Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Laura Martinez
Elevate your career with a Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online—where technology meets healthcare. Gain cutting-edge skills to improve patient outcomes and drive innovations in the ever-evolving health sector.
The healthcare industry is one of the top industries worldwide. With the rapid advancement of technology, healthcare has evolved to include cutting-edge methods and tools. The merging of healthcare and information technology, known as health informatics, is one of the fastest-growing fields today. Health informatics is a multidisciplinary field that utilizes information technology to organize and analyze health records to improve healthcare outcomes. A health informatics master’s degree online prepares students to bridge the gap between clinical practice and technology, enabling them to design and implement innovative health information systems. The program covers various topics, including data management, electronic health records, healthcare policy, and clinical decision support. Graduates are equipped to handle the complexities of modern healthcare environments, ensuring efficient and secure patient information management. They play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of care, optimizing healthcare processes, and advancing medical research through effective data utilization.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: MBA with concentration in Engineering Management
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Programs
Pursuing a health informatics master’s degree online is a smart decision, but selecting the right program can be challenging due to the many options available. To find the best program, students must consider factors like affordability, faculty expertise, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation. Thorough research and comparison of these aspects will help ensure a program that aligns with career goals and provides a strong educational foundation. Based on several critical components and our proprietary methodology, here is the list of the best health informatics master’s degree online programs (not arranged by ranking):
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Program
The health informatics master’s degree online program provides students with the knowledge and skills to integrate healthcare with information technology. The program typically requires around 30-45 credits and can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on full-time or part-time programs. Students will dive into data analytics, electronic health records, health information systems, and healthcare policy. The curriculum often includes theoretical coursework and practical experiences, such as internships or capstone projects, which provide a comprehensive understanding of managing and utilizing health information effectively. Graduates are prepared for healthcare administration, IT, and data management roles.
Curriculum and Coursework
Health Informatics is challenging, requiring a blend of healthcare knowledge and information technology expertise. The health informatics master’s degree online program curriculum encompasses a range of subjects, including data management, healthcare systems, and policy. Coursework is designed to build both theoretical understanding and practical skills, incorporating hands-on projects, case studies, and internships. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-prepared to tackle the complex challenges of modern healthcare environments.
Biomedical Sciences and Health IT
This course is tailored for IT professionals entering healthcare IT. It covers biomedicine basics, the American healthcare system, and IT’s roles. Students learn medical terminology, anatomy, disease processes, and how IT aids in diagnostic and therapeutic decisions through case studies.
Health Informatics
This course covers the fundamental principles and technologies of Health Informatics, including data management, algorithms, and IT components in clinical processes. It explores population health, precision medicine, knowledge management systems, and Health IT standards. Students design a simple Health Informatics solution as a term project.
Health Information Systems
This course explores comprehensive systems that automate healthcare delivery, including EHRs, telehealth, and revenue cycle management. It covers system functionality, underlying technology, and operational challenges like data security, interoperability, and mobile technology. The course uses case studies and exercises to emphasize practical application.
Ethical and Legal Issues in Healthcare Informatics
This course covers laws, regulations, and ethics in health information management and informatics. It explores legal frameworks like HIPAA, GINA, and HITECH, focusing on protecting patient confidentiality while improving information accessibility. The course aims to equip practitioners with the knowledge to make informed decisions that enhance patient safety and care quality.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
In a health informatics master’s degree online program, students gain a deep understanding of integrating technology with healthcare practices. Learning outcomes include mastering health information systems management, understanding data analytics, and navigating complex healthcare environments. Graduates develop the ability to handle biomedical data effectively, apply IT solutions in clinical settings, and address data security and interoperability challenges. The program fosters a comprehensive grasp of how technology supports and enhances healthcare delivery and management. Upon completing the program, students gain the following skills:
- Develop expertise in managing and implementing health information systems.
- Understand the integration of technology within healthcare environments.
- Analyze and interpret healthcare data to support decision-making.
- Navigate complex healthcare regulations and compliance issues.
- Design and evaluate electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Apply data analytics to improve healthcare outcomes.
- Address challenges related to data security and privacy.
- Utilize health IT tools to enhance clinical processes and patient care.
- Understand and apply principles of health information management.
- Develop solutions to optimize the use and management of biomedical data
Types of Degrees Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Students Can Obtain
Online students pursuing a master’s degree in health informatics can obtain a Master of Science (MS) in Health Informatics. This is the primary degree offered in this field through online programs.
Master of Science (MS) in Health Informatics
The MS in Health Informatics provides students with specialized knowledge and skills in health informatics, allowing them to advance their healthcare technology and data management expertise. It is the standard degree option for those studying health informatics online.
