Associate Degree Specialization in General Health Services

A health services degree covers health services and technology topics that relate to medical terminology, health information management, and health information technology. Here at DeVry, our General Health Services Specialization offers you the ability to choose 8 credit hours of elective courses to customize your program to your interests or previous education experience.

Yes, choosing a health services degree specialization is a great way to build skills you need to pursue roles in today’s growing health information technology industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of health information technologists and medical registrars to grow 15% nationally between 2024 and 2034. Employment of medical records specialists is projected to grow 7% nationally from 2024-2034.

It’s important to note that this growth is projected on a national level, and local growth will vary by location. This projection is not specific to DeVry University graduates and may include earners at all stages of their careers.

After earning your Associate in Health Information Technology with a General Health Services Specialization here at DeVry, you can prepare to pursue roles such as:

• Clinical data analyst
• Clinical documentation specialist
• Health information management technician
• Healthcare information management analyst

Earnings for general health information technology professionals vary based on role, experience level, employer, and location. For the most current national wage data related to healthcare and information technology occupations, refer to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Health information technology focuses on the practical management, security, and use of healthcare data systems, such as electronic health records and clinical software. Health informatics takes a broader, more analytical view, emphasizing how health data is collected, analyzed, and applied to improve patient care, research, and population health outcomes.

Many health information technology generalists begin by earning a degree in health information technology, health information management, or a related healthcare or technology field.

A career in health information technology typically requires a blend of technical, organizational, and healthcare knowledge. Key skills include understanding healthcare information systems, managing and protecting data, attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication. Familiarity with healthcare regulations, data privacy standards, and basic IT concepts is also important for success in the field.

Certification is not always required for health information technology careers, but it may be preferred by some employers or helpful for advancing professionally.

The length of time it takes to earn your degree depends on factors such as whether you enroll full- or part-time, if you take any breaks during your education, and any qualifying transfer credits you may have. Here at DeVry, you can earn your Associate in Health Information Technology with a General Health Services Specialization in as little as 1 year and 4 months on an accelerated schedule or follow a normal schedule and complete your program in 2 years.²

² Accelerated schedule is per 12-month period, assumes completion of 3 semesters, enrollment in 12-18 credit hours per semester and continuous, full-time year-round enrollment with no breaks. Normal schedule is per 12-month period, assumes completion of 2 semesters and full-time enrollment in 12-18 credit hours per semester.