Length of the Program

The Health Information Administration program is four years in length if the student attends on a full-time basis and does not have a prior degree in Health Information Technology. For a current HIT professional it could take two to two and one-half years to complete the HIA professional program courses. Opportunities are available for progression through the program on a part-time basis.

Structure of the professional program

A student accepted into the Health Information Administration program, with no prior degree in Health Information Technology, will be required to take all Health Information Technology program courses which are offered primarily during the day, in class or online. Once a student progresses to 300 and 400 level professional courses all are offered online only.

Design of the Professional Curriculum

Students accepted into the Health Information Administration Program typically begin the course of study in the fall semester. The curriculum consists of general-education courses, technical courses in health information technology, and clinical experience in health care facilities at a location convenient for the student. For those students who already hold a prior degree in Health Information Technology, students can begin the program anytime in the fall or spring semesters.

Location of Clinical Sites

The program generally utilizes all hospitals and other healthcare organizations within the counties that Indiana University Northwest serves. For students not living within these areas appropriate arrangements can be made with the program Clinical Coordinator to accommodate a clinical placement at a facility convenient to their home or work. The student is responsible for their own transportation to these clinical sites.

Additional Cost

In addition to regular university fees, students are responsible for the cost of a PPD test, completion of a criminal history background check and proof of immunizations before attending clinical sites. They are also responsible for any travel expenses incurred as part of the clinical experience.

Opportunity for Students to Work

Many students accept part-time employment in local health care facilities while completing the professional course work.

Program Facilities

The Health Information Management Program offices and classrooms are located in the Dunes Medical building at IU Northwest.

Accreditation

The Health Information Administration Program of IU Northwest is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).