Health information management (HIM) is a unique field that focuses on the business of healthcare. HIM is a great choice for those who want to be in the medical field without providing direct patient care. It combines some essential industries – namely business, technology, and medicine – into one career field.
HIM professionals can be found a variety health care settings. These highly trained professionals are responsible for patient and organizational data. They work to connect clinical, operational, and administrative functions. Health information management programs prepare students to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for medical records and health information technicians will grow by 8% through 2029, adding 29,000 jobs to the industry.
Finding the 25 Best Health Information Management Programs
We only considered programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) for our ranking. CAHIIM sets a variety of stringent curriculum requirements for all accredited programs, but perhaps its biggest emphasis is on work-related training. We felt that practicum experiences and hands-on training were important features of a quality HIM program. We then applied ranking criteria based on student: faculty ratio, graduation rate, and net tuition rate. Where there are ties, the school with the lower net tuition rate is favored.
Ranking is as follows:
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 5 Points
- 16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
- Greater than 20:1= 1 Point
Net Price
- Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
- $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
- $15,001 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
- $20,001 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
- Greater than $25,001 per year= 1 Point
Overall Graduation Rate:
- Greater than 60%= 3 Points
- Under 60%= 2 Points
#25 -The College of Saint Scholastica – Duluth, Minnesota
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $24,636
Graduation Rate: 69%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 10
The College of St. Scholastica is the first college in the U.S. to offer a health information management degree at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. St. Scholastica offers a high-quality health information bachelor’s degree that prepares students to sit for the RHIA exam. HIM courses include:
- Health Data Analytics
- Management Tools and Strategies
- Classification Clinical Data
Students complete a professional practice experience, a unique two-week experience that puts students into the health care workforce at sites around the country. 100% of graduates report they were employed within a year of graduation.
#24 -Temple University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $23,032
Graduation Rate: 74%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 10
The top affordable bachelor’s in health information management at Temple University is an interdisciplinary program drawing from areas like:
- business
- information technology
- health care
Students benefit from a supportive academic environment that includes small class size and a tight knit community of students. Professional courses include:
- Health Information Management Leadership and Strategic Management
- Healthcare Database Design and Development
- Statistics and Research in Health Care
Faculty have extensive experience in the field and strong connections in the Philadelphia area. Graduates work in a variety of settings including:
- insurance
- hospitals
- pharmaceutical companies.
#23 -University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
BS in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $22,600
Graduation Rate: 83%
Student to Faculty Ratio:14:1
Points: 10
The University of Pittsburg’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences features a high-value bachelor’s in health information management that leverages technology to improve overall health care. Faculty mentor students as they acquire skills in data analytics and technology. Courses include:
- Security, Privacy, Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Care
- Data Analytics and Machine Learning in Health Science
- Project Management and Systems Analysis
Students participate in a clinical rotation, giving them experience working with other HIM professionals and health care providers.
#22 -Parker University – Dallas, Texas
Bachelors in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $21,676
Graduation Rate: 71%
Student to Faculty Ratio:10:1
Points: 10
The high-value health information management bachelor’s degree from Parker University is an online program that teaches students how to use data to advance health care systems and services. Courses include:
- Legal Aspects of Health Information Management
- Systems Analysis in Healthcare Settings
- Quality Improvement Regulations and Procedures for Health Information Management
Parker University boasts a CAHIIM accredited HIM program designed to meet the needs of the modern healthcare industry. Students take one course each month, mastering one subject at a time. The RHIA exam pass rate for Parker graduates is 100% and all graduates report being employed within one year of graduating.
#21 -Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $18,655
Graduation Rate: 49%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 10
Davenport University features a top bachelor’s in health information management. It’s the only online program of its kind in the state of Michigan. The curriculum combines elements of technology, business, and management to give students the skills needed to work as a health care administrator in health information. This CAHIIM accredited program includes courses in:
- Health Care Finance
- Quality/Performance Improvement in Health Care
- Coding and Revenue Cycle Management
Graduates are eligible to sit for the RHIA exam, and Davenport University graduates typically score higher than the national average. 100% of graduates report being employed within six months of graduation.
