Health Informatics and Information Management FAQ - Master

When should I apply for your Health Informatics and Information Management master degree program?

Applications are open from July 1 of the preceding year through May 15 of the calendar year of desired enrollment. (The application deadline may be extended past May 15 at the discretion of the HIIM program.) All undergraduate coursework must be completed with official transcripts on file prior to formal acceptance to the program.

Do I have to have a baccalaureate degree in a health-related field?

No, students can apply to the program after completing any baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college/university. However, students must complete all prerequisites prior to enrollment.

Are prerequisite courses required?

Students must complete a course or courses in human anatomy and physiology covering all body systems prior to enrollment in the program. Courses may or may not include a laboratory component.

Must I complete all prerequisites before applying?

If prerequisites have not been completed before the application due date, please complete the "plan of study" included in the application, indicating plans for completion of prerequisites prior to fall enrollment.

 Can I attend the program on a part-time basis?

Yes, most students in the MHIIM program attend on a part-time basis. Since the entire curriculum is taught online, students can choose to take the number of classes most convenient for their schedules.

Can I work while I am attending school?

Full- or part-time employment while enrolled in the MHIIM program can be beneficial as relevant experience enhances the learning process. A variety of financial aid is available for students. This information is obtainable through the Office of Student Financial Aid once an applicant has been accepted into the program.

Is the program completely online?

Yes - with the exception of the professional practice experience, all coursework is online.  

However, some course examinations must be proctored at an approved test proctoring site. 

What is a professional practice experience (PPE)?

Students completing the RHIA eligibility track must complete 80 clock hours of PPE as a part of their coursework. These PPEs are meant to introduce students to health information management processes and practices within a health care setting. This real-life experience, be it with a hospital, clinic, vendor, or related organization, prepares students for life after graduation. Every effort is made to match each student with the most appropriate site for his or her career goals.

Who are the faculty?

The HIIM faculty (academic and clinical) consists of highly qualified professionals with appropriate credentials. The majority of the faculty members in the program hold terminal degrees in areas related to the profession and have extensive teaching experience. The faculty is well-published and has presented papers, posters, and workshops at the national, regional, and state levels. All faculty members are involved with professional organizations, and the HIIM program encourages students to become actively involved, as well.

What are some other suggested websites to find additional information regarding the health informatics and information management profession?

You may search on the words "health information management," "informatics" or use the suggested websites:

• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
• Health Information Careers (AHIMA)
• American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA)
• Health Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
• U.S. Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC)

What are the minimum scores I would need regarding the English Proficience requirement for admission?

Applicants whose native language is not English and/or who have completed their tertiary education primarily outside of the USA must submit official scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as evidence of English language proficiency.

• TOEFL-Internet Based Test (IBT): 79 or higher
• TOEFL-Paper Based Test (PBT): 550 or higher
• IELTS- Band Score should be 6.5 or higher

*Note: These scores must be taken within the last two years in order to be considered.  

However, this requirement may be waived for students who are currently enrolled at a college or university in the United States and/or who demonstrate a proficiency in written and spoken English following a personal interview.

When and where may I get an application?

Applications are available online. All applicants pay a nonrefundable application fee of $25. Further information may be obtained from the Office of Enrollment Management. 

• Office of Enrollment Management
  University of Mississippi Medical Center
  2500 N. State St.
  Jackson, MS 39216-4505
  (601) 984-1080