Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Updated June 2, 2023
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Health informatics bachelor's degrees qualify graduates to work as health information managers.
Health information managers help medical facilities run efficiently by securing patient records, overseeing healthcare data, and maintaining medical information. They also make sure healthcare organizations follow regulations and laws about patient confidentiality.
Health information managers enjoy above-average salaries and high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, health information managers earn a median annual salary of nearly $100,000, with strong projected job growth from 2018-2028.
Featured Online Schools
This guide ranks the top online health informatics bachelor's degrees to help prospective students find the best programs for their needs. This page also provides information on how to choose an online health informatics degree and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking competitive online learning opportunities should consider the online bachelor's degrees at University of Cincinnati-Main Campus. The public college supports distance learners across 11 online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in health information management.
Degree-seekers benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. By working with their academic advisor, enrollees can modify their course load to suit their needs. Students can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications.
Currently, undergraduate students pay $24,810 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray degree costs. The school averages financial aid award packages of $6,981 per student.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 19,270
Total Online Programs: 66
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 77%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Illinois at Chicago provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degrees. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's three fully online bachelor's programs appealing. Distance learners interested in the healthcare field can pursue the school's bachelor of science in health information management.
The program supports flexible study for degree-seekers from all walks of life. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework, choose electives, and pursue other educational opportunities relevant to their career goals.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $26,224 in tuition. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. On average, learners receive $13,136 in financial aid.
University of Illinois at Chicago at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,719
Total Online Programs: 14
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 73%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
East Carolina University, located in Greenville, North Carolina, enables distance learning across 69 online programs. The college offers 18 online bachelor's degrees, reaching 13,890 distance learners worldwide. Students seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the healthcare field will find the school's online bachelor of science in health information management attractive. The program supports flexible study for degree-seekers from all walks of life.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. By working with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $37,300 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Students can expect to pay an average of $13,635 per year for tuition and fees. Interested applicants can contact the department to learn about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 13,890
Total Online Programs: 69
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 79%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Central Florida, a public college in Orlando, boasts a robust online learning community. Undergraduates can choose from 19 online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in health informatics. Enrollees can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a postgraduate career. By working with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $39,900. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $11,617 per year in tuition and fees. Prospective applicants should contact the department to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of University of Toledo's 32 online programs. Of these programs, 10 provide an undergraduate-level education. One option includes a bachelor of science in health information administration. The program supports flexible study for online enrollees.
Degree candidates complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. Students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's graduates can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The school reports a median salary of $37,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Students typically pay $17,822 for tuition and fees, on average, per year. Prospective applicants can meet with the department to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
University of Toledo at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,874
Total Online Programs: 32
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 96%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree? Consider Louisiana Tech University. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from three online bachelor's degrees. For students looking to advance in a healthcare-adjacent career, the online bachelor's in health information management is a wise choice. Working professionals and busy students will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Enrollees complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the field. Degree candidates also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
Bachelor's degree-holders benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $38,800 six years after finishing their degree. Students typically pay $12,261 for tuition and fees, on average, per year. To learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities, prospective applicants should contact the department.
Louisiana Tech University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,908
Total Online Programs: 15
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 64%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider Saint Joseph's College of Maine's online bachelor of science in health information management. The school offers six online bachelor's programs. The health information management program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Enrollees can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $42,500, according to the college. Potential applicants should connect with the department to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 792
Total Online Programs: 23
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 87%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, enables distance learning across 93 online programs. The college offers 15 online bachelor's degrees, reaching 7,468 distance learners worldwide. Students looking to advance in the healthcare field will find the school's bachelor's in health information management an attractive option. Enrollees benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. By consulting their academic advisor, learners can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. Graduates who have completed their degree, gain on average a median salary of $30,800 after six years. The average undergraduate pays $12,174 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Western Kentucky University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,468
Total Online Programs: 93
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 97%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Peirce College
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Peirce College, a private not-for-profit institution, offers competitive bachelor's degrees. The college prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 10 online bachelor's programs. Distance learners can enroll in the bachelor's in health information administration program to complete a college degree online.
The program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. Students complete coursework relevant to the field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework.
Currently, undergraduate students pay $14,400 in tuition. Students at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies.
Peirce College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,052
Total Online Programs: 18
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: Data not available
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree? Consider Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis. The college offers seven online bachelor's degrees, reaching 12,161 distance learners worldwide. For students looking to advance in a healthcare-adjacent career, the online bachelor of science in health information management is a wise choice. The program prioritizes flexibility through full- or part-time study options.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. Learners can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $39,900 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Students can expect to pay $9,807 in tuition and fees per year. To learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities, prospective applicants should contact the department.
