The number of master’s programs in health informatics online continues to grow. This falls in line with an increase in the collection and application of data in medicine and healthcare. Yet with so many degree options now available, it’s important to research which ones not only meet your cost and curriculum needs, but which ones stand the best chance to push your career forward. To help, EduMed has collected data on some of today’s best accredited online master’s in health informatics, and provided a detailed look into the coursework, credit loads, and admissions requirements. See if one of these schools has what you need for 2020.
| # | School Name | Type | Cost | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL | Public | $$ | 2 |
UCF’s online master’s program in health informatics gives students the opportunity to hone their skills and broaden their career prospects in a thriving, competitive industry. Graduates of the program enjoy a 93% job placement rate and typically work as clinical researchers, healthcare project managers, and medical information officers. Students work directly with seasoned industry experts as they learn how to manage data-driven projects and implement new, innovative technologies. UCF’s curriculum develops core skills in systems design, database management, and biostatistics. All courses come in 16-week terms and include instruction in foundational subjects like healthcare information technology and electronic record-keeping. The program culminates with an integrative internship experience designed to help students explore their own interests and establish a clear path to professional employment following graduation. Program Overview: Online Healthcare Informatics, PSM
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid41% |
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges | |||
| 2 | Louisiana Tech UniversityRuston, LA | Public | $$ | 2 |
Louisiana Tech University offers a graduate program in health informatics that allows students to continue professional employment throughout study. The non-thesis course of study focuses on information systems and data management use in a variety of healthcare settings. Louisiana Tech delivers classes year-round through interactive and flexible distance learning tools that accommodate most busy work schedules. Many students finish the program in two years or less, enhancing their skills in project management, healthcare compliance, information analysis, and data collection. Course offerings also explore the more technical aspects of the field, covering topics like medical vocabulary and classification, digital imaging, and patient interaction. Students apply knowledge gained through didactic courses in a final capstone project. Program Overview: Master of Health Informatics (MHI)
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid78% |
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges | |||
| 3 | University of KansasLawrence, KS | Public | $$$ | 1 |
The University of Kansas extends a master of science in health informatics to students interested in careers as clinical analysts, informatics nurses, and data resource managers. KU divides the curriculum into three core areas (informatics, research, and leadership) and offers four different areas of focus in health policy and management, public health, clinicals, and project management. Students receive instruction in these areas and more as they work to develop the skills required to support healthcare endeavors in a broad range of professional settings. An applied health informatics degree, the program also involves several practicum components where students spend at least 200 clock hours gaining hands-on experience. KU delivers all course content entirely online using convenient learning technologies that combine self-directed study with peer collaboration. Program Overview: Master of Science in Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid67% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 4 | Arkansas Tech UniversityRussellville, AR | Public | $$ | 1 |
Arkansas Tech University’s master of science in health informatics uses an interdisciplinary approach to blend healthcare knowledge with applied skill in information technology. A fully online course of study, ATU’s program prepares students for professional success in the industry by instilling technical knowledge and developing practical skill. Degree-seekers learn how to implement data security and information assurance measures in sensitive healthcare contexts. Graduates of the program obtain expert-level knowledge in healthcare policy and operations administration, often landing work in telehealth and electronic health record support. Potential course topics include emerging trends in information technology, patient privacy, database administration, and advanced biostatistics. Once coursework is complete, students have the option of completing a research project or writing an original thesis. Program Overview: Master of Science in Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid45% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 5 | Dakota State UniversityMadison, SD | Public | $$ | 1 |
Dakota State University’s College of Business and Information Systems confers a master of science in health informatics and information management. The program starts with fundamental concepts in healthcare and information technology and then works to build focused knowledge bases in areas of overlap between the two disciplines. These include information security, project management and research, data collection, and networking infrastructure. DSU delivers courses in these and other areas through innovative learning tools that encourage flexible access anytime, anywhere. Students can enroll on a full or part-time basis, working through the program at their own pace as long as they finish within five years. Capstone components include a research project and a comprehensive exam. Program Overview: Master of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid62% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 6 | University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati, OH | Public | $$$ | 1 |
