2026 Top HIM Certifications to Advance Your Career
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
In today’s healthcare industry, accurate data management and regulatory compliance are more critical than ever. Professionals who pursue HIM certifications gain credentials that validate their skills in handling health information, coding, compliance, and data analytics.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in medical and health services management is projected to grow 23% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This article explores the benefits, career opportunities, and salary potential of earning HIM certifications in 2026.
What are the benefits of getting HIM certifications?
- HIM certifications open doors to roles such as health information manager, medical coder, clinical data analyst, and compliance officer.
- Certified health information professionals earn a median annual wage of about $60,000 to $80,000, depending on specialization and location.
- HIM certifications demonstrate mastery of industry standards and strengthen credibility with employers in healthcare and related fields.
What can you do with HIM certifications?
Earning HIM certifications equips professionals with the knowledge and recognition to thrive in healthcare’s data-driven environment. With credentials such as Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA), Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), or Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA), individuals can qualify for diverse roles in medical coding, electronic health records (EHR) management, data analysis, and compliance auditing.
These certifications are particularly valuable as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on secure data systems and accurate patient information. By holding HIM certifications, professionals not only meet employer expectations but also align with federal regulations and quality standards, making them essential contributors to efficient healthcare delivery.
Where can you work with HIM certifications?
Those who hold HIM certifications often find employment in hospitals, physician practices, outpatient centers, and long-term care facilities. These organizations depend on certified professionals to manage health records, oversee billing processes, and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
Certified HIM professionals can also work in insurance companies, government health agencies, pharmaceutical firms, and health IT vendors. The demand for experts in managing digital health systems and ensuring regulatory compliance extends beyond traditional healthcare providers.
How much can you earn with HIM certifications?
The earning potential for professionals with HIM certifications varies depending on experience, location, and specific credential. On average, health information technicians earn a median annual wage of $67,000, while medical and health services managers with certifications can exceed $118,000 per year.
Specialized certifications such as CHDA or RHIA often command higher salaries. Experienced professionals in leadership roles may earn well above the national average, particularly in large healthcare systems or corporate environments.
Table of Contents
- What is HIM certification and why does it matter? HIM Overview
- What are the top HIM certifications to pursue in 2026? Top HIM Certifications
- Do you need a degree to get an HIM certification? Degree Requirement
- How much does it cost to get an HIM certification in 2026? Cost
- What jobs can you get with an HIM certification in 2026? Careers
- How much do certified HIM professionals earn compared to non-certified peers? Salary
- Can you earn an HIM certification completely online in 2026? Can you earn an HIM certification completely online in 2026?
- How long is an HIM certification valid after passing the exam? Certification Validity
- Are HIM certifications recognized outside the United States? Are HIM certifications recognized outside the United States?
- How are HIM certifications adapting to artificial intelligence and big data? How are HIM certifications adapting to artificial intelligence and big data?
What is HIM certification and why does it matter?
HIM certification validates a professional’s expertise in managing, securing, and analyzing healthcare data. It ensures that individuals are trained to handle sensitive patient information, comply with regulatory standards, and support the efficient use of electronic health records. Employers in hospitals, clinics, and other health systems often prefer candidates who have demonstrated knowledge through certification.
Obtaining an HIM credential is comparable to earning a healthcare management certification, as both signal competency in specialized areas of healthcare. For HIM professionals, certification builds credibility, enhances employability, and aligns skills with evolving industry standards.
What are the top HIM certifications to pursue in 2026?
Students and professionals can choose from several HIM certifications depending on their career goals. Some focus on coding and record-keeping, while others emphasize leadership, data analytics, or compliance. Similar to paths like how to become a BSN with a non-nursing associate degree, these certifications allow individuals to advance their careers through specialized education and training. Below are some of the most recognized certifications:
- RHIA – Ideal for those pursuing leadership roles in managing health information systems.
- RHIT – Focused on technical management of health data and maintaining patient records.
