Is a Master's in Health Informatics Worth it – (Pros VS. Cons)


Written By: Raymond Aguirre Raymond M.E. Aguirre, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPN

Raymond M.E. Aguirre is a registered nurse with years of experience in the medical field. He currently works as a public health nurse and has years of experience in home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facility settings. He began his healthcare career as a nurse’s assistant while he pursued his diploma as a licensed vocational nurse. Read Full Bio »»
, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPN


Health informatics is an ever-growing field, and starting a career in this field can lead to many job opportunities. With a Master’s in Health Informatics, you could be one of the people filling those positions. But is a master’s degree in health informatics worth it? You should consider many things before making your decision. This article will show you 25 reasons why a master's in health informatics is worth it and 7 reasons why it may not be the right degree for you. Hopefully, in the end, you will be able to make an informed decision.



What is a Master's in Health Informatics Degree?


A master's in health informatics is a degree that combines aspects of computer science and information technology with healthcare. Health informatics graduate programs teach students to design, implement, and manage information systems in healthcare settings. These systems are used to collect, store, and analyze patient data. They can also be used to improve patient care by providing decision support tools, automating tasks, and reducing errors.

The coursework for a master's in health informatics typically includes classes in database management, computer programming, statistics, and healthcare. Students may also have the opportunity to complete an internship or capstone project. With a master's in health informatics, graduates can pursue careers as healthcare informaticists, clinical analysts, or healthcare IT managers.

RECOMMENDED ONLINE HEALTH INFORMATICS PROGRAMS

How Long Does a Master's in Health Informatics Degree Take?


The length of time to complete a master’s degree in health informatics can vary. Some programs, like that of Franklin University, let students finish their program in 12 months while studying online. On the other hand, there are master’s in health informatics programs that have a two-year curriculum, such as the one at the University of California, Davis. You can decide which master’s in health informatics program better suits your professional needs.



How Much Does a Master's in Health Informatics Degree Cost?


The costs of acquiring a master's in health informatics degree can vary a lot. In some cases, tuition for a master’s in health informatics can be close to $60,000. There are cheaper options, however. Some schools, like Grand Canyon University, have a master’s in health informatics program that costs $565 per unit for 42 units. This amounts to $23,730. Make sure you do some research for a master's in health informatics program.



What are the Admission Requirements for a Master's in Health Informatics Degree?


These are some of the typical requirements for admission to a master’s in health informatics program:

A bachelor's degree. It is not necessary to have a computer science/technology-related degree, but it helps to have some background in those subjects.
A GPA of at least 2.7
A satisfactory GRE score. Not all master’s in health informatics programs have this requirement, however.
Letters of recommendation. Just like the GRE, not all master’s in health informatics programs require this.





Is a Master's in Health Informatics Worth It? – the Pros

(The following are the 25 reasons that will convince you why a Master's in Health Informatics is worth it in 2023.)


REASON #1: A master's in health informatics can help you boost your career prospects.


One of the top reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it is because it enhances your ability to secure better jobs. By having a master’s degree in health informatics, you are demonstrating to prospective employers that you are an expert in the field of health informatics. Therefore, you have better chances of being hired for positions in health informatics.


REASON #2: A master's in health informatics can help you earn a higher salary.


There are plenty of careers in the field of health informatics and if you have a master’s degree in health informatics, you will be qualified for these positions. It is possible to earn a six-figure salary if you hold a graduate degree in health informatics.


REASON #3: A master's in health informatics can give you the skills you need to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly changing healthcare industry.


A master’s in health informatics is worth it because many changes are constantly happening in healthcare. By getting a master’s in health informatics, you are keeping yourself updated on the latest trends and developments in the field. This is important because constantly updating your skills and knowledge is vital to staying relevant in the healthcare industry.


REASON #4: A master's in health informatics can help you make a difference in the lives of patients and families.


If you want to work in health informatics, you may not get to have as much hands-on patient care experience. That does not mean that you will not be helping patients and families. Having a master’s of health informatics gives you the knowledge to handle the troves of data and information that help make the healthcare system run smoothly. In that regard, you are also helping make a difference in the lives of others.


REASON #5: A master's in health informatics can help you better understand and use data to improve patient care.


Health information is considered sensitive data. There are laws in place to protect health-related information. A master’s in health informatics is worth it because you will learn how to safeguard this critical information with the knowledge you will gain from your studies.


