California Health Informatics Degree Programs

2027 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in California

When searching for the best health informatics degree programs in California, healthinformaticsdegree.org provides the most reliable rankings. We evaluate each program based on curriculum quality, faculty expertise, technology resources, and career outcomes. By focusing on what matters most to students, these rankings highlight programs that genuinely prepare graduates for success in the fast-growing health informatics field. Whether looking for undergraduate or graduate options, the list covers top-tier universities and innovative online offerings across the state. The methodology behind every ranking is transparent and data-driven, ensuring trustworthy results. To understand how we assess each school, review our detailed rankings methodology page: https://www.healthinformaticsdegree.org/about-us/#rankings

#1

University of California-Los Angeles

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

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Bioinformatics (Medical Informatics)

Campus Based - Visit Website

UCLA's Ph.D. in Bioinformatics with a Medical Informatics subfield offers a rigorous research-focused curriculum for students passionate about applying computational methods to healthcare. The program combines core coursework in bioengineering, biostatistics, and computer science with hands-on laboratory rotations during the first year. Students develop skills in biomedical informatics methodology, data analysis, and research proposal writing, culminating in a dissertation that makes a novel contribution to the field. Graduates are prepared for careers in academic research, industry R&D, and healthcare innovation. Distinctive features include an individual development plan, teaching experience requirement, and annually monitored progress. The program fosters close mentorship through a doctoral committee and emphasizes original research from a one-month qualifying project to final dissertation defense.

• 5-Year program
• Complete in Normative time-to-degree is five years (15 quarters)
• Thesis required
• Individual development plan required annually
• Teaching experience: one quarter required
• Laboratory rotations during first year
• Dissertation proposal in NIH grant format
• Written qualifying exam: one-month project
• Annual progress report required

#2

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 (BSHII) prepares you for a dynamic career at the intersection of healthcare and technology. The curriculum covers health information systems, data analytics, cybersecurity, revenue cycle management, and leadership, with stackable microcredentials in Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, and Management. You'll gain hands-on experience through an exclusive EHR Business Internship with Epic, available to California residents. CAHIIM accredited through 2029, the program prepares you for the RHIA certification exam. With an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible online or on-campus options, you can graduate in as little as six terms. Graduates pursue roles in hospitals, insurance companies, government agencies, and more, entering a field projected to grow 28% by 2032.

• CAHIIM accredited
• 78 total credit hours
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for RHIA
• Stackable microcredentials built into curriculum
• Exclusive EHR Business Internship with Epic
• 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• 28% job growth projected 2022-2032

Master's - Health Informatics

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Loma Linda University's Master of Science in Health Informatics prepares professionals to lead in an information-driven healthcare environment. The curriculum integrates leadership, system theory, management, technology, data management, and regulatory constraints, equipping graduates to design and implement information systems that improve patient care. As a STEM-classified program, it emphasizes analytical and technical skills. Graduates pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, health information exchanges, and consulting. The program is accredited by CAHIIM through 2030 and reflects the university's faith-based mission, fostering ethical, holistic professionals. Ideal for those from nursing, radiology, pharmacy, or IT backgrounds, the program offers a 6-quarter curriculum with a supportive learning community.

• CAHIIM accredited
• $41,006 total program tuition
• 6 quarters program
• Apply by 2026-08-01
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Financial aid available
• STEM-classified program
• CAHIIM accredited through 2030

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#3

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 prepares professionals to bridge healthcare, data, and technology. The curriculum covers information systems, information technology, and informatics, with courses in electronic health records, biostatistics, health information exchange, and a capstone project. Students gain skills in data management, analytics, and decision support to improve healthcare quality and efficiency. Graduates pursue roles such as health informatics specialist, clinical data analyst, and health information manager. The program features an accelerated 13-month completion, no application fee, and no entrance exams. As a HIMSS Organizational Affiliate, NU offers free tutoring, a mentoring network, and 24/7 support. Year-round enrollment allows flexible start dates for working professionals.

• 13-Month program
• 10 total courses
• Rolling admissions
• Capstone required
• $0 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Online format
• Careers: health informatics specialist, clinical data analyst
• HIMSS Organizational Affiliate

#4

San Jose State University

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

Master's - Master of Science in Informatics (Health Informatics)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The 100% online Master of Science in Informatics at San José State University offers a specialized track in Health Informatics. Designed for working professionals, this executive-style program provides a solid foundation in general informatics skills such as project management, human-centered design, and big data management, while focusing on critical health topics including health informatics, epidemiological methods, health data analytics, health records, and security and privacy. Graduates are prepared for careers as medical and health services managers, with the field projected to grow 32% from 2020 to 2030 and offering six-figure earning potential. The program features no GRE or GMAT requirement, scholarships available, and fall or spring start dates. With a typical completion time of 18 to 24 months, the online format allows students to balance studies with professional and personal commitments, making it an ideal choice for advancing in the dynamic health informatics field.

