California Health Informatics Degree Programs

2026 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in California

Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in California? You have come to the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we carefully rank these programs to help you make a smart choice. Our list includes top schools that offer strong courses in health data, technology, and patient care. We focus on factors like faculty expertise, job placement rates, and hands-on learning opportunities. Whether you are starting your career or advancing it, our rankings guide you to programs that fit your goals. For details on how we create these rankings, check out our https://www.healthinformaticsdegree.org/about-us/#rankings page.

#1

National University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

National University's online Master of Science in Health Informatics equips students for leadership in healthcare technology and consulting, focusing on digital information to enhance health outcomes. The 13-month program covers information systems, electronic health records, health information exchange, and security, with no application fee and year-round enrollment. It requires 54 quarter units and does not mandate an entrance exam, preparing graduates to manage and implement effective health information systems.

• Online program
• Complete in 13 months
• Year-round enrollment
• No application fee
• 54 quarter units required
• Focus on health information systems
• Covers EHR and health information exchange
• Prepares for leadership roles
• Skills in healthcare technology
• Improves healthcare outcomes

#2

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA - Public 4-Year - csustan.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Science

Concentration: Health Informatics and Data Analytics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The hybrid Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a Health Informatics and Data Analytics concentration at California State University-Stanislaus is designed for allied health professionals seeking career advancement. Over 18 months, students complete 52-54 units through a mix of online coursework and practical experience, costing $19,500-$20,250. Admissions occur in Fall and Spring, with the program launching in Fall 2025. This bachelor's-level program does not require ACT or SAT exams, emphasizing preparation for roles that leverage data analytics to enhance healthcare efficiency and decision-making.

• Hybrid program format
• Health Informatics concentration
• 18-month completion
• 52-54 units required
• $19,500-$20,250 cost
• Fall and Spring admissions
• Online and practical experience
• For allied health professionals
• Launches Fall 2025

Master's - Health Informatics and Data Analytics

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-Stanislaus offers an online Health Informatics and Data Analytics program that merges healthcare, IT, and data analysis to improve health outcomes. Students gain expertise in SQL, R, and Python while learning to navigate health information systems and regulations. This upper-division program prepares graduates for roles like health data analysts and informatics specialists in hospitals, agencies, and tech firms. Admission requires an allied health associate degree, and as a bachelor's program, it does not mandate ACT or SAT exams, focusing instead on transfer qualifications for seamless entry.

• Upper-division major
• Focus on healthcare, IT, data analysis
• Learn SQL, R, Python
• Understand health information systems
• Career in hospitals, agencies, tech firms
• Prepares for roles like data analyst
• Improve health outcomes with data
• Navigates health regulations
• Ethical considerations in health data
• Springboard to graduate work

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#3

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA - Public 4-Year - ucla.edu

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Bioinformatics

Concentration: Medical Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of California-Los Angeles offers a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics with a Medical Informatics concentration, blending biology, medicine, and data science for campus-based learning. This program equips students for leadership in healthcare and research through advanced computational methods to address medical challenges. Interdisciplinary research is central, with opportunities for cutting-edge projects requiring strong backgrounds in biology or computer science. While specific admission details vary, applicants should expect a rigorous selection process; entrance exam requirements are not specified, so checking current policies is advised. The program is military-friendly and benefits from an on-campus hospital, enhancing practical experience in medical informatics.

• Concentration in Medical Informatics
• Campus-based program
• Interdisciplinary research focus
• Prepares for healthcare leadership
• Strong biology, CS background needed

#4

University of California-Davis

Davis, CA - Public 4-Year - ucdavis.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of California-Davis Master of Science in Health Informatics provides comprehensive 55-unit campus training focused on biomedical informatics. Students engage in substantial research projects aiming for publishable thesis work in digital health and clinical decision support. This program emphasizes practical skill development for healthcare computing careers while offering financial support options. Admission requires meeting specific academic standards, though no entrance exam is explicitly required. The curriculum combines core and domain courses to prepare graduates for diverse roles in healthcare research and industry applications.

• 55 units required
• Campus-based program
• Research project and thesis
• Focus on biomedical informatics
• Prepares for healthcare careers
• Admission requirements specified
• Financial support options
• Practical skills emphasis
• Publishable thesis goal
• Digital health research

#5

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, CA - Private 4-year - llu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Information and Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Loma Linda University's Bachelor of Science in Health Information and Informatics offers an accelerated online or on-campus path, completable in six terms. This STEM program includes micro-credentials in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, fostering skills in health information systems and EHR management. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and prerequisite courses, with no ACT or SAT exam specified as mandatory. Graduates gain eligibility for the RHIA exam, supported by hands-on internships and a Whole Person Care approach, opening diverse career opportunities in healthcare technology.

