Health Information Technology
Associate in Science (A.S.)
The Health Information Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College with online courses prepares you to go directly into a specialized career in medical records.
Health information professionals play a critical role in health care–even though they rarely interact with patients. Every time you hear a health statistic on the news, read a doctor’s diagnosis in your medical record or use your health insurance card, you can be sure a medical record technician has played a part. Health information technicians are specialists in preparing, analyzing and managing medical records. They play a key role in coding and reimbursement and are considered experts in assuring the privacy and security of health data. In the HIT program at Valencia College, students learn how to collect, analyze, monitor and report health data, using the latest technology. As more doctors and hospitals move toward electronic health records, trained technicians in this field will become more in demand than ever.
This is a limited-access program. For admission requirements and updates, program application and deadlines, visit the Health Sciences Division website.
This program is completely offered online except for the clinical/practicum in the final semester.
Have questions, or want more information?
Program Details
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
Review course descriptions, important dates and deadlines and other programs details in the official college catalog.
Alternative Ways To Earn Credit
Did you know that you may already be eligible to receive college credit toward this program? Check out these opportunities:
- Industry Certifications – Receive college credit for approved Industry Certifications
- Technical College Programs – Receive college credit toward this program for completing an approved Orange Technical College or Osceola Technical College program.
You want to step up. We have a path to a bachelor's
Prepare for a supervisory or management role in your field with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business and Organizational Leadership. After completing your A.S. degree, build on your skills and expand your career opportunities by continuing your education at Valencia College and earning a bachelor's degree. We encourage you to meet with a student success coach to create your personalized education plan.
PROGRAM LENGTH
70 credits
(after all of the pre-admission course requirements have been met)
Program begins each fall.
CERTIFICATE
When you choose the Healthcare Specialist technical certificate as your secondary degree pathway, you will earn a workforce credential while completing prerequisite course credits, many of which are requirements for the selective admissions health career programs at Valencia College. Earning this certificate is an important first step in your career—your classes can help you become more valuable to our local health care employers.
Career Outlook
Learn How To
- Use various classification systems to code, categorize and manage patient information
- Ensure quality, accuracy, accessibility and security in both paper and electronic systems
- Comply with established data quality principles, legal and information security standards and professional best-practice guidelines
Job Outlook
Health information technology is one of the fastest-growing occupations in our region. And as the health care industry moves toward electronic records, the demand for health information professionals will continue to grow and increase. Excellent career opportunities are available in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies. Other opportunities are available in nursing homes, physician’s offices and rehabilitation centers.
Potential Careers
- Health Information Technician
- Medical Records Technician
AVERAGE SALARY RANGE
$32,000 - $38,000
Placement Rate
The average placement rate for Valencia College A.S. degree and certificate programs ranges between 90 – 95%, according to the latest FETPIP data.
Steps for Admission to Program
- Attend a Health Sciences Information Session. Please bring a copy of the program guide for your desired track with you. If you are not local and cannot attend the information session, review the program guide and read the frequently asked questions for the Health Sciences programs and degrees.
- Apply to Valencia College.
- Complete required general education courses before applying to the program.
- Once your transcripts have been received and evaluated, and if you meet eligibility requirements, you can apply to the program.
To learn more about this program, including application requirements, attend one of our information sessions. Please bring a copy of the program guide with you. If you are unable to attend, refer to the program guide and the resources available at Health Sciences.