Health Informatics FAQs

Health informatics is an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of information technology, health, and behavioral sciences that uses information to improve individual and population health and health care operations. Health informatics integrates medicine, health administration, and management with computer science, information science, and technology. Health informatics goes beyond the use of IT tools in health care and focuses on how information is used to support better decision-making and outcomes. 

For more on the definition of health informatics, visit the following websites: 

1. American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) - A professional organization that advances the field of health informatics. Its website offers a wealth of resources, including definitions and articles related to health informatics. 

2. Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) – The accrediting body for health informatics and health information management education programs in the United States and Puerto Rico. CAHIIM is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and provides quality oversight through established accreditation standards.  

3. Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) – A global organization dedicated to improving health care through the effective use of information technology and management systems. Its website provides a wide range of resources, including definitions, articles, and insights specific to health informatics and health IT. 

4. International Medical Informatics Association (IMIA) – A global organization that promotes health informatics education, research, and practice worldwide. its website offers a range of resources and publications on health informatics. 

While often mistaken for one another, health informatics, health information technology (IT), and bioinformatics are distinct disciplines that have some similarities but focus on different areas. The key differences are outlined below: 

Health Informatics: This discipline centers on health data, information, and knowledge, encompassing their collection, processing, analysis, and application in decision-making. It emphasizes how data are applied in health care and public health settings. Computer science and information technology serve as tools to support this work. 

Health IT: A specialized field that focuses on the implementation and management of information technology systems within the health care sector. It covers a broad range of topics, from computer networking and system administration to advanced data processing and security. 

Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics applies computational methods to biology and, to some extent, medicine. It specializes in analyzing genomic, proteomic, and other biological data to support basic research in biology, medicine, drug discovery, and related fields. George Mason University offers bioinformatics degrees within the College of Science. 

Yes. Modern data modeling, patient outcome prediction, and health care process optimization all involve the use of artificial intelligence methods. In fact, several faculty in George Mason's health informatics program specialize in the field through their cutting-edge research.  

Yes. Many of our faculty are experts in artificial intelligence and develop and teach courses on emerging AI technologies and their applications in health.   

Within the MS in Health Informatics, BS in Health Informatics, and PhD in Health Services Research programs, students can choose from courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining, and related topics.  

We also offer standalone certificates, including the AI in Health Graduate Certificate and the Health Informatics and Data Analytics Graduate Certificate.  

Currently, George Mason offers the following programs: 

• Health Services Research, PhD, Knowledge Discovery and Health Informatics Concentration: prepares graduates to be scholars, researchers, educators, and leaders in health care organizations and academia. 

• Health Informatics, Master of Science (MS): provides students with graduate-level education in the modeling and use of health data, management of informatics projects, public health data, and quality analytics. Available online and in a traditional (on-campus) format. 

• Bachelor’s to Accelerated Master’s in Health Informatics (BAM): offers two pathways: one for students completing the BS in Health Informatics and continuing into the MS in Health Informatics, and another for students with other undergraduate majors transitioning into the MS in Health Informatics. Contact: hapibam@gmu.edu.  

• Health Informatics and Data Analytics, Graduate Certificate: prepares clinicians and health care managers to develop and manage health information systems and electronic commerce services. Available online and in a traditional (on-campus) format. 

• AI in Health, Graduate Certificate: prepares students to apply artificial intelligence in public health and health care settings, including analyzing and interpreting complex health data, integrating AI technologies (such as machine learning, natural language processing, predictive analytics, and clinical decision support tools) into existing systems, and addressing ethical and regulatory considerations. 

• Health Informatics, Bachelor of Science (BS): prepares undergraduate students for careers in health informatics, integrating health sciences, information technology, computer science, data science, and behavioral sciences. 

• Health Information Technology Minor: introduces students to the use of health information management and technology in health care delivery. 

Prospective transfer students interested in the BS in Health Informatics should begin by reviewing the Transfer Admissions homepage, which includes information on application requirements, transfer credits, deadlines, and transfer agreements with community colleges. 

Students with questions about admission requirements, application status, or transfer credit evaluation should contact the Office of Transfer Services. 

Students with questions about academic planning, including how transfer credits apply to the BS in Health Informatics curriculum, course sequencing, or degree requirements, should contact the College of Public Health Office of Student Affairs (OSA) or the Department of Health Administration and Policy for advising. 

Yes. Graduates of the BS in Health Informatics may apply to graduate programs such as the MS in Health Informatics, and other related graduate programs at George Mason and and other universities. 

