Best Online CAHIIM-Accredited Health Information Management Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree?

You can expect a curriculum that blends healthcare, data management, and information technology. This isn't a program focused on direct patient care; instead, it trains you to be an expert in the data and information systems that are essential for modern medicine.

It’s important to understand how this differs from other healthcare degrees. Many people confuse Health Information Management with Healthcare Administration, but they lead to very different careers.

Think of it this way: Healthcare Administration is primarily about managing people and budgets. Health Information Management is about managing the data and the systems that store it. If you are interested in the technical side of healthcare—ensuring data is accurate, secure, and useful—then one of the best CAHIIM-accredited online health information management programs is the right path for you.

Where can I work with an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree?

An online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree opens doors to a variety of data-focused roles in healthcare and beyond. Your specific career path can lead to many different settings. Based on 2023 employment data for health information technologists, the largest employers include:

• Hospitals: Employing 47% of the workforce, hospitals are the primary setting for roles in managing patient records, ensuring data integrity, and maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Physician Offices: Employing 9% of professionals, these settings include private practices and large clinic networks that need experts to manage patient data, coding, and reimbursement.
• Management and Technical Services: This growing sector, which includes corporate management and technical consulting firms, employs a combined 13% of HIM graduates for roles in EHR system implementation and data strategy.
• Administrative and Support Services: Making up 4% of the job market, these roles are often found in third-party billing companies, insurance carriers, or specialized auditing firms that support the healthcare industry.

How much can I make with an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree?

With an online CAHIIM-accredited degree, your earning potential is directly tied to your credentials and career path. An associate's degree prepares you for technician roles (RHIT), while a bachelor's degree unlocks higher-paying management positions (RHIA).

As of May 2024, median annual wages for key roles in the field show a clear progression:

• Health Information Technologists: In hospitals, the largest employment sector, the median annual wage is around $64,320.
• Medical and Health Services Managers: For those who advance into leadership, the median annual wage is significantly higher at $117,960.

List of the Best Online CAHIIM-Accredited Health Information Management Degree Programs for 2025

Healthcare remains one of the most reliable career paths, and many students interested in online programs also compare other healthcare-related credentials like healthcare administration certification when planning their education. Pursuing a CAHIIM-accredited health information management (HIM) degree ensures you are entering a field with strong accreditation standards and solid career outcomes.

1. Southern New Hampshire University - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

A curriculum centered on health data structure, clinical classification systems, and the legal and ethical dimensions of care defines the program at Southern New Hampshire University. Students build both technical fluency and professional skills, preparing for successful careers in the healthcare field.

• Program Length: 2.5 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $342
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

2. American Public University - Online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

Emphasizing the operational management side of health information, the program at American Public University prepares students for careers in hospitals, insurance companies, and government agencies. Coursework introduces essential HIM software, while a required practicum in an approved healthcare facility ensures hands-on, real-world experience.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $350
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

3. Charter Oak State College - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

Charter Oak State College offers a fully online program recognized as a CAHIIM School of Distinction, emphasizing practical application through real-world simulations. Students benefit from a flat tuition rate and a Fast Track option that allows them to earn graduate-level credits toward a master's degree.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $276 (In-State); $363 (Out-of-State)
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

4. Rasmussen University - Bachelor’s Degree in Health Information Management

An accelerated pathway at Rasmussen University allows qualified students to complete their degree in as few as 18 months. From the first course, the curriculum integrates RHIA exam preparation and uses the Empowered Learning® model, where real-world, project-based assignments build practical skills.

• Program Length: As few as 18 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 90
• Total Tuition: $34,270
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

5. Herzing University - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

Herzing University provides distinct associate and bachelor's degree pathways, allowing students to choose the option that best fits their career goals. The program emphasizes flexibility with its online "Everywhere Classroom" and offers a dual-credit option for students to get a head start on an MBA.

