Career roadmap
How to Become a Health Information Technologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a health information technologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a health information technologist: (1) take health and computer classes, (2) earn an associate degree, (3) pass the RHIT exam, (4) gain experience, (5) advance. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a health information technologist
Take health and computer classes
Foundation.
Earn an associate degree
CAHIIM-accredited program.
Pass the RHIT exam
Get credentialed.
Gain experience
Records or registry.
Advance
RHIA or management.
Education and training requirements
An associate degree in health information technology is typical, plus the RHIT credential.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- RHIT (AHIMA): Registered Health Information Technician.
- CTR (NCRA): Certified Tumor Registrar.
- RHIA (AHIMA): Registered Health Information Administrator.
- CCS (AHIMA): Certified Coding Specialist.
Skills to build now
Start with health information management, ehr systems, and hipaa and privacy, and practice attention to detail and integrity. Learning the health information technologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- HIM Technician: Process records.
- Registrar or Analyst: Specialize.
- HIM Supervisor: Lead teams.
- HIM Director: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Health Information Technologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a health information technologist?
Most people need about 2 years of training. An associate degree in health information technology is typical, plus the RHIT credential.
Do you need a degree to be a health information technologist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for health information technologists?
Common credentials include RHIT (AHIMA), CTR (NCRA), RHIA (AHIMA), and CCS (AHIMA). Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-9021 (Health information technologists and medical registrars).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Health information technologists and medical registrars (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.