Fastest Online Health Information Management Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Earning a degree in health information management (HIM) is a smart move for anyone looking to enter the growing healthcare data field, but traditional programs can take years to complete. That is a challenge for working adults, career changers, or anyone eager to start earning sooner. The good news? Fast-track online HIM degree programs offer a quicker, flexible path to a rewarding career, without sacrificing quality or industry recognition.

In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about the fastest online HIM degree programs, including how long they take, what they cost, and what careers they lead to. You will also learn how to choose the right program, what courses to expect, and how to find financial aid. Whether you are starting fresh or transferring credits, this guide will help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

What are the benefits of getting the fastest online health information management degree?

• An accelerated online HIM degree prepares you for in-demand jobs like health information manager, medical coder, clinical data analyst, or compliance officer—roles critical to healthcare operations.
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in health information roles earn a median salary of around $67,300, with higher-level positions exceeding $100,000 annually.
• Earning your degree online allows you to study on your schedule, finish faster than traditional programs, and access top HIM education without relocating or pausing your career.

What can I expect from the fastest online health information management degree?

A health information management (HIM) degree combines healthcare, technology, and data management to prepare students for careers that support the efficient and secure handling of patient information. This degree focuses on managing electronic health records (EHRs), coding medical procedures, ensuring regulatory compliance, and analyzing healthcare data to improve patient outcomes and organizational performance.

Students gain knowledge in areas like medical terminology, healthcare law, data analytics, and coding systems such as ICD-10 and CPT. An accelerated online HIM degree condenses this comprehensive curriculum into a faster-paced format, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly without compromising on the depth of learning.

With healthcare increasingly relying on digital systems and data-driven decisions, HIM professionals are vital to ensuring the accuracy, privacy, and accessibility of health information across hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and government agencies. This degree is ideal for those who want a tech-driven healthcare career without providing direct patient care.

Where can I work with the fastest online health information management degree?

Graduates of an accelerated online Health Information Management (HIM) degree program find employment in a variety of healthcare-related settings where managing patient data, ensuring compliance, and optimizing information systems are critical. They often work in:

• Hospitals and Health Systems: Overseeing electronic health records, coding, and billing operations.
• Physician Practices and Clinics: Managing daily health data tasks and coordinating with insurance providers.
• Insurance Companies: Reviewing medical documentation and ensuring coding accuracy for claims processing.
• Government Agencies: Working in public health departments or regulatory bodies like the CDC or CMS.
• Health IT and EHR Vendors: Supporting the development and implementation of health information systems.
• Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities: Maintaining resident records and handling compliance.

How much can I make with the fastest online health information management degree?

Graduates of fast-track online health information management (HIM) programs can expect competitive salaries that reflect both their skills and the growing demand in the field. As of May 2024, the median annual wage for health information technologists and medical registrars—the core HIM role—was $67,310, with the lowest 10% earning around $39,120 and the highest 10% surpassing $112,130 .

Earnings vary by industry: those employed by management firms earned about $80,990, while hospital-based professionals earned around $64,320 . Associate-level health information technicians earn slightly less—typically between $44,000 and $61,000 depending on location and employer .

HIM graduates with bachelor's degrees or certifications like RHIA often move into higher-paying roles, such as information managers or HIM directors, where salaries can exceed $100,000, particularly in metropolitan regions.

Table of Contents

1. List of the Fastest Online Health Information Management Degree Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete the fastest online health information management degree  program?
3. How does the fastest online health information management degree  program compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of the fastest online health information management degree  program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in the fastest online health information management degree  program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the fastest online health information management degree  program?
7. What courses are typically in the fastest online health information management degree  program?
8. What types of specializations are available in the fastest online health information management degree  programs?
9. What is the return on investment for an accelerated online HIM degree?
10. What challenges should you consider before enrolling in an accelerated online HIM degree program?
11. How do you choose the best among the fastest online health information management degree  program?
12. What career paths are available for graduates of the fastest online health information management degree programs?
13. What is the job market like for graduates of the fastest online health information management degree program?
14. Can an Accelerated HIM Degree Open Doors to Entrepreneurial Ventures?
15. Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Health Information Management Degree Programs

List of the Fastest Online Health Information Management Degree Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools?

