Why should I seek a HIT degree or certificate?
- Earning a degree or certification can enhance opportunities for a promotion.
Employment Outlook
Jobs in the health information technology fields continue to expand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these types of positions is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030.*
Average Salaries^ in Missouri for 2020:
- Health Information Technologist, $52,860
- Medical Assistant, $33,540
- Medical Secretary, $36,610
Online
The degree and many of the certificate programs can be completed entirely online.
State Grant
The degree and all four certificates are eligible for Missouri’s Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant.
Degree and Certificates
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology (HIT)
This two-year degree helps graduates wear many different hats in the healthcare field as they learn the practical application of class concepts, facilitated through real-life experience working in the region.
Health information technicians are healthcare professionals in charge of processing patient data. They ensure quality, accuracy, accessibility and security in both paper and electronic systems.
This degree helps students earn credentials employers recognize and prepares them for a career in the growing health information field. This program is part of a stackable degree path that allows you to earn your degree one credential at a time.

Certificate Options:

Electronic Health Records Specialist
The security and accuracy of patient data is critical in the healthcare world. Some common responsibilities tied to electronic health records include auditing patient records for compliance, performing basic coding to submit reimbursement claims and processing “Release of Information” (ROI) requests for medical records.

Medical Office Administrative Assistant
Medical office administrative assistants are critical in keeping healthcare offices running smoothly. They play an important role in the patient experience. Tasks vary, but may include reviewing and answering practice correspondence, answering calls and scheduling appointments, and updating and maintaining patient and other practice-specific information.

Medical Clinic Assistant
Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks in the offices of physicians, hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Their duties vary with the location, specialty and size of the practice. Most medical assistants work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics and other healthcare facilities.

Medical Coding
Medical coders are essential to hospitals, physician’s offices and other healthcare facilities. Tasks often include gathering essential information, preventing fraud by auditing billing, assigning codes for diagnoses and procedures, and coaching healthcare providers to achieve optimal reimbursement.
Contact Information
For more information about the HIT degree or certicates and how to apply contact:
Tresa Ryan, Assistant Professor of Health Information Technology
Email: WPHIT@MissouriState.edu
Phone: (417) 255-7786
^ Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, https://meric.mo.gov/data/occupation/occupational-employment-wages