Obtaining a master's degree in the field of health information systems will prepare you for a career involving data management in a clinical work environment. Read on to learn what degree programs are offered, prerequisites, and typical course requirements in this field of study.
What Kinds of Master's Degree Programs in Health Information Systems Are Available?
Some schools offer a Master of Science in Health Management degree, while others offer a Master of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management degree. A Master of Science in Health Informatics degree program offers the option of two tracks. The entry-level track is intended for students new to the field, while the post-graduate track is meant for working professionals in search of career advancement opportunities. Online study options are available for some programs.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Programs</b></td><td> MS in Health Management, MS in Health Informatics and Information Management</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Prerequisites</b></td><td> Bachelor's degree in health information or related field, work experience (optional)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Clinical data management, project management, medicolegal issues, biostatistics</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $44,090 (<i>for all medical records and health information technicians</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 8% growth (<i>for all medical records and health information technicians</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheProgramsPrerequisites">What Are The Programs' Prerequisites?</h3><p>Most programs require that you have an undergraduate degree in health information or a related field before enrolling in a graduate-level program. If your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated field but do have work experience in the field, some programs will waive this requirement. Some programs may also ask you to submit an essay detailing your career goals.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>In a master's degree program in health information systems, you'll learn the skills necessary to develop the software and information systems that help doctors and other clinicians work more efficiently and secure important patient and research data. Typical course topics include:
</p><ul><li>Clinical data management
</li><li>Medical terminology
</li><li>Medicolegal issues
</li><li>Quality control
</li><li>Electronic health record strategies
</li><li>Biostatistics
</li><li>Medical informatics
</li><li>Project management
</li><li>Database concepts
</li></ul><p>Most programs also require that you write a thesis based on original research as part of your graduation requirements; however there is a unique program that features a clinical component instead. To meet this requirement you'll be given the choice of either completing an internship at a local hospital or other healthcare facility, or a practicum project sponsored by a local healthcare organization. You'll work with a group of 3-5 other students to complete this project. You'll work with your other group members as well as administrators at the sponsoring organization to determine the topic of your project.</p>