• Accelerated 6-term completion
• Online or on-campus options
• Micro-credentials in key areas
• RHIA exam eligibility
• Minimum GPA 2.5 required
• 78-unit curriculum
• Focus on healthcare technology
• Diverse career opportunities
• Hands-on EHR internship
• STEM classified program

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Loma Linda University's Master of Science in Health Informatics is a STEM-classified, CAHIIM-accredited online program designed for professionals advancing in healthcare technology. It emphasizes information management, system development, and leadership, integrating Christian values into the curriculum. With a 6-quarter structure and a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, it prepares graduates for high-demand roles in health IT, leveraging an interdisciplinary approach to enhance patient care systems. No specific entrance exam is mentioned as required for admission, focusing instead on GPA and educational background.

• STEM-classified graduate program
• 6-quarter online degree
• CAHIIM accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Diverse career opportunities
• Multiple professional pathways
• Tuition approximately $21,357/year
• Interdisciplinary educational background
• Christian values integration

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#6

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA - Public 4-Year - sjsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Informatics

Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Visit Website

San Jose State University's online Master of Science in Informatics with a Health Informatics concentration is tailored for working professionals, offering flexible fall or spring starts and an 18-24 month completion timeline. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in health data analytics, electronic health records management, and security protocols, alongside project management and human-centered design principles. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission, enhancing accessibility. Scholarships are available, and the program prepares graduates for high-growth roles in health informatics, which is projected to see 32% job growth from 2020 to 2030.

• 100% online program.
• Focus on Health Informatics.
• No GRE or GMAT required.
• Scholarships available.
• Fall or spring starts.
• 18 to 24 months completion.
• Executive-style program.
• Skills in big data management.
• Project management training.
• Human-centered design focus.

#7

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science

Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - cdrewu.edu

Master's - Health Informatics Master’s degree program

Concentration: Addressing Health Disparities - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science offers a Health Informatics Master's program with a concentration in Addressing Health Disparities, designed to equip students with skills to serve underserved communities. This hybrid program combines remote and in-person learning, emphasizing biomedical informatics, coding proficiency, and social determinants of health. It prepares graduates to reduce health disparities through technology, with a strong focus on ethical issues in computing and biomedicine. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for those committed to health equity in under-resourced areas.

• Hybrid learning model
• Focus on health disparities
• Proficiency in coding
• Ethical computing focus
• Social determinants of health
• Diverse student body
• National Institutes of Health funded
• Multi-disciplinary faculty
• Community health focus
• Biomedical informatics principles

#8

Claremont Graduate University

Claremont, CA - Private 4-year - cgu.edu

Master's - MS in Health Information Systems & Technology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Claremont Graduate University's MS in Health Information Systems & Technology is a STEM-designated program that merges healthcare administration with IT, emphasizing data analysis, software programming, and project management. Students engage in hands-on learning in advanced labs, with a 40-unit curriculum designed for real-world application. The program offers flexible start dates in Spring, Summer, and Fall, and tuition is $2,020 per unit. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, two recommendation letters, and a resume, with GRE scores optional, making it accessible without a mandatory entrance exam.

• STEM-designated program
• 40 units required
• In-person modality
• Spring, Summer, Fall starts
• 2 years full-time
• Data analysis focus
• Software programming skills
• Project management training
• Hands-on lab experience
• Interdisciplinary approach

#9

California State University-Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA - Public 4-Year - csuci.edu

Bachelor's - Health Science: Health Informatics Option, B.S.

Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Channel Islands offers a Health Science: Health Informatics Option, B.S. that integrates health science with information technology to develop expertise in managing and analyzing health data. The curriculum emphasizes database design, computer security, and programming tailored for health informatics, with hands-on courses in diagnostic coding and advanced programming. This campus-based program requires 120 units and prepares graduates for healthcare IT roles by focusing on how data enhances patient care. Admission follows general university standards with science and technology prerequisites; as a bachelor's program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams.

