to sit for various IT certification exams such as CPHIMS and CAHIMS. You may elect to complete both tracks and would need to complete all four courses in both tracks. Your final course toward the HIMT is a capstone experience. You will then apply learning from your courses into the real world by completing your project in an actual healthcare setting. Previous students have completed capstones at hospitals, healthcare systems, veterans administrations, clinics, physician groups, and universities.
#3. Western Kentucky University – Bowling Green, KY
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 11,817
Score: 98.69
Unique Features
Western Kentucky University first offered teacher training. It opened its doors in Bowling Green to students in 1907. It began offering four-year degrees in 1924 and expanded over the years. Today, it provides undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 20,000 students. WKU also offers more than 100 online degree options, including the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. The online undergraduate programs rank in the top five in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. You can choose from one of two options at WKU. The HIM Plus 2 Program is for those who already hold an associate degree in HIM or HIT. You can complete your BS in as little as two years with this option. For those who do not have an associate degree, you can begin as a freshman in the online HIM program. Required core courses in HIM include Legal Issues in HIM, Computer Systems and Applications in HIM, Medical Terminology, Electronic Health Records, and Health Information Management and Leadership. You must also complete four restricted electives. Those electives might include Systems Architecture, Systems Development, or Data Mining. All students finish the program with a six-credit Capstone Professional Practice Experience. This gives you the opportunity to take education principles into a healthcare workplace. It is also possible to complete departmental exams to test out of such classes as Health Data Content, Legal Issues in HIM, HCPCS/CPT Coding, and Healthcare Payment Systems.
#2. University of Central Florida – Orlando, FL
Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management
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Tuition: $ 15,341
Score: 99.74
Unique Features
The University of Central Florida, a research university in Orlando, is home to more than 68,000 students. Founded in 1963, it now has 13 colleges with more than 220 degrees. UCF ranks as one of the Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs and Best Online Programs for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report. One of those online programs is the Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics & Information Management. The HIIM is a completion degree for those with associate-level studies in HIM or HIT. The degree requires 66 credit hours and you can complete it in two years. During the program, you will take courses in Health Record Organization & Management, Coding, HIM Department Management, Healthcare Finance, and Medical Terminology. You will complete community-based internships that give you an opportunity to apply HIM theory to healthcare practice. Throughout the program, you will have a chance to explore software applications used in healthcare. The HIIM includes training and testing for Certified Coding Associate. During your last semester, you will be able to sit for the RHIA exam. You will work with an advisor who can help you with attending the national AHIMA conference during your senior year. You will also be able to work with AHIMA on mentorship programs.
#1. East Carolina University – Greenville, NC
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
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Tuition: $ 13,327
Score: 100.00
Unique Features
East Carolina University in Greenville had its beginnings more than a century ago. There are more than 28,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. It ranks in the top Best Online Bachelor's Programs by U.S. News & World Report. The College of Allied Health Sciences founded the Department of Medical Record Administration in 1969. Today, the Department of Health Information Management offers North Carolina's only CAHIIM-accredited four-year degree. You can complete a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management online. The HIM is a 126-hour program that gives you the tools and knowledge necessary to be a leader in HIM. You must complete at least 33 hours in foundations curriculum before you can apply to the HIM BS program. Those foundation courses include Biostatistics, Medical Terminology, and Introduction to Computers. You will take HIM courses in Health Care Delivery Systems, Health Care Payment Systems, and Health Information Management. There is also a final capstone course before graduation. The Allied Health Management Experience includes demonstrating onsite proficiency in healthcare information management. As part of the capstone, you may need to complete a criminal background check. The capstone also requires a mandatory training and exam for HIPAA policies and procedures. During your last semester, you are eligible to apply to sit for the RHIA exam.