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Interested in a rewarding career in healthcare technology?
Discover the top Health Information Technology degree programs in Columbus, OH.
This concise guide outlines the best options, their unique features, and how they can advance your career in managing healthcare information systems.
Learn about accredited programs that equip you with essential skills for a high-demand field.
Columbus State Community College – Health Information Management Technology (HIMT) Associate’s Degree
Columbus State Community College offers an exceptional Health Information Management Technology (HIMT) Associate’s Degree. This program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education, ensuring you receive a high-quality education aligned with industry standards.
The HIMT program is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to maintain health information systems according to medical, ethical, legal, and regulatory standards. Upon graduation, you will be eligible to sit for the Registered Health Information Management Technician (RHIT) national certification exam administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). For the 2022-2023 academic year, graduates achieved a 100% pass rate on this exam, highlighting the efficacy of the program.
Why Choose Columbus State?
- High Employment Rate: In the 2023-2024 academic year, 92% of graduates found employment in the health information management field.
- Diverse Roles: You’ll gain expertise in processing, maintaining, compiling, and reporting health information, which impacts areas such as reimbursement, facility planning, marketing, risk management, quality assessment, and research.
- Strong Foundation: The curriculum provides a well-rounded education in medicine, business, and computer technology, ensuring you are prepared for various roles in the healthcare industry.
Early Start Opportunities
High school students can start early through the College Credit Plus (CCP) program, allowing you to earn college credit while still in high school. Participating high schools include Dublin City Schools and Southwestern Career Academy.
Accreditation and Affiliations
Columbus State Community College ensures a robust educational experience through its affiliation with The Higher Learning Commission and the North Central Association. While job placement is not guaranteed, the high employment rate reflects the quality of education provided and enhances your career prospects.
In conclusion, the HIMT program at Columbus State Community College offers a solid foundation for success in health information technology. Learn more about the program.
The Ohio State University – Health Information Management and Systems Degree
The Ohio State University offers a renowned Health Information Management and Systems degree that prepares you for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. This program emphasizes a competitive admission process, focusing on your academic achievements and cumulative GPA.
Program Highlights
- Cohort Model: You’ll benefit from a cohort model, which fosters a collaborative learning environment with individualized faculty support.
- Practicum Experience: Gain practical experience through health-related organizations, preparing you for real-world applications.
- Study Abroad: Enhance your educational experience with study abroad opportunities, further broadening your understanding of global healthcare systems.
Special Programs and Extracurriculars
- Health Sciences Scholars Program: Participate in specialized programs like the Health Sciences Scholars Program and the Dunn Sport and Wellness Scholars Program.
- Student Associations: Join extracurricular organizations like the Health Information Management Student Association for additional learning and networking opportunities.
Career Preparation
Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator exam and other specialty certifications, such as clinical coding and healthcare privacy. You can pursue various career opportunities, including management roles in hospitals, consulting, and specialized fields like information systems and quality improvement. The program boasts an impressive starting salary range between $40,000 to $60,000.
Accreditation
Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Ohio State’s program guarantees a rigorous, thorough educational experience.
Choosing the Health Information Management and Systems degree at Ohio State University ensures comprehensive training, professional growth opportunities, and a renowned education in health information management. Explore more about Ohio State’s program.
The Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences – Health Information Management and Systems Program
The Health Information Management and Systems program at Ohio State University’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences stands out for its multidisciplinary curriculum. This program prepares you to communicate effectively within the healthcare industry through comprehensive management principles, information systems, finance, reimbursement, and ethical considerations.
Practical Experience
- Partnerships with Healthcare Organizations: Gain hands-on experience through partnerships with esteemed healthcare organizations, including Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center.
- Job Market Growth: With a projected job market growth of 17% from 2021-2031 for health information management, graduates can expect robust employment prospects.
Career Paths
Graduates pursue diverse careers in hospital management, consulting, and advanced studies in fields like MBA, MHA, and MPH programs. The program’s curriculum is designed to adapt to changes in the technical, social, and political healthcare environments, ensuring graduates remain relevant and competitive.
Academic Resources and Support
- Office of Academic Affairs: Benefit from effective academic resources and much-needed support available through Ohio State’s Office of Academic Affairs.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in research-focused areas such as biomechanics, health systems outcomes, and nutrition, enriching your educational experience and career skills.
