Admission to HIMS is based on a holistic review of each candidate, but also considers academic achievement in program prerequisites and the student’s overall cumulative grade-point average (based on coursework at each accredited institution attended). Competitive applicants will be invited for a personal interview. The interview focuses on the applicant’s knowledge of the profession, career goals, and communication skills.
It is highly recommended that applicants interview or shadow a HIM professional of their choice before applying.
First-time degree seekers must complete all General Education requirements (GEs) prior to enrollment in the professional program. All applicants must successfully complete prerequisite courses (with a C- or higher) by the end of summer term prior to beginning coursework in the HIMS professional curriculum.
The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Profession's minimum GPA for admission is 2.50; however, the GPA of entering HIMS classes averages 3.3. Completion of all admission criteria does not assure admission. Maximum enrollment is limited to 32 students per year.
Application Deadline
Autumn Admission Deadline - January 31
High School Students
High School Students
Early admission pathway into the Health Information Management and Systems (HIMS) admission is available to outstanding students directly out of high school and who are admitted to Ohio State as pre-major HIMS students.
Eligibility for the Health Information Management & Systems early admission pathway:
- high school seniors who have been admitted for early action (EA) to Ohio State’s Columbus campus and indicated on their application the intent to pursue HIMS as a pre-major
Selected students will be offered early admission by the HIMS program in writing by April 1. Eligible students admitted to Ohio State's Columbus Campus after the initial review may be considered for early admission if the student contacts the HIMS program director requesting a review.
There are distinct advantages to early admission into the HIMS program. Early admission provides students with better access to scholarships, student employment and enrichment opportunities, as well as earlier direct contact with HIMS faculty to explore future academic and professional career goals.
In addition, students bypass the secondary admission selection process and are assured a seat in the admission cohort if they maintain academic eligibility requirements.
The first two years of an early admission student’s college experience will include completing general education requirements and program prerequisites. Students are not permitted to begin HIMS program-specific coursework until all prerequisites are completed successfully.
Current Freshman
Current Freshmen
Students are encouraged to apply as freshmen after completing either the admission prerequisites or a similar number of admission and program prerequisite credits, demonstrating they are on track toward completing all prerequisites prior to beginning the HIMS curriculum. If admitted, these students complete their remaining prerequisites during their sophomore year and are guaranteed placement in the junior HIMS cohort the following calendar year if successful academic standing is maintained.
Current Sophomores
Current Sophomores
Students may apply for the first time during their second year (sophomore) or above while completing their remaining prerequisites. This option is also open to students who applied but were not admitted to the program as freshmen. Subject to successful academic standing, admitted students will begin the HIMS program as a member of the junior HIMS cohort autumn semester of the calendar year in which they apply.
Post-Baccalaureate Students
Post-Baccalaureate Students
Students who have a baccalaureate degree at the time of admission have the option of completing either a post-baccalaureate certificate or a second baccalaureate degree. Certificate students must complete all prerequisites and program requirements. Second degree students must, in addition, complete all GEC requirements.
All prospective students must follow the school’s pre-application procedures, which may include attending informational sessions and meeting with a counselor in the Office of Student Services.
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Degree Requirements
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General Education Curriculum (46-60 semester hours)