Texas / Health information management programs

Best CAHIIM-accredited health information management programs in Texas, ranked (2026)

Texas has 26 CAHIIM-accredited HIM and health informatics programs (more than any other state). We score every one of them on a seven-factor methodology and rank them head-to-head. The top program in Texas is University of Texas - Houston's MS in Health Informatics, scoring 82/100.

Taylor Rupe, founder of healthinformationmanagementprograms.com

by , founder & editor

updated

Texas state capitol in Austin
26

Programs ranked

82

Top score

$49K

TX median HIM wage

17,210

HIM jobs in TX

Key Takeaways

  • University of Texas - Houston ranks #1 in Texas (82/100). UT Health Houston's McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics is the only freestanding biomedical informatics school in the United States, embedded in the Texas Medical Center. The MS in Health Informatics is the TMC analyst, director, and CMIO-track credential.
  • Houston Community College System ranks #2 (81.5/100). The primary AAS feeder for the Texas Medical Center, fully online, with Continuing CAHIIM accreditation and the cheapest entry into a TMC HIM career.
  • Texas has 26 active CAHIIM-accredited HIM and health informatics programs, more than any other US state: 21 AAS, 3 bachelor's, and 2 master's.
  • Median HIM salary in Texas is 48,860 per BLS OEWS May 2025. 90th percentile reaches 78,390. 17,210 working in this occupation, the largest HIM workforce in the US. No state income tax.
  • Texas has no statewide HIE. The Texas Health Services Authority coordinates policy via HIETexas. Regional HIEs: Greater Houston Healthconnect, Healthcare Access San Antonio (HASA), Integrated Care Collaboration (Central Texas).
  • Texas does not license HIM staff. AHIMA credentials are the workforce standard: RHIT, RHIA, CCS.
  • TEXAS Grant covers full tuition at public universities for Pell-eligible TX residents. Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) provides comparable support at public community and technical colleges.

How we ranked

Our ranking methodology in one paragraph.

Every program on this page is CAHIIM-accredited, which means every program produces graduates eligible for the AHIMA RHIT or RHIA exam. To help readers compare programs that are all technically eligible, we score each one 0 to 10 on seven factors: CAHIIM accreditation maturity (25%), program director credentials (15%), degree-level pathways offered (15%), delivery flexibility (15%), employer pipeline strength (15%), cost-effectiveness (10%), and institutional reputation (5%). Scores are published per program so you can adjust the weights for your own priorities.

Read the full methodology →

The ranked programs

The 26 CAHIIM-accredited HIM programs in Texas, ranked.

Rank Institution Degree City Score CAHIIM
#1 University of Texas - Houston MS (HI) Houston 82/100 Initial
#2 Houston Community College System AAS Houston 81.5/100 Continuing
#3 Midland College AAS Midland 79.5/100 Continuing
#4 Collin College AAS Mckinney 79.5/100 Continuing
#5 Lone Star College - North Harris AAS Houston 79.5/100 Continuing
#6 St. Philip's College AAS San Antonio 78.5/100 Continuing
#7 Tarrant County College AAS Fort Worth 77/100 Continuing
#8 McLennan Community College AAS Waco 76.5/100 Continuing
#9 Texas State University BS Round Rock 76.5/100 Continuing
#10 San Jacinto College North AAS Houston 76.5/100 Continuing
#11 Austin Community College AAS Austin 75.5/100 Continuing
#12 Texas State University MS Round Rock 75.5/100 Initial
#13 College of The Mainland AAS Texas City 74.5/100 Continuing
#14 El Paso Community College AAS El Paso 74/100 Continuing
#15 Blinn College District AAS Brenham 74/100 Continuing
#16 Tyler Junior College AAS Tyler 74/100 Continuing
#17 Dallas College AAS Farmers Branch 74/100 Initial
#18 Alvin College AAS Alvin 73.5/100 Initial
#19 South Texas College AAS Mcallen 71.5/100 Continuing
#20 Lamar Institute of Technology AAS Beaumont 71.5/100 Continuing
#21 Texas State Technical College - Abilene AAS Abilene 71.5/100 Continuing
#22 Parker University BS Dallas 71/100 Initial
#23 Del Mar College AAS Corpus Christi 70/100 Continuing
#24 Wharton County Junior College AAS Wharton 69.5/100 Continuing
#25 Texas Southern University BS Houston 69/100 Continuing
#26 Panola College AAS Carthage 65/100 Continuing
#1
82/100

