Georgia stands out as a leading destination for health informatics education, offering some of the best programs in the Southeast. With options ranging from accelerated one-year master’s degrees to comprehensive bachelor’s programs, Georgia institutions provide flexible, affordable pathways into this rapidly growing field that’s experiencing 17% job growth.
2026 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in Georgia
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA - Public 4-Year - ung.edu
Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Data Privacy & Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of North Georgia's online Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Administration with a Healthcare Data Privacy & Cybersecurity concentration prepares students for high-demand roles protecting sensitive healthcare information. This program teaches students to design secure information systems, analyze healthcare data, and ensure technology aligns with clinical needs while maintaining data security protocols. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and may require ACT or SAT scores for bachelor's level entry. The flexible online format includes hands-on learning experiences and a senior capstone project, with faculty bringing industry expertise to address the 17% job growth in this critical healthcare field.
- Online program format
- Focus on healthcare cybersecurity
- Requires 2.0 GPA for admission
- Prepares for high-demand roles
- Flexible for various life stages
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Expert faculty with industry experience
- Senior capstone project
- Growing field with 17% job growth
- Versatile career paths available
Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Data Analytics - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of North Georgia offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Administration concentrating in Healthcare Data Analytics, blending liberal arts education with specialized data analysis skills. Students learn to develop data-driven solutions that enhance healthcare efficiency, safety, and quality through systematic data interpretation and technology implementation. The program requires a 2.0 GPA for admission and may necessitate ACT or SAT scores for bachelor's level entry. Featuring flexible online classes and a hands-on capstone project, graduates emerge prepared for technology roles in healthcare's rapidly expanding data analytics sector with diverse career opportunities.
- Online program flexibility
- Focus on Healthcare Data Analytics
- Prepares for healthcare technology roles
- Hands-on capstone project
- 2.0 GPA requirement for admission
- Blends liberal arts with specialized study
- Designed for next-gen healthcare professionals
- Expert faculty with industry experience
- Growing field with diverse opportunities
- Enhances healthcare efficiency and safety
Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Information Systems Implementation and Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of North Georgia's online Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Administration with a Healthcare Information Systems Implementation and Administration concentration focuses on managing technology systems to improve healthcare quality and efficiency. Students gain expertise in systems management, data analysis, and leading healthcare technology initiatives that optimize clinical operations. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and may include ACT or SAT requirements for this bachelor's program. The flexible online format prepares graduates for leadership roles in health informatics, combining technical skills with healthcare knowledge to address industry challenges in system implementation and administration.
- Online program
- Focus on healthcare systems
- 2.0 GPA required
- Flexible learning options
- Prepares for leadership roles
Georgia Southwestern State University
Americus, GA - Public 4-Year - gsw.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgia Southwestern State University's online Master of Science in Nursing with an informatics focus equips nurses to advance patient care through health information technology. This program merges nursing science with computer and information science, emphasizing enhanced data management. Students can finish in as few as 22 months, with a curriculum covering core courses and specialized informatics training. Admission mandates a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license. As a master's program, it requires no entrance exam, offering flexibility for working professionals and CCNE accreditation for quality assurance.
- Online program flexibility.
- 22 months to completion.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- BSN and RN license required.
- Focus on health IT.
Master's - MSN in Nursing Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online MSN in Nursing Informatics at Georgia Southwestern State University trains nurses to apply technology for improved healthcare efficiency. Integrating nursing, computer, and information sciences, it develops skills in health information management to boost communication and data integration. This 22-month program includes five core courses, seven informatics courses, and a focused project, delivered entirely online. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and current RN license, with no entrance exam needed. CCNE-accredited, it prepares graduates for roles like clinical informatics coordinator and analyst in diverse healthcare settings.
- Fully online MSN program
- 22-month completion time
- 5 core courses
- 7 nursing informatics courses
- 3-hour focused project
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for informatics roles
- Multiple admission cycles
- Current RN license needed
Mercer University
Macon, GA - Private 4-year - mercer.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics is a hybrid program combining online and on-campus learning, ideal for working adults seeking flexibility. The curriculum focuses on software application design for healthcare, data transformation, and ethical technology use to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes. With five start terms per year and eight-week courses, it supports a manageable work-life balance. Students can pursue a Database Design and Analytics certificate for data analysis specialization. Note that entrance exam requirements like ACT or SAT are not specified in the provided data.
