Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Updated June 5, 2023
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Healthcare informatics degrees prepare students for careers as data and information professionals in clinical and medical fields.
Health informatics uses information technology and data to improve the quality of healthcare services and patient care. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the demand for medical and health services managers will grow 18% between 2018 and 2028.
With a master's degree, health informatics professionals can find work in management positions, including as health economists, bioinformatics specialists, medical technologists, and data analysts. Although salary potential varies by experience and job title, many occupations offer annual salaries above $70,000.
The following ranked list explores the 25 best health informatics degrees online. Other topics in this guide include common courses, admission requirements, concentrations, and career paths.
Featured Online Schools
Best Online Master's in Healthcare Informatics Programs 2022
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online health informatics degree can enroll in the master of professional science in biomedical and health informatics program at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Master's degree-holders can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to health informatics. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The admission requirements include a background in health informatics or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Degree candidates also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 23%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of professional science in biomedical and health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
#2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, enrolls students in its online master's in health informatics program. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in health informatics. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in health informatics or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Northwestern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master's in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $56,067
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $56,067
#3 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in health informatics degree at Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Master's graduates can move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in health informatics. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants with a background in health informatics typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Degree-seekers can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Brandeis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 30%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $51,940
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,940
#4 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio-based University of Cincinnati-Main Campus offers an online master of health informatics. Enrollees train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in health informatics. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants with a background in health informatics typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. These and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,790
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,532
#5 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
DePaul University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of science in health informatics at DePaul University ranks as a top program. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training students for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's degree-holders can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in health informatics or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
#6 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students can earn a master of science in health informatics at Michigan Technological University, located in Houghton. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the health informatics field and related industries. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in health informatics. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in health informatics or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Michigan Technological University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,511
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,511
#7 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online degree can enroll in the BSN-to-MSN program at University of Mary, located in Bismarck, North Dakota. The rigorous curriculum prepares learners for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on prior experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Degree candidates can also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of Mary at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program name: BSN-to-MSN
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,740
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,740
#8 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Dakota State University
Madison, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Madison, South Dakota, Dakota State University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master's in health informatics and information management program. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing learners for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in health informatics. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants who majored in health informatics or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master's in health informatics and information management
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,939
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,088
#9 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
University of Scranton
Scranton, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of science in health informatics at University of Scranton in Pennsylvania prioritizes flexibility. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training enrollees for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners can specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The admission requirements include a background in health informatics or a related field.
Online enrollees can meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of Scranton at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,580
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,580
#10 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University hosts a top-ranked master of science in health informatics and information management. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing enrollees for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in health informatics. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program builds on prior health informatics experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help degree-seekers expand their professional connections.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics and information management
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
#11 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of science in health informatics at George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program helps students increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in health informatics.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
George Mason University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 87%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,144
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $33,456
#12 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Regis University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Denver, Colorado, Regis University hosts a top-rated online master of science in health informatics. The program helps learners move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in health informatics. Learners can individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in health informatics before applying.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Regis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,441
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,441
#13 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
The University of Findlay
Findlay, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Findlay, Ohio, The University of Findlay offers an online master of science in health informatics. The curriculum prepares students for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on health informatics. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in health informatics or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Findlay at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,000
#14 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers a flexible online master's in health informatics. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in health informatics. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a degree in health informatics or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Master's in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
#15 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
Logan University
Chesterfield, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Chesterfield, Missouri, Logan University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master of science in health informatics. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in health informatics. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a health informatics background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Logan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of science in health informatics
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,900
Online Master's in Healthcare Informatics Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these 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.
-
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.
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What Is an Online Master's in Healthcare Informatics Degree?
Health informatics graduate programs typically use an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating fundamental components of health informatics, health sciences, and information technology alongside business and management principles.
Programs typically include courses in medical information systems security, data architecture and modeling, healthcare information systems, legal issues in health medical informatics, and health data and electronic health records. Some programs also offer specializations, such as clinical informatics or health administration informatics.