We are aware that committing to the fastest online health information management degree program is a big decision.  You have to give the financial commitment serious thought.  Our team of specialists at Research.com has ranked online health information management degree programs to empower you with insights derived from data.

This ranking is built upon a comprehensive and transparent methodology. We leverage data from trusted sources like the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) database, Peterson's databases including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set, and the College Scorecard database from the National Center for Education Statistics.

This multifaceted approach ensures we capture a holistic view of each program, allowing you to compare and contrast based on key factors relevant to your needs.

1. Western Governors University (WGU)

Western Governors University (WGU) offers a competency-based Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management, designed for motivated individuals who can accelerate their learning by demonstrating mastery of course material. While the exact start year for the online HIM program isn't explicitly stated, WGU has been a pioneer in online, competency-based education for many years, allowing students to begin their studies on the first of every month.

The program targets individuals seeking to enter or advance within the health information field, preparing them for the RHIA certification. Delivery is entirely online, enabling students to progress at their own pace and potentially finish their degree faster than traditional programs, with no specific tracks or concentrations mentioned beyond the core HIM curriculum.

• Program Length: Competency-based, 2.5 to 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: BS in Health Information Management program.
• Cost per Credit: $4,085 per six-month term.
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 courses or equivalent competencies.
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

2. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati provides a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management, which can be completed in as little as two years, indicating its accelerated nature. While a specific start year for the online HIM program is not readily available, UC has a well-established online presence.

This program targets individuals with prior college credits, including those with an Associate's degree in a health-related field, and also offers an accelerated HIM + Master of Health Informatics (MHI) option. The program is delivered through online coursework, often structured in shorter, seven-week sessions per semester to allow focused study.

• Program Length: 2 years for full-time students.
• Tracks/Concentrations: Accelerated HIM + Master of Health Informatics (MHI)
• Cost per Credit: $461 to $481 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credit hours
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

3. Ferris State University

Ferris State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management that functions as a degree completion program. This program is specifically designed for students who hold an Associate's Degree in Health Information Technology and are already RHIT-certified, allowing them to complete their bachelor's degree at an accelerated pace.

The online program's start year is not widely published, but it targets individuals seeking to advance their HIM careers and pursue RHIA certification. All coursework is delivered fully online, building upon the foundational knowledge and certification that students already possess.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations:
• Cost per Credit: $10,976 per year (in-state) or $16,464 per year (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 131 credits
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

4. Granite State College

Granite State College's online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management is a completion program specifically tailored for students with an Associate's Degree in Health Information, enabling a faster pathway to a bachelor's degree. While the precise launch year of their online HIM program is not specified, Granite State College is known for catering to adult learners and leveraging prior learning for accelerated completion.

The program targets individuals seeking to build upon their existing HIM credentials, and its delivery is primarily online, with a flexible approach and a generous transfer credit policy.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations:
• Cost per Credit: $329 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). CAHIIM

5. Capella University

Capella University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration with a Health Information Management specialization, distinguishing itself with flexible "FlexPath" learning formats that allow students to progress at their own pace and potentially accelerate completion. The online program for this specialization has been active for several years, with catalog information pointing to current offerings.

This program targets individuals seeking careers in health information management, and its delivery allows for self-paced progress through competencies, contrasting with traditional fixed-deadline formats. The program includes specific HIM specialization courses within the broader healthcare administration framework.

• Program Length: 15 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Health Information Management
• Cost per Credit: Flat tuition fee of $2,575 per 12-week billing session, plus a resource kit fee.
• Required Credits to Graduate: 90 program points in FlexPath
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

6. Clarkson College

Clarkson College's online Health Information Management program is noted for its accelerated course formats, allowing students to complete their studies more quickly. While the exact start date for the online HIM program isn't easily found, Clarkson College has a long history in healthcare education.

The program targets individuals pursuing careers in health information management, preparing them for the RHIA exam and emphasizing strong job placement. The delivery includes online coursework with structured, accelerated formats, suggesting a streamlined path to graduation.