At the University of Cincinnati students can earn a master of health informatics that blends healthcare basics with information technology expertise. The program offers flexible scheduling options specifically designed for working professionals looking to deepen their skills as they work. UC’s broad-based curriculum consists of 10 courses and 1 practicum experience, all of which prepare students for professional certification in health informatics. All courses come in asynchronous formats through 7-week sessions. This means that students can access material and complete assignments at a time and place convenient for them. Potential course topics include medical vocabulary and terminology, data analysis, healthcare privacy and security, database modeling, and health analytics. Program Overview: Master of Health Informatics (MHI)
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid54% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 7 | University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago, IL | Public | $$$$ | 4 |
The University of Illinois at Chicago administers two programs in health informatics. Its master of science in health information management provides a solid background in health information theory and practice, preparing students for work that ensures quality patient care through effective data management strategies. Its master of science in health informatics develops similar skills and focuses on empowering graduates to lead healthcare organizations by preserving information access through new and innovative technologies. Curricula in both programs offer robust, interactive instruction in a broad range of topics that include organizational leadership, health records management, database design, project management, and more. UIC delivers these programs in flexible, fully online formats that facilitate completion in two years or less depending on enrollment status. Program Overview: MS in Health Informatics and MS in Health Information Management
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid67% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 8 | Regis UniversityDenver, CO | Private, Not-for-Profit | $$$$$ | 2 |
Regis University grants an online master of science in health informatics designed to integrate healthcare delivery with information management and technological diagnostics. Regis’ program trains students in electronic health records protocol and expands technical knowledge in systems planning, security management, workflow design, and information security. It also develops core skills in analytical problem-solving and interpersonal communication. The course of study offers classes in information systems concepts and healthcare data management through eight-week sessions that use accessible online formats for increased convenience. Students can begin study when they choose, selecting from three different start dates throughout the year. Graduates typically complete the program in two years or less, going on to find employment as nursing informatics specialists, medical information officers, and clinical analysts. Program Overview: M.S. in Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid97% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 9 | Purdue University GlobalDavenport, IA | Private, For-Profit | $$$ | 2 |
Purdue University Global offers a master of health informatics that explores the tools and resources professionals use to generate, store, and analyze vital healthcare data. Designed for those interested in working at the nexus between healthcare, computer science, and information management, the program equips students for professional success. Core courses come in 10-week terms and focus on clinical information infrastructures, database management, network connectivity, and organizational leadership. Students receive interactive, expert instruction in these areas through intuitive and user-friendly distance learning tools for optimal flexibility. The program concludes with a summative capstone component where students synthesize and apply gained skills and knowledge in an original research project. Program Overview: Master of Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid0% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 10 | Davenport UniversityGrand Rapids, MI | Private, Not-for-Profit | $$$$ | 2 |
Davenport University extends a master of science in health informatics and information management to qualified individuals. The program combines technical healthcare knowledge with core skills in data analytics and information assurance. Interested students need undergraduate course prerequisites in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. DU’s course of study prepares working professionals for work securing, preserving, and maintaining sensitive patient records and other vital data in clinics and other healthcare facilities. Students complete all coursework entirely online through seven-week sessions with small class sizes that encourage collaborative interaction. Possible course offerings include data mining, healthcare information management, project management and risk mitigation, healthcare security, and business analytics essentials. Program Overview: Master of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid93% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 11 | Jacksonville UniversityJacksonville, FL | Private, Not-for-Profit | $$$$$ | 1 |
Prospective students can earn a master of science in health informatics at Jacksonville University. The program develops an advanced understanding of the dynamic relationship between healthcare services, information technology, and the people that rely on both industries. Students gain the hard skills necessary to use new technologies to facilitate healthcare delivery and improve measurable outcomes. JU’s curriculum includes instruction in advanced health informatics, database management, epidemiology, and evidence-based solutions. The course of study delivers all content in these areas through intuitive, accommodating distance learning tools. JU also uses a cohort-model, meaning that students work through the program with a group of peers for increased learning and collaboration. Program Overview: MS in Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Students w/ Institutional Aid94% |
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges | |||
| 12 | Charter Oak State CollegeNew Britain, CT | Public | $$ | 3 |
