Earn your associate degree in Health Information Technology (HIT) from DeVry University, and you can be prepared to join a fast growing occupation. Employment of medical records and health information technicians is expected to increase by 21 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations*. This Health Information Technology degree program follows a curriculum based on current associate degree entry-level competencies outlined by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). You will also have access to up-to-date coding and chart management lab software 24/7, and the opportunity for professional practice experience, including two practicum.
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology (In Pennsylvania, Associate in Applied Science in Health Information Technology.)
Graduation Requirements: 4 full-time semesters, 67 credit hours (63 in Minnesota)
Flexible Study: Take your health information technology classes at a DeVry campus location through a mix of online and on campus classes, or via our online degree program. Each term you can choose the mix of classes that helps you balance personal priorities and keeps you moving toward your goals. Please note that program and course availability varies by location.
Related Programs: Apply qualifying credits from your associate degree program in Health Information Technology to DeVry University's bachelor's degree program in Technical Management with a specialization in Health Information Management (HIM) through the College of Business & Management.
Associate Degree in Health Information TechnologyCareer CourseworkFocusing on applying concepts and skills to real-world situations, DeVry's Health Information Technology degree curriculum includes these career-enhancing courses:
- Basic Medical Terminology – This course introduces elements of medical terminology such as the foundations of words used to describe the human body and its conditions, terminology for medical procedures, the names of commonly prescribed medications, and recognition of common abbreviations.
- Introduction to Health Services and Information Systems – Addressing history, organization, and current issues in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, this health information technology course explores interrelationships among system components and care providers. Topics include licensing, accrediting, and regulatory compliance activities; the importance of financial and quality management; safety and security; and the role of health information professionals.
- International Classification of Diseases Coding I – This course introduces principles and guidelines for using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9-CM or current version) system to code diagnoses and procedures in an inpatient setting. Students use coding manuals and software tools to practice disease and procedure coding and sequencing diagnoses and procedures.
- Legal and Regulatory Issues in Health Information – Examining legal and regulatory issues in healthcare, with emphasis on their application to healthcare information services and documentation of care, students in this health information technology course explore the rights and responsibilities of providers, employees, payers, and patients in a healthcare context. Topics include legal terminology pertaining to civil liability and the judicial and legislative processes; laws and regulations addressing release of information and retention of records; and issues surrounding confidentiality.
- Health Insurance and Reimbursement – Studying forms, processes, practices, and the roles of health information professionals, students in this health information technology course explore reimbursement and payment methodologies applicable to healthcare provided in various U.S. settings. Topics include concepts related to insurance products, third-party and prospective payment, and managed care organizations.
To learn more about required and elective courses for the Health Information Technology associate degree program, contact a DeVry University representative or see the undergraduate academic catalog.