Career Institute of Florida

Career Institute of Florida Academics

The Career Institute of Florida, or CIF, is a private institution devoted to graduates and professionals seeking career advancement in the Allied Health or Information Technology field.

The Career Institute of Florida offers an array of programs within the medical discipline including Medical Assistant, Medical Coding and Billing Medical Transcription, and Medical Office Manager. These courses typically range from 9 to 12 months depending on the chosen schedule: full-time, part-time or night classes. Upon completion of the program students will receive a diploma and will be equipped to take the certification exams for Certified Professional Coder and Certified Professional Coder-Hospital.

CIF also provides courses for those wishing to earn an Information Technology diploma or a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification. The Career Institute of Florida is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology and the Florida Commission of Independent Education and is recognized by the American Academy of Professional Coders.

Career Institute of Florida Admissions

CIF has an open admissions policy, and they offer courses starting at the beginning of every month. Students who wish to enroll in a CIF program must contact the recruiting office and arrange for a personal interview. All applicants must be 18 years or older and must have obtained a high school diploma or equivalent. Students wishing to enroll in CIF’s Hospital coder/biller program must have one year of documented experience or be a Certified Professional Coder to satisfy the programs requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to make an appointment with an admissions officer at least one week prior to enrollment. CIF has a non-competitive admissions policy, allowing a qualified applicant to enroll so long as there is room. Applicants are advised to apply three weeks prior to enrollment in order for their financial aid packages to be approved.

Career Institute of Florida Financial Aid

CIF provides counseling and assistance for students applying for state and federal and even private financial aid programs. CIF offers a Gap Scholarship for students who are not eligible for outside financial assistance. CIF also offers an installment payment plan for students who need to finance their tuition and provides special financing for those in the military.

Career Institute of Florida Students

CIF is a commuter school and provides a small classroom environment. Classroom sizes are restricted to fewer than 20 students. The student body is primarily made up of professionals and working adults. The Career Institute of Florida consists of three campuses. The main campus, located in Largo, Florida, was established in 2002 and houses the largest facility of the three. The Largo campus includes a library, a medical lab, student lounge and a Career Services Center. The CIF also has a satellite campus in Holiday, Florida, as well as a recently opened branch campus in Spring Hill, FL, each with their own library, medical lab and accessible internet in the library upon request. Although the classrooms are technologically inclined, most students bring and use their own laptop to complete their regular assignments. The Career Institute of Florida also has an extensive alumni network that has close ties with the American Academy of Professional coders, which allows for considerable assistance with job placement.

General Characteristics

Highest offering	At least 1, but less than 2 academic yrs
Calendar System	Differs by program
Years of college work required	N/A
Variable Tuition

Special Learning Opportunities

Distance Learning
ROTC — Army / Navy / Air Force	— / /
Study Abroad
Weekend College
Teacher Certification