What You Should Know About This Degree
A degree in health information technology provides the foundation to enter various roles in the evolving health information industry. The most common careers for those who earn this degree include RHIT or medical biller and coder.
Although health information professionals are not directly involved in patient care, they are a critical part of the healthcare system. If you’re interested in working more directly with patients, you may want to consider related career paths, such as clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, which typically require a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or life sciences.
The job outlook for those who earn a degree in health information technology is favorable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for medical records and health information technicians are projected to grow 8% over the next decade, which is twice the average rate for all occupations.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in health information technology programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? A high school diploma or equivalency is typically enough to qualify a student for an associate program in health information technology. Some colleges and universities may also require prospective students to demonstrate college-level placement in reading, writing, and math.
- How long does it take to complete this degree? For full-time students, it typically takes two years to earn an associate degree in health information technology. Some programs can be completed in as few as 18 months.
As you research programs, keep track of application deadlines and materials you must submit for each program. You can usually find information about the application process by reviewing the school’s website or contacting the admissions department.
Financing your education is another important consideration. Be sure to submit financial aid applications in a timely manner and explore other types of potential funding, such as grants, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement from your employer.