Certificate Program

Program Information 

This certificate prepares students for CCA, CCS, and CCS-P certification examinations offered by the AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association), or AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) certification options.

Two program options: Fall River or eHealth (hybrid) New Bedford. 

Recommendations

To enroll in the Health Information Management degree program, substitute BIO 233 and BIO 234 for BIO 115.

A student who is unable to fit MAA 209 into the last spring semester should consult with the Program Coordinator about substituting the 3-credit CED 210 (Cooperative Work Experience I).

Related Programs

Health Information Management degree (Medical Records), Office Administration degree – Medical Administrative Assistant option

Special Requirements for the Program

Admission Requirements

Applicants must possess a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. A minimum high school grade point average "C" or a G.E.D. score of 2500, with a minimum score of 500 in math and a minimum score of 500 in science is required.  Prerequisites for high school graduates include high school biology or chemistry and a high school mathematics course with a minimum grade of "C". It is recommended that students who have a G.E.D. equivalent take BIO 111 and MTH 011 prior to applying for admission.

Accepted applicants must have a physical exam, proof of immunizations or titres.  A TB test is required each year.  Health insurance is required.  Students are responsible for associated costs.  Students should plan on scheduling for a twenty hour externship. Students must provide their own transportation to professional practice sites. 

Individual healthcare facilities may have additional requirements for professional practice experiences.

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI)

Students will be required to submit to a C.O.R.I. check that identifies any criminal offence history.  A positive C.O.R.I. check may prevent individuals from working in contracted health facilities which could prevent students from completing the program objectives.

Grade Requirements

Students must receive a minimum grade of “C” (73) in all required Medical Coding courses (HCI), HLT 106, and BIO 115. Failure to earn a “C” (73) or better in required courses requires a repeat of that course, which may affect the time to complete the certificate.

Contact your program director or your advisor for course sequencing recommendations.

Contact your program director or your advisor for course sequencing recommendations.