Master of Science in Health Informatics

In the Master of Science in Health Informatics program in 51¶¯Âþ’s College of Public Health, students train to create health data systems and processes in order to improve healthcare delivery, patient care and population health outcomes. The master’s degree program is offered on campus or fully online. It is designed for health information management and technology professionals who want to advance in their careers, as well as healthcare professionals, data analysts, IT and health professionals who do not have previous health informatics experience.

Health informatics is the application of information technology to healthcare professions, with the aim of creating tools and procedures that facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of patients. The field involves the collection, management and use of information in order to facilitate care delivery and overall health.

As a student in this master’s degree program, you will learn to design, develop and implement health information technology in a variety of healthcare settings. You will also become proficient in the foundations of healthcare delivery, information science and computer science, and you will learn to lead the process of system creation and maintenance through immersive courses.

Graduates of the Health Informatics MS work in a variety of healthcare institutions and vendor settings in a wide range of positions, such as electronic health record system managers and health data analysts. 

What sets apart our Health Informatics MS?

  • Perfect for both working professionals and full-time students: The MSHI program is offered on campus or fully online, affording students maximum flexibility.
  • Comprehensive education: Our master’s program curriculum addresses pressing issues in our healthcare delivery system using data-driven and patient-centered information. 
  • Fuels career growth: All full-time, matriculated Health Informatics master’s students are eligible for free Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society student membership.

Program Format

Offered in person or fully online, this 36-credit degree program can be completed in two and a half years, either part-time or full-time.

Course topics include health data standards, health data analytics, computer programming, machine learning/artificial intelligence in healthcare data, health IT strategy and management, and database administration. The program has two tracks designed to meet student career goals.

See a full list of program courses.

MPH-MSHI Dual Degree

The College of Public Health offers a dual degree program that allows students to earn both an MS in Health Informatics and an MPH degree. Full-time students can complete the dual degree in three years, and part-time students can complete it in four years.

Like the standalone Health Informatics MS degree, the MSHI-MPH dual degree can be completed fully online or in person. A hybrid option is also available, allowing students to complete one program (either MPH or MSHI) on campus and the other program online. Several MPH programs are available in the dual degree.

health informatics students collaborating in class

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51¶¯Âþ’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2020–2021 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,161.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,590.00 per credit
​Online tuition: $975 per credit

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HP-HLTI-MS

Additional Program Information