Health Information Management

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Health information management professionals tend to be methodical, innovative and directive. 

You need:  

• self-motivation 
• critical thinking 
• attention to detail 
• the ability to multitask and prioritize 
• an eye for detail to ensure accuracy 
• the ability to sit for long periods 
• computer literacy, including accurately typing 30 words per minute (wpm). 

You should enjoy taking a step-by-step approach to compiling and sorting information, taking part in data quality controls, using information retrieval systems and responding to requests for information. 

You are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for health information management professionals to ensure you can successfully meet the occupational requirements for the program and profession.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

In this program, you will participate in two required practicum placements.

You will be assigned practicum placements with consideration given to your preference of location. However, due to limited availability in Calgary, it might be necessary for you to travel or relocate outside the city. Special considerations will not be accommodated.

In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be required to provide specific documentation before you can participate in your practicum. Find out what requirements you need for this program. 

Accreditations, designations or certifications

This program is accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM) and meets the learning outcomes for Health Information Management (LOHIM).  

Graduates are eligible to write the CCHIM national exam and obtain their Certified in Health Information Management (CHIM) designation. 

Credential

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Health Information Management diploma.

Program length

2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible

This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. 

Potential careers (NOC):

• Health information management occupations (12111)
• Records management technicians (12112)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents:

• at least 60% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2, and
• at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
• at least 60% in Biology 30.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Health Information Management diploma requires 61.5 credits (25 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with three semesters each year. The third semester each year is your practicum placement. 

Required courses

• ANPH 220 - Anatomy and Applied Terminology 3 Credits
• ANPR 300 - Analysis and Presentation 1.5 Credits
• CDAB 210 - Data Classification 1 3 Credits
• CDAB 260 - Data Classification 2 3 Credits
• CDAB 310 - Data Classification 3 3 Credits
• CDAB 360 - Data Classification 4 3 Credits
• COMP 264 - Introduction to Digital Productivity Applications 1.5 Credits
• HCPP 260 - Healthcare Information Technology 3 Credits
• HCPP 300 - Healthcare Database Design 3 Credits
• HCPP 350 - MS Access Database Design 1.5 Credits
• HCPP 370 - Healthcare Data Queries 1.5 Credits
• HCPP 380 - Healthcare Project Management 1.5 Credits
• HILA 200 - Health Information Law 1 1.5 Credits
• HILA 250 - Health Information Law 2 1.5 Credits
• HRSC 210 - Health Information Management 1 3 Credits
• HRSC 320 - Health Information Management 2 3 Credits
• MEDT 250 - Medical Terminology 2 1.5 Credits
• PATH 242 - Pathophysiology 1 3 Credits
• PATH 252 - Pathophysiology 2 3 Credits
• PRAC 264 - Practicum 1 3 Credits
• PRAC 394 - Practicum 2 6 Credits
• PROF 240 - Healthcare Professionalism 1.5 Credits
• QUAL 350 - Quality Management 1.5 Credits
• RSCH 355 - Epidemiology and Research Design 1.5 Credits
• STAT 220 - Statistics 3 Credits

Suggested schedule of study

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

An Apple or Android laptop is preferred over other device types. Tablets and phones are not suitable.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. Booklists are created by semester and available approximately two weeks before classes begin.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes. 

Other requirements

• A fee is associated with obtaining a police information check, including a vulnerable sector check, payable to the police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
• You must have your immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines you need to be administered will result in additional charges.
• You are responsible for additional expenses related to your practicum, including pre-practicum requirements and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.

Health and Public Safety program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Health and Public Safety.

Phone: 403.284.8481
Email: hps.info@sait.ca

Program outcomes

1. Use effective written, verbal, and non-verbal communicationskills in all health information management practice settings.
2. Demonstrate compassion and respect in all aspects of health information management practice.
3. Adhere to legal and ethical requirements with personal and professional accountability and responsibility to ensure the protection and safety of practitioners, patients, and the public.
4. Collaborate effectively within the interdisciplinary team to achieve a high standard of patient-centered care in all aspects of health information management practice.
5. Use critical thinking skills and an evidence-based approach in all aspects of health information management practice to optimize patient care.
6. Plan for participation in lifelong learning and continuing education to excel in personal and professional practice as a health information management professional.
7. Create a community of knowledge sharing and professional pride through education and preceptorship of students, peers, and inter-professional team members.
8. Demonstrate proficient use of technology to promote best practices in health information management.