Overall score

University of Texas - Houston

Best for academic-medical-center informatics careers in the TMC

MS Health Informatics Houston, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Initial Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #1

UT Health Houston's McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics (SBMI) is the only freestanding school of biomedical informatics in the United States, embedded directly in the Texas Medical Center. The MS in Health Informatics is the analyst, director, and CMIO-track credential of choice for TMC employers (Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, Texas Children's, MD Anderson). Director Dr. Susan Fenton has been in HIM informatics education for two decades. Initial CAHIIM accreditation since April 2019.

Program Director

Susan Fenton , PhD

Address

7000 Fannin, Suite 600, Houston, TX, 77030

Contact

(713) 500-3591
susan.h.fenton@uth.tmc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)9/10
Degree pathways (15%)5/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)10/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)6/10
Institutional reputation (5%)10/10
Overall82/100

Visit program at sbmi.uth.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#2
81.5/100

Overall score

Houston Community College System

Best AAS feeder into the Texas Medical Center

AAS Houston, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #2

HCCS Coleman College for Health Sciences is the primary AAS HIT pipeline feeding the TMC. Fully online delivery makes it accessible to working students across Greater Houston. Director Dr. Carla Tyson-Howard holds EdD + MHA + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since December 2020 (Progress Report satisfactorily completed). The cheapest entry into a TMC HIM career.

Program Director

Carla Tyson-Howard , EdD, MHA, RHIA

Address

Health Information Technology, 1919 Pressler, Houston, TX, 77030

Contact

(713) 718-7347
carla.tyson@hccs.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)10/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)7/10
Overall81.5/100

Visit program at hccs.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#3
79.5/100

Overall score

Midland College

Best fresh-accreditation West Texas AAS

AAS Midland, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2033-2034

Why it ranks #3

Re-accredited February 2026 with next review not due until academic year 2033-2034, the longest CAHIIM horizon of any Texas program. Director Dr. Leonora Lambert holds EdD + MS + BS + RHIA + CHTS-tr, one of the deepest credential stacks of any TX AAS director. Fully online, anchors the West Texas (Midland-Odessa) workforce.

Program Director

Leonora Lambert , EdD, MS, BS, RHIA, CHTS-tr

Address

3600 N. Garfield, Midland, TX, 79705

Contact

(432) 685-6891
llambert@midland.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)10/10
Director credentials (15%)9/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)5/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall79.5/100

Visit program at midland.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#4
79.5/100

Overall score

Collin College

Best north DFW AAS feeder

AAS Mckinney, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2030-2031

Why it ranks #4

Collin College in McKinney serves the fast-growing north DFW healthcare corridor (Frisco, Plano, Allen). Director Lydia Danton holds MSHIIM + RHIA + CHDA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since April 2023, next review 2030-2031. Fully online delivery. Strong pipeline to Baylor Scott & White's north DFW facilities and HCA Healthcare North Texas.

Program Director

Lydia Danton , MSHIIM, RHIA, CHDA

Address

2200 West University Drive, Mckinney, TX, 75071

Contact

(972) 548-6676
ldanton@collin.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall79.5/100

Visit program at collin.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#5
79.5/100

Overall score

Lone Star College - North Harris

Best north Houston / Lone Star feeder

AAS Houston, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #5

Lone Star College - North Harris is the second-largest Houston-area AAS feeder after HCCS. Director Dr. Debora Butts holds EdD + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since December 2017, next review 2027-2028. Fully online delivery. Feeds Houston Methodist Willowbrook, HCA Houston Northwest, and Memorial Hermann's north Houston facilities.

