Florida Health Informatics Degree Programs

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

2025 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in Florida

Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in Florida? You're in the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch programs that fit your goals. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, our list highlights schools that offer quality education in health informatics. We focus on what matters to you, like curriculum, faculty, and job prospects after graduation. Our rankings are based on a thorough review process, ensuring you get reliable information to make your decision easier. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for all the details.

#1

University of Central Florida

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

Bachelor's - Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

Pioneering in Florida's State University System, the Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics at the University of Central Florida merges healthcare with technology to enhance patient care through data management. Located in downtown Orlando near major hospitals, this campus-based program boasts a 22% job growth rate in Florida and an average salary of $80,730. It includes a mandatory internship and prepares students for certifications like CAHIMS and CHDA, offering a solid foundation for diverse careers in health informatics.

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

Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Information Management

Online Learning - Visit Website

The BS in Health Informatics and Information Management at the University of Central Florida is an affordable online program focusing on the quality and security of medical data. With in-state tuition at $212.28 per credit hour, it requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and a 'C' in prerequisites. The program includes a two-semester internship, preparing students for the national registration exam to become Registered Health Information Administrators, bridging the gap between clinicians, administrators, and IT professionals.

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

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Central Florida's Master of Science in Health Care Informatics stands out for its fully online format, designed for working professionals seeking flexibility. With no GRE required for admission, the program is accessible and focuses on equipping students with the skills to leverage technology in healthcare, promising a 16% industry growth. It includes an internship for hands-on experience and prepares graduates for certifications, offering a direct path to careers as analysts, managers, and researchers in healthcare settings.

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

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#2

Nova Southeastern University

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

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics at Nova Southeastern University is a campus-based program in Fort Lauderdale, FL, preparing students to address healthcare challenges through technology. It emphasizes data management, electronic medical records, and privacy/security issues, with hands-on learning and internship opportunities. The program covers ethical, legal, and quality assessment aspects of healthcare, aiming to equip graduates for careers in medical informatics and data analysis. Admission requires a high school diploma, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The program is pending CAHIIM accreditation and offers dual admission options for further educational pathways.

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

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics online, designed for those aiming to merge healthcare with technology. This CAHIIM-accredited program spans 36 credits, offering flexibility with online and hybrid options, and can be completed in as little as 1.5 years. It includes professional certifications such as Lean Six Sigma and CPHIMSS, enhancing graduates' employability. The curriculum focuses on computer science, clinical informatics, and health IT management, with practicum opportunities for real-world experience. Admission is based on graduate standards, with no specific entrance exam required, and offers start dates in winter, summer, and fall.

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

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#3

University of North Florida

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

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Florida offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics, tailored for professionals aiming to excel in the tech-centric healthcare industry. This 33-credit online program blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on the transformation of health data into impactful solutions. It prepares graduates for high-demand roles such as Clinical Informaticists and Health Information Managers, with a curriculum designed to meet board certification standards. Ideal for working professionals, the program emphasizes flexibility without compromising on depth. Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, alongside a resume, a letter of intent, and two recommendation letters. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for aspiring leaders in health informatics.

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

#4

University of Florida

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

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Medical Sciences

Concentration: Biomedical Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Florida offers a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Biomedical Informatics, designed for those aiming to excel in academic and research roles. This campus-based program requires 90 credit hours, including 36 focused on Biomedical Informatics, blending computer science, health, and biostatistics. It stands out for its emphasis on translational science and research methodology, preparing students to contribute to healthcare innovation. With access to UF's health science centers and the OneFlorida Clinical Research Consortium, students benefit from interdisciplinary research and faculty mentorship. The program aligns with PCORI initiatives, aiming for graduates to achieve publishable research. An entrance exam is required for admission.

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

#5

Jacksonville University

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

Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Jacksonville University offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics entirely online, tailored for aspiring professionals in the rapidly expanding health informatics sector. This program merges health IT, data analytics, and healthcare management, equipping graduates for high-demand positions such as Health Information Management Director or Clinical Analyst. Spanning 33 credit hours, the curriculum is designed for completion within a year and includes a capstone project to apply learned skills. Applicants must submit unofficial transcripts and a resume, with additional documentation needed for GPAs below 3.0. Unique features include guaranteed admission for JU BSHS graduates and an emphasis on gaining practical experience through internships or work projects, all without requiring an entrance exam.

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

#6

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

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

Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Information Management

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management (HIIM) stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that merges healthcare with technology. Accredited by CAHIIM, the program emphasizes data management, cybersecurity, and enhancing healthcare through technology. Students benefit from hands-on internships and coursework in health information systems, legal issues, and data analytics, preparing them for the RHIA exam. Notably, the program boasts a 100% graduation rate and a 94% employment rate within a year, offering additional certificates in Medical Coding and Health Information Privacy and Security. This HBCU provides a robust foundation for diverse careers in health informatics.

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

*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2023.

How to Choose the Best Program for You in Florida

Quick Take

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

Program Levels and Educational Pathways

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

Bachelor’s Level Programs

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

Master’s Level Programs

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

Doctoral Programs

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

Admission Requirements and Accessibility

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

Entrance Exam Requirements

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

GPA Requirements and Academic Flexibility

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

Prerequisites and Background Diversity

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

Application Streamlining

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

Cost Analysis: Exceptional Value in Florida

Public University Excellence

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

Private University Options

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

Hidden Value Factors

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

Professional Certification Integration

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

Program Formats and Scheduling Flexibility

Online Learning Excellence

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

Hybrid and Flexible Formats

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

Accelerated Completion Options

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

Campus-Based Advantages

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

Specialization Areas and Career Focus

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

Clinical Informatics and Patient Care

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

Health Information Management and Data Security

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

Healthcare Technology and Systems Integration

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

Research and Biomedical Informatics

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

Healthcare Analytics and Data Management

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

Hands-On Experience and Industry Connections

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

Mandatory Internship Requirements

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

Hospital and Healthcare System Partnerships

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

Research Collaboration Opportunities

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

Professional Certification Preparation

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

Faculty Expertise and Program Quality Indicators

Industry Experience and Connections

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

Research Excellence and Innovation

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

Student Success Outcomes

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

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

CAHIIM Accreditation Excellence

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

Professional Recognition and Rankings

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

Certification Preparation Integration

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

Career Outcomes and Employment Success

Outstanding Employment Rates

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

Salary and Advancement Potential

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

Career Path Diversity

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

Geographic Flexibility

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

Making Your Decision: Essential Evaluation Criteria

Career Goal Alignment

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

Budget and Value Considerations

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

Schedule and Format Preferences

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

Location and Lifestyle Factors

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

Industry Interest and Networking Goals

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

Emerging Trends and Future Considerations

Aging Population Demographics

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

Telehealth and Remote Care Expansion

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

Healthcare Tourism and International Connections

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

Climate Change and Emergency Preparedness

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