Top 5 Insights from a UIC Health Information Management Graduate

The Online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (BSHIM) program at the University of Illinois Chicago prepares students to lead in today’s data-driven healthcare landscape. Designed for working professionals, the 100% online program equips graduates with practical skills in coding, analytics, and information systems along with the knowledge needed to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) exam.

One recent graduate shared how the program’s flexibility and hands-on coursework helped her balance work, family, and school while building a foundation for a future career in medical billing. Here are five insights she gained through her experience in the BSHIM program.

1. A Flexible Online Format That Supports Working Students

Balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities can be challenging, but the BSHIM program’s asynchronous learning model makes it manageable.

“One of the most significant benefits of asynchronous learning is the flexibility to complete assignments on my own schedule, allowing me to balance work, childcare, and other life responsibilities. As long as I submit everything before the deadlines, I don’t have to cancel or miss appointments to attend classes in person. I love this format, which has been incredibly beneficial.”

2. Valuable Skills in Coding, Analytics, and Financial Processes

UIC’s BS in Health Information Management includes hands-on coursework in coding, data tools, and information systems across healthcare organizations. These practical skills helped her feel more confident in pursuing a medical billing and coding career and prepared her for a wide range of roles that combine computer-based tasks with office work.

“The most valuable skills I gained through the BSHIM program came from hands-on classes, including medical coding, using the R programming language, and working with Excel for financial processes. The professors provided step-by-step video tutorials that were very helpful. I often reviewed and practiced them to strengthen my understanding, especially in areas like R statistics, where I needed to perform processes such as the Chi-Square test.”

3. Preparation for the RHIA Exam

UIC’s CAHIIM-accredited Health Information Management degree is designed to prepare graduates for the RHIA certification exam, a credential that distinguishes HIM professionals in a fast-growing field. The program includes targeted prep materials and resources to help students build confidence and succeed.

“The BSHIM program prepared me well using the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) Exam Preparation book, which included practice questions and online practice tests. AHIMA’s free practice exams were especially helpful as they allowed me to learn from my mistakes and understand the reasoning behind correct answers.

During my one-month internship through the HIM 384: Clinical Practicum course, I was advised to read the Oachs and Watters textbook, and it proved to be truly helpful. I also studied and practiced using AHIMA’s free practice exams. These tools helped me identify my mistakes and understand the reasoning behind the correct answers.”

4. Firsthand Experience Through a Healthcare Internship

The BSHIM program includes HIM 384: Clinical Practicum, a required internship that provides students with supervised experience in affiliated healthcare facilities. This experience helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.

“I completed a virtual internship with Advocate Health Aurora through the HIM 384: Clinical Practicum course. It was valuable in helping me better understand what the healthcare field is like and what to expect in a professional environment.

As part of the internship, I worked on professional development activities like creating Gantt charts, completing personality and mindset assessments, and exploring how my strengths align with career paths in health information management.

One of my main projects focused on how medical coding can benefit the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community. I looked at how tools like team chat, email, and Zoom with subtitles or interpreters can support inclusion in the workplace. My goal was to highlight how individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing can thrive in HIM roles, especially in coding, where strong communication tools and a task-focused environment support inclusion.

I also gained hands-on experience with EPIC, created a PowerPoint presentation, refined my resume and cover letter, and practiced interview skills to build confidence in professional settings.”

5. Guidance Toward a Variety of Health Information Management Career Opportunities

From her early research into the field, she was drawn to careers in health information management because of the potential to work in medical coding, billing, and related back-office roles. Now, with her degree completed, she encourages other students to be thoughtful about their goals and take advantage of UIC’s faculty’s support.

“If you are unsure about the exact role you want but know that this field interests you, then the HIM department is a great place to start. There is a wide variety of job opportunities and different levels of positions you can choose from after graduation.”

Learn More About UIC’s Online BSHIM Program

Interested in learning more about the BSHIM program at UIC? Fill out a short form to get details about the curriculum, online learning format, and how the program can help you prepare for careers in health information management.