Nursing Informatics Concentration in Nursing
A nursing informatics concentration prepares nurses to work at the intersection of healthcare, information technology, and data management. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median annual wages for registered nurses were $93,600 in May 2024. Nursing informatics specialists often work in roles that blend clinical knowledge with technology, potentially earning above the general RN median.
Quick Answers
What is a nursing informatics concentration in nursing?
A nursing informatics concentration is a focused set of courses within an MSN program that prepares nurses to manage health information systems, optimize electronic health records, and improve clinical workflows through technology.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework covers health information systems, data analytics, EHR implementation, project management, and healthcare technology standards.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer nursing informatics concentrations fully online, as the coursework is primarily technology and systems-focused rather than clinical.
Back to Nursing Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Health IT systems, data management, EHR optimization
- Degree level: Master’s (MSN) or post-master’s certificate
- Career alignment: Registered Nurse / Health Informatics Specialist ($93,600 median RN, BLS May 2024)
- Certification: ANCC Informatics Nursing (RN-BC) certification
- Online fit: High – coursework is primarily technology-focused
- Clinical hours: Minimal compared to NP tracks; practicum in informatics settings
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Nursing Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Health Information Systems | EHR platforms, clinical decision support, interoperability standards |
| Data Analytics in Healthcare | Clinical data analysis, quality metrics, reporting tools |
| EHR Implementation | System selection, workflow design, change management, go-live support |
| Project Management | Healthcare IT project planning, stakeholder management, Agile/Lean methods |
| Healthcare Data Standards | HL7, FHIR, ICD coding, HIPAA compliance |
| Usability and Workflow Design | User-centered design, clinical workflow optimization, safety analysis |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- Does the program include a practicum or capstone in an informatics setting?
- Does the program prepare you for the ANCC Informatics Nursing certification?
- Is the curriculum aligned with AMIA (American Medical Informatics Association) competencies?
- Can all coursework be completed online?
- Is the program accredited by CCNE or ACEN?
How nursing concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Nurse Practitioner | Primary care across lifespan | Nurse Practitioner | $129,210 |
| Adult-Gerontology | Acute/primary care for adults and elderly | Nurse Practitioner | $129,210 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health | Mental health assessment and treatment | Nurse Practitioner | $129,210 |
| Nurse Educator | Teaching in academic and clinical settings | Registered Nurse | $93,600 |
| Nursing Informatics | Health IT, data management, EHR systems | Registered Nurse | $93,600 |
| Nursing Leadership | Healthcare administration and management | Registered Nurse | $93,600 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.