Florida Health Informatics Degree Programs

Florida’s rapidly growing healthcare industry, combined with its status as a major retirement destination and hub for medical research, creates an exceptional environment for health informatics education and careers.

2026 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in Florida

Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in Florida? You've come to the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we carefully research and rank top schools to help you make an informed decision. Our list includes programs that offer strong curricula, experienced faculty, and good career outcomes. We focus on what matters most to students like you. To see how we create our rankings and ensure they are fair and thorough, check out our detailed methodology at https://www.healthinformaticsdegree.org/about-us/#rankings. Start exploring your options today!

#1

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu

Bachelor's - Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Central Florida's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics was the first such program in Florida's State University System. This campus-based program in downtown Orlando combines healthcare and technology to improve patient care through data management. With a 22% job growth rate in Florida and average salary of $80,730, the program includes a mandatory internship for real-world experience. Students can pursue CAHIMS and CHDA certifications. The program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission.

• First in Florida State University System
• 22% job growth rate
• Average salary $80,730
• Mandatory internship included
• Eligible for CAHIMS and CHDA certifications
• Campus-based in Orlando
• Close to major hospitals
• Focus on healthcare and technology
• Prepares for diverse careers
• Free access to professional organizations

Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Information Management

Online Learning - Visit Website

UCF's online BS in Health Informatics and Information Management focuses on ensuring medical data quality and security. The program bridges clinicians, administrators, and IT professionals by teaching how to manage, analyze, and convert health data into useful information. At $212.28 per credit hour for in-state students, it offers an affordable path to careers in health information. The program includes a mandatory internship and prepares graduates for the national registration exam to become Registered Health Information Administrators. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

• Fully online program available.
• In-state tuition $212.28 per credit.
• Out-of-state tuition $748.89 per credit.
• Minimum 2.5 GPA required.
• 'C' grade in prerequisites needed.
• Includes mandatory internship.
• Prepares for national registration exam.
• Bridges clinicians and IT professionals.
• Focuses on data quality and security.
• 60 total credit hours.

Master's - Health Care Informatics, Professional Science, MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Central Florida's online Master of Science in Health Care Informatics prepares students for a rapidly growing field with 16% projected growth. This fully online program offers flexible scheduling for working professionals and includes an internship for hands-on experience. Students gain skills to impact healthcare through technology, preparing for careers as analysts, managers, and researchers. The program also readies graduates for professional certifications. No GRE is required for admission, making it accessible to diverse applicants.

• Fully online program
• No GRE required
• 16% industry growth expected
• Internship included
• Prepares for certifications
• Flexible scheduling
• Cohort-based learning
• Networking opportunities
• Career advancement paths
• Accessible admissions

Show 2 More Programs ˅

#2

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics on-campus program in Fort Lauderdale focuses on using technology to address healthcare challenges through data management, electronic medical records, and privacy/security training. Students develop hands-on experience with real-world technologies and internships, covering ethical, legal, and quality assessment topics for careers in medical informatics and data analysis. Admission requires a high school diploma, and as a bachelor's program, it may require ACT or SAT scores, though specific exam requirements are not detailed in the provided information.

• Campus-based program
• Focus on health care technology
• Internship opportunities available
• Covers electronic medical records
• Includes privacy and security training
• Dual admission options
• Prepares for various careers
• Hands-on learning experiences
• Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Accreditation pending by CAHIIM

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's online Master of Science in Health Informatics prepares students for high-demand careers by integrating technology with healthcare applications. The 36-credit CAHIIM-accredited curriculum covers computer science, clinical informatics, and health IT management, with flexible full-time or part-time options allowing completion in as little as 1.5 years. Students gain practical skills through practicum opportunities and can earn professional certifications like Lean Six Sigma and CPHIMSS. The program requires meeting graduate admission standards but does not mandate a specific entrance exam, with start dates available in winter, summer, and fall.

• 36 total credits
• Online and hybrid options
• Accredited by CAHIIM
• Professional certifications included
• Flexible full-time or part-time
• Practicum opportunities available
• State-of-the-art learning tools
• High demand for graduates
• Comprehensive skill set
• Innovative curriculum

Show 1 More Programs ˅

#3

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Medical Sciences

Concentration: Biomedical Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Florida's Ph.D. in Medical Sciences with a Biomedical Informatics concentration trains students for academic and research careers by integrating health outcomes, translational science, and computer science. This campus-based program requires 90 credit hours, including 36 in BMI-specific courses, and emphasizes self-directed research with faculty mentorship. Students gain expertise in data science, biostatistics, and ontologies, leveraging interdisciplinary partnerships across UF's health science centers and the OneFlorida Clinical Research Consortium. While entrance exam requirements are not specified, the program focuses on translating research into practice, aligning with PCORI initiatives, and preparing graduates for faculty roles in healthcare innovation.