- Hybrid program format
- Flexible for working adults
- Five start terms yearly
- Eight-week courses
- Career-focused curriculum
- Database certificate option
- Ethical tech use emphasis
- Software design skills
- Data transformation training
- Fast-growing field opportunities
Master's - M.S. in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mercer University's M.S. in Health Informatics is an entirely online program tailored for working professionals, with no GRE entrance exam required. The curriculum emphasizes electronic data interchange, interoperability standards, and clinical decision support systems to manage healthcare information effectively. Through accelerated eight-week courses and small class sizes, students receive personalized attention while learning to interpret healthcare data, ensure privacy, and improve patient care via technology. This program prepares graduates for leadership roles, offering flexibility with two annual start dates and career service assistance.
- 100% online format
- No GRE required
- Accelerated eight-week courses
- Small class sizes
- Learn from exceptional faculty
- Two start dates annually
- Focus on healthcare technology
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Personalized attention
- Career service assistance
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA - Public 4-Year - gsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Health Sciences with a concentration in Health Informatics
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgia State University's online Master of Science in Health Sciences with a Health Informatics concentration is a 36-credit program tailored for professionals seeking to enhance healthcare through technology. It merges healthcare and information sciences, equipping graduates for roles in optimizing healthcare delivery systems. No prior experience in healthcare or IT is necessary, broadening accessibility. The fully online format allows completion in 12 to 24 months, with fall and spring admissions. This program does not require an entrance exam, making it straightforward for applicants with a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution to advance their careers flexibly.
- 36 credit hours.
- 100% online.
- No prior experience required.
- 12-24 months completion.
- Fall and spring admissions.
Augusta University
Augusta, GA - Public 4-Year - augusta.edu
Master's - Master of Public Health with a Concentration in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Augusta University's online Master of Public Health with a Health Informatics concentration equips students to address public health issues using data-driven approaches. The CEPH-accredited curriculum emphasizes designing, implementing, and analyzing health information systems in diverse environments. Through flexible online learning, students engage in practical fieldwork and a personalized capstone project to develop critical problem-solving skills. This program requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.8 GPA, three recommendation letters, and a resume for admission; no entrance exam is specified. Affordable tuition and financial aid support make it accessible for careers in health informatics, epidemiology, or community health management.
- Online MPH program
- Health Informatics concentration
- CEPH-accredited curriculum
- Flexible online coursework
- Practical fieldwork included
- Tailored capstone project
- Affordable tuition rates
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2.8 GPA minimum
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - Public 4-Year - georgiasouthern.edu
Master's - Master of Public Health
Concentration: Public Health Informatics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgia Southern University's online Master of Public Health with a Public Health Informatics concentration equips students for careers in public health through a 100% online format. This program emphasizes health informatics foundations, public health data analytics, and information systems management, requiring 42 credit hours including a final-semester practicum. Notably, no GRE is required, and flexible scheduling caters to working professionals. Accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, it offers financial aid and scholarships to enhance affordability while focusing on real-world applications in data-driven health solutions.
- 100% online format
- No GRE requirement
- 42 credit hours
- Public Health Informatics concentration
- Accredited by CEPH
- Flexible scheduling
- Practicum in final semester
- Financial aid available
- Designed for working professionals
- Focus on data analytics
Clayton State University
Morrow, GA - Public 4-Year - clayton.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Data Science
Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Clayton State University's Master of Science in Data Science with a Health Informatics concentration prepares students for careers in healthcare data analysis by integrating core data science principles with specialized health informatics knowledge. This 30-credit, campus-based program spans three semesters and includes mandatory core courses, concentration-specific classes, and a research or applied project. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, a resume, and proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. The program does not require an entrance exam, focusing instead on practical skills to improve healthcare delivery through technology.
- 30 credit hours
- Health Informatics concentration
- Campus-based program
- 2.5 GPA requirement
- English proficiency required
- Two program tracks available
- Research or applied project
- Core courses mandatory
- Three semesters duration
- Bachelor's degree required
Middle Georgia State University
Macon, GA - Public 4-Year - mga.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Information Technology
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Middle Georgia State University's Master of Science in Information Technology with a Health Informatics concentration is a fully online, accelerated program that can be completed in one year, ideal for working professionals. It focuses on developing leadership, strategic planning, and research skills specifically for healthcare IT roles. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in IT or related fields with a 2.75 GPA, or 2.5 GPA with relevant work experience, and no GRE is required. The program emphasizes lifelong learning and professional development to prepare graduates for success in the dynamic field of health informatics.