• Program Length: Overall length can vary based on transfer credits and full-time/part-time status.
• Tracks/Concentrations: BS in Health Information Administration. They also offer a "Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Health Information Administration" and can include an RHIA/RHIT exam review course.
• Cost per Credit:
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)

How long does it take to complete the fastest online health information management degree program?

The fastest online health information management degree programs can typically be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months, depending on the student's prior education and course load. Accelerated associate degree programs are often structured for full-time students who can handle intensive coursework, allowing completion in about 18 months. These programs are ideal for students seeking entry-level roles such as medical records technicians or coding specialists.

For those pursuing a bachelor’s degree, fast-track online programs can be completed in around two to three years, especially if students already hold an associate degree or have prior college credits that transfer. Many universities offer year-round enrollment and short 5-week to 8-week course formats, which enable students to take more classes per year compared to traditional 16-week semesters. These bachelor’s programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and often include asynchronous classes, letting students study at their own pace while still accelerating progress.

Some schools also offer degree completion programs for those pursuing these non clinical healthcare careers. Completion programs are designed specifically for students who already have an associate degree in HIM or a related field. It is focused on upper-level HIM courses and can be finished in as little as 12 to 18 months, depending on the number of credits transferred and the student’s ability to handle a full-time load. 

How does the fastest online health information management degree program compare to an on-campus program?

The fastest online health information management degree programs offer several key differences compared to traditional on-campus programs, especially in terms of speed, flexibility, and delivery format, while still maintaining similar academic quality and career outcomes.

Online HIM programs are typically designed for accelerated completion. Many use condensed course schedules and offer year-round enrollment. In contrast, on-campus programs usually follow the traditional semester system, with fewer course offerings during the summer or winter breaks, which extends the time to graduation.

Flexibility is another major advantage of online programs. Students can attend asynchronous classes on their own schedules, making it easier for working adults or caregivers to balance school with other responsibilities. On-campus programs require students to be physically present at scheduled times, which can be restrictive and lead to longer completion timelines.

However, on-campus programs may offer more face-to-face support, such as in-person labs, study groups, and direct access to faculty. This traditional structure may benefit students who prefer a more guided or socially engaging learning environment.

Some hands-on experiences, such as internships or clinical practicum components, may also be easier to coordinate through a local, in-person program—though many online programs now offer remote or local placement options.

Similarly, affordable online pediatric nurse practitioner graduate certificate programs have embraced hybrid or local practicum models to maintain flexibility while meeting essential clinical requirements.

What is the average cost of the fastest online health information management degree program?

The average cost of the fastest online health information management degree program typically ranges from $10,000 to $35,000 in total tuition, depending on the degree level, school type (public vs. private), and how many credits you transfer in.

For accelerated associate degree programs, tuition usually falls between $10,000 and $20,000. These programs are often offered by community colleges or technical schools and can be completed in as little as 18 months. In-state students at public institutions usually pay less, sometimes as low as $150–$300 per credit hour.

Fast-track bachelor’s degree programs—especially those structured as degree-completion tracks—generally cost between $15,000 and $35,000. Private universities tend to sit at the higher end, while public institutions often offer lower tuition, especially for in-state or online-only students. Programs that accept a high number of transfer credits can significantly reduce the total cost. This pricing structure is comparable to fast-track online economics degree programs, which also aim to provide affordable, accelerated pathways for students pursuing careers in policy, finance, or data analysis.

Additional costs may include technology fees, textbooks, and professional certification exam prep, though some online programs bundle these into tuition or use open educational resources to keep costs down.

To get the best value, students should look for CAHIIM-accredited programs, compare credit transfer policies, and explore financial aid or employer tuition reimbursement options.

This chart provides valuable insight into the earning potential for medical and health services managers across various industries. It highlights how median annual wages can differ significantly depending on the specific healthcare setting where these vital professionals apply their expertise.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in the fastest online health information management degree program?

