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Ever wondered which Health Information Technology Degree in Virginia is right for you?
This article handpicks the top programs to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a prospective student or looking to advance your career, find out which Virginia institutions offer the best education, online options, and practical experience tailored for the healthcare industry’s growing needs.
Virginia Tech – Graduate Certificate in Health Information Technology
Virginia Tech offers a fully online Graduate Certificate in Health Information Technology. This program is part of the Master of Information Technology course and consists of three specialized courses. It can stand alone or integrate into the full degree.
Key learning areas in this program include:
- Secure storage and retrieval: Skills for managing sensitive healthcare data securely.
- Design of IT applications: Creating systems like electronic health records and telehealth solutions.
- Database design: Understanding how to structure data for efficient access and updates.
- Healthcare data management: Mastery of data collection, coding, sharing, and analysis.
By completing this 9-credit hour program, students gain abilities to enhance healthcare services through innovative IT infrastructure. During the program, you will cover Information Systems Design, Database Concepts, and Healthcare Data Management.
For more information, explore the Virginia Tech Health Information Technology page.
West Virginia Northern Community College – Health Information Technology, A.A.S.
The Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology at West Virginia Northern Community College is structured as a comprehensive 1+1 program. In the first year, students complete a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate. This qualifies them to apply for the selective HIT program in the second year.
The curriculum covers:
- Health records management: Efficient and accurate handling of patient records.
- Medical coding: Learning coding systems essential for healthcare billing and documentation.
- Reimbursement procedures: Understanding the financial aspects of healthcare services.
- Data collection and use: Skills to gather and analyze data effectively.
Accreditation ensures adherence to high standards, making this an excellent starter program for a career in health information technology. With accessible campuses in Wheeling, Weirton, and New Martinsville, this college offers convenience and affordability.
Find out more about the West Virginia Northern Community College HIT Program.
Northern Virginia Community College – Health Information Management Program
The Northern Virginia Community College Health Information Management Program is a two-year training initiative blending IT, business management, and clinical knowledge. This program holds CAHIIM accreditation, ensuring high educational standards.
Key points of the program include:
- Certification eligibility: Graduates can sit for the RHIT certification exam.
- Employment opportunities: Hospitals, ambulatory centers, and insurance firms.
- Online learning: Mainly online delivery with a required 64-hour in-person practicum.
This program boasts a 40% graduation rate, a 50% employment rate, and a 77% retention rate for the 2021-2022 school year. It offers quality education and flexibility for those aiming to excel in health information management.
Learn more about the Northern Virginia Community College Health Information Management program.
Virginia Community Colleges – Health Information Technology Program
The Virginia Community Colleges Health Information Technology Program covers a wide range of essential topics. This program includes introductory courses like Health Care Delivery System and Computers in Health Care, as well as specialized courses such as:
- Health-IT Infrastructure Development: Covers system life cycles and medico-legal issues.
- Health Records Coding: Understanding of coding classification systems for healthcare documentation.
This program provides flexible learning options, including online and on-site courses, and offers cooperative education opportunities and internships to ensure comprehensive practical experience.
Discover more about the Virginia Community Colleges HIT Program.
University of Virginia – Health Information Technology Program
The University of Virginia offers a Health Information Technology program that integrates IT solutions to enhance healthcare service safety and efficiency. The program focuses on essential areas like:
- Systems operations (ServiceNow): Robust IT operations and support services.
- Clinical engineering and pharmacy IT support: Ensuring smooth integration and maintenance of IT systems in healthcare.
This program prepares students to develop, manage, and improve IT systems crucial for patient safety and operational efficiency. UVA Health HIT is committed to delivering excellent service management and governance.
Explore the University of Virginia Health Information Technology Program.
West Virginia University – Health Informatics and Information Management (HIIM) Program
The Health Informatics and Information Management (HIIM) Program at West Virginia University uniquely blends business, science, and IT to indirectly enhance patient care through data management and informatics. The program offers:
- Hands-on experience: Utilizing AHIMA V-Lab for practical healthcare IT applications.
- Flexible learning: HyFlex learning, allowing both face-to-face and online participation.
- Accreditation: CAHIIM accredited, preparing students for roles in healthcare management, data analytics, and health informatics.
West Virginia University’s program reflects the growing importance of health IT by providing specialized training to prepare graduates for impactful careers in the healthcare sector.
Read more on the West Virginia University HIIM Program.