REASON #6: A master's in health informatics can allow you to work with leading-edge technology and systems.


Some people have a keen interest in technological breakthroughs and trends. If you are one of these people, then a master’s in health informatics might be for you. The field of health informatics is a hybrid between technology and healthcare. Therefore, the jobs in this industry will involve various types of computer systems.


REASON #7: A master's in health informatics can help you develop expertise in a specific area of healthcare.


Healthcare is a big industry. There are many jobs you can have, but your best chances of success lie in having a specialty. A master’s in health informatics degree is worth it because it gives you a strong background as a specialist. Because of that, you will be a highly sought-after professional in the healthcare field.


REASON #8: A master's in health informatics can help you better understand the business side of healthcare.


With a master’s in health informatics degree, you will qualify for high-level positions within healthcare organizations. One such position is that of a clinical informatics manager which has both technical and administrative duties. In this role, you will be involved in decisions that affect business operations.


REASON #9: A master's in health informatics can help you learn how to effectively use and manage electronic health records.


One of the key roles that you will have with a master’s in health informatics degree is to manage medical records. These records are more than just documents. Medical records are vital in monitoring patients’ conditions, ensuring continuity of care, and improving patient outcomes.


REASON #10: A master's in health informatics can prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.


One of the biggest reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it is that it opens the doors to supervisory, managerial, and executive positions. Employers prefer leaders that have advanced credentials, such as a master’s in health informatics.


REASON #11: A master's in health informatics can help you build a network of contacts in the healthcare industry.


Having a master’s degree in health informatics can enhance your chances of being a recognized professional in the field. One of the perks of having this recognition is that you will develop a wider professional network not only within a facility but also in the entire healthcare industry.


REASON #12: A master's in health informatics can give you the skills you need to start your own healthcare business.


A master’s degree in health informatics can provide you with the skills to start various healthcare businesses, especially those that involve information technology. This ability to branch out into entrepreneurship is one of the top reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it.


REASON #13: A master's in health informatics leads to a career as a project manager.


If you are interested in health informatics but also like the idea of overseeing projects, then a master’s in health informatics may be a great fit for you. You can become a health IT project manager and earn a high salary and have a satisfying career.


REASON #14: A master's in health informatics can lead to a career in the pharmaceutical industry.


A master’s degree in health informatics opens doors for you to work in the pharmaceutical industry. Just as hospitals and direct-care facilities need health informaticists, so do pharmacies because they also have to deal with a huge amount of medical data that only someone with expertise in informatics can manage.


REASON #15: A master's in health informatics can prepare you for a career in clinical research.


Clinical research involves working with data. And because a master’s in health informatics trains you to handle medical information, you will have the skills to work in this vital area of healthcare. Working in research puts you at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries that can potentially help save many lives. That is one of the biggest reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it.


REASON #16: A master's in health informatics can help you understand the complexities of the healthcare system.


Part of what you will learn in a master’s of health informatics program is the inner working of the American healthcare system. You will become part of a small group of people that understand how to navigate the healthcare industry and make intelligent suggestions on how to make it better for the rest of society.


REASON #17: A master's in health informatics is a versatile degree.


Having a master’s in health informatics does not limit you to specific types of healthcare institutions. You can work in many settings, which means that you have the liberty to learn and specialize in multiple industries.


REASON #18: A master's in health informatics can help you find a job that is both challenging and rewarding.


If you work in health informatics, your career will never be dull. There is a lot of creativity and critical thinking necessary to succeed in the field of health informatics. Therefore, a master’s in health informatics is worth it if you like being in an industry that regularly provides you with engaging work.


REASON #19: A master's in health informatics can help you make a positive impact on the healthcare industry.


Having a master’s in health informatics will likely lead to a job that does not let you provide direct patient care. This does not mean that you cannot make a positive difference in the healthcare industry. On the contrary, you can potentially have a big impact because the work you will do can affect people on a broader scale.


REASON #20: A master's in health informatics can prepare you for a career in health policy.


If the idea of working on public policy interests you, then a master’s in health informatics may be a good choice for you. One of the top reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it is because it qualifies you for positions that involve crafting laws and regulations in the industry.


REASON #21: A master's in health informatics can help you get published.


A master’s degree in health informatics gives you the credibility to become a published author in several prestigious journals. There are many health informatics journals that accept submissions. Authors who publish in these journals are recognized experts who are respected in the field of health informatics.


