Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics Degree Programs

By earning a master’s degree in health informatics, you can open the door to a promising world full of options and opportunity. As the healthcare sector continues to evolve its record-keeping systems and adopt new technologies, the demand for educated and trained professionals increases. With a master’s degree, your opportunities grow to include management-level and leadership positions. Health informatics programs may also offer specializations or concentrations, which can expand your career options into niche areas or other industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health services managers positions are projected to grow 20% between 2016 and 2026 — more than double the growth of the average occupation in the U.S. Additionally, the median annual wage for these positions comes in at nearly three times that of the average career.

Equipped with this degree, you can pursue positions in hospitals, clinics, or nursing care facilities. Your education may also qualify you to explore careers in the government or nonhealthcare industries, such as finance or professional services. To help you find a program and school that matches your career goals, the following list highlights some of the best online health informatics master’s programs.

Rank School Name School Logo City Cost Address & Contact Info School Links Acclaim for Online Programs School Description
1Stanford UniversityStanford$$$$$
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300

In Stanford's MS in biomedical informatics program, students learn about interdisciplinary approaches to biology and medicine, using informatics and data science to solve problems in these fields. Students can leverage their training in the program to enter the job market or jump directly into a doctoral program.

The 45-unit online master's in health informatics requires students to complete 18 units in STEM-related electives, four units in social and ethical issues, and six units in free electives. For the remaining 18 units, learners take core courses in areas like data driven medicine and translational bioinformatics. To complete the degree, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Participants can start the program on one of three start dates per year. Distance learners can complete asynchronous online classes, although the program may not offer all courses online every term. Though the school gives students up to five years to complete the degree, learners can graduate in as few as three years.

2University of South FloridaTampa$$$$$4202 East Fowler Ave
Tampa, FL 33620-9951
(813) 974-2011

In the online MS in health informatics program at USF, students learn how technology can improve the delivery and efficiency of healthcare. An approved education partner of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, USF offers training that meets industry standards and provides students with the technical skills necessary to thrive in the field.

This 32-credit online master's in health informatics consists of 11 courses, including foundational courses, electives, and required courses in areas like e-healthcare ethics and business models. Online courses run asynchronously for the most part, though some classes feature synchronous delivery. Courses start every eight weeks and learners can complete the program in less than two years.

For successful admission, applicants need to possess a bachelor's degree in a science or computer-related field, along with a minimum 3.0 GPA in previous science coursework. No matter where they live, all distance learners pay the same tuition rate.

3University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill$$$$$103 South Bldg Cb 9100
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
(919) 962-2211

At UNC-Chapel Hill, online programs allow students to earn degrees from across the country without any residency requirements. The school's MPS in biomedical and health informatics is offered largely online and trains students to manage large-scale healthcare projects and improve decision-making through technology. The program combines asynchronous and synchronous delivery and features start dates at the beginning of each semester.

This 35-credit online master's in health informatics features two tracks: clinical informatics and public health informatics. Both specializations require students to complete 12 credits of core informatics courses, six credits related to business skills, and six credits covering biomedical and health informatics. Learners then complete eight credits in their specific track, plus a three-credit capstone. All students also complete an internship as part of the program.

Learners can study part time, taking only one course per semester, or take up to 12 credits per term and graduate in less than a year. For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Transfer students may bring in up to seven credits. While UNC-Chapel Hill encourages out-of-state students to apply, North Carolina residents benefit from a reduced tuition rate.

4Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale$$$$$3301 College Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314-7796
(954) 262-7300

To accommodate students from around the country, NSU offers courses at regional campuses and online. In the school's online MS in biomedical informatics, students learn to utilize advanced information technology skills to improve healthcare, records, and data. The program combines training in bioinformatics, medical informatics, and public health informatics to provide a well-rounded education in the field.

This online master's in health informatics requires 44 credits, including 12 from electives and 32 from required courses. Students in this program take core courses in information security, systems analysis, and database systems. Faculty use asynchronous and synchronous course delivery, and classes start in the summer, fall, and spring semesters.

For admission, successful applicants should possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Though NSU does not require applicants to hold a specific degree, those with health-related degrees receive preference. NSU also offers graduate certificates in public health informatics and medical informatics. Transfer students may receive up to 12 credits.