Your Next Steps in Pursuing a Health Information Technology Degree in Virginia
When choosing the best Health Information Technology degree in Virginia, consider your career goals, the program’s accreditation, curriculum focus, and flexibility. Each of these programs offers unique strengths to get you started on a successful path in health information technology. Explore these options, and find the program that best suits your needs.
George Mason University – Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
George Mason University is proud to offer Virginia’s first stand-alone Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics. This interdisciplinary program combines health sciences, IT, computer science, and data science to create a curriculum designed for the future of healthcare.
Key aspects of this program include:
- Comprehensive curriculum: 120 credit hours covering everything from data management to public health improvements.
- Experiential learning: Opportunities through faculty relationships with health clinics and public health agencies.
- Career readiness: Graduates are well-prepared for high-demand roles in health informatics.
Though it currently lacks external accreditation, George Mason University is actively seeking accreditation to complement its CAHIIM-accredited MS in Health Informatics. This dedication to quality indicates a strong commitment to student success.
Learn more about the George Mason University Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics.
Tidewater Community College – Health Information Management Program
The Health Information Management program at Tidewater Community College is CAHIIM-accredited, ensuring high standards of education. The program consists of 69 credits over five semesters, including practical training that prepares students for real-world scenarios in healthcare settings.
Important details of this program are:
- Coding and data analysis: Comprehensive training in medical coding and health data analysis.
- Clinical internships: Hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities.
- High certification rate: Graduates have a 100% pass rate for the RHIT certification exam.
The program also offers flexible hybrid learning options, blending in-person and online coursework, to accommodate various learning preferences. Information sessions held monthly provide additional guidance for prospective students.
For more about the Tidewater Community College Health Information Management program, visit their website.
West Virginia University – Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management
West Virginia University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management that stands out in the region. The program integrates emerging healthcare trends with essential skills in business, technology, and data management.
Key highlights include:
- Flexible learning: Asynchronous learning opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional students.
- Professional practice experiences: Three required experiences, totaling 400 hours, providing valuable hands-on training.
- Accreditation: CAHIIM accredited through 2029-2030, ensuring industry-standard education.
West Virginia University’s program addresses the growing need for health IT professionals and prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare data management.
Explore more about the West Virginia University Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management.
Mountain Empire Community College – Health Information Technology Analyst
Mountain Empire Community College’s Health Information Technology Analyst program focuses on health analytics and data management. This program is pivotal for roles in telemedicine and patient engagement.
Key elements of this program include:
- Specialized roles: Preparation for careers like health IT data analyst and healthcare business intelligence analyst.
- Practical internships: Gaining hands-on experience in the field.
- Job market growth: An estimated 19% growth in health IT roles through 2026.
Admission requires a background check and drug screening, ensuring readiness for the professional environment.
To learn more, visit the Mountain Empire Community College Health Information Technology Analyst program page.
Picking the Best Health Information Technology Degree in Virginia
When choosing the right Health Information Technology degree in Virginia, certain factors can help narrow down your options. Here’s a concise buyer’s guide to support your decision:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies like CAHIIM or AHIMA. Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and facilitates credentialing for certification exams.
- Curriculum Coverage: Evaluate if the curriculum covers core competencies such as data management, medical coding, and IT systems in healthcare. This ensures you’re well-prepared for various roles in the industry.
- Flexibility: Consider programs that offer online or hybrid learning formats. Flexibility can be crucial for balancing education with personal and professional commitments.
- Practical Experience: Check if the program includes internships, practicums, or cooperative education opportunities. Real-world experience is invaluable for transitioning from academic learning to a professional setting.
- Career Services: Investigate the support provided for job placement, including career counseling and networking opportunities. Programs with high employment rates post-graduation are often a good indicator of quality.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Review the cost of the program and availability of financial aid. Some schools offer scholarships or grants specifically for health information technology students.
- Location and Facilities: If on-campus attendance is required, consider the school’s location and the quality of its facilities. Proximity and state-of-the-art resources can enhance your educational experience.
By analyzing these factors, you can choose a Health Information Technology degree in Virginia that aligns with your career aspirations and educational needs.
Health Information Technology Degree By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
With the information provided, you are now better equipped to select a Health Information Technology degree program in Virginia that suits your needs. Whether you choose a certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s program, the right education can set you on the path to a successful career in this dynamic and growing field.
Take the next step by visiting the program pages linked above, where you can find more details and start your application process. Investing in your education today can lead to a fulfilling career in health information technology.
Explore your options and begin your journey towards enhancing healthcare through technology.