About the Profession

Health Informatics blends technology and medical science to drive efficiency, improve patient outcomes, and transform health care delivery.

By definition, Health Informatics is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and use of health care information and data to improve collaboration among providers, enhance patient care, and streamline processes. It combines elements of health care, information technology, and data science to create solutions that optimize health care delivery and decision-making.

Projected Growth and Demand for Health Informatics Jobs

The field of Health Informatics is experiencing rapid growth and is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years. Driving the demand for skilled professionals in the field are the increasing digitization of health care records, the implementation of electronic health record (EHR) systems, and the growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making in health care organizations.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 16% increase in employment of health information technicians, including health informaticians, from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Why pursue a degree in Health Informatics?

Earning a graduate degree in Health Informatics opens doors to many exciting career opportunities and increased earning potential. Graduates of the MUSC online MS in Health Informatics program are equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in various roles across the health care industry, including: 

1. Clinical Informatician*: Collaborating with health care providers to optimize the use of EHR systems and other health information technologies to improve patient care and clinical workflows. *Must have a clinical background prior to entering.
2. Health Data Analyst: Analyzing health care data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that drive informed decision-making and quality improvement initiatives.
3. Health care IT Project Manager: Leading and managing projects related to the implementation, integration, and optimization of healthcare information systems and technologies.
4. Health care Consultant: Advising organizations on strategic initiatives, regulatory compliance, and technology adoption to enhance operational efficiency and patient outcomes.
5. Health Informatics Specialist: Designing, developing, and maintaining health information systems and databases to ensure data accuracy, security, and accessibility.

Take a look at some of our student and alumni success stories.

Salary Expectations for Health Informatics Professionals

The salaries for professionals in Health Informatics vary depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and employer. According to data from O*NET OnLine, the median annual wage for computer systems analysts, including health informatics specialists, was $102,240 as of 2022, with about 41% of job openings requiring a master’s degree.

By pursuing your MS in Health Informatics degree at MUSC, you'll not only embark on a rewarding career path but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health care delivery and patient care.

Ready to get started? Review our admissions criteria and upcoming start dates.