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 12,161
Total Online Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 81%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Oregon Institute of Technology
Klamath Falls, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oregon Institute of Technology, a public college in Klamath Falls, offers 15 online programs. Online undergraduate students can choose from 10 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor's in health informatics. The program offers flexible study options, allowing enrollees to pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Degree candidates can explore electives, minors, and degree concentrations by working with their academic advisor.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $52,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. The college reports that the average undergraduate pays $16,670 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Oregon Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,618
Total Online Programs: 15
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 97%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in health information management should consider Davenport University. The private college supports distance learners across 24 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in health information management is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the field.
The online degree prioritizes flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Learners can also choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $18,408 in tuition. Enrollees at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies.
Davenport University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,707
Total Online Programs: 71
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 82%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University enables online learning across 84 online programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of 35 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor's in health information management. The program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. The curriculum prepares enrollees for the demands of the field. Students can explore electives, minors, and degree concentrations by working with their academic advisor.
Bachelor's graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $43,300, according to the college. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Dakota State University
Madison, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Madison, South Dakota, Dakota State University offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The school supports distancing learning across 13 remote bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in health informatics and information management is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the field.
The program enables flexible study. Degree candidates complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify their coursework. Students can also choose elective classes, or pursue a minor, to further their learning.
At present, undergraduates pay $10,611 in tuition. Learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Students at the college receive an average of $4,729 in financial aid.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,206
Total Online Programs: 37
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 77%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Southern Indiana, a public college in Evansville, offers premier educational opportunities across 58 bachelor's programs. The public college supports distance learners across five online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in health informatics and information management is one option.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework to meet academic and career goals.
Students can expect to pay $19,296 in tuition. The institution's accreditation status enables enrollees to benefit from financial aid during their studies. On average, degree-seekers receive $6,249 in financial aid.
University of Southern Indiana at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,785
Total Online Programs: 17
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 93%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider Ferris State University. Undergraduate students can choose from 10 online bachelor's degrees at the Big Rapids, Michigan, school. One option includes a bachelor's in health information management. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
Learners complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the field. By working with their academic advisor, students can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
Bachelor's graduates can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The school reports a median salary of $40,300 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Undergraduates pay a net price of $13,097 per year at the institution. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the department to learn about admission requirements and application materials.
Ferris State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,610
Total Online Programs: 32
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 87%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Texas State University offers an online bachelor of science in health information management. Enrollees can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Students can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. At the college, learners can expect to earn a median salary of $40,600 six years after graduation. Degree-seekers can expect to pay an average of $13,178 per year for tuition and fees. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the department.
Texas State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 11,452
Total Online Programs: 1
Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: 81%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
Weber State University
Ogden, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Ogden, Utah, Weber State University offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's eight fully online bachelor's degrees attractive. The online bachelor's in health information management supports online degree-seekers.
Enrollees complete coursework pertinent to the field. The curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Degree candidates can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $14,973 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows learners to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. The college reports that students receive an average of $3,770 in financial aid.
Weber State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 10,457
Total Online Programs: 17
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: Data not available
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay supports highly ranked bachelor's degrees from its main campus in Green Bay. The public institution offers three online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in health information management and technology.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Learners seeking to modify their studies or choose electives can work with their academic advisor.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $14,516 in tuition. Degree-seekers can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their studies. The school reports an average financial aid award of $5,117 per student.
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,503
Total Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 85%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY Polytechnic Institute, located in Utica, New York, enables distance learning across seven online programs. Of these offerings, two provide undergraduate-level education. Learners hoping to advance in the healthcare field can enroll in the college's bachelor's in health information management program. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Enrollees can modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports a median salary of $45,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. The average undergraduate pays $14,420 in tuition and fees yearly. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,341
Total Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 69%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Bachelor's in Health Informatics Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Choosing an Online Program
Before enrolling in an online master's in health informatics, consider factors like cost, curriculum, and formatting. Visit the link below for more program selection tips.
What Is Health Informatics?
Health informatics refers to the organization of health records to improve patient outcomes and help healthcare organizations run efficiently. The field blends business, technology, and healthcare knowledge. Health informatics specialists rely on technologies like databases and electronic records programs to classify and store healthcare records. In addition to storing healthcare records, health informatics professionals may create records and check healthcare data for its accuracy.
Some health informatics jobs involve entering medical data into healthcare records, while other roles focus on maintaining the privacy of health information through cybersecurity methods. Health information managers oversee healthcare information systems, ensuring that organizations follow legal and regulatory requirements for storing and using healthcare data.
By maintaining accurate records, healthcare informatics professionals help doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals care for patients. Many health informatics jobs require a bachelor's degree, including positions like health information manager.
What Is a Bachelor's Degree in Health Informatics?
A bachelor's degree in health informatics trains students to manage healthcare data, including patient histories, electronic medical records, and other medical information. Students take courses in healthcare regulations, data analytics, and health information management.
In addition to major requirements, undergraduates take general education courses designed to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Many programs also offer electives so students can customize the degree for their interests and professional goals. A bachelor's in health informatics generally takes four years of full-time study to complete.