The sheer volume of healthcare data breaches, with the HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) reporting 5,558 incidents since 2009 that exposed nearly 438 million protected health information (PHI) records – an average of over 86,000 records daily, underscores the critical and evolving challenges in Health Information Management (HIM).

The consistent threat of breaches highlights the need for more health information managers. However, tuition and overall degree costs are major barriers. Students enrolling in the fastest online health information management (HIM) degree programs have access to several financial aid options to help reduce the cost of tuition and related expenses.

For those planning to advance into leadership roles, financial aid may also extend to programs like an accelerated MBA in healthcare management online, which builds on HIM knowledge to prepare students for executive-level careers.

Federal Financial Aid

Most accredited online HIM programs are eligible for federal aid. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for:

• Pell Grants: Need-based aid that does not have to be repaid.
• Federal Direct Loans: Subsidized (need-based) and unsubsidized student loans.
• Federal Work-Study: Part-time jobs for students with financial need (availability may vary for online students).

State Grants and Scholarships

Many states offer grants or scholarships for residents attending approved online programs within the state. These are often need-based or tied to specific majors, including healthcare fields.

Institutional Scholarships and Discounts

Colleges offering fast-track online HIM programs may provide:

• Merit-based scholarships for academic achievement
• Transfer scholarships for students with prior college credits
• Military or employer discounts for eligible students

Employer Tuition Assistance

Some employers reimburse or fully cover tuition for employees pursuing degrees in fields like HIM. This is especially common in healthcare organizations. 

Private Scholarships

Students can apply for external scholarships from organizations such as:

• AHIMA Foundation (American Health Information Management Association)
• Health-related nonprofits or associations
• Community foundations and private donors

Payment Plans

Many online programs offer interest-free tuition installment plans, letting students spread payments over several months rather than paying a lump sum upfront.

To maximize aid, students should apply early, research program-specific opportunities, and confirm that their chosen HIM program is accredited and financial aid–eligible.

Professionals considering leadership roles in disaster response or public safety might also explore aid opportunities for the fastest online master’s in emergency management programs, which can complement a healthcare background with crisis management expertise.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the fastest online health information management degree program?

Prerequisites for enrolling in the fastest online health information management degree program depend on the degree level—associate, bachelor’s, or degree-completion—but here’s a general overview:

Associate Degree Programs

For accelerated online associate degrees in HIM, typical prerequisites include:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA requirement (often 2.0 or higher)
• Transcripts from high school and any prior college coursework
• Basic computer skills and access to reliable internet
• Some programs may require placement tests in math or English

These programs are usually open to students with little or no college experience and are structured for quick entry into the workforce.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

For fast-track bachelor’s degrees, prerequisites generally include:

• High school diploma or GED
• College-level coursework or an associate degree (especially for degree-completion tracks)
• Official college transcripts showing completion of general education requirements (e.g., English, math, science)
• Minimum GPA, usually 2.5 or higher
• Some programs may require prerequisite courses like medical terminology, anatomy, or introductory health information systems

Students interested in expanding their management and leadership skills might also consider a fast-track organizational leadership bachelor's degree online, which often shares similar admission requirements but focuses more on strategic planning, team management, and leadership development—skills that can pair well with a background in HIM.

Degree-Completion Programs

These are designed for students who already hold an associate degree in HIM or a related field. Prerequisites include:

• Completion of a CAHIIM-accredited associate degree
• A valid RHIT certification (in some cases)
• Transferable credits in general education and foundational HIM courses
• Minimum GPA (typically 2.5 or above)

What courses are typically in the fastest online health information management degree program?