Program Director

Debora Butts , EdD, RHIA

Address

2700 W.W. Thorne Drive, Houston, TX, 77060

Contact

(281) 943-6871
debora.j.butts@lonestar.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall79.5/100

Visit program at lonestar.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#6
78.5/100

Overall score

St. Philip's College

Best San Antonio AAS, the only HBCU + HSI in Texas

AAS San Antonio, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #6

St. Philip's College is the only institution in the country federally designated as both a Historically Black College/University (HBCU) and a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). Founded 1898, the oldest continuously operating Texas community college. Director Beatrice Avila holds MEd + RHIA + CCS-P. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since May 2020. Feeds Methodist Healthcare San Antonio and University Health.

Program Director

Beatrice Avila , MEd, RHIA, CCS-P

Address

1801 Martin Luther King Drive, Center For Health Professions #130, San Antonio, TX, 78203-2098

Contact

(210) 486-2129
balcorta3@alamo.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)8/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)7/10
Overall78.5/100

Visit program at alamo.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#7
77/100

Overall score

Tarrant County College

Best west DFW / Fort Worth AAS feeder

AAS Fort Worth, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2030-2031

Why it ranks #7

TCC graduates feed Texas Health Resources (Arlington HQ, 27+ hospitals), JPS Health Network (Tarrant County public, 6,800+ employees), and Cook Children's. Director Joyce Thompson holds MSHR + BSHIM + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since November 2023, next review 2030-2031. Campus and online delivery options.

Program Director

Joyce Thompson , MSHR, BSHIM, RHIA

Address

300 Trinity Campus Circle, Fort Worth, TX, 76102

Contact

(817) 515-1615
joyce.thompson@tccd.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)7/10
Overall77/100

Visit program at tccd.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#8
76.5/100

Overall score

McLennan Community College

Best fresh-accreditation Central Texas AAS

AAS Waco, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2033-2034

Why it ranks #8

Re-accredited February 2026 with next review 2033-2034, tied with Midland for the longest CAHIIM horizon in Texas. Director Lesley Plemons holds MS + RHIA. Fully online delivery from Waco. Feeds Baylor Scott & White Waco region and Ascension Providence.

Program Director

Lesley Plemons , MS, RHIA

Address

1400 College Drive, Waco, TX, 76708

Contact

(254) 299-8233
lplemons@mclennan.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)10/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall76.5/100

Visit program at mclennan.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#9
76.5/100

Overall score

Texas State University (BS)

Best in-state BSHIM with MS progression at same school

BSHIM Round Rock, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #9

Texas State University in Round Rock is the only Texas institution with both a CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM and a CAHIIM-accredited MS at the same school. The BS is RHIA-eligible. Director Dr. Danette Myers holds PhD + MBA + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since April 2017. Hybrid delivery; feeds Ascension Seton, St. David's HealthCare, and Baylor Scott & White's Austin facilities.

Program Director

Danette Myers , PhD, MBA, RHIA

Address

100 Bobcat Way, Suite 204, Round Rock, TX, 78665

Contact

(512) 716-2840
dm19@txstate.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)9/10
Degree pathways (15%)7/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)7/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)7/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall76.5/100

Visit program at health.txst.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#10
76.5/100

Overall score

San Jacinto College North

Best east Houston / refining belt AAS

AAS Houston, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #10

San Jacinto College North in northeast Houston. Director Carla Ruffins holds MS + RHIA + CHDA + CHTS-PW. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since April 2022. Hybrid delivery. Feeds Houston Methodist Baytown, HCA Bayshore, and Memorial Hermann Northeast.

Program Director

Carla Ruffins , MS, RHIA, CHDA, CHTS-PW

Address

5800 Uvalde Road, Houston, TX, 77049

Contact

(281) 998-6150, Ext. 7237
carla.ruffins@sjcd.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall76.5/100

Visit program at sjcd.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#11
75.5/100

Overall score

Austin Community College

Best Austin / Ascension Seton + St. David's feeder

AAS Austin, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2030-2031

Why it ranks #11

ACC serves one of the fastest-growing healthcare hiring markets in the US. Director Cherise Jackson holds RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since June 2023. Fully online delivery. Many graduates progress to TX State BSHIM in Round Rock for the RHIA step.

