Health Information Management Degrees

If you have an interest in information technology, computers or accounting, and would like to apply those skills to the healthcare industry, a degree in health information management is a great way to make that happen. There are a variety of degree levels from which to choose, and each will offer a different level of health information proficiency. Lower level degrees are perfect for those who wish to begin as an entry-level employee, while graduate degrees will qualify graduates for administrative health information positions. Be sure to research potential degree programs to find out which will best prepare you for your dream job.

Health information management degrees include:

  • Certification: A certification will prepare students for an entry-level position in medical coding. The program usually lasts 9-12 months, and will cover medical code, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and other health-related subjects. This program is an excellent way for individuals to begin working quickly without devoting 2-6 years to a degree program.
  • Associate’s: This two year degree will prepare graduates for various health information-related careers such as medical coder, health information technician, data integrity specialist or other related profession. After completing the associate’s degree program, graduates may also continue on to complete a four year bachelor’s degree program.
  • Bachelor’s: This degree program will equip graduates for an administrative position in health information management. In addition to practical health information training, the bachelor’s degree program will provide students with an education in management, business, finance and IT.
  • Master’s: After completion of the bachelor’s program, students may decide to continue to a two year master’s degree program. This degree will allow graduates to pursue high-level executive positions within the health information field. The curriculum will cover an advanced study of leadership, business, accounting and database management.

Read about UC Berkeley managing the unique health information of incoming freshmen ... in their DNA.