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) – Specializes in hospital and inpatient coding with advanced knowledge of medical terminology.
- CHDA – Designed for professionals interested in data analytics and decision-making.
- Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) – Concentrates on privacy and data security practices in healthcare systems.
Choosing the right credential is similar to selecting a certification in healthcare administration, as it depends on whether a student wants to specialize in operations, compliance, or technical data management.
Do you need a degree to get an HIM certification?
The degree requirement for HIM certification varies depending on the credential. Some certifications, such as the RHIA and RHIT, require graduation from an HIM program accredited by CAHIIM. Others, like coding credentials, may only require relevant work experience and high school completion.
Educational data shows that most health information managers have at least a bachelor’s degree—43% of professionals hold this credential. Another 35% hold associate degrees, while 9% have a master’s degree. These statistics highlight the importance of formal education when pursuing advanced certifications and career growth in HIM.
How much does it cost to get an HIM certification in 2026?
The cost of pursuing HIM certifications depends on the specific credential and the professional organization offering the exam. For example, fees for the RHIA exam typically range between $229 and $299, depending on AHIMA membership status. Additional costs may include study materials, review courses, and continuing education fees for maintaining certification.
Students should consider their long-term return on investment when budgeting for certification. Just as those exploring what can you do with an MSN in nursing informatics evaluate career pathways, HIM professionals benefit from weighing upfront costs against potential salary increases and expanded job opportunities.
What jobs can you get with an HIM certification in 2026?
Professionals with HIM certifications can qualify for a wide range of healthcare positions, collectively referred to as HIM degree jobs. Common roles include:
- Health Information Manager
- Clinical Data Analyst
- Medical Coder or Coding Specialist
- Compliance Officer or Auditor
- Privacy and Security Officer
According to U.S. labor data, medical and health services managers—including health information managers—held about 616,200 jobs in 2024. The largest employers were hospitals (29%), followed by physician offices (14%), nursing and residential care facilities (9%), government agencies (7%), and outpatient care centers (7%). These numbers underscore the wide range of job settings available to certified HIM professionals. Likewise, exploring paths such as how to become a business analyst with no experience shows how diverse industries offer entry points for career growth, even for those transitioning from different fields.
How much do certified HIM professionals earn compared to non-certified peers?
Salary potential is a major factor for professionals considering HIM certifications. As of May 2024, the median annual wage for medical and health services managers, including HIM professionals, was $117,960. This median means that half of workers earned more than this amount, while half earned less.
The lowest 10% of earners made less than $69,680, while the highest 10% exceeded $219,080 annually. Certified professionals often command higher wages than their non-certified counterparts, as credentials signal advanced skills, adherence to industry standards, and readiness for leadership positions. For comparison, roles like those in front end vs back end developer fields show similar earning disparities based on specialization and certification.
Can you earn an HIM certification completely online in 2026?
Yes, many HIM certifications can be earned fully online, especially for candidates preparing through virtual training programs and remote exam options. Professional associations such as AHIMA and AAPC offer online learning platforms that provide study guides, practice tests, and continuing education credits. This flexibility makes certification more accessible to working professionals and students balancing other responsibilities.
Pursuing an online credential is similar to completing an MSN health informatics online program, where coursework and assessments can be completed remotely without compromising academic rigor. Online HIM certification pathways are designed to ensure the same level of preparation and credibility as in-person training.
How long is an HIM certification valid after passing the exam?
Most HIM certifications remain valid for a set period, usually two to three years, depending on the credential. To maintain active status, professionals must complete continuing education requirements and pay renewal fees.
This system ensures that certified individuals stay up to date with industry standards, evolving technologies, and regulatory changes. Renewal also provides professionals with opportunities to expand their expertise through workshops, seminars, or online courses—similar to how virtual vs in person therapy options offer flexible ways for mental health professionals to continue their development and adapt to modern practices.
Are HIM certifications recognized outside the United States?