• Program Length: Approximately 36 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 124
• Cost per Credit: $530
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

6. University of Cincinnati - Bachelor’s in Health Information Management

The University of Cincinnati delivers its curriculum as a CAHIIM Future Education Model (FEM) program, which promotes enhanced experiential learning. The program boasts a 100% RHIA exam pass rate and provides strong student support through personalized advising and one-on-one guidance.

• Program Length: 2–4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 65
• Cost per Credit: $441 (In-State); $456 (Out-of-State)
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

7. Texas State University - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

Through a curriculum centered on data application and analysis, Texas State University prepares students for industry-recognized certifications such as RHIA, CHDA, and CAHIMS. A required supervised experiential learning placement ensures graduates gain meaningful on-site experience before stepping into the workforce.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $404
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

8. University of Arizona - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

The University of Arizona Global Campus focuses on mastering the technology and workflow of modern healthcare providers, from large hospital systems to private practices. Graduates are well-prepared for certification, achieving an 80% pass rate on the RHIA exam—significantly higher than the national average.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $250
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

9. Purdue University - Bachelor’s in Health Information Management

Purdue Global's program is designed to develop adaptive critical thinkers who can use technology to support management and decision-making in healthcare. A final capstone course integrates an 80-hour professional practice experience and includes taking the RHIA certification exam as a graded activity.

• Program Length: 2–4 years
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 180
• Cost per Credit: $371
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

10. Western Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management

Two online pathways define the program at Western Kentucky University: a traditional four-year degree and the accelerated “HIM Plus 2” option for students holding a CAHIIM-accredited associate degree. The curriculum develops versatile professionals with expertise in data management, informatics, compliance, and revenue cycle management.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $540
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

How long does it take to complete an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

A bachelor's degree in health information management typically takes four years of full-time study to complete, while an associate's degree usually takes two years. However, these timelines are not set in stone.

If you are a career changer with a previous degree or some college experience, your timeline could be much shorter. The key is to find a program with a generous transfer credit policy that recognizes your prior learning. Many of the shortest HIM online degree programs are designed for students who already have a foundation of college-level coursework. Part-time options are also widely available if you need to balance your studies with work or family.

A Field for Experienced Leaders

If you're concerned about changing careers later in life, you should know that this field values professional maturity. In fact, your experience is a significant advantage, especially if you are aiming for a leadership role.

The data shows that the average age for medical and health services managers is 45.9 years. This tells you that employers are actively seeking seasoned professionals who can bring a wealth of real-world knowledge to their organizations. Your previous career isn't a hurdle; it's a foundation for your future success in this field.

How does an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program compare to an on-campus program?

When it comes to the things that employers care about—the curriculum, the quality of education, and the credential you earn—they are identical.

Your final diploma will not say "online." It will simply state your degree from the university. As long as the program is accredited by CAHIIM, it has met the same rigorous standards as its on-campus counterpart. The most important factor for success in an online program is your own self-discipline.

Ensuring Quality: The Role of Accreditation and Virtual Labs

The key is accreditation. CAHIIM is the independent body that evaluates and approves HIM programs, and they hold online and on-campus programs to the exact same high standards.

To ensure you get the same hands-on experience, the best online programs use a virtual lab, often called a VLab. This tool, provided by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), gives you practical, real-world experience using electronic health record (EHR) software.

These skills are highly transferable across healthcare fields, including roles that lead to non bedside nursing jobs, where professionals rely heavily on data and technology rather than direct patient care.

What is the average cost of an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

You can expect tuition for a bachelor's degree to be around $388 per credit hour for in-state students. This often results in a total tuition cost between $40,000 and $50,000 for the entire program.

However, as your advisor, I'll tell you it's critical to look beyond that sticker price. When comparing different CAHIIM-accredited online health information management programs, you need to ask about the total cost. Be sure to factor in potential expenses like technology fees, virtual lab access fees, and costs for proctored exams. Getting the full picture is the only way to make a true apples-to-apples comparison.

Analyzing Your Return on Investment: Salary Potential

Thinking about the cost is important, but it's only half of the equation. The other half is the return you can expect on that investment. A degree in health information management puts you on a career path with significant earning potential that can quickly offset the initial cost of tuition. For instance, students may compare outcomes with other healthcare salaries, like dental assistant salary per state, to evaluate long-term ROI.

