Program and Career Description
The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Informatics prepares graduates for career entry in computer technician positions in healthcare settings. Students' develop technical and non-technical communication skills, tools/application use, legal aspects of medical office technologies, and the nuances of electronic medical record keeping, reimbursement, and billing practices. The Developer concentration emphasizes health information management in the information technology environment. The Technician concentration integrates healthcare and information technology.
How long is the program?
Medical Informatics (MEDI) program completion requires 4-5 semesters of full time study. Students with applicable prior college credit may be able to complete in less than two years. Students may work with an Advisor to develop a personalized academic plan for part-time study over an extended period. This program is an open enrollment opportunity and may be started during any semester. The prerequisite nature of courses may result in some courses being offered only during specific semesters.
What does the program provide?
The Medical Informatics A.A.S. degree provides the training needed to move rapidly into the healthcare workplace. Possible job titles for completers might include implementation support specialist, implementation manager, technical and software support staff member and trainer. Generally, positions fall into three job fields: Information Technology professional, health information management professional and clinical informatician.
How is the job market?
Graduates of the A.A.S. degree in Medical Informatics will be eligible for employment in various medical settings. Specific job-related supply and demand information is dependent upon the career path selected. Job related career and salary information for the chosen career field may be accessed via www.bls.gov. Health Science fields are projected to be among the top ten growing occupational areas for the foreseeable future based on both state and national employment projections.
Transfer Options
The Medical Informatics associate of applied science degree is designed for career-entry. However, some universities may accept some or all of the course work for transfer. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the receiving institution. Students are advised to inquire directly with advisors at the university level regarding expectations for transfer.
www.columbiastate.edu/medinfo
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