In summary, Ohio State’s program provides a balanced blend of education and practical experience, equipping you for many career prospects in health information technology. Learn more about the program and how it aligns with your career goals.
Stark State College – Health Information Management
Stark State College offers a five-semester Health Information Management program, preparing you to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), ensuring that you receive a quality education in line with industry standards.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: The program is CAHIIM-accredited, providing you with the assurance of a reputable education.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates can sit for the RHIT exam, with a 100% first-time pass rate expected for the 2022-2023 cohort.
- Foundational and Advanced Learning: You’ll learn medical coding, billing, and management of medical records, starting with introductory courses and advancing to more complex topics.
Career Pathways
- Immediate Job Prospects: Start your career early with medical billing and coding certificates while working towards your associate degree.
- Further Education: The program provides a pathway to bachelor’s degree programs in health information management, offering opportunities for continued learning and career advancement.
Admission Criteria
Admission to this program is competitive and based on specific criteria, ensuring a high standard of student excellence. It’s also important to note that individuals with felony or misdemeanor convictions may face practice restrictions as per Ohio laws.
Overall, Stark State College delivers a quality education in health information management, focusing on flexible learning pathways and successful student outcomes. Explore Stark State’s program for a detailed overview and start your journey in health information technology today.
DeVry University – Associate Degree in Health Information Technology
DeVry University offers an online Associate Degree in Health Information Technology that focuses on electronic health information management. Ideal for those seeking flexibility, this program includes a comprehensive Digital Health Core curriculum.
Key Program Features
- Specializations: Choose from Analytics, General Health Services, Health Information, and IT and Cybersecurity to tailor your education to your career goals.
- Course Content: Courses cover medical terminology, compliance, ethics, patient privacy, and digital healthcare delivery, equipping you with a broad range of skills.
- Accelerated Learning: Complete the program in as little as 1 year and 4 months with an accelerated schedule featuring 8-week course sessions starting bimonthly.
Career Opportunities
- Diverse Roles: Graduates are prepared for positions such as Healthcare Data Analyst, Information Security Analyst, and Health Information Management Technician.
- High Demand Field: The program prepares you for a rapidly growing sector, with job growth significantly higher than average.
Student Support and Resources
- Hands-on Learning: Use industry-standard software and tools for practical experience.
- Support Services: Access comprehensive student support, including tutoring and career services.
- Credit Stacking: Credits earned can be applied toward future programs, supporting your ongoing education goals.
DeVry’s program offers a detailed, practical education suitable for anyone looking to enter the evolving healthcare and technology landscapes. Learn more about DeVry’s program and how it can help you reach your career objectives.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Health Information Technology Degree
When selecting a Health Information Technology degree program in Columbus, OH, consider the following key aspects to ensure your choice aligns with your career goals:
- Accreditation: Choose programs accredited by recognized bodies like CAHIIM to guarantee the quality and adherence to industry standards.
- Curriculum: Look for comprehensive curricula covering crucial areas such as medical coding, compliance, and information systems.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the credentials and professional background of faculty members for expert guidance and education.
- Internship Opportunities: Opt for programs offering practical training through internships or partnerships with healthcare organizations.
- Mode of Delivery: Decide between online and in-person classes based on your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
- Success Rates: Consider programs with high graduation rates, certification exam pass rates, and employment rates to increase your own success potential.
- Specializations: Seek programs that offer specializations or elective courses matching your career aspirations.
- Support Services: Utilize programs offering robust support services such as tutoring, career counseling, and academic advising.
- Financial Considerations: Evaluate tuition costs and check for available financial aid, grants, or scholarships to manage your education budget effectively.
By assessing these factors, you can make a more informed choice that suits your educational and professional needs in the health information technology field.
Conclusion
Columbus, OH, offers a range of top-tier Health Information Technology degree programs, each designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this growing field. From accredited programs at Columbus State Community College and The Ohio State University to specialized online offerings at DeVry University, there is a program to fit every learning style and career goal.
Research thoroughly, assess your personal and professional requirements, and select the program that aligns best with your aspirations. Embark on your journey towards a rewarding career in health information technology today.