The core courses in the fastest online health information management degree programs focus on healthcare data systems, medical coding, compliance, and management. While course titles may vary by school, the following are commonly required core subjects:

• Health Information Management Principles: Introduces the fundamentals of managing health records, data governance, and HIM systems in healthcare settings.
• Medical Terminology: Covers the language of medicine, including word roots, prefixes, and suffixes used in clinical documentation.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Provides a foundational understanding of body systems to support medical coding and data interpretation.
• ICD and CPT Coding Systems: Trains students in diagnostic and procedural coding using ICD-10-CM and CPT/HCPCS for billing and recordkeeping.
• Health Data Management: Focuses on organizing, analyzing, and maintaining patient health data for quality assurance and legal compliance.
• Healthcare Law and Ethics: Covers legal standards such as HIPAA, data privacy laws, and ethical issues in healthcare information handling.
• Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems: Explores digital records technology, system design, implementation, and data security practices.
• Reimbursement and Revenue Cycle Management: Examines healthcare billing, insurance processes, and the financial flow from patient intake to claims processing.
• Quality Management and Performance Improvement: Teaches methods for assessing and improving the quality of health information and clinical documentation.
• Healthcare Statistics and Data Analytics: Introduces statistical tools and data analysis techniques used to support clinical and operational decision-making. This course often mirrors core content found in the shortest online bachelor's programs in analytics, making it especially valuable for students interested in applying quantitative skills within the healthcare sector.

What types of specializations are available in the fastest online health information management degree programs?

In the fastest online health information management degree programs, specializations are limited but still available, especially at the bachelor’s level or through elective tracks. These focused areas help students tailor their education to specific career goals in the health information field. Here are some common specializations:

Health Informatics

This specialization emphasizes the use of technology and data analytics to improve healthcare delivery. Courses for those pursuing health informatics careers may cover database management, clinical information systems, and data visualization.

Medical Coding and Classification

Focused on mastering coding systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS. Ideal for students pursuing careers as certified coders or billing specialists. Some programs prepare students for certifications like CPC or CCS.

Data Analytics in Healthcare

Covers statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and health data interpretation. This track suits students interested in roles like clinical data analyst or healthcare quality analyst.

Privacy and Security of Health Information

Explores HIPAA compliance, data breach prevention, cybersecurity, and legal standards related to patient data. Prepares students for jobs in compliance, risk management, or health IT security.

Revenue Cycle Management

Centers on billing, reimbursement, payer policies, and financial operations in healthcare. Good for careers in medical billing, insurance coordination, or revenue cycle analysis.

Project and Operations Management in Healthcare

Focuses on leadership, strategic planning, and operational efficiency. Best suited for students aiming for managerial or administrative roles in HIM departments. For graduates who want to advance further, an accelerated online master's degree in organizational leadership can be a powerful next step, equipping them with advanced skills in strategic decision-making, team development, and cross-functional management that complement a HIM background.

Not all accelerated programs offer these as formal concentrations, but many let students choose electives aligned with these areas, allowing for specialization even within a fast-track format.

What is the return on investment for an accelerated online HIM degree?

Evaluating the return on investment involves analyzing factors such as program costs, accelerated completion timelines, and projected early-career earnings. Prospective students should assess tuition expenses against the advantage of entering the workforce sooner, considering opportunity costs and long-term salary growth. Quantitative metrics like cost per credit hour and post-graduation employment rates can help determine if the accelerated path offers financial benefits compared to more traditional programs or even other advanced degrees such as the cheapest MBA programs. Strategic financial planning, including available scholarships and employer tuition assistance, further enhances ROI by reducing upfront costs and expediting career advancement.

What challenges should you consider before enrolling in an accelerated online HIM degree program?

Accelerated online HIM programs demand a high level of self-discipline and time management. Students must balance a condensed curriculum with potential work or family responsibilities, which can intensify academic pressure. The asynchronous learning environment requires proactive engagement, and limited immediate access to faculty or peer feedback may necessitate additional independent study. In addition, technical requirements and digital literacy are crucial to ensure seamless access to course materials and virtual collaboration tools. It is advisable to compare these factors with other accelerated educational pathways, such as the best value for money online EMBA programs, to determine if the program aligns with your learning style and career objectives.

How do you choose the best among the fastest online health information management degree programs?

Choosing the fastest online health information management degree program requires balancing speed, quality, cost, and career goals. Here’s how to make a smart, informed choice:

1. Verify Accreditation

Start by confirming the program is CAHIIM-accredited (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education). This ensures the program meets industry standards and qualifies you for credentials like RHIA or RHIT.

