Health Information Technology FAQ
Health Information Technology is the profession that focuses on healthcare data and validity, and the organization and management of health information in electronic, paper-based, or hybrid formats in a variety of healthcare settings. MVCC's associate degree in Health Information Technology will prepare you to enter the profession as a health information management professional responsible for maintaining accessibility, accuracy, and quality of health information by using knowledge and skills in areas such as accreditation and regulation, coding and reimbursement, data collection and analytics, information management and computer technology, and legal and ethical aspects, including privacy and security.
The Health Information Technology program at MVCC is a two-year (four-semester) program offered completely online. The curriculum consists of core courses in health information technology, biology, and computer technology, and general education courses. You may pursue the degree as a full- or part-time student, and may be eligible for financial aid if you register for a sufficient number of credits each semester. It is recommended that part-time students complete all general education courses prior to registering for health information technology core courses.
In your last semester of academic study, you will complete a 100-hour nonpaid Experiential Learning and Assessment (internship) in the health information management department of a hospital or other appropriate healthcare facility to gain work experience prior to graduation. This benefits students with the ability to apply learned knowledge and skills into practice and an introduction to prospective employment opportunities.
Yes. MVCC’s Health Information Technology program is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM). In your last semester of academic study students are eligible to take the national Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential examination, which is offered by the American Health Information Management (AHIMA).
To be accepted into the MVCC’s Health Information Technology program, complete the free MVCC online application and select Health Information Technology as your desired program. Once you have met all the admission requirements and upon acceptance into the program, you will receive notification from the Admissions Office. To check on the status of your applications, email admissions@mvcc.edu.
If you are a current student interested in the HIT program, contact Student Support Advisor Justin Rahn at jrahn@mvcc.edu or 315-731-5810.
There are many different positions available to RHIT-credentialed professionals. The following are examples of such positions. For an extensive look at available health information technology careers, please visit the AHIMA Career Map. Here are some examples:
- Coder
- Electronic health record training specialist
- Health information manager
- Health information technician
- Practice workflow implementation specialist
- Project manager
- Reimbursement specialist/medical biller
The median annual salary for Health Information Technicians post-graduation was $50,250 in 2024, this of course can vary depending on the employment position accepted. The annual salary will vary based on degree, credentials and position. For more statistical information regarding the Health Information Profession, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Health Information Technicians.
For more insights into salary information, visit the American Health Information Management Association Career Assist webpages
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health information technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. For more detailed information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook.
There are many other credentials available for Health Information Technology AAS graduates. Please visit the AHIMA Certifications and the AAPC Certifications sites for more information.
MVCC’s Health Information Technology program begins each fall semester and continues for four semesters. You also may begin the program during the spring semester, especially if planning to attend part time.
There is there a potential to utilize work experience for credit available. For more information, contact the Academic Advisement Center in Utica at (315) 731-5710 or the Program Coordinator at (315) 792-5378
If you are a matriculated student who has health information management work experience, you also are eligible to challenge health information technology core courses, depending on your background. This is subject to approval and successful completion of a challenge examination issued by the program coordinator.
There are several transfer options available. For example, MVCC’s Health Information Technology program has articulation agreements with SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s Health, CUNY School of Professional Studies and Southern New Hampshire University in Information Management or Health Information Administration online programs.
MVCC’s Health Information Technology program is offered completely online. HIT core courses are not offered on campus. However, general education course may be taken on campus (e.g., English, Math, Psychology, Sociology).
We cannot guarantee job placement for graduates; however, MVCC’s Career Development Center provides excellent resources for those conducting job searches.
During your final semester of academic study, you are eligible to take the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) examination. Many healthcare organizations require this credential when hiring health information management professionals.
While the RHIT exam is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that you take it during your final semester. Doing so enhances your marketability and employability in an industry that continues to evolve rapidly.
The RHIT examination is based on current textbook content, which is why students are permitted to sit for it in their last semester. If you choose not to take the exam during this time, it is advisable to complete it as soon as possible after graduation, since exam content is updated annually.
Additionally, consider that future career opportunities may require the RHIT credential, even if your first position does not. Statistically, the longer you wait to pursue this important certification, the more your exam performance may be impacted. Taking the exam early ensures that your knowledge remains current and that you are prepared for future advancement within the field.