Certificates
CAHIIM defines certificates as professionally oriented curricula which have been industry validated and sequenced, in a distinct area of study, designed to develop and upgrade skills in an occupation. A certificate must have specifically defined student-learning outcomes and may be either part of a degree program or distinct courses that are created outside of any degree program. Courses are transcripted and may include zero credit courses.
Concentrations
CAHIIM defines concentrations (tracks, specializations and cognates) as curricula within a degree program, aimed at enhancing career-oriented skills, and designed to develop expertise in the focus area. This curricula will be included within the program of study for an academic major.
If your certificate and/or concentration offerings fall outside of these definitions, contact CAHIIM for consideration.
Institutions should verify state-specific requirements regarding how the state defines certificates or concentrations and an institution’s ability to offer a certificate or concentration.