Charter Oak State College grants a master of science in health informatics that focuses on preparing students for lucrative and successful careers in the industry. A comprehensive, interdisciplinary program, Charter Oak’s course of study teaches individuals how to design, implement, and evaluate data-driven innovations in healthcare. The school delivers its curriculum entirely online, administering courses in medical classification and information security through flexible learning technologies. Expert faculty facilitate all learning experiences in 8-week sessions, instilling technical knowledge in healthcare finance, systems design, and data analytics. The program concludes with a capstone course that assesses student progress through hands-on experience in the field. Qualified applicants need some background in statistics and research methods. Program Overview: Master of Science in Health Informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementNo |
Students w/ Institutional Aid0% |
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education | |||
| 13 | University of Phoenix-ArizonaTempe, AZ | Private, For-Profit | $$$ | 1 |
The University of Phoenix-Arizona offers a unique path to professional development through a master of health administration with a concentration in informatics. An especially attractive option for working professionals and busy individuals alike, the program proceeds one course at a time in six-week increments, giving students the time and space they need to balance, work, family, and education. The curriculum blends healthcare administration and organizational management with information assurance and data analytics. Course offerings include the systems life cycle, sustainable healthcare, ethical marketing, information management, and electronic health records. Many students complete the program in 20 month or less and stand fully prepared for work as software developers, facility managers, and informatics nurses. Program Overview: Master of Health Administration with a concentration in informatics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementNo |
Students w/ Institutional Aid32% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 14 | Ashford UniversitySan Diego, CA | Private, For-Profit | $$$ | 1 |
Ashford University’s master of science in health informatics and analytics empowers students for successful careers managing healthcare data and protecting patient information. The 39-credit program offers courses in convenient six-week terms with a complete array of 24/7 technical support. Students receive material for all courses completely online through flexible, asynchronous learning environments that promote self-motivated study. Ashford’s curriculum covers all aspects of the field, including subjects like project management, systems analysis, clinical research, information governance, and principles of biostatistics. Students complete the program by implementing a final applications project that showcases their skills and knowledge in a hands-on setting that anticipates professional employment. Program Overview: Health Information and Analytics
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementNo |
Students w/ Institutional Aid16% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission | |||
| 15 | Walden UniversityMinneapolis, MN | Private, For-Profit | $$$ | 1 |
For working professionals interested in integrating healthcare delivery and information technology solutions, Walden University grants a master of science in information technology with a specialization in health informatics. This program offers a unique approach to the field by beginning with information technology foundations and then building to innovative healthcare applications. Walden divides the curriculum into core courses and specialization courses. Instruction in core classes looks at database design, programming principles and networking, while specialization coursework focuses on health informatics and information systems management. All coursework takes place online with support from a robust menu of technical and student services available around the clock. Program Overview: Health Informatics: MS in Information Technology
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementNo |
Students w/ Institutional Aid0% |
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission |
Detailed Look at an Accredited Online Master’s Health Informatics Program
To give you a better idea of what it’s like to earn your health informatics master’s online, we’ve spotlighted a fully-online program from a top accredited university. See what you can expect in the school profile below.
University of Miami Online
The University of Miami developed a fully online M.S. in health informatics for degree seekers who want to take advantage of cutting edge teaching and research. Taught by faculty with industry experience, the program can be completed in just 22 months and offers flexible learning options. Classes are taught in seven week blocks, making it easy for students to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. The program comprises 33 credits in areas of healthcare database design, development, and clinical application; structure and processes in healthcare organization and health policy; and legal, ethical, and regulatory issues in health informatics. Graduation also requires the completion of a comprehensive capstone project.
The department offers three start dates throughout the academic year, with applications due in April, August, or December. No minimum GPA requirements exist but applicants must supply transcripts, a personal statement, a resume, and two professional recommendations to receive consideration. Aside from academic support, distance learners can access career support specifically designed for those enrolled away from campus.
The Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation often gets overlooked, but it can mean the difference between a program that pushes your health informatics career forward, and one that doesn’t. Failing to attend a properly accredited institution can result in the inability to transfer credits, seek qualifications, or compete for employment and/or promotions. Because of this, it’s critical to ensure you chosen school holds the accreditation you need.
Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional and programmatic. You should look for regionally accredited colleges and universities first. This means the school itself has met rigorous quality standards. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes six regional accrediting agencies, as outlined by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Institutional accreditation is also important because it ensures individual departments and programs meet requirements around curricula, support services, and student preparedness. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) maintains a searchable program directory so you can check the accreditation status of any program you’re interested in.