Most colleges and universities require high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students with prior college credit must also submit college transcripts. After gaining admission to the college or university, applicants may also need to complete prerequisite courses and meet other requirements to declare a health informatics major.
In addition to managerial roles, graduates with a bachelor's in health informatics qualify to pursue online master's programs in healthcare informatics.
What Will I Learn in an Online Bachelor's in Health Informatics Program?
- Introduction to Health Informatics: This course provides an overview of health informatics, including the role of technology in patient records, the maintenance of information systems, and the role of informatics in healthcare delivery. Students learn about technology platforms commonly used in healthcare, regulations governing healthcare data storage, and various uses of healthcare data. The course prepares majors for advanced health informatics classes.
- Medical Terminology and Healthcare Classifications: Health informatics jobs require familiarity with medical terminology and healthcare classifications. This course introduces students to the healthcare vocabulary necessary for health information management careers. Students also learn about healthcare classification systems and anatomy and bodily systems.
- Healthcare Information Flow and Data Management: This course covers topics like computerized medical billing, healthcare data collection, and data security in healthcare. Learners gain the management skills necessary to oversee data for healthcare organizations with an emphasis on patient records, electronic health records, and data collection standards.
- Administrative Practices: This class examines health delivery systems, management principles, and organizational theory. Students learn how to evaluate information technology services, oversee a budget, and design strategic plans based on a healthcare organization's needs. The class prepares students for executive leadership roles in healthcare.
- Law and Ethics: Classes on healthcare law and ethics introduce students to the legal and regulatory frameworks around managing confidential patient information. Students also learn about ethical situations and dilemmas, gaining practical knowledge that they can apply to management health informatics jobs.
Accreditation for Online Health Informatics Degrees
When considering an online health informatics bachelor's degree, prospective students should always check the school's accreditation status. Accredited colleges and universities meet high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and academic rigor. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education grants programmatic accreditation for healthcare informatics programs.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. First, many employers prefer candidates with an accredited degree, and graduate programs often require an accredited bachelor's degree for admission. Additionally, only students at accredited institutions qualify for federal financial aid. Students can verify a school's accreditation status through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation's database.
Health Informatics Jobs
The following list introduces several common health informatics jobs for graduates with a bachelor's degree. However, some positions may require additional experience, education, or professional certification.
Medical and Health Services Managers
| Median Salary (2019): $99,730 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 18% |
|---|
Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, coordinate health services for a facility, clinic, or medical practice. They analyze data to improve the efficiency of healthcare services, develop procedures to meet regulatory requirements, and supervise staff members. Medical and health services managers also monitor budgets and maintain records on the facility's services.
Medical and health services managers can work in several fields, including nursing home administration and health information management. They typically need a bachelor's degree for entry-level roles.
Health Information Technicians
| Median Salary (2019): $40,350 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 11% |
|---|
Health information technicians, also known as medical records technicians, organize and manage healthcare data. They ensure the quality and accuracy of data while protecting the security of confidential information. Health information technicians use classification systems to code patient information for databases, insurance reimbursement, and registries. They also maintain patient records.
Many health information technicians rely on electronic record systems to store healthcare data. Technicians may work as medical or health services managers after completing a bachelor's program and earning certification.
Computer Information Systems Managers
| Median Salary (2019): $142,530 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 11% |
|---|
Computer information systems managers oversee an organization's computer systems and information technology. They analyze an organization's computer needs, recommend upgrades, and oversee computer hardware and software. Computer information systems managers also keep an organization's network and data secure by implementing cybersecurity measures.
In healthcare, computer systems managers may oversee complex systems designed to protect confidential patient information and provide informatics for healthcare systems. Most positions require a bachelor's degree in computer or information science. Some roles require a graduate degree.
Health Informatics Professional Organizations
Health informatics students and professionals benefit from joining professional organizations. Many professional organizations offer training resources, professional certifications, and networking opportunities to help members advance their careers. These organizations may also connect members with health informatics jobs through their career centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Health Informatics?
Health informatics refers to the creation, storage, and analysis of healthcare records. Medical facilities rely on health informatics to operate efficiently and improve patient health outcomes.
What Is a Degree in Health Informatics?
Health informatics bachelor's degrees teach students how to store and manage healthcare data, including electronic patient records. Graduates from health informatics programs qualify for managerial roles in health informatics.
What Is Biomedical and Health Informatics?
The field of biomedical and health informatics uses information sciences to conduct life sciences research and improve patient care. Professionals in this field use technology to analyze and store healthcare data.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Health Informatics?
A health informatics degree prepares graduates for in-demand roles, such as health informatics manager. The degree also meets the qualifications for many other administrative medical and health services jobs.
What Does a Health Informatics Specialist Do?
A health informatics specialist maintains medical records and ensures the secure storage of medical data.
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