Western Governors University Health Information Management Degree

Western Governors University is based in Utah and offers its BS in Health Information Management online. Students move through competency-based courses by demonstrating mastery. The degree prepares graduates to apply for the RHIA credentialing exam and includes practical work in health data and systems.

Quick Facts

ItemDetails
LocationUtah-based university; online delivery
DegreeBS in Health Information Management
Curriculum36 courses; professional practice experiences and capstone in the program guide
FormatOnline, competency based; monthly start dates listed by WGU
AccreditationCAHIIM-accredited HIM program
Credential preparationRHIA exam eligibility after graduation
Tuition$4,425 tuition plus $200 e-books and resources fee per six-month term, effective January 1, 2026; $4,425 tuition remains listed for terms starting October 1, 2026

Curriculum and format

The program covers health information systems, data management, health care regulation, databases, privacy and security, project management, and general education. WGU lists 36 courses and uses assessments to measure mastery. The program guide includes two professional practice experiences and a capstone.

This is health information management rather than a clinical informatics master’s. It suits students who want a bachelor’s route into records, data governance, information quality, or HIM leadership. The CAHIIM accreditation supports eligibility for the RHIA exam.

Professional Practice Experience

WGU lists two professional practice experiences. The technical experience uses EHRGo activities to practice electronic health record tasks and awards 40 PPE hours. The management experience places students with a mentor in a setting where health information is used. A capstone follows the applied work.

Tuition and admission

WGU charges by six-month term instead of by course or credit. Its current health programs table lists $4,425 tuition and a $200 e-books and resources fee each term for the HIM BS. A separate rate table for terms starting October 1, 2026 retains $4,425 tuition. The final degree cost depends on transfer credits and the number of terms taken. Applicants should request a transfer evaluation and confirm current fees before enrolling. Program · Current tuition · October 2026 tuition.

Admissions and Transfer Credit

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and must demonstrate readiness through one of WGU’s listed routes: college coursework with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0, an accredited associate or bachelor’s degree, or high school transcripts with a GPA of at least 2.5. WGU evaluates prior coursework and credentials for transfer credit. Transfer results affect the courses and terms needed to finish.

Related programs

Compare the Utah program guide and Weber State’s HIM BS.

Related Health Informatics Programs