As you can see in the data below, the average salary is over $80,000. With experience and specialization, top earners in the field can make more than $125,000 a year. This shows that the investment in your education provides a clear and powerful pathway to a financially secure future.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

After you've calculated the total cost of a program, the next logical step is to figure out how to pay for it. The good news is that as a student in an accredited program, you have access to a wide range of financial aid options.

• Federal Financial Aid: Your first and most important step should always be to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is the gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
• Scholarships and Grants: Look for scholarships for both general and non-traditional students, and be sure to investigate the field-specific awards offered by the AHIMA Foundation.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: If you are currently employed, check with your human resources department to see if they offer tuition assistance, as this is a common benefit for career changers.

Financial aid can greatly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Many students also explore flexible study paths such as affordable online history master's programs or other online graduate options, using aid packages to balance tuition expenses with long-term career goals.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

Many people, especially those changing careers, worry that they won't have the right background to get into a program like this. The truth is, these programs are designed to be very accessible, and they value experience from a wide range of fields.

Here are the most common requirements:

• A high school diploma or GED is the standard requirement for admission into a bachelor's degree program.
• Some programs may ask for specific foundational courses like anatomy or medical terminology, which can often be completed at a community college or as part of your initial coursework.
• A prior bachelor's degree in almost any field is typically seen as a major asset, as programs value the diverse skills you bring from areas like business, IT, or even one of the best technical communication degrees online.

What courses are typically in an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

You can think of the curriculum as the bridge between healthcare and technology. The courses are designed to give you a unique combination of skills that are in high demand across the industry.

Your coursework will generally fall into three main categories:

• Healthcare Context: You will learn the language of healthcare, including courses on medical law and ethics, healthcare delivery systems, and complex reimbursement and payment methodologies.
• Data Management: This is the core of the degree, with classes on clinical classification systems like ICD-10, database management, and ensuring the quality and integrity of health data.
• Information Technology: You will study the application of technology in healthcare, including courses on electronic health record (EHR) systems, network security, and healthcare data analytics. The focus here is less on pure IT theory and more on its practical application, which distinguishes it from a degree like the shortest management information systems master's degree online.

Where Your Skills Are Needed: Top Industries

This specific blend of skills is what makes graduates so valuable in the job market. The knowledge of reimbursement systems is critical for roles in physician's offices, while the deep understanding of database management and EHRs is essential for large hospitals.

As the chart below illustrates, these skills are most needed in hospitals, which employ the largest number of health information professionals. However, there is also significant and growing demand in physician's offices and the management and consulting sector, proving the versatility of the skills you will acquire.

What types of specializations are available in an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

As you get deeper into your studies, you'll have the opportunity to specialize. This is a powerful way to tailor your degree to your specific career goals, increase your earning potential, and future-proof your skills in a rapidly changing industry.

Here are a few common specializations you might encounter:

• Health Data Analytics: This is the most forward-looking specialization, preparing you to analyze and interpret large datasets to improve patient care and operational efficiency; it is the direct path to managing the very AI and automation systems that are transforming healthcare, and for those who excel here, a shortest health informatics master's degree online can be a powerful next step.
• Revenue Cycle Management: This specialization focuses on the financial side of healthcare, training you to manage the entire process from patient registration to final payment to ensure the organization's financial health.
• Clinical Documentation Integrity: This is a highly detail-oriented path for those who want to become experts in ensuring that patient records are accurate, compliant, and complete, which is crucial for both quality of care and proper reimbursement.

How to Choose the Best Online CAHIIM-Accredited Health Information Management Degree Program

You're now equipped with the information to make a great decision. Here is a simple, four-step checklist to help you evaluate programs and choose the one that is the best fit for your career goals.