REASON #22: A master's in health informatics can potentially lead to a career in higher education.


A master’s in health informatics degree is worth it if you are thinking about a career in higher education. Colleges and universities like hiring health informatics instructors who at least have a master’s degree.


REASON #23: A master's in health informatics prepares you to pursue a doctorate.


Having a master’s degree in health informatics provides you with the foundation to pursue further education. There are doctoral health informatics programs, such as the one at the University of Minnesota which provide opportunities to further specialize in health informatics.


REASON #24: A master's in health informatics can open doors to opportunities for travel.


You may not realize this, but one of the biggest reasons why a master's in health informatics is worth it is that it may allow you to attend health informatics conventions and conferences. Some of these are held internationally, so you may get the chance to travel to some beautiful international destinations.


REASON #25: A master's in health informatics helps you engage in lifelong learning.


Staying relevant in health informatics requires being up-to-date on the latest trends. Attending a master’s in health informatics program will help keep your knowledge updated on these trends.



Why a Master's in Health Informatics May Not Be Worth It for You? – the Cons


Here are seven reasons why a master’s in health informatics may not be right for you.

REASON #1: The cost of a master's degree in health informatics can be prohibitive.


Tuition for a master’s degree in health informatics can be nearly as much as $60,000. Despite the high salaries typically associated with a master’s in health informatics, an expensive degree can cut into whatever pay bump you may enjoy. With the rising cost of living these days, high tuition costs are one reason why a master's in health informatics is not worth it.


REASON #2: A master's degree in health informatics may not be necessary for your career goals.


A lot of people think that they need a master's degree to have a successful career in health informatics. However, this isn't necessarily true. While a master's degree can certainly help you to advance your career, it may not be necessary for your particular goals. In many cases, an undergraduate health informatics degree can lead to a well-paying job. The average salary of someone with a bachelor’s in health science is $65,000. The important thing is to carefully consider your career goals and choose the educational path that makes the most sense for you.


REASON #3: The job market for health informatics is competitive.


As the demand for health informatics professionals continues to grow, the job market has become increasingly competitive. Candidates with the right skills and experience can expect to find good jobs in this field, but those who are not prepared may find themselves struggling to find work. It is possible that you may not be able to find a full-time job in health informatics right away after graduation.


REASON #4: Health informatics can be a highly technical subject.


A master’s in health informatics degree is not worth it if you are not sure whether you like working with complex data and technology. Although health informatics may sound exciting on the surface, there are plenty of technical areas that some people may find unappealing.


REASON #5: There is no defined career path in health informatics.


Some people may see this as a good thing, but for others, the lack of a defined career path with a master’s in health informatics degree can be off-putting. With a master’s in health informatics, your career might take unpredictable directions. If you see this as an issue, you may want to reconsider getting a master’s degree in health informatics.


REASON #6: There is a lack of standardization in the field.


One of the challenges facing the field of health informatics is the lack of standardization. Different hospitals and clinics use different systems, and there is no one set of standards that everyone follows. This can make it difficult to share information between different institutions, and it can also make it hard to compare data from different studies. For health informatics professionals, this can be frustrating.


REASON #7: You may not be able to keep up with rapidly evolving trends.


Technological advancements in healthcare are happening all the time. To succeed in health informatics, you will need to constantly update your skills. Although lifelong learning is a good thing, it can also cause stress if changes are happening too fast. Consider this fact because it may be one reason why a master’s in health informatics is not worth it.



What are the 3 Main Reasons Behind the Demand for Master's in Health Informatics Degree Holders?


These are three of the reasons why there is a demand for people with a master’s in health informatics.

1. The healthcare industry is becoming increasingly reliant on information technology.

An article by the Kaiser Family Foundation showed that the adoption of electronic medical health records is increasing. This trend is accelerating the need for people with a strong background in health informatics. There is a demand for people who don’t just know how to keep medical records. There is also a need for people who know how to leverage technology to store and protect sensitive health data.

2. The healthcare industry is laser-focused on improving patient outcomes.

The demand for master’s in health informatics graduates is also driven by a growing emphasis on patient outcomes. It is not enough to provide quality bedside care anymore. A robust health IT infrastructure is also crucial in ensuring that patients are receiving appropriate care. Health informatics professionals are the people who can make this happen.

