Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's B.S. in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Informatics is designed to provide a basic but extensive education in public health processes and concepts with coursework focusing on healthcare technology and information systems. In health informatics courses, you will have the opportunity to study hardware and software elements of information systems, security and privacy issues, patient record applications, information system development methods, and Internet services. The core curriculum addresses global health issues, health awareness and promotion, environmental health, public health education strategies, public health program and policy development, healthcare financial management, and professional ethics. In the program's capstone, you will apply knowledge built from courses and field study to create a research project about a current global health issue.

What Are the Prerequisites?

Prior to entering Walden University's B.S. in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Informatics, you should be familiar with basic computer functions and have strong communication and organizational skills. Applicants to Walden University's programs must be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent; or be an active member of the military or a veteran; or have already earned at least 90 quarter hours of credit. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Students of Walden University's B.S. in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Informatics must complete 181 credits to earn this degree. The curriculum consists of 125 credits in general education and core courses, 30 credits in health informatics, and 20 credits in electives. It also includes a five-credit capstone and a one-credit foundation course. Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change. Contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program.

B.S. in Public Health with a concentration in Health Informatics Required Courses

Foundation Course

• Dynamics of Walden Success: Learning Lab

Core Courses

• Principles of Public Health
• Context of Healthcare Delivery
• Health Informatics
• Behavioral and Cultural Issues in Healthcare
• Environmental Health
• Human Disease and Prevention
• Ethical and Legal Issues in Healthcare
• Public and Global Health
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Introduction to Research Methods and Analysis
• Public Health Education and Communication
• Introduction to Health Management
• Healthcare Finance and Economics
• Planning Public Health Programs
• Evaluating Public Health Programs
• Public Health Policy for Social Change

Concentration Courses

• Introduction to Information Systems
• Information Technology Infrastructure
• Internet Computing
• Information Security and Privacy
• Patient Records Practice and Policy
• Healthcare Information Systems Applications

Capstone Course

• Capstone in Public Health

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

After completing Walden University's B.S. in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Informatics, you might be eligible for entry-level positions in a variety of healthcare settings. You could be involved in developing, implementing, or troubleshooting information systems or applications for hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, community health centers, managed care companies, or government health agencies. Positions you might pursue include:

• Informatics support specialist
• Health software developer
• Clinical data coordinator

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

Advanced Degrees

If your career goals include becoming a leader in your chosen field, then you might enter a master's degree program after graduating from the B.S. in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Informatics. Some employers might require an advanced degree for those seeking administrative or executive positions. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Master's degrees you could pursue include:

• Master of Public Health
• Master of Science in Health Informatics
• Master of Science in Healthcare Administration

Find information on costs, occupation types, completion rates, and median loan debt for this program at http://waldendisclosures.com.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.