5Northeastern UniversityBoston$$$$$360 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115-5005
(617) 373-2000

Northeastern offers more than 80 online programs, including degrees at every level. The school's online MS in health informatics helps students keep up with technological advancements in the healthcare field. Graduates prepare to take leadership positions.

This online master's in health informatics includes courses in business management, health informatics, technical topics, and electives. Required courses cover topics related to the American healthcare system and include a capstone project. Many students also complete an internship, engaging in experiential learning near their homes.

Faculty typically deliver online courses asynchronously, though some classes may require scheduled sessions. Students can start the program during the spring or fall semester and graduate in 2-3 years. Online learners can enroll on a full-time or part-time basis, and they all pay a standard tuition rate, no matter where they live.

6Northwestern UniversityEvanston$$$$$633 Clark St
Evanston, IL 60208
(847) 491-3741

Many of the departments and colleges at Northwestern offer online programs to accommodate distance learners and working professionals. The school's online MS in health informatics trains students to use technology as a means of improving the healthcare delivery process. The program also offers leadership and project management training, preparing graduates for management positions.

This 12-course online master's in health informatics includes five core courses and seven specialization electives. As part of their core course requirements, students complete either a capstone project or a thesis. Students can choose from several specializations, including clinical informatics, health administration informatics, and health technology informatics.

Northwestern gives students up to five years to complete the program, but most participants finish in 2-3 years, even while studying part time. While applicants do not need to submit standardized test results, strong scores may help with admission.

7Brandeis UniversityWaltham$$$$$415 South St
Waltham, MA 02453
(781) 736-2000

At Brandeis, students can take individual courses or earn full degrees online, including 12 master's degrees. In the online MS in health and medical informatics at Brandeis, future healthcare leaders learn to operate and utilize technology to improve healthcare. Students also gain an understanding of the laws and regulations regarding patient care and data.

Within this 30-credit online master's in health informatics, students complete seven core courses and three electives. Required elements of the program include courses in data analytics, systems security, and clinical business issues. For their electives, students choose from a variety of informatics-related courses, taking the classes that best suit their career goals.

Online courses combine flexible asynchronous study with interactive synchronous sessions, and classes start in the spring and fall. For successful admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree. Brandeis may also ask some candidates to submit GRE scores.

8Mississippi CollegeClinton$$$$$200 South Capitol Street
Clinton, MS 39058
(601) 925-3000

Despite being the oldest college in the state, MC offers innovative educational options like online degrees, including more than 50 graduate-level programs. Students in the college's online MS in health informatics program acquire a blend of information technology and clinical skills. Graduates learn to optimize healthcare operations for organizations and improve patient care.

In this 30-credit online master's in health informatics, students complete 12 credits in healthcare administration courses, covering topics in ethics, law, and organizational behavior. For their other 18 credits, learners take courses like e-medicine, health data management, and e-records. Online classes run asynchronously and start at the beginning of the spring, fall, and summer semesters.

For admission, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree — preferably in a health-related discipline — with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Applicants also need to submit proof of competitive GRE scores. Online students studying full time pay the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live.

9University of Central FloridaOrlando$$$$$4000 Central Florida Blvd
Orlando, FL 32816
(407) 823-2000

With more than 30 online master's programs available, UCF offers students a flexible way to earn a degree. The online MS in healthcare informatics at UCF teaches students to impact the healthcare industry by implementing and managing advanced technology and improving the efficiency of patient care.

To complete this 38-credit online master's in health informatics, most students take 20 months. Learners enroll as part of a cohort and work through the curriculum together. The program starts every spring and fall. Students complete 10 courses, taking two classes at a time. In addition to courses like data architecture, biostatistics, and privacy and security, the program includes an internship and capstone project.

Online courses at UCF run asynchronously to allow for increased flexibility, and all online students pay the same tuition rate. While the program does not require standardized test scores, applicants need a bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates with administrative or clinical experience receive preference. This degree also prepares students to earn industry certifications.

10George Washington UniversityWashington$$$$$2121 I Street, NW
Washington, DC 20052
(202) 994-1000

The online MS in management of health informatics and analytics at GW combines training in health information management and health information technology, teaching graduates the skills needed to incorporate technology into the health sector.