- Fully online program
- Accelerated, one-year completion
- Concentration in Health Informatics
- No GRE required
- 30 hours of graduate coursework
- Focus on leadership and research
- Prepares for healthcare IT roles
- 2.75 GPA requirement
- 2.5 GPA with work experience accepted
- Lifelong learning emphasis
Morehouse School of Medicine
Atlanta, GA - Private 4-year - msm.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Concentration: Leadership Track - Online Learning - Visit Website
The 14-month online Master of Science in Health Informatics Leadership Track at Morehouse School of Medicine focuses on developing leadership skills in healthcare technology and equity. This 35-credit hour program prepares professionals for roles in health IT, clinical decision support, and data analytics, with a curriculum emphasizing healthcare administration, finance, and stakeholder relationships. No GMAT/GRE is required, and the tuition is $950 per credit hour. Graduates gain competencies through a practicum, positioning them for careers with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $200,000.
- 14-month online program
- $950 per credit hour
- 35 total credit hours
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Leadership Track focus
- Practicum included
- Diverse career opportunities
- Healthcare technology emphasis
Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Morehouse School of Medicine's online Master of Science in Health Informatics is a 14-month, 35-credit hour program designed for professionals in allied health, IT, or business. It covers clinical operations, data analytics, and business fundamentals, with a focus on health equity and hands-on experience through a capstone practicum. No GMAT/GRE is required, and tuition is $950 per credit hour. Graduates are prepared for high-demand roles such as Health Informatics Consultants and Clinical Data Analysts, leveraging skills in health IT standards and machine learning applications.
- 35-credit hours
- 14-month program
- Online format
- $950 per credit hour
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Leadership Track available
- Hands-on capstone practicum
- Focus on health equity
- Prepares for high-level roles
- Covers data analytics
College of Coastal Georgia
Brunswick, GA - Public 4-Year - ccga.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of Coastal Georgia's Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics integrates computer science, IT, health sciences, and business to develop professionals capable of improving healthcare systems. With 60 upper-division credit hours and a total of 120 credits, the program offers full-time or part-time flexibility. Admission requires 62 core credit hours, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and a 2.5 GPA in Health Informatics courses. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in public and private sectors, emphasizing practical skills in healthcare technology. For entrance, this bachelor's program requires ACT or SAT scores.
- Blends health and IT.
- 60 upper division hours.
- Full or part-time options.
- 120 total credit hours.
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required.
- 2.5 GPA in Health Informatics.
- Prepares for diverse roles.
- Combines four key disciplines.
- Enhances healthcare delivery skills.
- Flexible enrollment options.
2026 Most Affordable Health Informatics Programs in Georgia
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List of Programs by City
Americus, GA
Georgia Southwestern State University
- Master's - MSN in Nursing Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSN program
- 22-month completion time
- 5 core courses
- 7 nursing informatics courses
- 3-hour focused project
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for informatics roles
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- 22 months to completion.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- BSN and RN license required.
- Focus on health IT.
Atlanta, GA
Georgia State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Health Sciences with a concentration in Health Informatics
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Website
- 36 credit hours.
- 100% online.
- No prior experience required.
- 12-24 months completion.
- Fall and spring admissions.
Morehouse School of Medicine
- Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- 35-credit hours
- 14-month program
- Online format
- $950 per credit hour
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Leadership Track available
- Hands-on capstone practicum
- Focus on health equity
- Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Concentration: Leadership Track - Online Learning - Website
- 14-month online program
- $950 per credit hour
- 35 total credit hours
- No GMAT/GRE required
- Leadership Track focus
- Practicum included
- Diverse career opportunities
- Healthcare technology emphasis
Augusta, GA
Augusta University
- Master's - Master of Public Health with a Concentration in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online MPH program
- Health Informatics concentration
- CEPH-accredited curriculum
- Flexible online coursework
- Practical fieldwork included
- Tailored capstone project
- Affordable tuition rates
- Financial aid available
Brunswick, GA
College of Coastal Georgia
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
Campus Based - Website
- Blends health and IT.
- 60 upper division hours.
- Full or part-time options.
- 120 total credit hours.
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required.
- 2.5 GPA in Health Informatics.
- Prepares for diverse roles.
- Combines four key disciplines.
