Program Length: 4 semesters
Credential: Associate of Applied Science
Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 10:1
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
THE PROGRAM
Health Information Technology is a two-year (four-semester) program. Graduates receive an Associate of Applied Science degree and are eligible to sit for the national certification exam to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). The program offers one class per year beginning each fall. This program requires prerequisites and a minimum ACT score of 16. The prerequisites are located under the Program Admission Information and Procedures document below under the resources tab.
THE PROFESSION
Health Information Technologists organize and manage health information data. They ensure its quality, accuracy, accessibility and security in both paper and electronic systems. They use various classification systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement purposes, for databases and registries and to maintain patients' medical and treatment histories. Most HITs work in hospitals, clinics and physicians’ offices.
THE PAY
The median annual wage for Health Information Specialists is $53,360.
THE FUTURE
The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6,400 openings annually for 2024-2030 with employment projected to grow 16%.
PROGRAM ACCREDITATION
The Health Information Management Program’s accreditor of Itawamba Community College is the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). The College’s accreditation for Associate degree in Health Information Management has been reaffirmed through 2028-2029. All inquiries about the program’s accreditation status should be directed by mail to CAHIIM, 200 East Randolph Street, Suite 5100, Chicago, IL, 60601; by phone at 312.235.3255; or by email at info@cahiim.org.
RESOURCES
Mission/Purpose/Vision Statements (.pdf)
Goals and Objectives (.pdf)
Outcomes and Effectiveness (.pdf)
Program Admission Information and Procedures (.pdf)
Program Curriculum (.pdf)
Criminal Background Policy (.pdf)
Health Science Program Admission Application (Online)
Estimated Fees (.pdf)