This 45-credit online master's in health informatics features eight modules, including project management, business intelligence, and health innovation. Online classes at GW take place over 10-week sessions. GW students also complete two on-campus immersions where students visit the District of Columbia to complete two courses.

At GW, online classes feature live synchronous sessions, in which students connect with peers and instructors. While learners can complete the program in two years, GW gives students up to four years to graduate. For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, plus at least two years of healthcare-related experience. Applicants with three years of experience in another industry may take an online examination for admission.

11The College of Saint ScholasticaDuluth$$$$$1200 Kenwood Ave
Duluth, MN 55811-4199
(218) 723-6000

Since founding the first health information program in the nation, CSS has continued to innovate and offer health professionals new study options. In the school's online MS in health informatics program, students learn to manage big data in the healthcare industry. Online classes at CSS run synchronously and in an accelerated format, allowing students to graduate in less than two years.

This 42-credit online master's in health informatics requires students to complete courses in security systems, healthcare finance, and consumer health. The program also includes a final research project and experiential learning courses. Prior to beginning the core program, students must complete a statistics course.

For admission, students need to hold a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Online students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live, and gain access to academic support, career services, and CSS library resources. After graduation, learners qualify to sit for a variety of certification exams.

12University of WashingtonSeattle$$$$$1400 NE Campus Parkway
Seattle, WA 98195-4550
(206) 543-2100

UW offers a variety of online options, including 17 programs and more than 40 certificates. Online students, like traditional learners, gain access to career services assistance, academic support, and student support services. The online master's degree in health informatics and health information management at UW teaches students the skills needed to lead healthcare organizations and enhance operations with technology.

This online master's in health informatics requires the completion of 54 credits, which students finish over the course of 18 months. Students must take classes over the six consecutive quarters. The curriculum focuses on five primary components, including health information systems, data analytics, leadership, information governance, and information privacy.

While students take synchronous online classes throughout the week — which are held outside of traditional work hours — learners also participate in on-site weekend classes once per month. All online students pay the same tuition rate.

13University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago$$$$$601 S Morgan
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 996-7000

To accommodate students from all over the world, UIC offers individual courses, certificate tracks, and full programs online. In its online MS in health informatics program, students learn to implement and operate advanced technologies and applications in healthcare settings. Upon completion of the degree, students may qualify for a variety of certifications.

Requiring 38 credits, this online master's in health informatics comprises 10 core courses in areas like communication, legal issues, and systems design and analysis. Learners also complete a capstone project. Students also choose four elective courses from a variety of health informatics courses. UIC provides an optional concentration in health data science.

Participants in the health informatics program can begin taking classes on one of three start dates throughout the year. Online classes run asynchronously and are delivered through eight-week sessions. Students who take two classes per session can graduate in less than two years. For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some students may also need to complete a medical terminology prerequisite course.

14Regis UniversityDenver$$$$$3333 Regis Blvd
Denver, CO 80221-1099
(800) 388-23662111

For students who cannot attend classes at its main campus in Denver, Colorado, Regis offers online courses, certificates, and programs. The school's online MS in health informatics allows healthcare professionals to upgrade their skills, acquiring advanced technology and leadership training.

The online master's in health informatics at Regis features 36 credits, 24 of which come from required courses. These eight core courses cover topics related to managing a secure enterprise, performance evaluation, and adoption of health information technology. Students take their remaining 12 credits through a specialization track; options include information technology, healthcare services, and data science.

Regis offers three start dates each year, and classes run for eight weeks. Participants can graduate in two years. For successful admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Though Regis does not make relevant experience mandatory for admission, experienced candidates receive preference.

15Boston UniversityBoston$$$$$
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 353-2000

BU began offering online programs in 2002, allowing students to earn a degree or a certificate from a distance. With more than 40 programs available, BU's online classes combine asynchronous and synchronous delivery formats. The school's online MS in computer information systems with a concentration in health informatics teaches students to use health electronic applications, manage computer systems, and work with biomedical data.

The 40-credit online master's in health informatics includes five core courses in topics like business data communication, database design, and information technology management. Students also complete a course in programming. The health informatics concentration features five courses, covering areas like cybersecurity and health records. Most students complete the program in 18-24 months.