#20 -University of South Carolina Upstate – Spartanburg, South Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Information Management & Systems/Health Information Management (IMS/HIM)
Website
Tuition: $15,838
Graduation Rate: 48%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 10
The University of South Carolina Upstate has the only Health Information Management bachelor’s degree program in the state. This joint information management and systems/HIM major is available as a unique progression program with several junior and technical colleges in the area. Courses include:
- Healthcare Technology and the Electronic Health Record
- Health Informatics and Information Systems Applications
- Healthcare Quality Management & Performance Improvement
100% of Update grads were employed in the field within one year after graduation and all passed the RHIA exam.
#19 -University of Mississippi – University, Mississippi
Health Informatics and Information Management Program
Website
Tuition: $14,672
Graduation Rate: 66%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 10
The top health informatics and information management bachelor’s degree program at The University of Mississippi is offered in a flexible online format. The traditional online program is for students with a non-HIM associate degree or those who have earned 60 credit hours. The progressive program is a 38-credit hour program for students who already hold an RHIT credential with the American Health Information Management Association. Courses include:
- Healthcare Systems Design and Project Management
- Healthcare Compliance and Documentation Improvement
- Management of Health Information Systems
All students complete a health information administration professional practicum experience.
#18 -East Carolina University – Greenville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $13,635
Graduation Rate: 66%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 10
East Carolina University offers the only CAHIIM accredited bachelor’s degree in health information management in North Carolina. This top HIM bachelor’s degree program is offered on-campus or online. Graduates are eligible to sit for the RHIA credentialing exam. Courses include:
- Management of a Health Information Services Department
- Human Resource Management for Health Care Organizations
- Health Care Finance & Accounting
All students complete a 200-clock hour internship during their final semester. East Carolina University graduates boast a 100% first time pass rate on the RHIA exam and a 100% two-year graduation rate.
#17 -University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
BS in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $12,322
Graduation Rate: 61%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 10
Students with a passion for healthcare and information technology will be interested in the BS in health information management from the University of Illinois Chicago. This top HIM bachelor’s degree program is offered on-campus or online. Award-winning faculty bring their industry experience to the classroom, keeping students engaged. Courses include:
- Management and Business Practices
- Health Informatics
- Coding and Classification Systems
Full-time students can complete their degree in two-years. Graduates are prepared to sit for the RHIA exam.
#16 -Rutgers University – Newark, New Jersey
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $11,981
Graduation Rate: 69%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 10
Rutgers University offers a high-quality bachelor’s in health information management that prepares students to become a Registered Health Information Administrator. Specializations are available in areas like:
- Medical Coding
- Health Care Information
- Information Governance
- Health Care Leadership
This fully online program is offered with both full and part-time schedules. Faculty are experienced in the field and provide support and mentoring to their students. More than 90% of graduates report finding employment in the HIM field within six months of graduation.
#15 -University of Washington – Seattle, Washington
Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $10,692
Graduation Rate: 84%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Points: 10
The Bachelor of Science in health informatics and health information management at the University of Washington is a two-year program that prepares students for a dynamic career in HIM. Classes are offered in the late afternoon to help students balance other life commitments. Courses include:
- Health Care Computer Systems and Electronic Health Records
- Research Design and Statistics for HIHIM
- Disease Concepts for Managers
A culminating capstone experience gives students valuable hands-on training in a Seattle area healthcare organization. The University of Washington HIM bachelor’s degree program has a 100% graduation rate.
#14 -University of Detroit Mercy – Detroit, Michigan
Bachelor of Science Health Information Management and Technology
Website
Tuition: $18,338
Graduation Rate: 67%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Points: 11
The College of Health Professions and McAuley School of Nursing at the University of Detroit Mercy offers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and Technology. Students can complement their HIM focus with a minor in cybersecurity, computer science, or data analytics. Major course requirements include:
- Quality and Security of Health Information
- Healthcare Information and Data Governance
- Global Healthcare Data and Statistics
Students complete a Service Learning HIM Internship which provides students with a hands-on professional experience.
