08/04/2025
In today's healthcare landscape, data is important. But it's not just about collecting patient information—it’s about ensuring the data is organized and used effectively. That’s where Health Information Management (HIM) comes in. For students curious about how healthcare and technology intersect, a Health Information Management degree may offer the academic path you're looking for.
Health Information Management focuses on overseeing and safeguarding patient data. HIM professionals ensure that medical records are complete, accurate, and secure. Managing and safeguarding patient data supports patient safety, healthcare compliance, and operational effectiveness in clinical and non-clinical settings.
What Do Students Study in a Health Information Management Degree Program?
Students in a health information management degree program typically take courses in:
- Medical terminology
- Health information systems
- Electronic health records (EHRs)
- Healthcare data analysis
- Information governance
- Reimbursement systems
- Project management
- Health informatics and technology
Alongside technical and healthcare-specific content, students often complete general education courses and professional practice experiences to build broader communication, organizational, and critical thinking skills.
Degree Options in Health Information Management
Most students pursuing this path complete a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. This degree is designed to help students build foundational knowledge relevant to entry-level roles in the HIM field, including eligibility to sit for professional certifications.
Many programs are available in online formats, which may be especially helpful for working adults or students balancing education with other responsibilities. Online learning options may include asynchronous classes and virtual labs, depending on the program and course availability.
In addition to bachelor’s programs, some schools may offer associate degrees or certificates. However, students interested in administrative or analyst roles may find a bachelor’s degree may provide broader preparation that can support a wider range of job applications.
Why Accreditation Matters
When researching HIM programs, it’s important to check the program’s accreditation status. Accreditation helps ensure that the program meets quality standards in teaching and student preparation. Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) may also prepare students to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) exam.
Understanding both the program's and the college’s accreditation status can help students make informed decisions about eligibility for federal financial aid and professional certifications.
Skills Gained in a Health Information Management Degree Program
Health Information Management professionals combine healthcare knowledge with technical expertise. Throughout the program, students may develop skills in:
- Managing electronic health records
- Analyzing healthcare data for performance improvement
- Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations
- Supporting clinical documentation improvement
- Understanding organizational management in healthcare environments
- Utilizing healthcare statistics and informatics tools
In addition to technical skills, HIM students often work on communication and collaboration strategies essential to working with providers, patients, and administrators.
Typical Career Paths for Health Information Management Graduates
Graduates of a health information management program may be prepared to pursue a range of roles in healthcare organizations, government agencies, and other data-driven environments. Common paths may include:
- Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
- Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA)
- Health data analyst
- Clinical documentation specialist
- Information systems coordinator
- Compliance or privacy officer
According to U.S. labor statistics, the demand for health information professionals is expected to grow 16% over the coming decade, reflecting the increasing need for secure, organized, and accessible patient data.
The Role of Technology in Health Information Management
Technology is central to how HIM professionals work. Courses and training in health information technology and health informatics help students understand how patient data flows through complex systems—and how to manage that flow effectively.
Whether learning to use electronic health records software or analyzing large sets of health data, students in HIM programs gain exposure to tools used in modern healthcare delivery and information systems. As healthcare systems evolve, HIM professionals may also support performance improvement initiatives or assist with transitions to new systems.
Continuing Education and Certification in Health Information Management
Some HIM graduates choose to continue their studies with graduate programs in health informatics, healthcare administration, or public health. Continuing education may also be a requirement for maintaining certain certifications.
Professional certifications, such as the RHIA credential, may be an option for students who graduate from a CAHIIM-accredited bachelor’s program. Other credentials offered through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) may focus on data analytics, privacy, or medical coding. Eligibility for RHIA certification is determined by CAHIIM and AHIMA; additional requirements may apply.
Staying current through professional development is one way HIM professionals can adapt to new healthcare statistics, policies, and technologies that impact patient care and data management.
Why Students Choose a Health Information Management Degree
HIM programs may be of interest to students who:
- Enjoy working with data, systems, and processes
- Are interested in healthcare environments but prefer non-clinical roles
- Want to contribute to patient safety and quality patient care
- Value accuracy, organization, and attention to detail
- Are interested in project management, medical research, or healthcare compliance
Since HIM combines healthcare, technology, and administration, it may appeal to a wide range of learners—from those with a tech background to those transitioning from allied health roles.
Considering a Health Information Management Degree
Health Information Management brings together the technical, administrative, and ethical dimensions of managing healthcare data. For students who want to engage with the structure behind the care—from maintaining accurate patient records to supporting system-wide data analysis—HIM provides a non-clinical route for those interested in contributing to healthcare systems and data management.
The degree may appeal to those seeking a future in health data systems, compliance, or performance improvement, especially in today’s evolving healthcare systems. Programs in health information management provide a blend of structured learning, hands-on experiences, and exposure to current technology, helping students explore their interest in healthcare in new ways.
Ready to take the next step? Explore how a Health Information Management degree can translate into real-world roles in "What Can You Do With a Health Information Management Degree?".