• 90-credit hour degree
• 36 credits in BMI coursework
• Campus-based program
• Faculty mentorship
• Interdisciplinary research opportunities
• Focus on translational science
• Aligns with PCORI initiatives
• Prepares for academic careers
• Self-directed research project
• Publishable manuscript goal

#4

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL - Public 4-Year - unf.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Florida's online Master of Science in Health Informatics provides a 33-credit curriculum focused on transforming health data into practical solutions for technology-driven healthcare. This program prepares graduates for roles such as Clinical Informaticists and Health Information Managers, emphasizing foundational knowledge for board certification. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexibility without requiring entrance exams like the GRE. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in a related field, a resume, letter of intent, and two recommendation letters, making it ideal for advancing in the rapidly growing health informatics field.

• 33 credit hours
• Primarily online
• Prepares for board certification
• Flexible for working professionals
• Foundational knowledge in health informatics
• Career roles in health data
• Admissions require related bachelor's degree
• Resume and letter of intent needed
• Two recommendation letters required
• Focus on technology-driven healthcare

#5

Jacksonville University

Jacksonville, FL - Private 4-year - ju.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Jacksonville University's 100% online Master of Science in Health Informatics is designed for rapid career entry, requiring 33 credit hours and completable in one year. The program integrates health IT, data analytics, and healthcare management, preparing graduates for roles such as HIM Director or Clinical Analyst through a capstone project and optional internship. Admission does not require an entrance exam, relying instead on application materials like transcripts and a resume, with additional documentation needed for GPAs below 3.0. This program emphasizes practical experience and offers guaranteed admission for JU BSHS graduates, focusing on real-world applications in the growing health informatics field.

• 100% online program
• 11 courses, one year completion
• Includes internship or work project
• Prepares for professional certification
• Guaranteed admission for JU BSHS graduates
• 33 credit hours required
• Capstone project included
• Admission requires transcripts, resume
• Additional materials for GPA under 3.0
• Focus on health IT and data

#6

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu

Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Information Management

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management equips students with expertise in healthcare data management, cybersecurity, and technology applications to enhance patient care. The curriculum includes hands-on internships and covers health information systems, legal standards, and data analytics. Graduates are eligible for the RHIA exam, and the CAHIIM-accredited program boasts a 100% graduation rate and 94% employment rate. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Students can pursue certificates in medical coding or health information privacy, preparing for diverse roles in EHR implementation and healthcare technology.

• 120 credit hours
• CAHIIM accredited
• Hands-on internships
• Eligible for RHIA exam
• 100% graduation rate
• 94% employment rate
• Focus on data management
• Cybersecurity emphasis
• Real-world workforce experience
• Medical Coding Certificate option

*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Choose the Best Program for You in Florida

Quick Take

• Choose University of Central Florida for affordable, comprehensive education with strong industry connections.
• Select Nova Southeastern for private education with professional certifications and accelerated options.
• Consider University of North Florida for board certification preparation and working professional focus.
• Pursue Jacksonville University for rapid one-year completion.
• Choose Florida A&M for HBCU perspective with exceptional outcomes.
• Select University of Florida for doctoral-level research and academic preparation.

Program Levels and Educational Pathways

Florida offers health informatics education at multiple levels, providing entry points for students at different career stages.

Bachelor’s Level Programs

provide foundational education for students entering the field. The University of Central Florida pioneered health informatics education in Florida’s state university system with both campus-based and online bachelor’s programs. Nova Southeastern University offers a comprehensive campus-based program in Fort Lauderdale, while Florida A&M University provides an HBCU perspective with exceptional outcomes (100% graduation rate, 94% employment rate). These programs typically require 60-120 credit hours and often include mandatory internships and certification preparation.

Master’s Level Programs

dominate Florida’s health informatics landscape, designed primarily for working professionals and career advancement. Programs range from 33-36 credit hours and can be completed in 1-2 years. Notable offerings include Nova Southeastern’s CAHIIM-accredited program with professional certifications, University of North Florida’s board certification preparation focus, Jacksonville University’s accelerated one-year format, and University of Central Florida’s flexible online professional program.

Doctoral Programs

serve students pursuing research careers or academic positions. The University of Florida offers a comprehensive Ph.D. in Medical Sciences with Biomedical Informatics concentration, requiring 90 credit hours with 36 focused on biomedical informatics. This program emphasizes translational science and research methodology, preparing graduates for academic and research leadership roles.

Admission Requirements and Accessibility

Florida’s health informatics programs have embraced accessible admission policies while maintaining academic standards.

