Associate program

The American University Associate program Associate of Science in Health Information Science

Health records

About the program

Associate of Science in Health Information Science

The Digital Backbone of Modern Healthcare: Launch Your Career in Health Information Science

Behind every successful medical diagnosis and completed treatment lies a critical, silent partner: data. In the high-stakes world of modern medicine, the accuracy of a patient’s digital record is just as vital as the expertise of the surgeon or the precision of the nurse. If you are detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and looking to play a pivotal role in the healthcare ecosystem, The American University’s Associate of Science in Health Information Science is your gateway to a rewarding career.

Two Paths, One Essential Goal

Our online A.S. program is designed to bridge the gap between clinical care and digital administration. We understand that students have different career aspirations, which is why we offer two distinct tracks to help you tailor your education:

The Medical Coding Track: Perfect for those with a flair for precision. This track transforms you into a proficient medical billing and coding specialist. You will master the latest industry standards in medical chart auditing and insurance reimbursement, ensuring that the financial gears of the healthcare system keep turning smoothly.

The General Curriculum Track: Ideal for aspiring healthcare paraprofessionals who want to master the art of data integrity. This track focuses on the management of sensitive health information, equipping you to navigate the complexities of our rapidly evolving digital healthcare environment.

What You Will Achieve

Completing our program is more than just earning a degree; it is building a specialized skill set that is in high demand. Upon graduation, you won't just hold a diploma—you will possess the ability to:

Speak the Language of Medicine: Leverage your deep knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology to execute complex coding and reimbursement tasks with confidence.

Master the Code: Apply current ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT standards to accurately document diagnoses and procedures.

Command the Digital Landscape: Demonstrate advanced computer literacy, ensuring you can seamlessly manage electronic health records and medical claims.

Guard Patient Integrity: Uphold the highest medicolegal and ethical standards, ensuring that sensitive protected health information is handled with the security and professional integrity it demands.

Why The American University?

Our program is 100% online, offering you the flexibility to master these vital skills while balancing your lifestyle. We combine rigorous academic theory with the practical, real-world application necessary to succeed in a clinical or administrative setting.

Your future in healthcare starts with the data. Whether you choose to specialize in the intricate world of medical billing or the broader arena of health information management, you will graduate prepared to be the backbone of patient data security and administrative excellence.

Ready to become an essential part of the healthcare team? Apply to The American University’s A.S. in Health Information Science today.

Curriculum

How the curriculum is built

The Associate of Science in Health Information Science is a comprehensive entry-level program structured to equip students with the essential foundational knowledge required to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape. By integrating a versatile curriculum tailored to individual educational objectives, the program empowers students to advance their career prospects and transition into roles as highly skilled healthcare paraprofessionals. Ultimately, graduates are prepared to excel in an increasingly complex digital environment, ensuring they can effectively manage, secure, and interpret sensitive healthcare information with precision and professional integrity.

Requirements

Major Requirements| Total Required Semester Hours: 18

Paying for school

Tuition and ways to save

Transfer credits are accepted. Textbooks are included. Payment options, the learning partners discount and scholarships are available. Admissions issues a written quotation before enrollment.

Credits

Transfer credits accepted

Previous study may count toward this program. Admissions reviews transfer credit.

Books

Textbooks included

Textbooks are included in the cost of the program.

Payment

Payment options

Choose a payment plan set out in your written quotation.

Savings

Scholarships and partner discounts

Ask Admissions about scholarships and the learning partners discount.

Flexible online learning

Study on your schedule

The program is designed for working professionals and anyone balancing study with other commitments.

LifePace

LifePace Learning®

Start any time. Progress through a course in as little as four weeks or as long as ten weeks. There are no required login times and no set start or completion dates.

Terms

Term enrollment

Work at your own pace within set course start and end dates. A term lasts about nine weeks, with weekly assignments to keep you on track. There are eleven term start dates each year.

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Next step

Start this program

Contact Admissions to confirm eligibility, transfer credit, and the next term start.