• 120 units required
• Campus-based program
• Focus on Health Informatics
• Includes database design
• Covers computer security
• Programming for health IT
• Practical coding courses
• Prepares for healthcare IT careers
• Emphasizes data in patient care
• Admission based on university standards

*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Choose the Best Program for You

Quick Take

Choose UC programs (UCLA, UC Davis) for research excellence and world-class education.

UCLA’s Ph.D. program is ideal for students pursuing academic careers, research leadership, or advanced clinical roles requiring deep technical expertise. UC Davis offers comprehensive master’s-level training with thesis requirements and access to cutting-edge biomedical informatics research. Both provide access to world-class faculty, extensive research funding, and prestigious alumni networks.

Select CSU programs (San Jose State, Cal State Stanislaus, Cal State Channel Islands) for affordable, high-quality education with practical focus.

San Jose State’s fully online program suits working professionals seeking career advancement with projected 32% job growth and no entrance exam requirements. Cal State Stanislaus serves allied health professionals needing career transition with hybrid learning and 18-month completion. Cal State Channel Islands provides comprehensive undergraduate foundation with hands-on programming and database design skills.

Consider National University for accelerated completion and maximum flexibility.

Their 13-month online program with year-round enrollment serves professionals needing rapid credential completion without sacrificing career responsibilities. The program suits healthcare professionals seeking quick advancement or career changers entering the field efficiently.

Choose Loma Linda University for faith-based education with practical certifications.

Their accelerated 6-term program includes valuable micro-credentials in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, RHIA exam preparation, and strong emphasis on whole-person care. Ideal for students seeking technical skills within a values-based educational environment.

Select Charles R. Drew University for health equity focus and community impact.

Their unique concentration in addressing health disparities suits professionals passionate about social justice and reducing healthcare inequities in underserved populations. The NIH-funded program provides strong research opportunities while maintaining community health focus.

Consider Claremont Graduate University for premium STEM education with extensive hands-on experience.

Their $2,020 per unit investment provides STEM designation benefits, comprehensive lab experiences, and strong industry connections. Ideal for students seeking intensive practical training and willing to invest in premium education quality.

Continue on below for more details.

Program Levels and Educational Pathways

California offers comprehensive health informatics education across all degree levels, providing pathways for students at every career stage.

Bachelor’s Level Programs

Loma Linda University offers an accelerated 6-term program with micro-credentials in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, available online or on-campus. California State University-Channel Islands provides a comprehensive 120-unit campus-based program focusing on database design, computer security, and health IT programming. Cal State Stanislaus offers an innovative hybrid program specifically designed for allied health professionals seeking career advancement. These programs typically prepare students for entry-level positions and professional certifications like RHIA.

Master’s Level Programs

Programs range from 40-55 units and provide various specializations including clinical informatics, health information systems, and data analytics. Notable offerings include UC Davis’s research-intensive 55-unit program with thesis requirements, San Jose State University’s fully online program with 32% projected job growth, National University’s accelerated 13-month online format, and Claremont Graduate University’s STEM-designated program with hands-on lab experiences.

Doctoral Programs

UCLA offers a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics with Medical Informatics concentration, providing access to world-class research facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities. These programs typically require extensive research components and prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, and advanced clinical practice.

Specialized and Emerging Focus Areas

California programs increasingly address specialized needs including health disparities (Charles R. Drew University), bioinformatics integration (UCLA, UC Davis), and technology innovation (Silicon Valley proximity programs). These specialized tracks reflect California’s leadership in addressing healthcare challenges through technology innovation.

Admission Requirements and Accessibility

California’s health informatics programs balance accessibility with academic rigor, reflecting the state’s commitment to diverse educational opportunities.

Entrance Exam Policies

Most California programs have eliminated or made optional entrance exam requirements. San Jose State University explicitly requires no GRE or GMAT, while Claremont Graduate University makes GRE scores optional. This trend makes programs more accessible to working professionals and career changers while maintaining academic standards through other admission criteria.

GPA Requirements and Academic Standards

Requirements typically range from 2.5-3.0 for most programs, with competitive programs potentially requiring higher standards. Loma Linda University requires a 2.5 GPA minimum, while graduate programs generally expect stronger academic performance. The variation allows students with different academic backgrounds to find appropriate entry points.

Professional Experience and Background Diversity

Programs welcome students from diverse backgrounds. Charles R. Drew University emphasizes diverse student body recruitment, while Cal State Stanislaus specifically targets allied health professionals. Many programs value professional experience and provide pathways for career changers from various fields.