Entrance Exam Requirements

Most Florida programs have eliminated entrance exam requirements, with only the University of Florida’s doctoral program requiring entrance exams. This trend makes programs more accessible to working professionals and career changers who may not have recent standardized test experience.

GPA Requirements and Academic Flexibility

Requirements range from 2.5-3.0 for most programs, with additional documentation required for students below minimum thresholds. Jacksonville University provides guaranteed admission for their own BSHS graduates, while most programs accept students from diverse academic backgrounds.

Prerequisites and Background Diversity

Programs generally welcome students from various backgrounds. University of Central Florida requires prerequisite courses with ‘C’ grades, while many programs provide foundational training for students without healthcare or technical backgrounds. This flexibility supports career changers and professionals seeking to expand their skill sets.

Application Streamlining

Most programs require standard application materials including transcripts, resumes, letters of intent, and recommendation letters. The streamlined processes reflect Florida’s focus on attracting working professionals who need efficient admission procedures.

Cost Analysis: Exceptional Value in Florida

Public University Excellence

Florida’s state university system provides exceptional value. University of Central Florida charges just $212.28 per credit for in-state students ($748.89 out-of-state), making quality education highly affordable. With typical master’s programs requiring 33-36 credits, total tuition costs for residents range from $7,000-$7,600—among the lowest in the nation for quality health informatics education.

Private University Options

Nova Southeastern University and Jacksonville University offer private education alternatives with additional services, smaller class sizes, and specialized resources. While more expensive than public options, these programs may provide unique value through accelerated formats, comprehensive support services, or specialized industry connections.

Hidden Value Factors

Florida’s lack of state income tax effectively increases graduate salaries compared to other states. The average salary of $80,730 goes further in Florida than equivalent salaries in states with income taxes, improving return on educational investment.

Professional Certification Integration

Many programs include professional certifications (Lean Six Sigma, CPHIMSS, CAHIMS, CHDA) in their curricula, adding immediate value and reducing post-graduation certification costs. These included certifications can add thousands of dollars in value while enhancing employability.

Program Formats and Scheduling Flexibility

Online Learning Excellence

Most Florida programs offer fully online options recognizing that many students are working professionals. University of Central Florida, Nova Southeastern, University of North Florida, and Jacksonville University all provide comprehensive online programs with interactive learning tools and virtual collaboration opportunities.

Hybrid and Flexible Formats

Nova Southeastern University offers hybrid options combining online convenience with in-person experiences, while various programs provide flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals’ unpredictable schedules.

Accelerated Completion Options

Jacksonville University’s one-year master’s program and Nova Southeastern’s 1.5-year option provide rapid credential completion for motivated students. These accelerated formats allow quick career advancement while minimizing time away from professional responsibilities.

Campus-Based Advantages

Campus-based programs at University of Central Florida (downtown Orlando), Nova Southeastern (Fort Lauderdale), and Florida A&M (Tallahassee) provide traditional university experiences with access to on-campus resources, face-to-face networking, and hands-on laboratory facilities.

Specialization Areas and Career Focus

Florida’s programs reflect the state’s diverse healthcare needs and provide specialized training for various career paths.

Clinical Informatics and Patient Care

Programs emphasize improving patient care through technology implementation. University of North Florida prepares Clinical Informaticists, while multiple programs focus on electronic medical records, clinical decision support systems, and workflow optimization in healthcare settings.

Health Information Management and Data Security

University of Central Florida and Florida A&M emphasize data quality, security, and privacy—critical skills given healthcare’s increasing cybersecurity challenges. These programs prepare students for RHIA certification and specialized roles in health information governance.

Healthcare Technology and Systems Integration

Nova Southeastern and other programs focus on bridging the gap between healthcare professionals and IT systems, preparing graduates to manage technology implementations, system integrations, and digital transformation initiatives.

Research and Biomedical Informatics

University of Florida’s doctoral program provides comprehensive training in biomedical informatics, translational science, and research methodology. This specialization prepares students for academic careers and research leadership in medical institutions.

Healthcare Analytics and Data Management

Multiple programs emphasize data analytics, business intelligence, and evidence-based decision making. These skills are increasingly critical as healthcare organizations seek to improve outcomes while controlling costs through data-driven strategies.

Hands-On Experience and Industry Connections

Florida’s programs leverage the state’s extensive healthcare ecosystem to provide exceptional practical learning opportunities.

Mandatory Internship Requirements

Most programs require internships or practical experience components. University of Central Florida includes mandatory internships in both bachelor’s and master’s programs, while Jacksonville University incorporates work projects or internships. These requirements ensure graduates have real-world experience upon graduation.

