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Wondering which Health Information Technology Degree in Wilmington, NC can launch your healthcare career?
This post reviews the best degree programs in the area, highlighting their unique features and practical value to help you make an informed decision.
Miller-Motte – Healthcare Information Technology Program
Miller-Motte’s Healthcare Information Technology program in Wilmington, NC, is designed to equip you with the necessary skills for a successful career in healthcare administration. This robust 92-credit program offers two distinct tracks: a hybrid format that can be completed in 18 months, leading to an Associate of Occupational Science degree, and an online track leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Key Features:
- Extensive Curriculum: Covers healthcare information management, legal issues in health IT, pharmacology, and statistics.
- Flexible Completion: Hybrid format in 18 months, online format for distance learners.
- Real-World Experience: Hybrid students are eligible for externships.
- Rolling Admissions: New programs start every five to ten weeks.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as medical records specialists, medical billers, medical coders, and health information technologists. However, note that while Miller-Motte offers thorough training, employment and salary cannot be guaranteed, and certification requirements may change.
Brunswick Community College – Health Information Technology Program
The Health Information Technology (HIT) Program at Brunswick Community College provides rigorous training to excel in managing and reporting health information. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), this program prepares you for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification exam.
Key Features:
- CAHIIM-Accredited: Ensures high-quality education.
- Strong Outcomes: 100% graduation rate and high graduate satisfaction.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes Medical Terminology, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Health Data Systems, and Diagnosis Coding.
- Practical Experience: Offers professional practice opportunities for hands-on learning.
Graduates find opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, consulting firms, and rehabilitation facilities. It’s important to note that students with felony or misdemeanor convictions may face challenges completing the program due to ineligibility for professional practice experiences. Additionally, the college has an articulation agreement with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, facilitating credit transfer for continuing education in Public Health Education.
Brunswick Community College – Health Information Technology Associate Degree
The HIT Associate Degree at Brunswick Community College offers a thorough training in health information technology, both on-campus and online. This accredited program prepares students for diverse careers by offering courses in Healthcare & HIM, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, Diagnosis Coding & Reporting, and Health Data Systems/Standards.
Key Features:
- Flexible Learning Options: Available on-campus and online.
- Minimum Grade Requirement: Ensures high academic standards with a “C” grade or higher.
- Supporting Scholarships: Next NC Scholarships provide financial assistance.
- Broad Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
However, it’s essential to note that students with felony or misdemeanor convictions may not be eligible for certain professional practice experiences. Graduates can pursue roles in various healthcare settings or further education thanks to the college’s articulation agreements with other institutions.
East Carolina University – Health Information Management Certificate
The Health Information Management Certificate from East Carolina University (ECU) prepares you for important roles in managing and protecting medical data. Unique for North Carolina, this program qualifies graduates for the RHIA exam, boasting a 100% pass rate.
Key Features:
- Qualification for RHIA Exam: Unique to North Carolina and a high pass rate.
- Flexible Learning Formats: Offered online, in-person, or hybrid.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers data gathering, evaluation, ethical issues, and communication skills.
- Internship Component: Provides hands-on experience in healthcare settings.
The program can be completed within a year, preparing graduates for entry-level supervisory roles in healthcare. ECU’s faculty, recognized for their contributions to industry research and excellence in teaching, ensures a high-quality education. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% growth in the field through 2030, with North Carolina professionals earning an average salary of $91,250.
East Carolina University – Master of Science in Health Informatics
East Carolina University offers a Health Informatics Master’s Program accredited by CAHIIM. This program is tailored for students aspiring to leadership roles in the health informatics sector. Whether you prefer in-person or online learning, this educational opportunity accommodates your schedule.
Key Features:
- Industry-Accredited: Recognized by CAHIIM, ensuring you receive a valuable and credible education.
- Flexible Learning Formats: Options for both in-person and online classes.
- Rich Curriculum: Courses include Electronic Health Records, Health Data Structures, and Health Information Privacy and Security.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Gain practical experience through partnerships with ECU Health and Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
- High Employment Rate: Achieves a 100% job placement rate for graduates.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Several scholarships available to help with financial commitments.
Completing this program opens doors to careers as data engineers, health information managers, and more, with a projected 32% job growth in health information management roles through 2030. This educational path is a strong choice for those looking to make an impactful difference in healthcare technology.
Wilmington University – Health Information Technology Undergraduate Certificate
The Health Information Technology Undergraduate Certificate from Wilmington University is a flexible program that imparts essential skills in health information management, coding, billing, and data analysis. This program stands out due to its adaptability to your schedule.
Key Features:
- Flexible Formats: Available online and in hybrid formats.
- Relevant Curriculum: Aligns with AHIMA accreditation standards, covering key areas in health information technology.
- Completion Timeline: Can be completed in about a year, offering a quick path to workforce entry.
- Accreditation: Meets the standards set by AHIMA, ensuring quality education.
While it provides a strong foundation in health information management, the program does not include hands-on clinical training, which can be a consideration for those looking for a more comprehensive education. Tuition costs can vary based on the course load and financial status, making it an accessible option for many students.
Tips for Choosing the Right Health Information Technology Degree
Selecting the right Health Information Technology degree in Wilmington, NC, requires careful consideration. Here are key factors to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body like CAHIIM, which validates the quality and rigor of the education provided.
- Curriculum: Review the course content to ensure it covers essential topics such as medical coding, data analysis, health information management, and ethics.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with experienced faculty who have industry knowledge and credentials in health information technology.
- Internship Opportunities: Programs that offer hands-on internship experiences can provide invaluable practical knowledge and bolster your resume.
- Financial Aid: Investigate financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, or work-study programs that can ease the financial burden.
By considering these criteria, you can ensure you select a program that aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey in Health Information Technology
Embarking on a Health Information Technology degree in Wilmington, NC, can be a transformative step toward a rewarding career in healthcare technology. By exploring the programs available at Miller-Motte, Brunswick Community College, East Carolina University, and Wilmington University, you can find the perfect fit for your aspirations. Each program offers unique benefits, from flexible learning formats to hands-on experiences. Take the time to review each option and begin your journey toward becoming a skilled professional in health information technology.