Areas of Specialization for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
Specializations in a Master’s in Health Informatics allow students to concentrate on specific areas of interest. This focus enables students to tailor their coursework and projects according to their chosen area, deepening their expertise in particular aspects of health informatics. By specializing, students gain targeted knowledge and skills, enhancing their ability to address specific challenges and opportunities in healthcare settings, ultimately aligning their education with their career goals. Here are some specializations that students of health informatics master’s degree online can pursue:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Data Analytics[1] | This specialization focuses on leveraging data to improve healthcare outcomes. It covers topics like data mining, predictive analytics, and statistical modeling. Students learn to analyze healthcare data, identify trends, and inform decision-making, enhancing efficiency and patient care through data-driven insights and solutions. | Health Data Analyst Clinical Data Scientist Healthcare Business Intelligence Analyst Population Health Analyst |
| Health Information Management[2] | This specialization focuses on the organization, storage, and protection of healthcare data. It covers electronic health records (EHR) management, healthcare data standards, and regulatory compliance. Students gain skills in managing health information systems to ensure accurate, secure, and efficient data handling in healthcare environments. | Health Information Manager Clinical Data Manager Medical Records Director Health Information Systems Administrator |
| Health Administration Informatics | This specialization focuses on integrating informatics with healthcare administration. Students learn to manage health information systems, optimize administrative processes, and implement technology solutions for healthcare management. This specialization equips individuals with the skills to improve organizational efficiency and support strategic decision-making in healthcare settings. | Health Information Manager Hospital IT Director Healthcare Operations Manager Health Services Manager |
| Biomedical Informatics | This specialization focuses on the application of informatics in biomedical research and practice. Students focus on managing and analyzing biomedical data, developing computational models, and utilizing bioinformatics tools. This specialization prepares individuals to enhance research, improve clinical outcomes, and advance the integration of informatics in biomedical sciences. | Biomedical Data Scientist Bioinformatics Analyst Clinical Research Informatics Specialist Computational Biologist |
| Health Policy and Administration | This specialization explores the intersection of health informatics with policy and administrative functions. Students learn to design and implement policies that leverage health information systems, improve healthcare delivery, and navigate regulatory environments. This specialization equips individuals to influence policy decisions and enhance administrative processes in healthcare organizations. | Health Policy Analyst Healthcare Compliance Officer Health Services Researcher Public Health Administrator |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online programs offer flexible options for students, including full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks. Full-time programs typically take 1-2 years to complete, providing an immersive experience. Part-time programs, ideal for working professionals, extend over 2-3 years, allowing for a balanced approach to education and career. Accelerated programs enable students to complete their degree in as little as 12 months, fast-tracking their entry into the health informatics field. Here’s a summary of completion timelines for the health informatics master’s degree online:
- Full-Time Programs: Typically completed in 1-2 years
- Part-Time Programs: Usually take 2-3 years to complete
- Accelerated Programs: Can be completed in less than one year
Accelerated Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
Accelerated health informatics master’s degree online programs enable students to finish their degree in as little as 12 months. These rigorous programs are tailored for driven individuals who want to expedite their education and quickly start working. By compressing the coursework into a shorter period, students can swiftly gain the required skills and knowledge, giving them a competitive advantage in the job market and fast-tracking their careers in the health informatics field. Here are a few institutions providing an accelerated health informatics master’s degree online program.