Program Director

Cherise Jackson , RHIA

Address

3401 Webberville Road, Austin, TX, 78702

Contact

(512) 223-5887
cherise.jackson@austincc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)8/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)7/10
Overall75.5/100

Visit program at sites.austincc.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#12
75.5/100

Overall score

Texas State University (MS)

Best in-state MS in HIM (not Health Informatics)

MS Round Rock, TX Online CAHIIM Initial Next Review 2028-2029

Why it ranks #12

The only CAHIIM-accredited MS in Texas with the HIM subject area (UT Houston is Health Informatics, a different track). Fully online. Director Dr. Tiankai Wang holds a PhD. Initial CAHIIM accreditation since October 2018. Pairs cleanly with the TX State BSHIM for a same-institution progression pathway.

Program Director

Tiankai Wang , PhD

Address

100 Bobcat Way, Suite 204, Round Rock, TX, 78665

Contact

(512) 716-2840
tw26@txstate.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)7/10
Director credentials (15%)7/10
Degree pathways (15%)8/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)7/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)7/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall75.5/100

Visit program at health.txst.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#13
74.5/100

Overall score

College of The Mainland

Best Galveston / UTMB area AAS

AAS Texas City, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #13

Located in Texas City, between Houston and Galveston. Director Kay Carrier holds MHA + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since July 2022. Fully online delivery. Feeds UTMB Health (4 hospitals, oldest medical school in TX) and HCA Bay Area.

Program Director

Kay Carrier , MHA, RHIA

Address

1200 Amburn Rd, Texas City, TX, 77591

Contact

(409) 933-8414
kcarrier3@com.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)7/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)7/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall74.5/100

Visit program at com.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#14
74/100

Overall score

El Paso Community College

Most established CAHIIM accreditation in Texas (since 2006)

AAS El Paso, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2031-2032

Why it ranks #14

The longest CAHIIM accreditation continuity of any Texas program: continuing since October 2006, next review 2031-2032. Director Jean Garrison holds RHIA. Campus and online delivery. Feeds the entire El Paso border region (University Medical Center, Hospitals of Providence, El Paso Children's).

Program Director

Jean Garrison , RHIA

Address

Health Information Management Program, P.O. Box 20500, El Paso Community College, El Paso, TX, 79998

Contact

(915) 831-4074
jgarris2@epcc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)10/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall74/100

Visit program at epcc.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#15
74/100

Overall score

Blinn College District

Best Brazos Valley / Texas A&M region AAS

AAS Brenham, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2026-2027

Why it ranks #15

Blinn in Brenham serves the Brazos Valley region, with strong articulation pathways to Texas A&M. Director Jaime Schroeder holds RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since December 2016 (10 years of continuity). Fully online delivery. Feeds CHI St. Joseph Health, Baylor Scott & White College Station.

Program Director

Jaime Schroeder , RHIA

Address

902 College Ave, Brenham, TX, 77833

Contact

(979) 830-4275
jaime.schroeder@blinn.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)9/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall74/100

Visit program at blinn.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#16
74/100

Overall score

Tyler Junior College

Best East Texas AAS

AAS Tyler, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2028-2029

Why it ranks #16

Tyler Junior College in Tyler serves East Texas. Director Nancy Rendon holds RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since March 2018. Fully online delivery. Feeds UT Health East Texas, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances, and East Texas Medical Center facilities.

Program Director

Nancy Rendon , RHIA

Address

P.O. Box 9020, Tyler, TX, 75711

Contact

(903) 533-5440
nancy.rendon@tjc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)9/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall74/100

Visit program at tjc.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#17
74/100

Overall score

Dallas College

Best Dallas County / Parkland feeder

AAS Farmers Branch, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Initial Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #17

Dallas College (formerly Dallas County Community College District) consolidated 7 colleges into one institution in 2020. Director Sonya Braddy holds MHSA + RHIA + CCS. Initial CAHIIM accreditation since March 2022. Feeds Parkland Health (Dallas County public), Baylor Scott & White Dallas, UT Southwestern, and Children's Health.

