By Healthcare Facilities Today

The University of Phoenix announced the introduction of two new information technology (IT) degree programs dedicated to providing the body of knowledge needed to attain certifications in the fields of health care and mobile development. According to a press release, the University's College of Information Systems and Technology has created the Associate of Arts in Information Technology degree in Health Care IT (AAIT/HIT) and the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree in Mobile Development (BSIT/MD) programs for students seeking to enter and grow in these rapidly growing industries.

Information-related job growth in the health care field is expected to increase by 21 percent between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Likewise, the bureau also reports that jobs for software developers, which include those developing mobile-specific applications, are expected to grow by 30 percent between 2010 and 2020; much faster than for other occupations. With these opportunities comes a need for educated workers familiar with the latest technology and systems.

"As the fields of health care and mobile communications continue to grow, so does the need for skilled, certified professionals who can meet the information and technology needs of these industries," said Dr. Bill Pepicello, University of Phoenix president in the press release. "The introduction of these new programs reinforces University of Phoenix's dedication to providing our students with courses and curriculum designed to meet the business challenges of today's ever-changing market."

The AAIT/HIT program provides a foundation of IT fundamentals, and is designed for students who are seeking a college degree and IT professionals seeking to obtain entry-level positions in health care IT. This program provides the knowledge needed in order for graduates to take the industry-recognized CompTIA Healthcare Technician (HIT) certification exam. The BSIT/MD program prepares students to design, develop and implement mobile applications in the leading mobile platforms, and provides a certificate in mobile development issued by University of Phoenix upon completion of the program.

"University of Phoenix is dedicated to providing employable education to meet today's business IT needs, and these new programs being launched expand on this mission," said Blair Smith, dean of University of Phoenix College of Information Systems and Technology. "Businesses continue to increase their demand for certified IT professionals, and these new programs can provide our students with the bridge between their current education and a meaningful career."

Maryland residents completing undergraduate degree programs will earn an emphasis, rather than a concentration in a particular area of study.