Requirements for Getting into a Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
When it comes to admissions, students are often concerned about how to get into an health informatics master’s degree online program. Admission criteria can vary significantly from one university to another, reflecting each institution’s unique emphasis and priorities. Generally, prospective students should be prepared to demonstrate a solid academic background, relevant experience, and a commitment to the field. Understanding the specific requirements and tailoring applications to highlight individual strengths can significantly enhance the chances of acceptance. Common admission requirements for a health informatics master’s degree online include:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA requirement (often around 3.0 or higher)
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Professional resume or CV
- Relevant work experience in healthcare or IT (preferred)
- GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement)
- English proficiency test scores (for international applicants)
No GRE Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, serving as a common metric for graduate school admissions. It is important because it provides a uniform measure to compare applicants’ academic abilities. However, many institutions now waive the GRE requirement, recognizing that other factors, such as work experience, GPA, and personal statements, can better predict a candidate’s success in specific programs. Here are a few institutions that offer an health informatics master’s degree online with no GRE:
How to Ensure a Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Is Accredited
Accreditation is a validation process in which an external body evaluates an educational program to ensure it meets specific quality standards. For students, accreditation ensures that the program delivers a recognized and reputable education, enhancing employability and career prospects. It also guarantees that credits earned are transferable and that the program is eligible for federal financial aid. Overall, accreditation assures the program’s academic rigor and industry relevance. Commission of Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM)[8] is an accreditation body that assesses departments and universities. Accreditation application is voluntary and occurs periodically.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Students
When it comes to free courses, students can access a wealth of knowledge without financial barriers. These courses offer flexible learning opportunities, allowing individuals to acquire new skills, explore different subjects, and enhance their resumes. Free online courses can provide a solid foundation in various fields, support career transitions, and complement formal education. By leveraging these resources, students can stay competitive, informed, and prepared for professional growth and advancement. Here are a few free online courses that students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| AI and Big Data in Global Health Improvement[9] | This course delves into how artificial intelligence and big data enhance healthcare. Over four weeks, you’ll explore the benefits and challenges of global data sharing, focusing on improving medical safety and care. Learn best practices for data sharing and discover how AI can address issues like prescription errors to advance global health. | Class Central |
| Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment[10] | The Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment course explores how economic principles apply to healthcare decision-making and resource allocation. It covers key concepts like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and health technology assessment (HTA). You’ll study health technologies’ effectiveness, cost, and impact and learn to use economic evaluations like cost-effectiveness analysis to improve healthcare systems. | Alison |
| Digital Health Innovation Using the Biodesign Process[11] | This course focuses on the “identify” phase, teaching the development of needs statements, crucial for the Biodesign process. Participants will screen and prioritize needs, evaluate problem fundamentals, and gain insights into market and competitor analyses to refine digital health solutions. | Udemy |
Ways to Pay for a Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
Health informatics is in demand, as is the tuition for pursuing a Master’s degree in this field. To manage costs, students should consider several strategies. Opting for online programs can reduce expenses related to commuting and materials. Many universities offer flexible payment plans that can ease financial strain. Additionally, exploring part-time study options allows students to work while studying, helping to balance income and educational expenses. Choosing institutions with competitive pricing and financial support services can also be beneficial. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a degree. They are often awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to the field of study, helping students manage tuition costs and focus more on their education.
Grants are financial aids awarded to students based on need or specific criteria, often requiring no repayment. They help cover tuition and other educational expenses, making higher education more accessible and alleviating student financial pressure.
Student Loans
Student loans provide funds to cover educational expenses, which must be repaid with interest after graduation. They can help bridge the gap between tuition costs and available resources, but borrowers should carefully consider terms and repayment plans to manage debt effectively.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer students financial support in exchange for working in research or teaching roles. They often include a stipend and may provide tuition remission, helping to offset education costs while gaining valuable experience in their field.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form that students fill out to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It assesses financial need based on income and other factors to help cover educational costs.
Scholarships for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online Students
Scholarships for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online students can provide essential financial relief, making education more accessible. These scholarships may be awarded based on academic merit, research interests, or specific criteria related to the field. Applying for these opportunities can help reduce tuition costs and support students in achieving their career goals in health informatics. Here is an example of a scholarship available for health informatics master’s degree online students to explore:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| AHIMA Foundation Scholarships[12] | The AHIMA Foundation offers annual scholarships to student members pursuing Health Information Management or Health Informatics degrees. These scholarships aim to support educational advancement and professional development in the field, helping to alleviate financial burdens and encourage the growth of future leaders in health information management. | Varies | May annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
After earning a Master of Science in Health Informatics Online, graduates can expect various opportunities in the healthcare industry as it increasingly depends on data-driven solutions and technological advancements. The field’s emphasis on enhancing healthcare delivery through information systems, data analysis, and technology integration means that individuals with this degree are well-suited for roles that connect IT and healthcare. As the sector progresses, the demand for expertise is rising. Here’s a list of potential career paths for students graduating with a health informatics master’s degree online:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Records Specialists[13] | Communication, interpersonal, and computer skills. | $48,780 | 8% (faster than average) | Medical Records Specialists manage patient files, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality. They classify and code medical information, review records for completeness, and maintain electronic health records. Their work supports insurance reimbursement, data analysis, and efficient healthcare delivery by accurately documenting and organizing patients’ medical histories and treatments. |
| Health Informatics Manager[14] | Communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. | $126,730 | No Data Available | The Health Informatics Manager oversees the deployment and maintenance of EHR and other health information systems. They lead a team in managing and analyzing clinical data, evaluating system performance, and recommending improvements. Their role ensures systems are effective and data-driven insights are used to enhance healthcare operations. |
| Clinical Informatics Manager[15] | Critical thinking, business acumen, problem-solving, and team-handling skills. | $126,728 | No Data Available | The Clinical Informatics Manager leads a team in developing, implementing, and maintaining clinical informatics systems, including EHR and order entry systems. They analyze system data to identify trends and areas for enhancement, ensuring systems operate efficiently. Their role includes recommending improvements to optimize healthcare data management and functionality. |
| Medical and Health Services Managers[16] | Communication, interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving, and team-handling skills. | $110,680 | 28% (Much faster than average) | Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate healthcare services, ensuring facilities meet legal standards and operate efficiently. They develop goals for service quality, manage budgets, supervise staff, and maintain records. Their role adapts to changes in laws and technology, varying from broad facility oversight to specific departmental tasks. |
Certifications and Licensing for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
Certifications and licensing are crucial for graduates with an Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online, as they validate specialized knowledge and expertise. Certifications demonstrate health data analysis and information systems proficiency, helping professionals pursue various career paths and enhance job prospects. Licensure, approved by relevant governmental agencies, confirms that individuals meet industry standards and are qualified for specialized roles. These credentials help graduates differentiate themselves in a competitive job market and advance their careers. Here are a few certifications that graduates of a health informatics master’s degree online can pursue:
Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT®)[17]
Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs) ensure the accuracy and completeness of medical records across various healthcare settings. They use computer systems to analyze patient data, improve care, and control costs. RHITs manage information releases, specialize in coding for reimbursement, and may handle specialized roles like cancer or trauma registrar.
Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA®)[18]
The Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential, awarded by AHIMA, validates expertise in analyzing healthcare data to improve patient care and operational efficiency. CHDAs excel in data management, statistical analysis, and reporting and are skilled in using data to drive strategic decisions and enhance healthcare outcomes.
Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)[19]
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) certification recognizes healthcare IT and management expertise. It validates proficiency in data management, health information systems, and technology integration. CPHIMS professionals are equipped to lead and manage complex healthcare IT projects and improve organizational efficiency.
Additional Resources for Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
Students should expand beyond online libraries to enhance their professional connections and knowledge. Joining organizations and associations in health informatics provides access to forums, national meetings, research publications, and newsletters. Networking through conferences and professional events offers valuable opportunities for mentorship and guidance. These resources help students build relationships with peers and industry experts, improving their career prospects and deepening their understanding of the field. Here are a few resources that health informatics master’s degree online students can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society | The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) is a global nonprofit dedicated to transforming health systems through information and technology. It offers expertise in health innovation, public policy, and digital health, advising leaders and stakeholders on best practices. HIMSS provides various healthcare organizations with insights, education, and events, ensuring informed decision-making. |
| American Medical Informatics Association | The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA®) is dedicated to transforming healthcare through informatics. It supports professionals with education, training, and certification and emphasizes collaboration, networking, and leadership. AMIA fosters professional growth and advances healthcare reform by connecting a diverse community and bridging research with practical applications to improve health outcomes. |
| National Institutes of Health Informatics | The National Institutes of Health Informatics (NIHI) is an organization that advances innovation, research, and education in the field of Health Informatics. NIHI operates as a virtual institute and works to promote Health Informatics initiatives across academia and industry. It coordinates and facilitates research and educational efforts to drive progress in the field. |
| American Health Informatics Management Association (AHIMA) | The American Health Informatics Management Association (AHIMA) is a leading organization advancing health informatics and information management. AHIMA provides education, certification, and resources to professionals, promoting best practices and innovation in health information management. It supports the development of skills and standards for improved healthcare outcomes. |
| American Nursing Informatics Association | The American Nursing Informatics Association (ANIA) supports professional nurses in advancing nursing informatics through education, research, and practice. Founded in 1982 as CARING, ANIA fosters a community of innovative informatics professionals dedicated to high-quality, cost-effective care and addressing health disparities. Its core values include advocacy, inclusion, innovation, integrity, and quality. |
FAQs About Health Informatics Master’s Degree Online
What is a health informatics master’s degree online program?
A health informatics master’s degree online program focuses on the intersection of healthcare and information technology, teaching students to manage and analyze healthcare data. This program covers electronic health records, data analytics, and health information systems. The online format offers flexibility for working professionals to study remotely.
How long does it typically take to complete a health informatics master’s degree online?
Can I pursue a health informatics master’s degree online with a non-healthcare background?
What can you do with an health informatics master’s degree online?
How does the program stay updated with industry trends and advancements?
How are exams conducted for an online Master’s in Health Informatics program?
Is a health informatics master’s degree online worth it?
Citations:
Commission of Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM)
Class Central- AI and Big Data in Global Health Improvement
Alison- Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment
Udemy- Digital Health Innovation Using the Biodesign Process
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Medical Records Specialists
Salary.com- Health Informatics Manager
Salary.com- Clinical Informatics Manager
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Medical and Health Services Managers
Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT®)
Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA®)
Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)