Program Director

Sonya Braddy , MHSA, RHIA, CCS

Address

3939 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch, TX, 75244

Contact

(972) 860-4873
sbraddy@dallascollege.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)7/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall74/100

Visit program at dallascollege.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#18
73.5/100

Overall score

Alvin College

Best south Houston suburb AAS

AAS Alvin, TX Online CAHIIM Initial Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #18

Alvin Community College in Brazoria County, south of Houston. Director Dr. Viseeta Brown holds PhD + RHIA. Initial CAHIIM accreditation since May 2022. Fully online delivery. Feeds HCA Houston Healthcare South, Memorial Hermann Southeast, and the petrochemical-corridor hospital networks.

Program Director

Viseeta Brown , PhD, RHIA

Address

3110 Mustang Road, Alvin, TX, 77511

Contact

(281) 756-5659
vbrown@alvincollege.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)7/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)7/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall73.5/100

Visit program at alvincollege.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#19
71.5/100

Overall score

South Texas College

Best Rio Grande Valley AAS

AAS Mcallen, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2028-2029

Why it ranks #19

South Texas College in McAllen serves the Rio Grande Valley. Director Rosa Solis holds MS + RHIA + ODS-C. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since February 2021. Campus and online delivery. Feeds DHR Health, Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, and Valley Baptist Medical Center.

Program Director

Rosa Solis , MS, RHIA, ODS-C

Address

1101 East Vermont Avenue, Mcallen, TX, 78503

Contact

(956) 872-3171
realeman@southtexascollege.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall71.5/100

Visit program at nah.southtexascollege.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#20
71.5/100

Overall score

Lamar Institute of Technology

Best Beaumont / Golden Triangle AAS

AAS Beaumont, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #20

Lamar Institute of Technology in Beaumont, part of the Texas State University System. Director Staci Waldrep holds MS + RHIT. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since September 2022. Fully online delivery. Feeds CHRISTUS Southeast Texas and Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas.

Program Director

Staci Waldrep , MS, RHIT

Address

802 E. Lavaca St., Szuch Multipurpose Center, 2nd Floor, Beaumont, TX, 77705

Contact

(409) 247-5262
smwaldrep@lit.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall71.5/100

Visit program at lit.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#21
71.5/100

Overall score

Texas State Technical College - Abilene

Best West Texas / TSTC system AAS

AAS Abilene, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #21

Part of the Texas State Technical College system, located in Abilene. Director Sarah Brooks holds RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since February 2020. Fully online delivery. Feeds Hendrick Health and Abilene Regional Medical Center.

Program Director

Sarah Brooks , RHIA

Address

650 East Highway 80, Abilene, TX, 79601

Contact

(325) 734-3627
Sarah.Brooks@tstc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall71.5/100

Visit program at tstc.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#22
71/100

Overall score

Parker University

Best private online BSHIM in Texas

BSHIM Dallas, TX Online CAHIIM Initial Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #22

The only private CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM in Texas, fully online. Best known for chiropractic and health sciences. Director Dr. Joe Lintz holds DHA + RHIA + CHDA (Certified Health Data Analyst). Initial CAHIIM accreditation since February 2017, next review 2027-2028.

Program Director

Joe Lintz , DHA, RHIA, CHDA

Address

2540 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX, 75229

Contact

(972) 269-5613
jlintz@parker.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)7/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)5/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)8/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)4/10
Institutional reputation (5%)6/10
Overall71/100

Visit program at parker.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#23
70/100

Overall score

Del Mar College

Best Coastal Bend / Corpus Christi AAS

AAS Corpus Christi, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2030-2031

Why it ranks #23

Del Mar College in Corpus Christi serves the Coastal Bend. Director Marcia Lamb holds RHIA + MHIM. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since November 2023, next review 2030-2031. Hybrid delivery. Feeds CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, Corpus Christi Medical Center.