3. As the baby boomer generation ages, there will be an increased demand for health informatics.

The aging baby boomer generation is impacting every facet of the healthcare industry. Health informatics is one of many areas of healthcare that is facing the challenges of meeting the healthcare needs of baby boomers. With a master’s in health informatics, your skills and knowledge can make you an invaluable asset in any healthcare organization.



What is the Average Salary for Master's in Health Informatics Degree Holders?


The average salary of master’s in health informatics degree holders is $86,000 per year. This is equivalent to an hourly wage of $41.35/Hour, $1654/week, or $7170/month.

Hourly$41.35
Weekly$1,654
Monthly$7,170
Annual$86,000
(Source: Payscale.com)



What are the 3 Best Jobs You Can Get With a Master's in Health Informatics Degree?


1. Health Information Manager:

Health information managers are responsible for the accuracy and security of patient health records. They typically work in hospitals, doctor's offices, or other healthcare facilities. In some cases, they may also work for insurance companies or government agencies. Health information managers typically have a bachelor's degree in health information management or a related field. They must also be certified by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

The duties of a health information manager include overseeing the medical records staff, ensuring that patient records are complete and accurate, maintaining the confidentiality of patient information, and coordinating the release of information to authorized persons. In addition, health information managers often work with electronic health record (EHR) systems and are responsible for ensuring that the system is used correctly and consistently across all departments in a healthcare facility.

2. Clinical Informaticist:

A clinical informaticist is a medical professional who specializes in the use of information technology to improve patient care. Clinical informaticists work with electronic health records, computerized physician order entry systems, and other health information technologies. They use their knowledge of both medicine and information technology to help clinicians more effectively and efficiently care for patients.

In addition, clinical informaticists often play a role in researching how best to use health information technologies to improve patient outcomes. As the use of health information technologies continues to grow, clinical informaticists will become increasingly important in ensuring that these technologies are used effectively to improve patient care.

3. Chief Medical Informatics Officer:

A chief medical informatics officer (CMIO) is a top executive who oversees the use of information technology in a healthcare setting. The CMIO is responsible for developing and implementing strategies for how data can be used to improve patient care. This includes overseeing the use of electronic health records, clinical decision support tools, and other health IT applications.

The CMIO also works closely with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that everyone is using information technology in a way that is safe and effective. In recent years, the role of the CMIO has become increasingly important as healthcare organizations have become more reliant on information technology. As a result, the CMIO is now often seen as one of the most important members of the healthcare team.



Bonus! 3 Tips to Make More Money With a Master's in Health Informatics Degree?


If you would like to make more money in health informatics, follow these tips.

1. Consider working in a large hospital or another major healthcare setting.

The need for people with a master’s in health informatics in large healthcare organizations is undeniable. What is great about working with established organizations is that you will likely get a bigger salary and a more generous set of benefits. In addition, you may also enjoy better job security with big healthcare institutions because their chances of going out of business are less likely.

2. Consider working for promising health informatics start-up businesses.

Just as working with big healthcare organizations can benefit you financially, working with promising health informatics start-ups can potentially make more money for you. If you become one of the pioneers of an upcoming health informatics company, you may earn more than just a high salary. You may even get a stake in the company and make money from its profits.

3. Use your skills to consult for healthcare businesses or organizations.

A master’s in health informatics can turn you into a highly sought-after professional in any healthcare business. You can leverage your knowledge by selling your services as a consultant. Healthcare institutions will be willing to pay you if you can demonstrate the full breadth of your expertise to them.



Is a Master's in Health Informatics Worth It for You – My Final Thoughts


There are many benefits to pursuing a master’s in health informatics degree. But is a master’s in health informatics worth it? The bottom line is that a master's in health informatics degree can be a great investment. And as you have read in this article, there are at least 25 reasons why a master’s in health informatics is worth it. However, do not let anyone make the final decision for you. You are the master of your career, and it is up to you to determine whether a master’s in health informatics is truly the right choice for you.



Frequently Asked Questions Answered


1. What Is The Best Age To Do A Master's In Health Informatics Degree?

There is no ideal age to pursue a master’s in health informatics. Only you can determine if attending a graduate program in health informatics is the right time for you.


2. How Hard Is It To Get Into A Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program?

Getting into a master’s in health informatics degree can be intimidating because there are certain requirements you need to meet. However, these challenges should not stop you.