Prerequisite Requirements

Vary by program focus and level. Some programs require specific prerequisite courses in areas like statistics, computer science, or healthcare, while others provide foundational training as part of the curriculum. Students should carefully review prerequisites to ensure adequate preparation.

Cost Analysis: Investment and Value in California

California’s health informatics programs require careful cost-benefit analysis given the state’s higher cost of living and varying tuition structures.

UC System Excellence and Value

University of California programs, including UCLA and UC Davis, provide world-class education at public university prices for California residents. While specific tuition rates aren’t detailed, UC system pricing typically offers excellent value for the quality of education and research opportunities provided.

CSU System Accessibility

California State University programs, including San Jose State, Cal State Stanislaus, and Cal State Channel Islands, provide high-quality education at more affordable price points. Cal State Stanislaus offers specific pricing at $19,500-$20,250 for their 18-month program, demonstrating competitive value for specialized training.

Private University Premium Options

Private institutions offer varying value propositions. Claremont Graduate University charges $2,020 per unit for 40 units (total: $80,800), representing premium pricing for STEM-designated education with extensive hands-on experiences. National University and other private options may offer accelerated completion and specialized services justifying higher costs.

Hidden Costs and Living Expenses

California’s high cost of living, particularly in major metropolitan areas, significantly impacts total educational investment. However, higher salaries in California’s healthcare and technology sectors may offset these costs over career lifespans.

Return on Investment Considerations

California’s robust healthcare technology sector and high salaries for health informatics professionals can provide excellent returns on educational investment. San Jose State University projects 32% job growth in health informatics from 2020-2030, indicating strong career prospects.

Program Formats and Scheduling Flexibility

Comprehensive Online Learning

National University provides complete online education with year-round enrollment and no application fees. San Jose State University offers 100% online programs with executive-style curriculum design. Loma Linda University provides online options alongside campus-based alternatives.

Hybrid and Flexible Formats

Charles R. Drew University offers hybrid learning that blends online and campus components, while Cal State Stanislaus provides hybrid programs specifically designed for working allied health professionals.

Accelerated Completion Options

National University provides 13-month completion, Loma Linda University offers 6-term acceleration, and various programs provide both full-time and part-time options to accommodate working professionals.

Multiple Start Dates and Year-Round Enrollment

National University offers year-round enrollment, Claremont Graduate University provides Spring, Summer, and Fall starts, and various programs accommodate different academic calendar preferences.

Specialization Areas and Career Focus

Clinical Informatics and Patient Care Technology

Programs emphasize improving patient care through technology implementation. UC Davis focuses on clinical decision support and digital health research, while multiple programs address electronic health records, workflow optimization, and clinical data analysis.

Health Information Systems and Technology Management

Claremont Graduate University specializes in health information systems and technology with STEM designation, while various programs address system implementation, project management, and technology integration in healthcare settings.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

San Jose State University emphasizes big data analytics and management, reflecting the growing importance of data-driven decision making in healthcare. Multiple programs incorporate analytics training to prepare students for evidence-based healthcare improvement.

Bioinformatics and Research Applications

UCLA’s Medical Informatics concentration within Bioinformatics and UC Davis’s biomedical informatics focus provide comprehensive training in research applications, computational biology, and translational science.

Health Equity and Social Determinants

Charles R. Drew University offers unique specialization in addressing health disparities through informatics applications, reflecting California’s commitment to healthcare equity and social justice.

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy

Loma Linda University offers micro-credentials in cybersecurity, while various programs address healthcare data security, privacy compliance, and risk management—critical skills given increasing cyber threats to healthcare.

Hands-On Experience and Industry Connections

Silicon Valley Technology Partnerships

Programs benefit from proximity to major technology companies developing healthcare solutions. Students can access internships, networking opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge technology development through industry partnerships.

Healthcare System Collaborations

Programs maintain relationships with California’s major healthcare systems including Kaiser Permanente, UCLA Health, Stanford Medicine, and others. These partnerships provide clinical informatics experience, internship opportunities, and employment pathways.

Research and Innovation Access

UC system programs provide access to world-class research facilities and NIH-funded projects. UCLA’s research-intensive approach and UC Davis’s thesis requirements ensure students gain substantial research experience.

Hands-On Laboratory Experiences

Claremont Graduate University emphasizes hands-on lab experiences, while various programs provide practical training with healthcare technologies, electronic health record systems, and data analysis tools.