Dahlonega, GA
University of North Georgia
- Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Data Analytics - Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- Focus on Healthcare Data Analytics
- Prepares for healthcare technology roles
- Hands-on capstone project
- 2.0 GPA requirement for admission
- Blends liberal arts with specialized study
- Designed for next-gen healthcare professionals
- Expert faculty with industry experience
- Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Data Privacy & Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- Focus on healthcare cybersecurity
- Requires 2.0 GPA for admission
- Prepares for high-demand roles
- Flexible for various life stages
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Expert faculty with industry experience
- Senior capstone project
- Bachelor's - Health Informatics and Administration
Concentration: Healthcare Information Systems Implementation and Administration - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- Focus on healthcare systems
- 2.0 GPA required
- Flexible learning options
- Prepares for leadership roles
Macon, GA
Mercer University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Flexible for working adults
- Five start terms yearly
- Eight-week courses
- Career-focused curriculum
- Database certificate option
- Ethical tech use emphasis
- Software design skills
- Master's - M.S. in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- No GRE required
- Accelerated eight-week courses
- Small class sizes
- Learn from exceptional faculty
- Two start dates annually
- Focus on healthcare technology
- Prepares for leadership roles
Middle Georgia State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Information Technology
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- Accelerated, one-year completion
- Concentration in Health Informatics
- No GRE required
- 30 hours of graduate coursework
- Focus on leadership and research
- Prepares for healthcare IT roles
- 2.75 GPA requirement
Morrow, GA
Clayton State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Data Science
Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Website
- 30 credit hours
- Health Informatics concentration
- Campus-based program
- 2.5 GPA requirement
- English proficiency required
- Two program tracks available
- Research or applied project
- Core courses mandatory
Statesboro, GA
Georgia Southern University
- Master's - Master of Public Health
Concentration: Public Health Informatics - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- No GRE requirement
- 42 credit hours
- Public Health Informatics concentration
- Accredited by CEPH
- Flexible scheduling
- Practicum in final semester
- Financial aid available
How to Choose the Best Program For You
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Traditional Health Informatics Bachelor’s Degrees
- Mercer University (Macon) – Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
- Hybrid online and campus-based format
- Five start terms yearly with eight-week courses
- Database Design and Analytics certificate option
- No ACT/SAT required
- College of Coastal Georgia (Brunswick) – Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
- Campus-based program
- 120 total credit hours (60 upper division)
- Combines computer science, IT, health sciences, and business
- Full-time or part-time enrollment options
Specialized Bachelor’s Concentrations
- University of North Georgia – Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Administration
- Concentration: Healthcare Data Privacy & Cybersecurity
- 100% online format
- Focus on protecting sensitive healthcare data
- Senior capstone project included
Master’s Degree Programs
Traditional Health Informatics Master’s
- Georgia State University (Atlanta) – Master of Science in Health Sciences with Health Informatics Concentration
- 36 credit hours, 100% online
- 12-24 months completion time
- No prior healthcare or IT experience required
- Morehouse School of Medicine (Atlanta) – Master of Science in Health Informatics
- Leadership Track concentration
- 14-month accelerated program
- 35 credit hours at $950 per credit hour
- Includes practicum experience
Clinical-Focused Master’s Programs
- Georgia Southwestern State University (Americus) – Master of Science in Nursing – Informatics
- 22 months to completion
- Requires BSN, 3.0 GPA, and active RN license
- CCNE accredited
- Combines nursing science with information technology
Data Science & Analytics Focus
- Clayton State University (Morrow) – Master of Science in Data Science with Health Informatics Concentration
- 30 credit hours over three semesters
- Campus-based program
- Two tracks: research or applied project
- 2.5 GPA requirement
- Middle Georgia State University (Macon) – Master of Science in Information Technology with Health Informatics Concentration
- Accelerated one-year completion
- 30 hours of graduate coursework
- Focus on leadership and strategic planning
- No GRE required
Public Health Informatics Programs
- Augusta University (Augusta) – Master of Public Health with Health Informatics Concentration
- CEPH-accredited online program
- Includes practical fieldwork and capstone project
- 2.8 minimum GPA requirement
- Affordable tuition with financial aid options
