AHIMA Certifications
During these changing times, careers in health information offer a path forward. AHIMA-certified professionals are leading healthcare organizations through meaningful innovation. In an industry that values education and experience, AHIMA credentials are proof of a robust education and an ongoing commitment to staying relevant in a complex and evolving space.
Ready for a Change?
75% of AHIMA members earn $50,000 or more— many without a four-year baccalaureate.* To help you break into a health information career or pivot to a new role within the healthcare industry, AHIMA offers a number of flexible options to earn your first credential—in a classroom setting or self-study.
Explore our Career Map or view other Career Tools to chart your path.
*Salary / baccalaureate citations from 2018 AHIMA Member Profile Analysis
Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM)
The Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM) is a standing commission of AHIMA dedicated to assuring the competency of professionals practicing health informatics and information management (HIIM). CCHIIM provides strategic oversight of all AHIMA certification programs.
CCHIIM holds the sole and independent authority in all matters pertaining to both the certification and ongoing recertification (certification maintenance) of HIIM professionals.
By establishing and enforcing the standards and procedures for certification and recertification of HIIM professionals, CCHIIM serves these professionals as well as the public.
View more information about CCHIIM including its Commissioners.
Get Started
What credential should I start with?
The starting point begins with a fundamental understanding of clinical diagnoses. AHIMA offers a mix of educational programs so you can acquire the knowledge and skills needed to progress.
- If you are not interested in an academic program, AHIMA suggests a self-paced study-at-home path for the CCA® credential. Learn more about the CCA credential.
- If you prefer an academic setting, we partner with a number of accredited schools for the RHIT® credential (2 years) and the RHIA® credential (4 years). Find an accredited school near you.
Want to Impact the Future of Healthcare?
Get ready for the future of healthcare: big data, information security, and document integrity. If you already have an HIM credential (RHIT or RHIA) or a coding credential and are ready to lean into what’s coming next, learn about the: Privacy and Security (CHPS®) credential, Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDIP®) credential, and Data Analytics (CHDA®) credential.
Future-proof your career with AHIMA credentials.
Certified Coding Associate (CCA®)
Self-study, entry-level coding certification. Coding professionals who hold the CCA credential have demonstrated coding competency across all settings, including hospitals and physician practices.
Certified Coding Specialist (CCS®)
The CCS credential demonstrates a professional’s tested skills in data quality and accuracy as well as mastery of coding proficiency.
Certified Coding Specialist- Physician-based (CCS-P®)
Self-study, comprehensive physician’s office coding certification.
Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT®)
2-year academic program that prepares students for a career in health information.
Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA®)
4-year baccalaureate program that prepares students for a career in health information.
Certified Documentation Improvement Practitioner (CDIP®)
Individuals earning the CDIP credential demonstrate expertise in clinical documentation within patient health records.
Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA®)
Holders of the CHDA establish competence in big data for both organization and analysis.
Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®)
AHIMA’s popular Privacy and Security certification that documents HIPAA and Information Security expertise.
Join the AHIMA Network
Earning an AHIMA credential earns you a spot in a strong community of reliable support and valuable connections. While membership is not required, there is ample opportunity to network with classmates and other credential holders or AHIMA staff.