Breaking Down the Online Master’s in Health Informatics
With options on the rise, vetting each online master’s in health informatics you’re interested in is critical. On the surface, a program may seem like it has what you need, until you research the cost structure or the course list. And some programs may seem like they’ll fall short at first, until you notice they have a concentration in the exact area your employer wants to grow. The best college decision is an informed one. Here are key answers you need to know before you start applying.
What do you learn in an online master’s program in health informatics?
Every master’s in health informatics is different, but many have core subjects in common. Some of the courses you can expect to encounter include:
Intro to Health Informatics
Typically taken in the first semester, this class introduces you to the core tenets of the discipline. The plan of study includes a history of the field, studies on how to effectively use electronic health records, and a discussion of various specialization areas.
Principles of Database Applications
This course familiarizes learners with the nuts and bolts of database applications with studies in relational database designs, data mining, SQL, recovery and security methods, data warehousing, and intelligent database query design.
Health Informatics and Population Health
Students taking this class learn how the wealth of information stored within digital health records can help improve health outcomes across communities. They consider questions around evidence-based practice, data mining, and collecting and storing useful information.
Current Trends in Health Informatics
With a look toward the future, this course examines emerging trends and topics within the field. Learners consider newly developed technologies and information management systems and how those can translate to healthcare.
Healthcare Data
With the increased importance of analytics in healthcare informatics, it’s important for professionals in this realm to understand how to capture and communicate findings from raw data and translate them into useable information.
Aside from developing a deeper knowledge of healthcare informatics topics, graduates also walk away with finely tuned skills that can help them excel in the workplace. When looking at prospective degrees, try to find information about programmatic outcomes. Common skills gained include:
- Oral and written communications
- Problem solving
- Adaptability
- Programming
- Data mining
What concentrations are available in MHI programs?
Given that health informatics continually expands as the value of patient data grows, more and more programs now offer specializations. These can help you stand out from other job competitors while also allowing you to work in the area of the field that best speaks to your interests. Current specializations include:
Bioinformatics
Perhaps the most science-focused of specializations, bioinformatics looks at how factors such as genetics and biological makeup can be used when designing new medical procedures or pharmaceuticals. By collecting data around these topics, scientists and doctors can make more informed decisions.
Clinical Informatics
Clinical informatics looks to bridge the gap between research and clinical practices. Professionals in this area work to demonstrate how the collection of appropriate patient data can affect and strengthen healthcare delivery while also training practitioners on emerging data management systems.
Health Data Science
Health data scientists look at a variety of medical data, including patient surveys, electronic health records (EHRs), insurance and billing claims, and cost statements to find ways of improving the entire system of healthcare delivery. They work closely with executives to help them make informed decisions.
Healthcare Information Systems
This specialization focuses on the technical side of informatics, with emphasis on proper collection, organization, storage, and safety protocols. Areas of focus include setting up databases, developing security measures, and reducing errors.
Public Health Informatics
Designed for those who want to look at data around larger health questions, this specialization examines epidemics, illnesses, and health problems that affect individual communities or regions in a way to better understand how to eradicate them.
Social Informatics
This branch of the discipline focuses on capturing data around how social environments, lived experiences, and technology connect to health outcomes. Social informatics specialists use data to find links between each, particularly in areas of stress and depression.
What are the prerequisites to master’s in health informatics degrees online?
Institutional requirements for admission vary, but generally have a few elements in common. All programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, but this doesn’t necessarily need to be in healthcare or a related subject. Many set minimum GPA requirements but usually don’t demand GRE or GMAT scores. Some schools may request scores if the applicant does not meet the GPA benchmark. Other requirements include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, an updated resume, and official transcripts.
How long does it take to earn a master’s in health informatics online?
As you research online master’s in health informatics, you may notice several timelines for graduation. Numerous factors can affect how long it takes to earn a degree, including whether you study on a full- or part-time basis and if the school offers an accelerated path. Many programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and take approximately two years to complete. Carefully research prospective degrees to learn what to expect. If you can’t find information online, reach out to a program administrator.
What does a master’s in HI cost?
Many factors affect the cost of a master’s in health informatics online. Private universities typically cost more than public colleges, part-time learners end up paying more in semester-based fees, and schools in cities with higher costs often charge higher tuition – even for online programs. It’s also important to consider how much funding you secure when thinking about how much you can afford. The schools below represent a sample of typical costs for both public and private universities.
