A health informatics concentration focuses on the intersection of healthcare, data, and technology. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses in health IT systems, data analytics, and electronic health record management.

Quick Answers

What is a health informatics concentration in healthcare?

A health informatics concentration is a focused set of courses within a healthcare program that emphasizes this subject area.

What do you typically study in this concentration?

Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover core concepts, applied methods, and domain-specific tools related to health informatics.

Is this concentration available online?

Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.

Back to Healthcare Concentrations

At a Glance

  • Focus area: Health IT systems, data analytics, and electronic health records
  • Key career: Health Information Technologists – $67,310 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
  • Related career: Medical Records Specialists – $50,250 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
  • Employment: 37,620 health information technologists + 187,910 medical records specialists (BLS, May 2024)
  • Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization

For an overview of all degree paths, see the Healthcare Program Guide.

What you typically study

Course TopicWhat You Learn
Electronic Health Records (EHR)EHR system design, implementation, and workflow integration
Health Data AnalyticsStatistical methods, data visualization, and outcome measurement
Health Information SystemsIT infrastructure, interoperability standards, and system architecture
Clinical Data ManagementData quality, coding standards (ICD, CPT), and database administration
Privacy & Security in Health ITHIPAA compliance, cybersecurity for health data, and risk assessment
Healthcare Decision SupportClinical decision systems, predictive analytics, and evidence-based tools
Career outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median annual wages for Health Information Technologists were $67,310 in May 2024, and Medical Records Specialists earned $50,250. Combined, these roles employ over 225,000 professionals. The growing adoption of electronic health records and health data systems continues to drive demand.

Questions to ask before choosing this concentration

  • How many courses are required versus elective options?
  • Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
  • Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
  • Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?

How healthcare concentrations compare

ConcentrationKey CareerMedian SalaryEmployment
Health AdministrationMedical and Health Services Managers$117,960565,840
Healthcare ManagementMedical and Health Services Managers$117,960565,840
Health InformaticsHealth Information Technologists$67,31037,620
Healthcare PolicyEpidemiologists$83,98011,460
Health EducationHealthcare Social Workers$68,090185,940
Public HealthEpidemiologists$83,98011,460

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.