#13 -University of Arizona – Tucson, Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $16,580
Graduation Rate: 65%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 11
The University of Arizona Global Campus features a top health information management bachelor’s degree program in a flexible online format. This CAHIIM accredited program is comprised of five-week courses. Students move through the program one course at a time. Emphasis areas are available in:
- Cognitive Studies
- Environmental Management and Sustainability
- Public Administration
- Public Relations
- Web and Mobile App Technology
Students will complete two professional practice experiences– one virtual and one onsite at a healthcare faculty. Graduates work in a variety of locations including medical facilities and clinics.
#12 -Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, Kentucky
B.S. in Health Services Administration- Option in Health Informatics and Information Management
Website
Tuition: $14,674
Graduation Rate: 45%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 11
The low-cost bachelor’s in health services administration at Eastern Kentucky University offers a concentration in health informatics and information management. Courses include:
- Health Care Quality Management
- Clinical Information System
- Health Information Management Systems
This concentration is accredited by the CAHIIM and graduates are eligible to sit for the RHIA exam. Students complete two professional practice experiences and a professional certification prep course to complete their degree. Graduates have a strong background in healthcare management and health data management, two skill sets that are essential to HIIM.
#11 -Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University – Tallahassee, Florida
Health Informatics and Information Management B.S.
Website
Tuition: $14,,610
Graduation Rate: 53%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 11
Florida A&M University features a high-value bachelor’s in health information management with a comprehensive curriculum. The curriculum is comprised of two parts, the pre-professional and the professional curriculum. The professional curriculum consists of intensive coursework in HIM and includes a laboratory and supervised professional practice experience. HIM courses include:
- Database Management and Research
- Leadership in Information Governance
- Legal Aspects of Health Information
Employment opportunities for Florida A&M HIM graduates are excellent. Graduates are successful working in a variety of roles, including systems manager and information security officer.
#10 -SUNY Polytechnic Institute – Utica, New York
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $14,420
Graduation Rate: 57%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 11
The SUNY Polytechnic health information management bachelor’s degree program is an online program for students from a variety backgrounds. Students utilize a virtual library to access a variety of industry software applications. Courses include:
- Databases in Health Information Management
- Management for the Health Professions
- Legal Aspects of Health Information
Two professional practice experiences are highlights of the program. Students will participate in rotations with both hospital and non-hospital HIM service areas in a variety of settings. Students are eligible to sit for the RHIA exam during their final semester. SUNY Polytechnic Institute graduates have an 86% pass rate on the RHIA exam.
#9 -Alabama State University – Montgomery, Alabama
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $13,476
Graduation Rate: 33%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 11
The low-priced health information bachelor’s degree from Alabama State University is a cutting-edge program providing students with up-to-date information and technology. Students develop entry level competencies through an innovative curriculum and a year long clinical affiliation in HIM departments in a health care organization. HIM courses include:
- Development of Healthcare Information Technology
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Quality Evaluation and Management
All students complete a management capstone and an administrative affiliation which prepares them to make the transition to the professional workforce after graduation.
#8 -Franklin University – Columbus, Ohio
B.S. Health Information Management (HIM)
Tuition: $12,459
Graduation Rate: 28%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 11
Franklin University offers one of the best values in health information management education. Their BS in HIM is an online program accredited by the CAHIIM. Students benefit from instruction from real-world practitioners who are experienced in the field. A professional practice gives students experience working on a major project for a healthcare agency. All courses are online and there are no on-campus requirements, making this a great choice for working professionals. Competencies draw from a variety of in-demand areas including healthcare management and IT. Graduates are well prepared for exciting roles like:
- clinical coder
- assistant HIM director
- data quality manager.