How to Fund Your Online Master’s Program in Health Informatics
Higher education is a serious investment, making it important for students to line up funding before entering a program. A number of funding options exist to help you lessen your financial burden both during your program and after graduation. A few options to consider include:
1
Scholarships
Scholarships for master’s in health informatics can be found via a variety of sources, including colleges and universities, professional associations, state and local governments, nonprofit foundations, and hospital corporations. Start your scholarship search early to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
2
The U.S. Department of Education offers several financial aid opportunities, all of which require you to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid each year of enrollment. Funds are disbursed on a rolling basis, meaning the earlier you apply the better your chance of receiving support.
3
Grants
Like scholarships, grants are a type of funding that do not require repayment as long as you meet the terms of the agreement. Federal, state, and local governments offer grants, as do health informatics associations, medical establishments, and schools.
4
Fellowships
Fellowships are granted by colleges and universities in exchange for work from the student while enrolled. Common requirements include serving as a teaching or research assistant. In exchange, you can receive tuition remittance and/or a stipend.
Careers & Salaries for Master’s in Health Informatics Graduates
Before committing to any degree, you need to fully understand the career landscape you will enter after graduating. Take time to research jobs to which this degree qualifies you and how much you can earn. Look at specific job titles and ascertain whether they are projected to grow, stagnate, or decrease in the years to come.
Are there any professional licenses or certifications I need to get?
Health informatics is still seen as an emerging field; because of that, some parts of the discipline have yet to be formalized. No state currently requires health informatics professionals to hold licensure, but many employers view certifications as a way of differentiating candidates and validating their knowledge. Several professional associations and universities offer health informatics certifications in sub-disciplines for students who want to work in a niche area. Consider how these may support your interests before applying, as they may not always be needed.
What can I do with my master’s?
It’s an exciting time to enter the world of health informatics given its meteoric rise in importance over the last decade. As more healthcare providers and insurance companies digitize patient records, opportunities to use this data in innovative ways that improve health outcomes continue to grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for medical and health services managers, which include health informatics professionals, will grow by 18% between 2018-2028. A master’s degree can help you qualify for high-growth management and executive careers while also getting you one step closer to a Ph.D. Check out a few career options below.
How much can I earn with an online master’s in health informatics?
Earning a master’s in health informatics can help you command a substantial salary, as evidenced in the table below. When reviewing the numbers, remember that two major factors impact earnings: education level and experience.
| Career | Employed | Entry-Level | Early Career | Mid-Career | Experienced | Late Career |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Consultants (Management Analysts) | 684,470 | $48,360 | $62,500 | $83,610 | $112,140 | $152,760 |
| Medical and Health Service Manager | 372,670 | $58,680 | $76,050 | $99,730 | $130,820 | $182,600 |
| Clinical Informatics Manager | $86,666 | $93,807 | $101,970 | – | ||
| Healthcare IT Manager | 195,530 | $85,380 | $110,110 | $142,530 | $180,190 | ≥ $208,000 |
| Chief Medical Information Officer | 195,530 | $68,360 | $115,960 | $189,600 | ≥ $208,000 | > $208,000 |
Related Degrees & Continuing Education
After reviewing details about master’s in health informatics programs, you may find you want something a little different. Healthcare offers plenty of opportunities to advance with continuing education or pivot into a related career with a second degree. If you already possess a master’s degree, you may want to consider how a doctorate supports your professional goals. Take a look at a few of the options that may be a good fit if you’re studying or working in health informatics.
Related Degrees
This degree supports existing registered nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree and want to qualify as an advanced practice nurse (APN). Bridge programs typically take two years and emphasize studies in how data collection and analyzation can help nurses better serve patients.
Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
The MHA is a great option for business-minded students who desire to work in the upper echelons of administration. These programs emphasize business functions alongside improvement of patient outcomes, creating a multidisciplinary approach.
Online Master’s in Health Science
While the MHI, MSN, and MHA all prepare graduates for professional roles, the master’s in health science acts as a stepping stone to research-based positions and/or doctoral studies. Several paths exist within health science, so do your research before committing to a specific program.
Continuing Education
PhD in Health Informatics
Acting as a terminal degree for health informatics professionals, the Ph.D. is a great option if you aspire to senior-level professional roles, research positions, and/or professorial opportunities. These programs typically take five years to complete and give you an expansive and deep knowledge of the discipline.