Classes run throughout the fall, spring, and two summer terms. Online students gain access to BU's library, academic support, and student wellness services. For admission, applicants need to hold a bachelor's degree and demonstrate strong academic performance.

16University of South CarolinaColumbia$$$$$Columbia-Campus
Columbia, SC 29208
(803) 777-7000

At UofSC, online students enjoy access to five online master's programs. Online classes typically run asynchronously, although some classes do feature scheduled sessions. In UofSC's online master's in health information technology program, students gain the skills needed to assist healthcare organizations in adopting, implementing, and managing information technology systems.

This 36-credit online master's in health informatics includes courses in health economics, healthcare finance, and large-scale health information systems. The core program also features an internship. Accelerated online courses run for eight weeks, and students typically complete the program in 18-24 months. UofSC offers students four start dates throughout the year.

For program admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, unless they possess three or more years of relevant experience. All online students, regardless of where they live, pay the same tuition rate.

17Liberty UniversityLynchburg$$$$$1971 University Blvd
Lynchburg, VA 24515
(800) 434-9595

With roots dating back to 1985, online learning at Liberty offers students hundreds of programs to choose from. In the school's online MS in health informatics, students gain the skills necessary to use advanced technologies to improve healthcare systems. They also learn about values and regulations related to the field, along with what it takes to hold management and leadership positions.

Students pursuing this 36-credit online master's in health informatics complete courses in systems modeling, integrated technologies, and research methods in public health. The program also features a capstone project. Each course runs for eight weeks and students can graduate in about 18 months. While many of the classes run asynchronously, some courses may feature a synchronous online environment.

For successful admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a GPA of at least 3.0. Transfer students can bring in up to 50% of their degree credits. Once admitted, online students gain access to the school's digital library, online communities, and online writing center.

18University of San DiegoSan Diego$$$$$5998 Alcala Park
San Diego, CA 92110-2492
(619) 260-4600

USD offers five online master's degrees to provide flexible and accessible educational options to its students. The online MS in healthcare informatics at USD provides students with the skills and competencies needed to work with modern healthcare technology. The program also delves into topics like documentation and population health analysis.

To complete this 37-credit online master's in health informatics, students take 12 courses and complete a capstone project. USD also offers three tracks for students to choose from, including healthcare analytics, healthcare informatics, and healthcare leadership. After graduation, students may qualify to sit for a variety of industry certifications.

Faculty deliver online courses asynchronously through seven-week terms. Students complete one course at a time and can finish the degree in less than two years. For admission, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants with at least one year of relevant experience receive preference.

19George Mason UniversityFairfax$$$$$4400 University Dr
Fairfax, VA 22030-4444
(703) 993-1000

Mason offers more than 50 online programs to its students. Programs run asynchronously for the most part, though some synchronous sessions may occur. Mason's online MS in health informatics prepares students to work with data analytics in the healthcare sector, training them in leadership and systems design and analysis.

Requiring 39 credits, this online master's in health informatics features courses in data mining, statistical process control, and advanced health information systems. Students also complete a thesis or a six-credit practicum near the end of their program. Learners can enroll on a part-time or full-time basis. Participants typically graduate in 22-28 months.

For admission into the program, applicants need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.25 GPA. Though Mason does not require professional experience, candidates with relevant work experience receive preference and may receive waivers for introductory course prerequisites. Transfer students can bring in up to 12 credits. All distance students pay the same tuition rate, no matter where they live.

20Harrisburg University of Science and TechnologyHarrisburg$$$$$326 Market St
Harrisburg, PA 17101
(717) 901-5100

Founded to provide STEM educational and professional opportunities, HU also offers online programs to increase accessibility. The online MS in healthcare informatics at HU trains students to oversee the advanced technology requirements of healthcare organizations. The program focuses on project management, human-machine interfaces, and generational differences.

This 36-credit online master's in health informatics includes five foundational courses in informatics, along with a thesis or an applied research project. To meet their remaining credit requirements, students choose from a list of electives, building an individualized concentration in an area of personal interest. By taking two or three courses each term, students can graduate in two years.

