Learning Goals for the M.S. in Health Informatics Program
- Demonstrate a thorough understanding of how to collect, store, and manage health data effectively, including database design and implementation;
- Analyze and visualize health data to identify trends and patterns;
- Forecast healthcare trends and improve operations;
- Apply informatics within various public health arenas, including disease surveillance, prevention, and intervention programs
Program Structure
The M.S. in Health Informatics program requires the successful completion of 12 courses (including the Capstone), or 36 semester credit hours, earning at least a grade of “B” or better in each course. With careful planning, if students complete 2 classes each term (6 credit hours) over 6 consecutive terms (including the summer), the degree program can be completed with one year.
Benefits of a master’s degree in health informatics:
Professionals with a background in public health can leverage their knowledge of health policy and population health to excel in health informatics roles, particularly in public health agencies and research institutions. Professionals with a background in analytics can add expertise in health systems to take on leadership roles in health informatics, whether in public health agencies, research institutions, or healthcare industry settings. Potential career paths include the following:
- Public Health Informatics Specialists–focus on using data and technology to address public health issues
- Health Informatics Consultants–advise healthcare organizations on how to use data and technology to improve their operations and patient care as well as public health initiatives.
- Clinical Informatics Managers–lead clinical informatics teams.
- Data Analysts–analyze large datasets to identify population trends and patterns and to improve decision-making.
- EHR Implementation Specialists–help healthcare organizations implement and manage electronic health records systems crucial for data collection and sharing in public health.