Program Director

Marcia Lamb , RHIA, MHIM

Address

101 Baldwin Avenue, Corpus Christi, TX, 78404

Contact

(361) 698-2820
mlamb3@delmar.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)7/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)6/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)5/10
Overall70/100

Visit program at delmar.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#24
69.5/100

Overall score

Wharton County Junior College

Best rural southwest Houston-area AAS

AAS Wharton, TX Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2029-2030

Why it ranks #24

Wharton County Junior College in Wharton, southwest of Houston. Director Debora Lutringer holds RHIA + ODS. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since June 2019. Fully online delivery. Feeds OakBend Medical Center and the rural southwest Texas hospital network.

Program Director

Debora Lutringer , RHIA, ODS

Address

911 Boling Highway, Wharton, TX, 77488

Contact

(979) 532-6363
lutringerd@wcjc.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)6/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)10/10
Employer pipeline (15%)5/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)4/10
Overall69.5/100

Visit program at wcjc.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#25
69/100

Overall score

Texas Southern University

Best HBCU BSHIM in Texas

BSHIM Houston, TX Campus Based CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2030-2031

Why it ranks #25

HBCU located in Houston's Third Ward, adjacent to the Texas Medical Center. The only HBCU-CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM in Texas and one of a handful nationally. Director Dr. Fanny Hawkins holds EdD + CPHQ + RHIA. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since November 2023. Campus-only delivery.

Program Director

Fanny Hawkins , Ed.D., CPHQ, RHIA

Address

3100 Cleburne, Houston, TX, 77004

Contact

(713) 313-7341
fanny.hawkins@tsu.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)8/10
Degree pathways (15%)5/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)4/10
Employer pipeline (15%)9/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)6/10
Institutional reputation (5%)8/10
Overall69/100

Visit program at tsu.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

#26
65/100

Overall score

Panola College

Best rural East Texas AAS

AAS Carthage, TX Campus Based, Online CAHIIM Continuing Next Review 2027-2028

Why it ranks #26

Panola College in Carthage serves deep East Texas. Director Rachel Weekly holds RHIT. Continuing CAHIIM accreditation since November 2020. Hybrid delivery. Feeds Christus Mother Frances Sulphur Springs and small East Texas hospitals.

Program Director

Rachel Weekly , RHIT

Address

1109 W Panola, Carthage, TX, 75633

Contact

(903) 693-1116
rweekly@panola.edu

Score breakdown

Accreditation maturity (25%)8/10
Director credentials (15%)5/10
Degree pathways (15%)4/10
Delivery flexibility (15%)8/10
Employer pipeline (15%)5/10
Cost-effectiveness (10%)10/10
Institutional reputation (5%)4/10
Overall65/100

Visit program at panola.edu → · CAHIIM directory listing

Best for…

Best Texas HIM programs by category (long-tail rankings).

Not every reader wants the overall #1. These category rankings answer the more specific questions prospective Texas students actually search for.

Best for academic-medical-center informatics (MS)

University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

UT Health Houston's McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics is the only freestanding school of biomedical informatics in the US, embedded in the Texas Medical Center. The clear top choice if your target is informatics analyst, director, or CMIO-track at a major academic medical center.

Best AAS feeder for the Texas Medical Center

Houston Community College System

HCCS Coleman College for Health Sciences is the primary AAS HIT pipeline feeding TMC employers (Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, Texas Children's, MD Anderson). Fully online, public-CC tuition, strong continuing CAHIIM accreditation.

Best in-state BSHIM + MS pathway at one institution

Texas State University (Round Rock)

The only Texas institution offering both a CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM and a CAHIIM-accredited MS at the same school. BS is hybrid; MS is fully online. RHIA eligibility at the BS level, plus a clean MS step at the same institution.

Best HBCU HIM program in Texas

Texas Southern University

HBCU in Houston's Third Ward, adjacent to the Texas Medical Center. The only HBCU CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM in Texas. Strong placement at Harris Health, Texas Children's, and Houston Methodist.

Best HBCU + HSI community college (AAS)

St. Philip's College (San Antonio)

St. Philip's is the only US institution federally designated as both an HBCU and a Hispanic-Serving Institution. Founded 1898, the oldest continuously operating Texas community college. Fully online AAS HIT, feeds Methodist Healthcare San Antonio and University Health.

