BS in Health Informatics and Information Management

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to work while in school?

It is a busy year, but some students work part-time. It is important that students have flexible job schedules as class schedules may vary.

What kinds of jobs do graduates get after completing the program?

There are many opportunities available to new graduates. The majority of graduates work in hospitals. There are many health information management professionals at the larger hospitals in Tennessee with a variety of responsibilites.

Do you accept out of state residents?

While priority must be given to Tennessee residents who meet the admission requirements, out of state residents are encouraged to apply. We have accepted out of state students in all of the recently admitted classes. Tuition is higher for out of state students. See Financial Aid Office for Information about current out-of-state tuition.

Is it difficult to get into the UT HIM program?

The HIM program accepts 15 students for each class which begins each September. Students with a minimum 2.0 on a 4.0 scale are eligible for consideration although the average GPA for entering students is well above this minimum. We also consider the following in determining admissions to the program: academic record, pre-professional evaluations or letters of recommendation, past work experience, knowledge and understanding of the HIM profession, and the information gained from the personal interview with members of the admissions committee.

What sort of electives should I take?

It is important to have a well-rounded background. We strongly recommend that you take electives that will enable you to complete a degree in another area if you are not accepted. Management courses, computer courses, database management, decision support courses are helpful. Liberal arts courses in English, history, social sciences, other disciplines are also helpful. Courses which require writing assignments help prepare students for the important written communication aspects of the profession.

What courses do students take at UT?

Professional course content includes health information science, quality management, medical terminology, pathology, medical science, health information systems, coding and classification systems, legal aspects, research methods, data analysis, health statistics, organization of health care facilities, and personnel administration. Students complete clinical assignments in the health information departments of local health care facilities and complete a five-week final management affiliation.

Is the HIM program difficult?

Since the program is only one calendar year long and consists of 48 semester hours, it is challenging and fast-paced. Mature, independent students do well. All students gain organizational and time management skills. Students report that moving from a general university academic program into a professional program is a big transition and requires adjustments in their personal lives.

How do I establish residency in Tennessee?

The Office of Enrollment Services should be contacted for information. The number is 901-448-5568.

Link to Bachelor of
Science in HIIM





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