Health Information Technology prepares the student for employment in a multitude of settings throughout the healthcare industry including hospitals, physician offices and clinics, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, government agencies, and home care providers. Graduates are prepared to serve as entry-level health information technicians. Upon successful completion of the program, students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Health Information Technology professionals play a critical role in maintaining, collecting, and analyzing the data that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers rely on to deliver quality healthcare. They are experts in managing patient health information and health records, administering computer information systems, coding the diagnoses and procedures for healthcare services provided to patients, preparing healthcare statistics, and providing continuous quality improvement.

Students are accepted into the program in the fall each year. The number of students is limited to space available in clinical agencies. Admission to the program is based on academic success and past medical experiences. Applicants must complete all the requirements of the Texas Success Initiative (THEA or equivalent) and complete Anatomy and Physiology (BIOL 2301/2101 and BIOL 2302/2102) with a grade of “C” or better, prior to admission to the program. Those students who have not completed the requirements of TSI or completed Anatomy and Physiology with a grade of “C” or better may reapply one year later during the normal admission times. Students are required to obtain a criminal background screening and must meet acceptable established criteria. 

Students complete non-paid professional practice experiences (HITT 1266, 2266 and 2267) in the Health Information Departments of health care facilities.  HITT 1266, 2266 and 2267 Practicum courses are offered online, but also require attendance at selected health care facilities.

Applications and information for selection criteria for admission are available in the Health Information Program office. Applications and supporting documentation are due March 15 of each year. Students are encouraged to take supporting courses prior to applying to the program. Each semester all courses in the curriculum must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to progress in the program.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management. Graduates are eligible to apply for admission to the national examination administered by the American Health Information Management Association.

Also available is a Certificate of Health Informatics.  The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Health Information and the Certificate of Completion in Health Informatics are available online.