Most established CAHIIM accreditation in Texas

El Paso Community College

CAHIIM accreditation continuity dating to October 2006, the longest in Texas. Director Jean Garrison holds RHIA. Hybrid delivery. Feeds the El Paso border region (University Medical Center, Hospitals of Providence, El Paso Children's).

Most fresh CAHIIM accreditation (longest forward horizon)

Midland College and McLennan Community College

Both re-accredited February 2026 with next review not due until academic year 2033-2034. Both fully online AAS programs. Midland's Director Dr. Leonora Lambert holds an unusually deep credential stack (EdD + MS + BS + RHIA + CHTS-tr).

Best private online BSHIM in Texas

Parker University (Dallas)

The only private CAHIIM-accredited BSHIM in Texas, fully online. Director Dr. Joe Lintz holds DHA + RHIA + CHDA. For working RHITs in DFW or anywhere in Texas who want a private-online BSHIM without TX State or TX Southern as the option.

Best DFW AAS feeder (Texas Health Resources + Parkland)

Tarrant County College + Dallas College

For Fort Worth and west DFW, Tarrant County College feeds Texas Health Resources (Arlington HQ, 27+ hospitals) and JPS. For Dallas County and east DFW, Dallas College feeds Parkland Health (public safety net, 870 beds), Baylor Scott & White Dallas, and UT Southwestern.

Cheapest CAHIIM-accredited HIM programs in Texas

All public community colleges (TEOG eligible)

All 21 Texas AAS programs are at public community colleges, all eligible for the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) and federal Pell. For Pell-eligible Texas residents, total out-of-pocket cost can approach zero. Parker University (private) is the only AAS or BS option with private tuition.

Credentials

HIM credentials and certifications in Texas (RHIA, RHIT, CCS).

Texas does not require a state-issued license to work in HIM. AL hospital employers hire based on AHIMA-issued credentials: RHIT after the AAS, RHIA after the BSHIM, CCS for coding specialization. The Texas Health Information Management Association (TxHIMA) is the state AHIMA component and runs regional chapters in DFW, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and East and West Texas.

CredentialFull NameEducation RequiredTypical TX Role
RHITRegistered Health Information TechnicianCAHIIM-accredited AASMedical records, ROI, coder at TMC / Methodist / Baylor S&W
RHIARegistered Health Information AdministratorCAHIIM-accredited BSHIMHIM supervisor, privacy officer, compliance
CCSCertified Coding SpecialistRHIT/RHIA + coding experienceInpatient/outpatient coder, coding auditor

Salary data

Medical records specialist salary in Texas.

BLS tracks Medical Records Specialists in Texas under SOC code 29-2072. May 2025 OEWS estimates:

  • Median annual wage: $48,860 (national: $51,140)
  • Mean annual wage: $52,880
  • 10th pct: $34,440 · 90th pct: $78,390
  • Statewide employment: 17,210 (largest HIM workforce in the US)

Texas has no state income tax, which compounds the value of wages here relative to states with comparable medians. The Texas Medical Center concentrates the 90th-percentile end of the curve, as do UT Southwestern Dallas, Baylor Scott & White's Round Rock and Temple regional flagships, and UTMB.

Salary distribution

Medical records specialist salary in Texas vs. national median (BLS OEWS May 2025).

$30K$40K$50K$60K$70K$80K$90K Texas MED $49K National MED $51K

Bars show 10th-to-90th percentile range. Vertical line marks the median. Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.

Workforce

Texas health information management job market and top hospital employers.

Texas Medical Center (Houston). 21 hospital systems, 60+ institutions, 120,000+ employees on 1,345 acres in central Houston. Largest medical complex on Earth. Key HIM employers: Houston Methodist (8 hospitals), Memorial Hermann (17 hospitals, 27,000+ employees), Texas Children's (largest US pediatric hospital), MD Anderson, Baylor College of Medicine, UT Health Houston.

DFW. Texas Health Resources (27+ hospitals), Baylor Scott & White (50+ hospitals statewide), UT Southwestern, Children's Health, Parkland Health (870 beds, Dallas public), JPS Health Network (6,800+ Tarrant County public).