1. Verify CAHIIM Accreditation. Your first step should always be to check the official CAHIIM program directory to confirm that the program is listed and in good standing; this is absolutely non-negotiable.
2. Investigate Exam Pass Rates. You should ask the admissions office for their graduates' first-time pass rates on the RHIT or RHIA certification exam, as this is the single best objective indicator of a program's quality.
3. Confirm Hands-On Training. Make sure the program provides practical experience with electronic health record software through a virtual lab, often called a VLab.
4. Calculate the Total Cost. Look beyond the advertised tuition and ask for a complete list of all required fees to determine the true, total cost of your investment in one of the CAHIIM-accredited online health information management programs.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

A degree in health information management is the starting point for a long-term career, not just a single job. It opens up a diverse ecosystem of roles that you can grow into over time as you gain experience and specialize.

Here are the main career tracks you can pursue:

• Technical Roles: With an associate's degree and an RHIT credential, you can start in essential technical roles like Health Information Technician or Medical Coder, which form the foundation of the field.
• Management Roles: A bachelor's degree and the RHIA credential are your ticket to leadership. This path leads to positions like HIM Department Manager or Corporate Compliance Officer, where you oversee teams and strategy. While a management information systems degree online focuses broadly on business technology, the HIM degree is your specialized path to leading in the healthcare space.
• Specialist Roles: As you gain experience, you can move into highly focused expert roles like Clinical Documentation Specialist, ensuring the quality of patient records, or Health Data Analyst, interpreting data to improve outcomes.

The High-Demand Management Track

For those with ambition, the path to management is particularly promising. The healthcare industry is complex and growing, and it has a massive and continuous need for qualified leaders who understand both the clinical and the technical sides of the business.

The demand for these leaders is not just a vague trend; it's a statistical reality. Projections show there will be an average of 61,400 job openings for medical and health services managers every single year for the next decade. This incredible demand ensures a stable and rewarding career path for those who choose to lead.

What is the job market for graduates of an online CAHIIM-accredited health information management degree program?

After all the research, this is the bottom-line question: Will there be a job for you? The answer is an unequivocal yes. The job market for health information professionals is excellent and growing much faster than the average for all other occupations.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 16% job growth for health information technologists over the next decade. That translates to about 3,200 job openings each year. This high demand is driven by fundamental, long-term trends like the aging of the population and the ongoing need to manage digital health records. This ensures that graduates of CAHIIM-accredited online health information management programs are entering a stable and secure field.

The Broader Outlook: A Thriving Healthcare Ecosystem

To give you even more confidence in your choice, it's helpful to look at the broader industry picture. The entire field of healthcare management is experiencing a period of explosive growth.

As you can see in the data below, the projected job outlook for medical and health services managers is an incredible 29%. This tells you that you are not just preparing for a single job, but stepping into a thriving and expanding ecosystem that will need qualified, data-savvy leaders for many years to come. Your degree is a ticket to a future with immense opportunity.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online CAHIIM-Accredited Health Information Management Degree Program

Other Things You Should Know About Online CAHIIM-Accredited Health Information Management Degree Programs

What is the difference between health information management and health informatics?

Health information management (HIM) focuses on the entire lifecycle of health data, including its collection, accuracy, security, and compliance. Health informatics is more focused on the analysis and interpretation of that data to improve patient care and outcomes. HIM manages the data, while informatics uses the data.

Do I need to be a tech expert to succeed in a health information management program?

You do not need to be a tech expert. While the field uses technology heavily, the best programs are designed to teach you all the necessary IT and data management skills from the ground up. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are often more important prerequisites than a deep background in computer science.

What is the RHIA credential and why is it important?

The Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) is a professional certification you can earn after graduating from a CAHIIM-accredited bachelor's degree program. It is considered the gold standard for management-level roles in the field. Most employers require or strongly prefer the RHIA for positions like HIM Department Manager or Compliance Officer.

Can I get a job with just an associate's degree in health information management?

You can. An associate's degree from a CAHIIM-accredited program prepares you for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential. With an RHIT, you are qualified for many essential technical roles, such as Health Information Technician, Medical Coder, or Clinical Documentation Specialist, which offer a stable and rewarding career.