3. Do I Need Work Experience To Get Into A Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program?

Because of the technical nature of health informatics, it may be helpful to have some work experience before enrolling in a master’s in health informatics program. This is not required though. If you are willing to put in the time to learn, you should be fine even without work experience.


4. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into A Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program?

It is not uncommon for a master’s in health informatics program to ask for a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0. It is possible to get admitted to certain graduate health informatics programs though with a lower GPA. Make sure to check with specific schools about the admission requirements for their master’s in health informatics programs.


5. Can I Get Into A Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program With A Low GPA?

Yes, you can! You may, however, have to meet certain requirements to stay in the master’s of health informatics program at certain schools. For example, Franklin University allows students who have a GPA lower than 2.5 to enroll in their master’s in health informatics program if they can get a grade of B or better in their first course.


6. Are Online Master's In Health Informatics Degree Programs Worth It?

The career prospects for those with a master’s in health informatics degree are bright. However, this does not mean that it will be worth it for everyone. You must assess your career goals carefully to determine if a master’s in health informatics is right for you.


7. Are Scholarships And Grants Available For Master's In Health Informatics Degree Programs?

There are scholarship and grant opportunities available for students pursuing a master’s degree in health informatics. One example is the Richard P. Covert, Ph.D., LFHIMSS Scholarship for Management Systems, which awards students up to $5000.


8. Can Master's In Health Informatics Students Have A Life?

Even though a master’s in health informatics program can be demanding, you can still have a life. The key is having good time management skills.


9. Can I Work Part-Time And Successfully Complete The Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program?

You can work part-time while pursuing your master’s in health informatics. Making a weekly schedule keeps you on track and helps you balance multiple obligations.


10. Can I Work Full-Time And Successfully Complete The Master's In Health Informatics Degree Program?

Working full-time and pursuing a master’s in health informatics is possible. If you believe that you can manage your time well enough to balance two big commitments, there are no rules that prohibit full-time workers from attending a master’s in health informatics program.


11. Do Students Fail In Master's In Health Informatics Degree Programs?

It is possible to fail in a master’s in health informatics program. However, the failure of others does not mean to be your failure as well. Every person is different and has the potential to succeed in a master’s in health informatics program.


12. Will I Ever Regret Getting A Master's In Health Informatics Degree?

The only way you will regret pursuing a master’s in health informatics is if you do not leverage the many skills you will learn. A master’s in health informatics offers you the opportunity to develop a wide base of knowledge, some of which you can apply even outside the field of health informatics.


13. How Much Does A Master's In Health Informatics Graduate Make Per Hour?

A person with a master’s in health informatics earns an average hourly salary of $41.35 per hour.

$41.35


14. How Much Does A Master's In Health Informatics Graduate Make Per Year?

With a master’s degree in health informatics, you can expect an annual salary of $86,000 per year.

$86,000


15. Will Master's In Health Informatics Graduates Be Paid Less In The Future?

It is unlikely that people with a master’s in health informatics degree will be paid less. The growing importance of health informatics in the healthcare industry will probably even lead to higher wages in the future.


16. Are All Master's In Health Informatics Graduates Successful In Their Careers?

Every person defines success differently. Therefore, it may not be possible to tell whether all individuals with a master's in health informatics are successful. However, there are many opportunities for those with a master's in health informatics. Your chances of having a fulfilling career are great.


17. Are Master's In Health Informatics Graduates Happy With Their Jobs?

There are no official surveys to measure happiness or satisfaction among all master’s in health informatics graduates. However, a master’s of health informatics degree can lead to fulfilling and high-paying careers. Those are factors that can contribute to the happiness of master’s in health informatics graduates.


18. Can Master's In Health Informatics Degree Holders Become Rich?

People with a master’s in health informatics can potentially earn a high six-figure salary. Therefore, it is possible to become rich. However, getting a master’s in health informatics cannot automatically make anyone rich. Building wealth happens over time and requires more than just having an advanced degree.


19. What Are Some Master's In Health Informatics Degree Alternatives?

A few alternatives to a master’s in health informatics include master’s degrees in computer science, information technology, data science, and nursing with a concentration in informatics.


Raymond Aguirre RN, BSN, PHN, CHPN
Raymond M.E. Aguirre is a registered nurse with years of experience in the medical field. He currently works as a public health nurse and has years of experience in home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facility settings.