Professional Certification Integration

Loma Linda University prepares students for RHIA exams, while various programs integrate preparation for industry certifications including CAHIMS, CHDA, and others.

Faculty Expertise and Program Quality

Industry Leader Faculty

Programs often feature faculty with current industry experience at major technology companies, healthcare systems, and research institutions. This industry connection ensures curriculum relevance and provides networking opportunities.

Research Excellence and Innovation

UC system programs particularly benefit from faculty engaged in cutting-edge research, with access to significant research funding and publication opportunities. UCLA and UC Davis provide access to internationally recognized researchers.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Charles R. Drew University emphasizes multidisciplinary faculty approaches, while various programs benefit from collaboration between healthcare, technology, and business expertise.

Technology Industry Connections

California’s programs benefit from faculty and adjunct instructors working in the state’s technology industry, providing current insights into healthcare technology development and implementation.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

STEM Designation Benefits

Multiple programs carry STEM designation, including Claremont Graduate University and Loma Linda University. This designation provides benefits for international students including extended Optional Practical Training opportunities and potential qualification for certain scholarships and grants.

University System Quality Standards

UC and CSU system programs benefit from rigorous system-wide quality standards and oversight, ensuring consistent educational excellence across institutions.

Professional Recognition

Programs align with industry standards and professional certification requirements, ensuring graduates are prepared for industry-recognized credentials that enhance employability.

Research University Excellence

Programs at research universities benefit from institutional research infrastructure, funding opportunities, and academic recognition that enhance program reputation and graduate prospects.

Career Outcomes and Employment Prospects

Outstanding Job Growth Projections

San Jose State University projects 32% job growth in health informatics from 2020-2030, significantly exceeding national averages. California’s healthcare technology sector growth ensures continued strong employment prospects.

Salary and Career Advancement

California’s high cost of living is often offset by correspondingly high salaries in healthcare and technology sectors. The state’s competitive market for health informatics professionals creates excellent earning potential and career advancement opportunities.

Industry Diversity and Career Paths

Programs prepare graduates for diverse roles including Clinical Informaticists, Health Data Scientists, Healthcare Technology Consultants, Research Scientists, System Implementation Specialists, and Healthcare Innovation Leaders.

Geographic Career Flexibility

California’s comprehensive training and the state’s reputation for healthcare innovation prepare graduates for national and international career mobility while providing excellent local opportunities.

Making Your Decision: Essential Evaluation Criteria

Career Goal Alignment

Consider your specific interests and career objectives. For research careers, UCLA and UC Davis provide excellent preparation. For clinical applications, programs with strong hospital partnerships offer comprehensive training. For technology focus, Silicon Valley proximity programs provide unique advantages.

Budget and Total Investment Analysis

California’s higher costs require careful financial planning. Consider tuition, living expenses, and opportunity costs against potential salary improvements and career advancement opportunities. Public university options may provide better value, while private institutions may offer specialized advantages.

Location and Industry Access Preferences

California’s diverse regions offer different advantages. Silicon Valley provides technology industry access, Los Angeles offers entertainment and healthcare diversity, San Diego provides biotechnology opportunities, and other regions offer unique specializations and lifestyle benefits.

Schedule and Format Compatibility

Assess your ability to balance work, education, and personal commitments. California’s programs offer excellent flexibility, but success requires realistic planning given the state’s competitive professional environment.

Industry Interest and Networking Goals

Consider whether you’re interested in technology companies, healthcare systems, research institutions, or biotechnology firms. Different programs provide stronger connections to different industry sectors.

Emerging Trends and Future Considerations

Several trends are shaping health informatics education and careers in California:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Integration

California’s leadership in AI development creates opportunities for health informatics professionals with specialized AI skills. Programs increasingly incorporate machine learning and artificial intelligence training.

Precision Medicine and Genomics

California’s biotechnology sector leadership creates opportunities for health informatics professionals specializing in genomics, precision medicine, and personalized healthcare technologies.

Telehealth and Digital Health Innovation

COVID-19 accelerated digital health adoption, and California’s technology sector continues developing innovative telehealth solutions, creating career opportunities in digital health platforms and remote care technologies.

Health Equity and Social Justice

California’s commitment to healthcare equity creates opportunities for health informatics professionals addressing health disparities, social determinants of health, and equitable healthcare access through technology.