• No entrance exam required
• Complete in 18 to 24 months
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• six figure earning potential
• Scholarships available
• 100% online program
• Designed for working professionals
• Executive-style program
• Focus on health and telehealth

#5

University of California-Davis

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

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Health Informatics at UC Davis prepares students to apply informatics to public health challenges, including surveillance, prevention, and health promotion. The curriculum emphasizes data-driven health research within an interdisciplinary environment, linking clinical and translational science. Students benefit from both a research professor mentor and an academic advisor, gaining hands-on experience in team-based projects. Graduates are equipped for careers as health informatics specialists, research scientists, or data analysts in healthcare and public health settings. UC Davis's leadership in clinical and translational research provides a distinctive foundation for this program, offering collaborative opportunities across multiple disciplines. The program fosters skills in health data analysis, informatics systems, and population health management, preparing students to drive innovation in healthcare delivery.

• Mentorship from research professor
• Academic advisor guidance
• Focus on public health informatics
• Interdisciplinary team science
• Leader in translational research
• Data-driven health research

#6

California State University-Stanislaus

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

Bachelor's - Health Science B.S. (Health Informatics and Data Analytics)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Stanislaus offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Health Informatics and Data Analytics (HIDA). This hybrid program prepares students for the intersection of healthcare, information technology, and data analysis. The curriculum covers epidemiology, health program planning, health research methods, and global health, while the HIDA concentration dives into data analysis tools like SQL, R, and Python, health information systems, and ethical considerations. Graduates are equipped for roles such as health data analyst, informatics specialist, or health IT consultant in hospitals, health agencies, and tech firms. The program features a practicum and seminar, allowing hands-on experience. With a broad-based foundation, students can also pursue graduate studies in public health or health policy. The 120-unit degree offers three concentrations, with HIDA requiring 25 specialized units. This flexible, career-focused program is ideal for those seeking to improve health outcomes through data.

• 3 concentration options
• 120 total credit hours
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Careers: health data analyst, informatics specialist
• Intersection of healthcare, IT, and data analysis
• Proficiency in SQL, R, Python
• Knowledge of health regulations and ethics
• Hybrid program format
• Practicum and seminar included

#7

California State University-Channel Islands

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

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

Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Channel Islands offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a Health Informatics option. This 120-unit program combines health science core courses like anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and public health with specialized informatics training. Students take courses in diagnostic and procedural coding, database theory, programming for health informatics, computer security, and networks. Interdisciplinary studies in psychology, sociology, and communication provide a broader context. The informatics option can be completed as independent certificate programs, offering flexibility. Hands-on learning includes a service learning, independent research, or senior capstone project. Graduates are prepared for roles in healthcare data management, health information systems, and clinical informatics. The program emphasizes practical skills in managing and analyzing health data using modern IT tools.

• 120 total credit hours
• Option can be completed as independent certificates
• Courses in diagnostic and procedural coding
• Programming for health informatics
• Database theory and design
• Computer system security course
• Computer networks for health informatics
• Service learning and capstone options
• Management information systems course

#8

Claremont Graduate University

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

Master's - MS in Health Information Systems & Technology

Campus Based - Visit Website

The MS in Health Information Systems & Technology at Claremont Graduate University equips students with expertise in data analysis, software programming, and project management to drive innovation in healthcare. The curriculum covers health informatics, biostatistics, and machine learning, with hands-on fieldwork and a capstone project. Students gain skills to manage health IT systems and pursue careers in hospital administration, pharmaceutical marketing, healthcare consulting, and biotech. This STEM-designated program offers flexible courses for working professionals and is taught by faculty researching obesity prevention, health disparities, and design science. With three start dates per year and proximity to LA health departments, the program provides practical experience and strong career outcomes.

• No entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE
• Test optional
• $2,070 per credit
• 2-Year program
• 36 total credit hours
• Apply by 2025-11-01
• Full-time enrollment
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts spring/summer/fall

*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics. (2025). IPEDS Data Center. 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.