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Looking to excel in the health information field with a top-tier education? Houston offers excellent programs that can get you there.
This guide will highlight the best Health Information Technology degrees in Houston, TX, focusing on their unique advantages to help you make an informed choice.
Houston Community College – Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
Houston Community College (HCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Technology. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). This ensures that the education you receive meets industry standards.
The curriculum is extensive, focusing on:
- Medical coding and classification systems: You’ll learn how to convert healthcare diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes.
- Data management: Understand how to organize and manage patient data effectively.
- Healthcare laws and ethics: Gain knowledge of the legal aspects of the healthcare industry.
Additionally, HCC offers the program in a hybrid format. This means you can take a combination of online and on-campus classes, giving you the flexibility to manage your schedule.
Financial Support: HCC provides financial aid options and scholarships for eligible students. You can estimate your tuition and fees using the institution’s tuition calculator.
Career Prospects: Graduates can become Registered Health Information Technicians (RHIT) and find employment in various healthcare settings. The program has strong support services including academic advising and career counseling, which help prepare you for the workforce.
HCC’s HIT program equips you with essential skills, making you proficient in health information technology.
Lone Star College – Health Information Technology AAS
The Health Information Technology AAS program at Lone Star College offers a two-year curriculum. Split between LSC-North Harris and LSC-Health Professions Building in Houston, TX, the program aims to furnish students with the skills required to succeed in the health information field.
The course covers:
- Medical coding: You’ll master coding systems used in healthcare.
- Electronic health records: Learn to manage and utilize electronic health records.
- Healthcare reimbursement: Delve into the processes involved in healthcare financing.
Flexible Learning: The program allows you to choose between LSC-North Harris and LSC-University Park campuses. This flexibility helps accommodate your location and scheduling needs.
Practical Experience: Emphasis is placed on hands-on training, ensuring you leave with practical skills. You’ll benefit from experienced faculty offering guidance and support.
Financial Options: Scholarships and financial aid are available for eligible students, making the program more accessible.
Graduates are well-prepared for various roles within the health information sector, such as medical coding specialists and health information technicians.
Lone Star College – Health Information Technology Program
Lone Star College offers a robust Health Information Technology program designed to prepare you for critical roles in healthcare settings. The program trains students in:
- Medical record functions: Proficiently analyze, code, and evaluate medical records.
- Data reporting: Learn to process and report health information data for multiple uses, including reimbursement and quality assessment.
- Health information management: You’ll be taught how to maintain and manage health data systems.
Career Opportunities: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a significant increase in health information technician roles, spurred by the rising need for accurate medical records management. Employment opportunities are numerous in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Professional Development: The program is structured to ensure that you engage with various healthcare processes, preparing you for a dynamic work environment.
Embarking on this program at Lone Star College offers a versatile and supportive educational journey.
Texas State Technical College – Health Information Technology Program
The Health Information Technology program at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) offers a comprehensive education in healthcare information systems. It prepares students to interact effectively with providers, insurers, and patients.
Detailed Curriculum:
- Health data systems: Emphasizes content structures and coding systems.
- Legal and ethical training: Covers important legal aspects regarding health information.
- Advanced coding: Develop skills in sophisticated medical coding.
Flexible Learning Options: TSTC’s program is fully online through the TSTC Connect platform. It takes about 20 months to complete and costs approximately $13,920.
Graduate Success Rates: The program boasts a 94% graduate placement rate and a 100% employer satisfaction rate.
Program Outcome: Graduates can pursue roles such as medical records technicians, health information technologists, and medical coders with competitive salaries.
TSTC’s HIT program ensures you gain the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in health information technology.
Texas State University – Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM)
The Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM) at Texas State University offers an extensive education in health information management. The program is available both on-campus and online.
Two-Plus-Two Format: The BSHIM follows a comprehensive format that includes two years of core curriculum and prerequisite courses, followed by two years in the HIM professional phase.
Key Courses Include:
- Statistics for Health Professionals
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Computer Information Systems
- Medical Terminology
Eligibility: Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and most core prerequisites completed. The program is also designed for individuals with an associate’s degree in health information technology seeking to advance their education.
Financial Aid: Tuition and fee details can be found on the university’s website. Various financial aid options are available to support your education.
The BSHIM program prepares you comprehensively, allowing you to move into advanced roles within the health information management sector.
The University of Texas – Health Informatics & Health Information Technology Certificate
The Health Informatics & Health Information Technology Certificate offered by The University of Texas provides a nimble and thorough 9-week program for post-baccalaureate students.
Key Areas of Education:
- Electronic Health Records: Hands-on training in various EHR systems.
- Healthcare Policy and Analytics: Gain insights into the latest healthcare policies and learn to analyze healthcare data.
- Project Management: Training in methods that can enhance operational efficiency in healthcare settings.
Program Accessibility: Fully online, the certificate requires a 40-hour weekly commitment. Tuition is $7,900 for UT Austin graduates and $8,400 for other students.
Career Impact: The program is offered three times a year, with graduates often securing starting salaries between $50,000-$60,000.
Developed with industry input, this program ensures you are job-ready upon completion.
Texas Southern University – Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Texas Southern University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management, accredited by CAHIIM. This program prepares you to manage health information systems and adhere to professional standards.
Comprehensive Training: The curriculum includes:
- Medical, Administrative, Ethical, Legal Aspects: Prepare to manage these facets of healthcare delivery.
- System Integration: Learn to plan and develop health information systems that meet regulatory standards.