For admission, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree. Once admitted, HU grants students access to its library resources, student support services, and career services. Programs feature a variety of start dates every year, and all online students pay the same tuition rate.

21University of DenverDenver$$$$$2199 S. University Blvd
Denver, CO 80208
(303) 871-2000

DU's online programs help accommodate the needs of busy students and provide career-focused content. In addition to covering advanced information technology skills, the school's online MS in healthcare management with a concentration in data informatics and analytics teaches students how to design and implement data projects and assessment plans.

This 48-credit online master's in health informatics requires students to complete five core healthcare courses, including leadership and finance classes and a capstone project. Students also take one elective course and six courses in the data informatics and analytics concentration. While DU gives students up to five years to complete the degree, most participants graduate in approximately 18 months.

Online courses run through 10-week terms, and students complete one or two asynchronous courses at a time. The school charges the same tuition rate to all online students, and classes typically start four times per year. For admission into the program, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

22Concordia University - NebraskaSeward$$$$$800 N Columbia Ave
Seward, NE 68434-1556
(800) 535-5494

Concordia offers more than 25 programs in a flexible online format. Online students benefit from asynchronous course delivery, and all distance learners pay the same tuition rate. Students pursuing the school's online master's degree in healthcare administration with a concentration in health information technology learn to apply information technology to the healthcare sector to improve patient data and patient care.

The online master's in health informatics requires 36 credits, 24 of which come from core courses in healthcare administration. In these courses, students learn about healthcare policy, management, and law and ethics. For the health information technology concentration, participants complete three courses that cover leadership implications, cybersecurity, and health informatics.

At Concordia, online classes are delivered through eight-week terms. Students can choose from multiple start dates each year and graduate in less than two years. Transfer students with a minimum 3.0 GPA may bring in up to 25% of the degree's credit requirements.

23University of Minnesota - Twin CitiesMinneapolis$$$$$100 Church Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455-0213
(612) 625-5000

One of 13 master's degrees available online, the master's degree in health informatics at UMN prepares students to apply and use advanced healthcare technologies. The program provides learners with the skills needed to convert traditional healthcare systems into modern, computer-based systems.

This 31-credit online master's in health informatics requires students to complete 18-24 credits in their major. Core courses cover topics like database principles, patient safety, and population health informatics. UMN also requires students to undertake a capstone project. The program offers two start dates annually, and full-time students can complete the degree in less than a year.

Online programming at UMN runs asynchronously for the most part, though some classes feature scheduled sessions. Students can work at their own pace and complete courses around their schedules. For admission, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and strong GRE scores. Candidates also need to have completed prerequisites in health sciences and programming.

24National UniversityLa Jolla$$$$$11255 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037-1011
(800) 628-8648

Dedicated to providing accessible education to its students, NU offers over 100 programs at more than 20 locations and online. By earning an online MS in health informatics, students learn the skills necessary to help healthcare organizations advance, develop more efficient processes, and improve patient care.

The 54-quarter unit online master's in health informatics at NU provides training related to health information exchange, biostatistics, and system management and planning. Students complete 11 core courses and one elective. The core program includes a capstone project, and students can complete an internship as their elective.

Classes are delivered through four-week sessions and start every month. Full-time students can graduate in approximately one year. For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with an overall GPA of at least 2.5. Candidates with a lower GPA can still apply, but they may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. Transfer students can bring in up to 13.5 quarter units.

25Chatham UniversityPittsburgh$$$$$Woodland Rd
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
(412) 365-1100

Founded in 1869, Chatham now offers a variety of online courses, certificates, and degrees at every level. The school's online master's degree in healthcare informatics offers students the training needed to manage healthcare technology and personnel. The 30-credit degree provides foundational training in healthcare and teaches advanced technology skills.

This online master's in health informatics requires students to complete 10 courses, including project management and healthcare policy classes. The core program also includes an informatics immersion, in which students complete 80-100 internship hours. Students can start during the fall or spring semester. In addition to a full master's degree, Chatham offers a certificate option.

For admission, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Once enrolled, online students gain access to Chatham's library resources, student services, and career support services. All online students pay the same tuition rate. While Chatham does not make experience mandatory, candidates with relevant professional or educational experience in healthcare and statistics receive preference.