San Antonio. Methodist Healthcare (HCA/Methodist JV, 8 hospitals), University Health (Bexar County public), Baptist Health System.

Statewide and Austin. HCA Healthcare Texas footprint (HCA Houston 16 hospitals, HCA North Texas 10+, St. David's Austin 9, Methodist San Antonio). Christus Health (Irving HQ, multi-state Catholic IDN). Ascension Seton (dominant Austin Catholic).

Galveston and Border. UTMB Health (oldest TX medical school, 4 hospitals, 13,000+ employees). DHR Health and Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in the Valley. University Medical Center and Hospitals of Providence in El Paso.

Health information exchange

Texas health information exchange landscape.

Texas does not run a single statewide HIE. The Texas Health Services Authority (THSA) coordinates HIE policy and operates HIETexas as the interconnection layer between regional HIEs.

Three regional HIEs dominate: Greater Houston Healthconnect covers the TMC and greater Houston. Healthcare Access San Antonio (HASA) covers Bexar and surrounding counties. Integrated Care Collaboration (ICC) covers Central Texas and Austin. THSA has been working toward QHIN designation through eHealth Exchange.

State regulation

Texas state laws affecting health information management.

  • Medical record retention (Tex. Health & Safety Code § 241.103). Texas hospitals must retain medical records for 10 years from the patient's date of last treatment, or until a minor patient is 20 years old. Longer than most states.
  • Patient access and copy fees (Tex. Health & Safety Code § 241.154). $25 for the first 20 pages plus $0.50 per page after.
  • Texas Identity Theft Enforcement and Protection Act (Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Chapter 521). Breach notification within 60 days. Breaches affecting 250+ Texas residents require AG notification.
  • Texas Medical Privacy Act (Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 181, "Texas HIPAA"). Broader than federal HIPAA. Mandatory annual privacy training for all employees handling PHI in Texas.

Sources

Sources and references.

  1. healthinformationmanagementprograms.com Methodology: the seven-factor ranking methodology and "Best for X" categories applied to every state guide.
  2. CAHIIM Program Directory.
  3. BLS OEWS: May 2025 Texas estimates, SOC 29-2072.
  4. AHIMA Certification Exams.
  5. Texas Health Services Authority.
  6. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: TEXAS Grant and TEOG.
  7. Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 241.
  8. Texas AG: Identity Theft Enforcement and Protection Act enforcement.

FAQ

HIM programs in Texas: frequently asked questions.

What is the best CAHIIM-accredited HIM program in Texas?

On our seven-factor methodology, University of Texas - Houston ranks #1 in Texas with 82/100. Houston Community College System is #2 (81.5/100) and Midland College is #3 (79.5/100).

How many CAHIIM-accredited HIM programs are in Texas?

26 active programs, the most of any state. 21 AAS, 3 bachelor's (Texas State, Texas Southern HBCU, Parker University), 2 master's (Texas State HIM and UT Health Houston Health Informatics).

What is the average HIM salary in Texas?

Median $48,860 per BLS OEWS May 2025, 90th percentile $78,390. Texas has no state income tax.

Which Texas program is fully online?

Most TX AAS programs. Texas State MS, Parker BSHIM, and UT Health Houston MS are also fully online. Texas Southern BSHIM is campus-only.

Does Texas require a license to work in HIM?

No. AHIMA credentials (RHIT, RHIA, CCS) are the standard.

Which TX hospitals hire the most HIM staff?

The Texas Medical Center (Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, Texas Children's, MD Anderson, Baylor College of Medicine), HCA Healthcare's TX footprint, Texas Health Resources, Baylor Scott & White, Christus Health, UT Southwestern, UTMB, and the public systems (Parkland, JPS, Harris Health, University Health).

Which Texas program has the longest CAHIIM accreditation continuity?

El Paso Community College, continuing since October 2006. McLennan CC and Midland College have the longest forward horizons (next review 2033-2034 each).

Does Texas have a statewide HIE?

No. Regional HIEs run operational exchange: Greater Houston Healthconnect, HASA (San Antonio), Integrated Care Collaboration (Central Texas).