California Health Informatics Degree Programs

2025 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in California

Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in California? You're in the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we've done the homework to bring you a list of top-notch programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and career outcomes. Whether you're starting fresh or looking to advance your career, our rankings highlight schools that offer the best in education and opportunities in health informatics. We take pride in helping you make an informed decision about your future in this fast-growing field. Curious about how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology to see what makes each program stand out.

#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 Master of Science in Health Informatics is an online program designed for professionals aiming to lead in healthcare technology. Without requiring a specific entrance exam, this program emphasizes the practical application of digital information to enhance health outcomes. Over 13 months, students engage with topics like electronic health records, health information exchange, and system security, preparing for roles that bridge healthcare and technology. With year-round enrollment and no application fee, it's tailored for those ready to advance their careers in health informatics. The curriculum's focus on information systems and technology management ensures graduates are equipped to implement solutions that improve healthcare delivery.

• 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 concentration in Health Informatics and Data Analytics at California State University-Stanislaus is crafted for allied health professionals seeking career advancement. Spanning 18 months and requiring 52-54 units, the program combines online coursework with practical experience, costing between $19,500 and $20,250. With admission cycles in Fall and Spring, starting Fall 2025, it targets those aiming to enhance their expertise in health informatics and data analytics. This program is ideal for individuals looking to merge health science knowledge with data-driven decision-making skills in the healthcare sector.

• 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 (HIDA) concentration, designed to blend healthcare, IT, and data analysis. This program is tailored for students with an allied health associate degree, aiming to transition into upper-division studies. It emphasizes the use of SQL, R, and Python for health data analysis, understanding health information systems, and navigating health regulations. Graduates are prepared for roles such as health data analysts and informatics specialists, contributing to improved health outcomes. The program is a gateway to careers in hospitals, health agencies, and tech firms, with a focus on ethical considerations in health data.

• 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 specialized concentration in Medical Informatics, tailored for those eager to integrate biology, medicine, and data science. This on-campus program is ideal for aspiring leaders in healthcare, research, and academia, focusing on innovative computational solutions for medical challenges. Admission is competitive, targeting individuals with robust backgrounds in biology or computer science. The curriculum is research-intensive, encouraging interdisciplinary projects at the forefront of medical informatics. Notably, the program does not explicitly require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. With a military-friendly policy and an on-campus hospital, UCLA provides a supportive and practical learning environment.

• 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 offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics, a campus-based program tailored for students passionate about advancing in healthcare computing and research. With a requirement of 55 units, the curriculum is comprehensive, blending core and domain courses with a significant research project aimed at producing a publishable thesis. This program is particularly suited for those interested in biomedical informatics, digital health, and clinical decision support, preparing graduates for a variety of roles in the healthcare sector. Admission is competitive, focusing on academic excellence, and while the program does not explicitly mention an entrance exam requirement, it emphasizes practical skills and research capabilities. Financial support options are available to eligible students, making this program accessible to a wide range of applicants. The presence of a hospital on campus further enriches the learning experience, providing real-world insights into health informatics 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

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 Master of Science in Informatics with a concentration in Health Informatics is a fully online program tailored for professionals seeking to advance in the healthcare sector. It emphasizes practical skills in project management, human-centered design, and big data analytics, with a strong focus on health data, records, and security. Unique to this program is its no GRE or GMAT requirement, offering flexibility with fall or spring admissions. Designed to be completed in 18 to 24 months, it prepares students for the rapidly growing health informatics field, with a projected job growth of 32% from 2020 to 2030. Scholarships and an executive-style curriculum enhance its accessibility and appeal.

• 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.

#6

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

The Bachelor of Science in Health Information and Informatics at Loma Linda University is tailored for students aiming to merge healthcare with technology. Available online or on-campus, this program focuses on health information systems management to improve patient care and support research. It offers an accelerated path to graduation in six terms, with optional micro-credentials in Data Analytics and Cybersecurity to boost employability. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA and prerequisite courses but does not specify ACT or SAT requirements. Graduates are eligible for the RHIA exam, paving the way for careers in various healthcare settings. The program's hands-on EHR internship and focus on whole person care stand out as key features.

• 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 offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics, a STEM-classified online program designed to prepare professionals for the rapidly evolving healthcare technology sector. This CAHIIM-accredited program emphasizes information management, system development, and leadership, equipping graduates to lead technological advancements in healthcare. With a curriculum that integrates technology, data management, and regulatory insights, students are prepared for diverse career opportunities in health IT. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission and does not explicitly mention an entrance exam requirement. Graduates can expect to enter a field with a projected 22% job growth, highlighting the program's strategic career potential.

• 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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#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 unique Health Informatics Master’s degree program with a concentration in Addressing Health Disparities. This hybrid program is tailored for students passionate about reducing health inequities in underserved populations. It blends online and on-campus learning, emphasizing biomedical informatics, coding skills, and the impact of social determinants on health. Graduates are equipped to leverage technology for health equity, with a curriculum that includes ethical considerations in biomedicine and computing. The program stands out for its focus on community health, supported by NIH funding and a multidisciplinary faculty. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to a diverse student body.

• 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 stands out as a STEM-designated program, meticulously designed to merge healthcare administration with cutting-edge IT skills. Emphasizing data analysis, software programming, and project management, this program equips students with the expertise needed in today's healthcare IT landscape. The curriculum is hands-on, offering practical lab experiences to ensure real-world applicability. With flexible start dates in Spring, Summer, and Fall, the program requires 40 units to complete, priced at $2,020 per unit. Admission is streamlined with a bachelor's degree, statement of purpose, two recommendation letters, and a resume, with GRE scores being optional, making it accessible to a broad applicant pool.

• 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 Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Health Informatics, designed to merge health science with information technology. This campus-based program requires 120 units and focuses on database design, computer security, and programming tailored for health IT. Students engage in practical courses such as Diagnostic and Procedural Coding and Advanced Programming for Health Informatics, preparing them for careers in healthcare IT. The curriculum emphasizes the role of data in enhancing patient care and includes opportunities for service learning and independent research. Admission is based on general university standards, with a preference for applicants strong in science and technology. No specific entrance exam like ACT or SAT is mentioned as required for this bachelor's level program.

• 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

*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.