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 Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Healthcare Informatics Program?
A health informatics online degree develops competencies in electronic data technologies, risk assessment and telehealth, systems analysis and design, and healthcare software. Students also explore epidemiology, law and ethics, and project design. Many programs also require a final research project capstone.
Master's in Healthcare Informatics Curriculum
Healthcare Statistics
Students in this course explore the practical applications of descriptive and inferential statistics as they are used in healthcare settings. Learners analyze data to formulate a data procurement plan. Students also learn how to distribute published health research data and apply new knowledge within the industry.
Infectious Disease Epidemiology
In this course, students learn about infectious diseases and epidemiology's scope and practice. Topics include epidemiological history and vocabulary, disease surveillance strategies, laboratory diagnosis, molecular epidemiology, and assessment of vaccine field effectiveness.
Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Information
This course emphasizes privacy, data security, and the confidentiality of health information. Students focus on information technology and management, including topics like information security, risk management, and data integrity and validity.
Healthcare Informatics Certifications and Licenses
Professionals with a master's degree in health informatics may earn the registered health informatics administrator (RHIA) certification. Offered by the American Health Information Management Association, this certification provides health informatics professionals with a recognized stamp of excellence, which can help in pursuing or advancing their careers.
Healthcare Informatics Careers
An online master's in health informatics prepares graduates for advanced careers in the healthcare field. They may find work in clinical settings or as healthcare administrators or information research scientists. Graduates can also find work at government agencies, nonprofits, and private insurance and pharmaceutical companies.
Medical and Health Services Managers
| Median Salary (2019): $100,980 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 18% |
|---|
Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare administrators, help plan, direct, and coordinate health services. Administrators may oversee an entire medical facility or a specific clinical department. Tasks include developing goals and objectives, recruiting and training staff, managing finances, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. At minimum, a bachelor's degree is required to enter this field, although master's degrees are common. Employers often prefer candidates with prior work experience in a healthcare facility.
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
| Median Salary (2019): $40,350 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 11% |
|---|
Medical records and health information technicians organize and manage electronic and hardcopy health information data, ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and security. Tasks include reviewing patient records, using classification software to assign clinical codes, and maintaining data for clinical databases.
Entry-level health information technicians need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree. Employers may require additional certification, such as a registered health information technician credential. With a bachelor's or master's degree in health informatics, technicians may advance to managerial positions.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
| Median Salary (2019): $122,840 | Projected Job Growth (2019-2029): 16% |
|---|
Computer and information research scientists invent, design, and implement innovative uses for computing technology, solving complex problems in science and medicine. Tasks include developing theories to address fundamental issues; creating new computing languages, tools, and methods; and executing experiments to test new software systems.
These professionals typically hold a master's degree in computer science or a related field. A health informatics master's degree prepares graduates to tackle the specialized technology challenges found in the healthcare field.
Healthcare Informatics Professional Organizations
Professional organizations are a great way for health informatics professionals to network with each other, read the latest research, access career opportunities, and take continuing education courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master's in Healthcare Informatics Program?
Completing a health informatics degree online typically takes around 30 months. Accelerated programs may offer completion times as brief as 18 months.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Healthcare Informatics?
Graduates can find work as informatics analysts, specialists, consultants, and managers in clinical settings, public health agencies, and insurance companies.
What Are Examples of Health Informatics?
Health informatics involves the acquisition, storage, and use of healthcare information to improve service quality. Examples include electronic medical records systems and clinical decision support systems.
What Do Health Informatics Professionals Do?
Health informatics professionals use technology to track patient information, linking patient care with the latest databasing technology. They manage, store, and analyze data to help facilitate healthcare decisions and ensure patients are receiving proper care.
Is Health Informatics Hard?
Health informatics is an evolving, interdisciplinary field. Successful professionals must be skilled and knowledgeable in data management, information technology, and healthcare terminology.
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