Yes. The BSHI program is offered in both traditional (on-campus) and fully online formats. Students may take some courses online and others in person, depending on availability and individual preferences.  The availability of online and in-person courses vary semester-to-semester, and it depends on demand.  

Health informatics is a rapidly growing and in-demand field in health care, with strong employment prospects. BSHI graduates gain business, technical, and analytical skills that prepare them for roles in a variety of organizations, including: 

• Private and public sector government jobs 

• Hospitals, clinics, or healthcare practices 

• Consulting or software firms 

• Insurance companies 

• And more 

Because health informatics is interdisciplinary, job titles vary widely. At the undergraduate level, graduates commonly pursue roles that support data, information systems, and health care operations, such as health data analyst, health information technician, clinical data coordinator, systems support analyst, or informatics assistant. These roles provide a strong foundation for career growth and for students pursuing graduate study in health informatics or related fields. 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

Admission criteria and application requirements for HAP graduate programs vary by program and are established by program faculty. Applicants are evaluated based on academic background, relevant experience, and evidence of potential success in the program. 

Most applicants should be prepared to submit: 

• College transcripts 

• Goals statement 

• Two letters of recommendation 

• Resume 

A preferred minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25 is recommended. No GRE is required. 

Detailed, program-specific admission requirements are available on the HAP Graduate Admissions webpage. 

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and prospective students are encouraged to apply early. To be considered for admission in a specific semester, applicants should meet the priority deadlines below: 

Fall Deadlines 

• On-Campus: April 1, 2025 

• Online: August 1, 2025 

Spring Deadlines 

• On-Campus: November 1, 2025 

• Online: December 15, 2025 

Late applications may be considered on a space-available basis. 

For the most current deadlines and updates, visit the HAP Graduate Admissions webpage. 

Yes. The MS in Health Informatics program is offered in both traditional (on-campus) and fully online formats. Students may also have the option to take some courses online and others in person, depending on availability. 

While no formal IT training is required, applicants are encouraged to be familiar with Python and SQL and to be comfortable with advanced computer use. Prospective students from nontechnical backgrounds are encouraged to complete at least one course in Python and one in SQL prior to applying. In the application, students should indicate any relevant coursework or training completed. These courses do not need to be taken at a university and may include reputable online offerings. 

Upon admission, students receive complimentary access to an online bridge course covering math review, computer basics, informatics, and programming. This course should be completed before the first semester begins. 

We strongly recommend consulting with program faculty before applying to ensure the program aligns with your academic and career goals. If you do not have a strong interest in developing technical skills, the Department of Health Administration and Policy offers alternative career pathways within the health care sector. 

Prior to the final semester, students complete the Health Informatics Pre-Capstone (HI 795), a 0-credit course, followed by the Health Informatics Capstone Practicum (HI 796), a 3-credit course. 

In the Pre-Capstone, students complete a required checklist, finalize professional materials, and identify and secure an approved practicum organization. Completion of this checklist is required to enroll in the Capstone Practicum. 

The Capstone Practicum is a project-based experience in which students apply program knowledge as an integral member of an organization, under the joint guidance of a faculty member and an organizational preceptor. Students are responsible for identifying a practicum site and obtaining faculty approval. 

The practicum may be paid or unpaid, should not overlap with regular employment duties, and typically involves approximately 20 hours per week at the site, along with participation in a Capstone seminar that culminates in a comprehensive exam. 

Students who plan to pursue a PhD or other research-focused graduate study may choose a thesis option instead of a traditional industry-based practicum. The thesis option involves conducting original research under faculty supervision and is typically completed over two semesters. Students interested in this option should consult with the program coordinator to determine whether it aligns with their academic and career goals. 

Students may work as graduate research assistants (GRA) or teaching assistants (TA). These paid positions are highly competitive and depend on faculty needs, available funding, and student skill sets. Opportunities are offered on a limited and as-available basis. 

Students are encouraged to review the Health Informatics Faculty webpage to learn about faculty expertise and ongoing research, and to explore the Health Informatics Research webpage for examples of current projects. Students may then contact faculty whose research aligns with their interests.  

Graduates of the MSHI program are prepared for advanced roles that focus on analyzing health data, managing and improving health information systems, and supporting data-driven decision-making across health care organizations. 

MSHI graduates commonly pursue roles such as health informatics analyst, clinical informatics specialist, data analyst, business or IT analyst, systems or applications analyst, implementation specialist, health IT project manager, performance improvement specialist, and product or program analyst. 