Hospital and Healthcare System Partnerships

Programs maintain relationships with major healthcare systems throughout Florida. University of Central Florida’s downtown Orlando location provides proximity to major hospitals, while other programs leverage statewide healthcare networks for internship and employment opportunities.

Research Collaboration Opportunities

University of Florida students benefit from access to the OneFlorida Clinical Research Consortium and various NIH-funded research projects. These opportunities provide exposure to cutting-edge research and publication opportunities that enhance career prospects.

Professional Certification Preparation

Programs integrate preparation for industry certifications including CAHIMS, CHDA, RHIA, CPHIMSS, and others. Nova Southeastern includes Lean Six Sigma certification, while multiple programs provide free access to professional organizations, enhancing networking and continuing education opportunities.

Faculty Expertise and Program Quality Indicators

Industry Experience and Connections

Faculty often maintain current relationships with Florida’s healthcare industry, providing students with current insights, internship opportunities, and job placement assistance. This industry connection ensures curriculum relevance and provides networking opportunities.

Research Excellence and Innovation

University of Florida’s research-intensive faculty provide access to cutting-edge biomedical informatics research, while other programs benefit from faculty engaged in applied research projects with healthcare organizations.

Student Success Outcomes

Florida A&M’s 100% graduation rate and 94% employment rate within one year demonstrate exceptional program quality and student support. These outcomes reflect comprehensive student services and strong industry relationships.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

CAHIIM Accreditation Excellence

Multiple Florida programs maintain CAHIIM (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education) accreditation, including Nova Southeastern University and Florida A&M University. This accreditation ensures curricula meet industry standards and may be required by some employers.

Professional Recognition and Rankings

Programs benefit from institutional recognition and state university system quality standards. University of Central Florida’s status as the first health informatics program in Florida’s state system demonstrates pioneering leadership in the field.

Certification Preparation Integration

Programs align curricula with professional certification requirements, ensuring graduates are prepared for industry-standard credentials that enhance employability and career advancement opportunities.

Career Outcomes and Employment Success

Outstanding Employment Rates

Florida A&M’s 94% employment rate within one year and other programs’ strong placement records demonstrate excellent employer demand for graduates. Florida’s 22% job growth rate ensures continued strong employment prospects.

Salary and Advancement Potential

The average salary of $80,730 provides excellent earning potential, especially considering Florida’s lack of state income tax. Career advancement opportunities are abundant given the state’s growing healthcare industry and expanding technology sector.

Career Path Diversity

Programs prepare graduates for diverse roles including Clinical Informaticists, Health Information Management Directors, Clinical Analysts, Healthcare Data Analysts, System Implementation Specialists, and Research Coordinators.

Geographic Flexibility

Florida’s diverse healthcare markets (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Gainesville) provide employment opportunities throughout the state, while the comprehensive training prepares graduates for national career mobility.

Making Your Decision: Essential Evaluation Criteria

Career Goal Alignment

Consider your specific interests within health informatics. If you’re interested in research and academic careers, University of Florida’s doctoral program provides comprehensive preparation. For clinical applications, programs with strong hospital partnerships offer excellent training. For rapid career advancement, accelerated master’s programs provide efficient pathways.

Budget and Value Considerations

Florida’s public universities offer exceptional value, particularly University of Central Florida’s low tuition rates. Consider total costs including living expenses, and factor in Florida’s tax advantages when evaluating return on investment.

Schedule and Format Preferences

Honestly assess your ability to balance work, education, and personal commitments. Florida’s programs offer excellent flexibility, but success requires realistic planning and strong time management skills.

Location and Lifestyle Factors

Consider Florida’s diverse regions and their unique characteristics. Orlando offers theme park industry connections, Jacksonville provides financial services opportunities, Miami offers international healthcare connections, and Gainesville provides a traditional university town experience.

Industry Interest and Networking Goals

If you’re interested in specific healthcare sectors (hospitals, research, technology companies, government), choose programs with stronger connections to those areas. Consider whether you want to build local, state, or national professional networks.

Emerging Trends and Future Considerations

Aging Population Demographics

Florida’s large and growing elderly population creates unique opportunities for health informatics professionals specializing in geriatric care, chronic disease management, and age-related healthcare technologies.

Telehealth and Remote Care Expansion

COVID-19 accelerated telehealth adoption, and Florida’s geographic diversity and seasonal population changes create ongoing demand for remote healthcare delivery expertise.

Healthcare Tourism and International Connections

Florida’s role as a healthcare destination for international patients creates opportunities for health informatics professionals with experience in international healthcare standards and cross-border data management.

Climate Change and Emergency Preparedness

Florida’s vulnerability to hurricanes and other climate-related events creates demand for health informatics professionals specializing in emergency preparedness, disaster response, and healthcare continuity planning.