2. Check Program Length and Format

Similar to evaluating for the best online medical billing and coding schools, look for programs with accelerated formats, such as:

• 5–8 week courses
• Year-round enrollment
• Degree-completion options Also, confirm whether the program is fully online, hybrid, or self-paced to match your learning style and schedule.

Also, confirm whether the program is fully online, hybrid, or self-paced to match your learning style and schedule. For students planning to transition into leadership or IT-focused roles, researching options like the shortest management information systems master's degree online can provide a clear pathway for advancing technical and managerial skills after completing a HIM program.

3. Evaluate Transfer Credit Policies

If you have prior college experience, choose a program that accepts maximum transfer credits. This can significantly reduce your time to graduation.

4. Compare Tuition and Financial Aid

Check the total program cost, including tuition, fees, books, and tech requirements. Look for schools offering flat-rate tuition, scholarships, or payment plans. Submit the FAFSA to determine your federal aid eligibility.

5. Review Course Content and Specializations

Focus on programs that include key HIM courses and offer relevant specializations or electives—such as coding, data analytics, or informatics—if you have a specific career path in mind.

6. Research Career Outcomes

Explore the program’s graduate placement rates, internship support, and RHIA/RHIT certification exam pass rates. Strong career services and industry connections can give you a head start in the job market.

7. Read Student Reviews

Look for honest feedback about workload, instructor support, and the learning platform. This can give insight into the day-to-day experience and whether the program truly supports accelerated learning.

The following chart shows the primary sectors where medical and health services managers are employed. Understanding these top industries can guide aspiring professionals toward areas with the highest demand for their expertise.

What career paths are available for graduates of the fastest online health information management degree programs?

Graduates of the fastest online Health Information Management (HIM) degree programs can pursue a wide range of career paths in healthcare, data management, compliance, and administration. These roles typically focus on managing health data, improving healthcare operations, and ensuring regulatory compliance—without direct patient care.

On average, approximately 61,400 job openings for medical and health services managers are anticipated each year over the next ten years. These openings are projected to arise from both new job creation and the need to replace workers who retire or change professions. This indicates a strong and consistent demand for professionals in this field.

Here are common career paths:

Health Information Manager

Oversees the organization and security of patient records in hospitals or clinics. Responsible for compliance, data accuracy, and workflow management. The information security manager requirements is typically similar to this role.

Medical Records Technician

Handles coding, data entry, and maintenance of electronic health records (EHRs). This is often an entry-level position for associate degree holders.

Medical Coder or Billing Specialist

Assigns standardized codes to diagnoses and procedures for insurance billing. Many in this role earn credentials like CPC or CCS.

Clinical Data Analyst

Interprets health data to identify trends, support research, and improve patient care. Often works with EHR systems and data visualization tools.

Compliance Officer or HIPAA Privacy Officer

This role which is one of the public health careers, ensures healthcare organizations follow data protection laws like HIPAA. It involves audits, training staff, and managing privacy breaches.

Revenue Cycle Manager

Oversees billing, insurance claims, and reimbursement processes to maximize a healthcare facility’s revenue.

Health Informatics Specialist

Works at the intersection of IT and healthcare to optimize EHR systems, data storage, and clinical workflows.

Release of Information (ROI) Specialist

Manages and tracks requests for patient health information, ensuring legal and privacy compliance when releasing records.

Quality Improvement Analyst

Uses data to measure healthcare quality metrics, identify gaps, and recommend system improvements.

EHR Implementation Specialist

Helps healthcare organizations install, configure, and train staff on new electronic health records systems.

Many of these roles can lead to higher-level management positions with additional experience or certifications (such as RHIA or CHPS). Fast-track HIM graduates are well-positioned for job growth, especially as healthcare becomes more data-driven and regulated.

What is the job market like for graduates of the fastest online health information management degree program?

Graduates from the fastest online health information management (HIM) degree programs enter a job market that is showing strong growth and solid earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), positions such as health information technologists and medical registrars are projected to grow around 16% from 2023 to 2033, significantly faster than the national average of 4%.