#7 -Tennessee State University – Nashville, Tennessee
Bachelor’s in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $11,460
Graduation Rate: 32%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 11
The high-value bachelor’s in health information management at Tennessee State University is for students who want to utilize technology in different types of healthcare organizations. This unique program combines the disciplines of areas like:
- healthcare
- management
- law
The Tennessee State University program is the only program in the state to offer a minor in general business. Class size is intentionally kept small to allow students to work closely with faculty and staff throughout the program. Hands-on professional development opportunities give students valuable training so students can make a smooth transition from the classroom to the workplace.
#6 -Coppin State University – Baltimore, Maryland
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Website
Tuition: $10,963
Graduation Rate: 25%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 11
Coppin State University features an affordable health information management bachelor’s degree program through The College of Health Professions, School of Allied Health. The program provides students with the HIM foundation needed to work across a variety of settings and environments. Course offerings include:
- Organization and Management in HIM
- Legal Aspects of HIM
- Health Statistics
Students will learn to:
- manage patient data
- code and classify data appropriately
- protect patient privacy
Coppin has a 99% satisfaction rate from recent program graduates. 100% of graduates report being employed or accepted to graduate school within a year of completing the program.
#5 -William Carey University – Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Information Management (HIM)
Tuition: $10,397
Graduation Rate: 47%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 12
William Carey University offers an innovative health information management bachelor’s degree program. It prepares students to manage health care data and maintain complex information systems. Students will gain expertise in areas like data analysis and interpretation and health information systems maintenance. HIM course offerings include:
- Health Data Content and Structure
- Analysis of Healthcare Data
- Quality Evaluation and Management
Students complete a professional practice experience to gain competency in areas like problem solving and management in healthcare or a closely related setting. A professional development seminar course provides students with the skills and strategies needed for networking and career development.
#4 -Chicago State University – Chicago, Illinois
Bachelor’s in Health Info Management
Website
Tuition: $9,820
Graduation Rate: 17%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Points: 12
Chicago State University features a high-quality health information management bachelor’s degree program that prepares students for an exciting career in HIM. The program has a 67% graduation rate and an 80% retention rate among HIM students. This CAHIIM accredited program includes courses in:
- Computers in Health Care
- Health Care Statistics
- Health Care Finance
Graduates are well prepared to work in:
- hospitals
- clinics
- medical research facilities.
#3 -Indiana University-Purdue University – Indianapolis, Indiana
Health Information Management Bachelor of Science
Tuition: $9,807
Graduation Rate: 50%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 12
The School of Informatics and Computing at IUPUI features a top health information management Bachelor or Science program. It gives students the skills and training needed for a successful career in HIM. Courses are offered on-campus or in a flexible online format. Courses include:
- Healthcare Quality Improvement
- Health Information Project Management
- Health Information Standards and Terminologies
IUPUI also offers a five-year bachelor’s in health information management plus a master’s in health informatics through their accelerated 4+1 program.
#2 -Peirce College – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
BS In Health Information Administration
Tuition: $8,711
Graduation Rate: 42%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 12
Peirce College features one of the least expensive bachelor’s in health information administration in the nation. The program is offered 100% online or through a mix of online and on-campus courses. Students gain the knowledge and skills needed to advance in HIM or prepare for graduate level studies. This CAHIIM accredited program includes courses in:
- Healthcare Reimbursement
- Database Management Systems
- Healthcare Data Analytics
Peirce graduates have successfully earned their RHIA credential. 100% of graduates passed their exam on the first try.
#1 -Indiana University-Northwest – Gary, Indiana
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration
Website
Tuition: $6,179
Graduation Rate: 35%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 12
Indiana University Northwest is our top choice for the best health information management bachelor’s degree program. The diverse curriculum meets the needs of students with no prior HIM education as well as those who completed a Health Information Technology two-year program. Professional 300 and 400 level courses are offered 100% online, ideal for working professionals. Courses include:
- Health Quality and Information Management
- Health Finance and Budgeting for HIM
- Healthcare Data Management in HIM
IU Northwest reports a program retention rate of 84% and a 90% RHIA certification exam pass rate.