Admission Requirements: A minimum GPA of 2.5, letters of recommendation, and interviews are part of the admission process. The program also boasts a 100% job placement rate for 2023 graduates.
Advanced Standing: Past credits and credentials may offer advanced standing with specific recognition.
Texas Southern University’s HIM program promises thorough preparation for leadership roles in health information management.
Explore these top Health Information Technology degree programs in Houston, TX, and choose the one that aligns with your career aspirations. Each program offers unique benefits, making it easier for you to step into a rewarding role in health information technology.
Houston Community College – Health Information Technology (HIT) Program
Discover the Health Information Technology (HIT) program at Houston Community College and see how it can help you excel in your career. This program offers multiple completion options to fit your needs: an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, a Health Information Coding certificate, and a Health Information Analysis certificate.
Comprehensive Curriculum:
- Anatomy & Physiology: Gain a deep understanding of the human body, essential for accurate coding.
- Health Data Content: Learn how to manage and organize health information.
- Coding Systems: Master the various coding systems used in healthcare.
- Legal Aspects: Understand the legalities surrounding health information.
- Health Information Supervision: Develop leadership skills to supervise health information technicians.
Real-World Experience: The program includes practicum or fieldwork, giving you hands-on experience in actual healthcare settings.
Certification Preparation: The curriculum is designed to prepare you for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) Certification Exam.
Accreditation: Accredited by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), ensuring the quality of education meets industry standards.
Flexibility: Offered across multiple campuses and available in different formats, it allows you to balance your education with your lifestyle.
Visit the Houston Community College HIT Program to learn more.
Texas State University – Major in Health Information Management
Texas State University presents a robust Major in Health Information Management (M.H.I.M.). This graduate-level program targets emerging roles within health information management, offering a full 36-semester credit hour curriculum delivered online.
Focused Courses:
- Health Informatics: Learn how to manage and analyze health data using information technology.
- Data Visualization: Develop skills to present data in understandable formats.
- Data Security: Understand protocols to protect sensitive health information.
- Healthcare Finance: Gain insights into revenue cycle management.
- Leadership: Learn essential leadership principles tailored for HIM roles.
Eligibility: Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75, relevant background courses, and proficiency in English.
Professional Development: Emphasizing current trends, ethical decision-making, and professional behavior, this program is designed for career advancement.
Explore the Texas State University M.H.I.M. Program for more details.
Houston Community College – Health Information Technology Certificate
The Health Information Technology Certificate program at Houston Community College offers an efficient pathway to start your career. This entry-level program is perfect for those aspiring to work in medical records or health information departments.
Key Courses:
- Medical Terminology: Understand the language used in healthcare settings.
- Healthcare Delivery: Learn about the systems and structures of healthcare.
- Computer Applications: Gain proficiency in healthcare IT systems.
- Healthcare Statistics: Understand and analyze health-related data.
Flexibility and Affordability: The program is delivered online, making it accessible and affordable for all students.
Career Pathway: This certificate also serves as a stepping stone towards an Associate degree in HIT, enhancing your qualifications and career prospects.
Interested in starting your journey? Check out the HCC HIT Certificate Program.
Texas State University – Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM)
The Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM) at Texas State University offers a thorough education in health information management. This program requires a minimum GPA of 2.50 for admission.
In-Depth Curriculum:
- Health Information Management Courses: Covering a wide range of HIM topics.
- Health Informatics Courses: Allowing students to earn a minor in health informatics.
- Professional Practice Experience: Enhancing hands-on learning within real-world settings.
Essential Requirements: Students must submit health reports, immunizations, and may undergo background checks. This ensures compliance with healthcare standards.
Rigorous Training: The program rigorously prepares students for both the practical and theoretical aspects of health information management.
Looking to advance your career? Visit the BSHIM Program at Texas State University.
San Jacinto College – Health Information Technology
San Jacinto College offers a comprehensive approach to health information technology education. This includes both an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and a Certificate of Technology.
Key Focus Areas:
- Technical Skills: Organizing, analyzing, and coding patient data.
- Medical Coding: Critical for the healthcare insurance industry.
- Career Roles: Prepares graduates for roles such as Medical Claims Specialist, Medical Coder, and Registered Health Information Management Technician.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by CAHIIM, ensuring high educational standards.
Think this might be the right fit for you? Check out the San Jacinto College HIT Program.
What to Consider When Choosing a Health Information Technology Degree Program
Choosing the right Health Information Technology degree program is crucial for your career development. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is recognized by bodies like CAHIIM. Accredited programs meet industry standards.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that cover a broad range of topics including coding, data analysis, informatics, and compliance.
- Hands-on Training: Practical experience through internships or fieldwork is invaluable.
- Faculty Expertise: The faculty’s qualifications and industry experience matter. They should provide practical insights and mentorship.
- Career Support Services: Find programs that offer career counseling, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities.
- Program Flexibility: Look for online or hybrid learning options, especially if you are working or have a busy schedule.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Explore financial support options such as scholarships, grants, and student loans.
- Future Career Prospects: Investigate the career placement rates and job roles that graduates typically get into.
Evaluate these factors carefully to select a program that aligns with your career goals and provides a solid foundation for success in the health information technology field.
Conclusion
Houston provides a rich variety of Health Information Technology degree programs, each offering unique features to help you excel. Whether you’re looking at an associate degree, a bachelor’s program, or a specialized certificate, these institutions offer pathways suited for diverse needs and career goals. Explore these programs further and start your journey towards a rewarding career in health information technology.
Looking to take your next step? Visit the program links provided above and discover which Health Information Technology Degree in Houston TX is right for you.