Meanwhile, roles like medical and health services managers are expected to expand by nearly 29% between 2023 and 2033, with roughly 61,000 job openings annually. The rapid adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), evolving data privacy needs, and a growing aging population are major factors driving this demand. 

On the salary front, HIM graduates can expect competitive compensation. Entry-level health information technologists earn a median wage of around $67,310 annually. Advancing into leadership positions increases earning potential, with roles like health services manager salary ranging from $80,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on specialization and experience.

For those who pursue managerial or director-level roles, such as healthcare administration informatics, median salaries exceed $110,000, with top earners making well over $150,000 annually.

Here’s What Graduates of the Fastest Online Health Information Management Have to Say About Their Degree

• Completing my accelerated HIM degree online allowed me to balance full-time work and family life without putting my goals on hold. The flexibility of asynchronous classes helped me graduate in just under two years and land a coding job shortly after.  Jessica
• I was nervous about switching careers, but the online HIM program gave me real-world knowledge in medical coding and health data systems. The fast pace kept me focused, and I now work in a hospital’s compliance department with room to grow. Marcus
• Studying online let me earn my degree from home while caring for my kids, and the support from instructors and classmates made it feel like I was never alone. Finishing faster meant I was able to start my new career sooner—and I now work remotely for a major health insurer. Lena

Can an Accelerated HIM Degree Open Doors to Entrepreneurial Ventures?

Graduates with an accelerated HIM degree can leverage their technical expertise and data management skills to explore entrepreneurial opportunities within the healthcare sector. By combining a thorough understanding of health informatics with business acumen, professionals can initiate innovative healthcare technology startups, consultancy services, or specialized data management solutions. This unique blend of skills allows HIM graduates to diversify into leadership roles that require an entrepreneurial mindset and risk-taking ability, complementing traditional healthcare career paths. In this context, examining trends in related fields, such as jobs with entrepreneurship degree, offers additional insight into how entrepreneurial ventures are becoming an attractive career avenue for those with a background in health information management.

Key Findings

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Health Information Management Degree Programs

What are the key benefits of earning a health information management degree quickly?

Earning a health information management degree quickly allows you to enter the workforce sooner, saving both time and tuition costs. It helps you capitalize on the growing demand for HIM professionals and start earning a competitive salary faster. Plus, fast-track programs often offer flexible online formats, making it easier to balance education with work or family responsibilities.

Do online HIM programs include training in ICD-10 and CPT coding?

Yes, most online Health Information Management (HIM) programs include comprehensive training in ICD-10 and CPT coding systems. These are core components of the curriculum, essential for careers in medical coding, billing, and health data management. Students learn how to apply codes accurately for diagnoses and procedures, which is critical for insurance reimbursement and patient recordkeeping.

Do specializations increase job opportunities after graduation?

Yes, specializations can increase job opportunities after graduation by aligning your skills with specific industry needs. For example, focusing on medical coding, health data analytics, or compliance can qualify you for niche roles with higher demand and salary potential. Specializations also help you stand out to employers looking for expertise in targeted areas of health information management.

Is there a practicum or internship requirement for online HIM degrees?

Yes, many online HIM degree programs include a practicum or internship requirement, especially those that are CAHIIM-accredited. These experiences give students hands-on exposure to health information systems, coding, or compliance work in real healthcare settings. Some programs allow students to complete internships remotely or at approved local facilities to accommodate their location and schedule.

References:

• Access. (n.d.). Access releases findings from its 2024 State of the Records and Information Management Industry research, revealing key opportunities and trends.
• AHIMA. (2024). AHIMA24 to address current and emerging cybersecurity threats in healthcare.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (n.d.). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Medical and Health Services Managers.
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). E-Health: Records.
• HealthIT.gov. (n.d.). Data Briefs.
• HIMSS. (2023). HIMSS 2023 NI Workforce Survey Salary Resource Guide.
• HIMSS. (n.d.). Nursing Informatics Workforce Salary and Benefits Report.
• NACCHO. (2024). 2024 Public Health Informatics Profile Report.
• University of Washington, Center for Health Workforce Studies. (2023). Rapid Review & Rapid Response (RRR) on Health Informatics.