Graduates work in a variety of settings, including: 

• Hospitals, clinics, and health care systems 

• Research institutions and academic medical centers 

• Government and public health agencies 

• Consulting and health technology firms 

• Insurance and payer organizations 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

The Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s (BAM) Program allows eligible students to begin taking select graduate-level coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree. These courses can double-count between BS and MS programs, and reduce the total credit hours needed to earn the MS in Health Informatics.  

The BAM program enables students to accelerate their path to the master’s degree, potentially saving time and tuition while gaining early exposure to graduate-level coursework. Students can take up to 12 credits fewer to complete the MSHI degree. Students can also take advantage of reserve credits at lower, undergraduate, tuition rates. 

BS in Health Informatics students who meet eligibility requirements may apply to the BAM Program in Health Informatics. Students should consult their academic advisor to confirm eligibility and review the BAM application process. 

Yes. Students from other majors are eligible to apply for the BAM program in MSHI. 

Yes. Both the BS and MS in Health Informatics are offered in traditional (on-campus) and fully online formats. BAM students may take advantage of this flexibility, depending on course availability. 

Students will be considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completion of a minimum of 60 credits and students must submit two letters of recommendation from faculty members. 

Students who are accepted into the BAM Pathway will be allowed to register for graduate level courses after successful completion of a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits and course-specific pre-requisites. 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

You can also fill out the inquiry form. 

The AI in Health Graduate Certificate will be available in a fully online format soon. Students should contact the department (hap@gmu.edu) to speak with an advisor about current delivery options. 

Applicants must meet George Mason’s Graduate Admission Requirements. 

Most applicants should be prepared to submit: 

• College transcripts 

• Goals statement focused on health informatics and AI applications in health 

• Résumé 

Program-specific admission requirements and application details are available on the HAP Graduate Admissions webpage. 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

You can also fill out the inquiry form. 

The certificate is offered in both on-campus/hybrid and fully online formats. 

Applicants must meet George Mason’s Graduate Admission Requirements. 

Most applicants should be prepared to submit: 

• College transcripts 

• Goals statement focused on health informatics and data analytics 

• Résumé 

Additional considerations: 

• No GRE required 

• Preferred minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25 

• English proficiency exam required when applicable 

Students planning to change careers are encouraged to contact an informatics advisor to discuss preparation and recommended background. 

Program-specific admission requirements and application details are available on the HAP Graduate Admissions webpage. 

You can also fill out the inquiry form. 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

You can also fill out the inquiry form. 

Applicants must meet George Mason’s Graduate Admission Requirements and program-specific criteria established by the program faculty. Applicants are evaluated based on academic background, research potential, and evidence of success in doctoral-level study. 

Most applicants should be prepared to submit: 

• College transcripts 

• Goals statement 

• Two letters of recommendation 

• Resume 

Applicants must have completed a master’s degree or equivalent. Applicants with an MD, JD, or prior PhD may also be considered. 

Goals Statement 
Applicants submit an approximately 1,000-word statement describing academic and research interests in health services research, motivation for pursuing the PhD, and long-term career goals. 

The program is highly competitive, with approximately 4–5 students admitted to the concentration annually. 

For full admission requirements and application details, visit the HAP Graduate Admissions webpage. 

The doctoral program is a typical 72-credit hour program that is usually completed in 4-5 years. Up to 30 credit hours of relevant coursework can be transferred from a previous MS degree. 

No. Our PhD program is post-masters, meaning that you need to have a master’s degree or equivalent advanced degree. In you are unsure if your degree qualifies, contact the admissions office at cphgrad@gmu.edu 

Yes. Doctoral dissertation is the most important component of the program. All students must prepare and publicly defend their dissertation.  

Talk to the program faculty. Doctoral dissertations are results of extremely specialized advanced research by doctoral candidates, closely mentored by their dissertation advisors. If you have specific topics or research areas in mind, make sure that there are available faculty in the program with expertise to supervise that research. 

We strongly suggest that you familiarize yourself with the details of faculty research. Then you can reach out to specific faculty to discuss specific topics.  

Note that only tenured faculty with active research supervise doctoral dissertations. Faculty who are in teaching-intensive positions often serve as additional doctoral committee members, but do not chair dissertation committees. 

The best way to get additional information about the program is to contact the department at hap@gmu.edu . Our staff will forward your email to the right person to respond to questions. 

You can also fill out the inquiry form.