Many HIM certifications are recognized internationally, particularly those offered by AHIMA. Healthcare organizations in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia often acknowledge these credentials because of their alignment with global health data and privacy standards.
However, recognition may vary by country. Professionals seeking international opportunities should verify whether local health agencies or employers accept U.S.-based HIM certifications or if additional regional credentials are required.
How are HIM certifications adapting to artificial intelligence and big data?
As healthcare shifts toward data-driven decision-making, HIM certifications are evolving to reflect the growing importance of AI and big data analytics. Credentials such as the CHDA emphasize data quality, predictive modeling, and advanced analytics skills that align with modern healthcare demands.
These updates ensure that certified professionals are equipped to manage large data sets, interpret AI-driven insights, and uphold ethical data governance. HIM certifications are expected to expand their focus on digital transformation, preparing professionals to contribute to innovations in population health, predictive care, and data security.
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Top HIM Certifications
- Maria: "Completing my RHIA certification opened doors I never thought possible. Within three months, I was promoted to a supervisory role in medical records management. The structured training helped me master compliance and data governance, which made me more confident in handling sensitive patient information. I also noticed that my salary increased significantly compared to when I was uncertified. "
- James: "Pursuing my CCS credential gave me the specialized coding expertise employers value most. I transitioned from a general administrative position to a coding specialist role in a large hospital. The certification process was rigorous, but it helped me develop accuracy and speed in clinical coding. Now, I feel secure in my career path and motivated to pursue further credentials."
- Sophia: "After earning my CHDA certification, I was able to shift my career toward health data analytics. My work now involves interpreting large data sets and providing insights to improve patient outcomes. This certification gave me not just technical skills but also credibility with leadership teams. It’s fulfilling to see my contributions directly impact healthcare delivery."
Key Findings
- HIM certifications validate expertise in health data management, coding, compliance, and analytics, making professionals more competitive in the job market.
- Employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 23% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations.
- Certified HIM professionals earn a median annual wage of $117,960 as of 2024, with the top 10% earning over $219,080.
- The most common degrees among health information managers are bachelor’s (43%), associate’s (35%), and master’s (9%).
- Hospitals employ the largest share of HIM professionals (29%), followed by physician offices (14%) and nursing facilities (9%).
- Online pathways for HIM certifications make training and exams accessible worldwide, ensuring flexibility for students and professionals.
References:
- AHIMA. (n.d.). Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA). ahima.org.
- BLS. (2025, August 28). Health information technologists and medical registrars. bls.gov.
- BLS. (2025, August 28). Medical and health services managers. bls.gov.
- Data USA. (n.d.). Medical & health services managers. datausa.io.
- Zippia. (2025, January 8). Health Information Manager Demographics and Statistics [2025]: Number of health information managers in the US. zippia.com.
Other Things You Should Know About the Top HIM Certifications
The time required depends on the specific certification and the candidate’s background. Entry-level credentials such as RHIT can take a few months of preparation, while advanced certifications like RHIA may require a degree program plus additional study. On average, candidates spend three to six months preparing for an exam. Longer preparation may be needed for certifications that require work experience.
The RHIT certification is often recommended for those starting their career in health information management. It emphasizes the technical aspects of health data management and requires an associate degree from an accredited program. This makes it a practical entry point for students or professionals transitioning into the field. Once experience is gained, professionals can advance to higher-level certifications.
Most professional organizations allow candidates to retake certification exams if they do not pass on the first attempt. The number of retakes may be limited, and additional fees are typically required for each attempt. Candidates are encouraged to review official guidelines from AHIMA or AAPC for exam retake policies. Proper preparation through review courses and practice exams increases the chance of passing.
The difficulty of HIM certification exams depends on the credential pursued and the candidate’s background knowledge. For example, coding-related certifications like CCS require a strong understanding of medical terminology and classification systems, while RHIA exams emphasize leadership and management skills. Pass rates vary, but many candidates report needing several months of consistent study to feel prepared. Using official review guides, practice exams, and accredited coursework significantly improves success rates.