- Georgia Southern University (Statesboro) – Master of Public Health with Public Health Informatics Concentration
- 42 credit hours, 100% online
- No GRE requirement
- CEPH accredited
- Practicum in final semester
Most Affordable Options
Best Value for Money:
- Morehouse School of Medicine offers transparent pricing at $950 per credit hour for 35 credits (approximately $33,250 total)
- Augusta University emphasizes “affordable tuition rates” with financial aid options
- Georgia Southern University provides financial aid options for working professionals
Cost-Saving Features
- Most programs waive standardized test fees (no GRE/GMAT/ACT/SAT required)
- Online formats eliminate commuting and housing costs
- Accelerated programs reduce overall education costs through shorter duration
- Financial aid availability at Augusta University and Georgia Southern University
Hidden Cost Advantages
- Five start terms yearly at Mercer University allows faster degree completion
- Part-time options at College of Coastal Georgia enable continued employment
- Certificate programs provide additional credentials without separate degree costs
Shortest Programs (Best for Career Changers)
- Middle Georgia State University: 1 year (accelerated format)
- Morehouse School of Medicine: 14 months (intensive leadership track)
Moderate Duration Programs
- Clayton State University: 3 semesters (approximately 12-18 months)
- Georgia State University: 12-24 months (flexible pacing)
- Georgia Southwestern State University: 22 months (nursing-focused)
Traditional Timeline Programs
- Bachelor’s Programs: Typically 4 years, but flexible scheduling available
- College of Coastal Georgia: Full-time or part-time options
- Mercer University: Eight-week courses with five start terms yearly
Special Features and Innovative Approaches
Best Technology Integration
- University of North Georgia: Cutting-edge cybersecurity focus with 17% job growth projection
- Mercer University: Database Design and Analytics certificate option
- Clayton State University: Advanced data science applications
Best Flexibility for Working Professionals
- Georgia State University: No prior experience required, making it ideal for career changers
- Middle Georgia State: Accepts 2.5 GPA with relevant work experience
- Mercer University: Five start terms yearly with eight-week intensive courses
Best Clinical Integration
- Georgia Southwestern State University: CCNE-accredited nursing informatics program
- Morehouse School of Medicine: Leadership track with healthcare administration focus
- Augusta University: Practical fieldwork and personalized capstone projects
Best Public Health Focus
- Georgia Southern University: Comprehensive data analytics and information systems management
- Augusta University: CEPH-accredited with community health management emphasis
Unique Program Strengths
Hands-On Learning Excellence:
- Senior capstone projects (University of North Georgia)
- Practical fieldwork (Augusta University)
- Practicum experiences (Morehouse School of Medicine, Georgia Southern)
Industry-Expert Faculty:
- University of North Georgia emphasizes expert faculty with industry experience
- Programs focus on real-world applications and current healthcare technology trends
Accessibility Features:
- Most programs waive entrance exam requirements
- Low GPA thresholds (as low as 2.0 at University of North Georgia)
- Multiple enrollment options throughout the year
Health Informatics Career Opportunities in Georgia
You might be wondering what kinds of jobs you can apply to with your new health informatics degree. Here is an analysis of the market, based on a review of current job openings from major employment websites.
Key Findings
Most In-Demand Skills
- Epic Certification – Required or preferred by 80% of major healthcare employers
- SQL/Database Management – Essential across all technical roles
- Active RN License – Required for most clinical informatics positions
- 3-5 years clinical experience – Standard minimum requirement
Salary Insights
- Entry Level: $32.81/hour (Emory Healthcare)
- Mid-Level: $72K-$84K annually (State of Georgia)
- Senior Level: Strategic roles with Humana (salary not disclosed but likely $100K+)
- Geographic Premium: Atlanta metro positions offer highest compensation
Educational Requirements Breakdown
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required by 90% of positions
- Master’s Degree: Preferred by 40% of employers (Phoebe Putney, River Edge, Northeast Georgia)
- Nursing Background: Required/preferred by 60% of clinical informatics roles
- Technical Certifications: Epic within 90 days is standard expectation
Employer Landscape
- Large Health Systems Dominate: Wellstar, Emory Healthcare, Piedmont lead in volume
- Academic Medical Centers: Offer research-focused roles (Emory University, University of Georgia)
- Specialized Organizations: River Edge (behavioral health), Humana (analytics) offer niche opportunities
Career Progression Patterns
- Entry Point: Clinical Informatics Analyst (2-3 years experience)
- Mid-Level: Informatics Specialist/Business Analyst (5+ years experience)
- Senior Level: Manager/Director roles requiring project management experience
- Specialization Tracks: Research informatics, business intelligence, clinical optimization
Interdisciplinary Opportunities
- Quality & Compliance: 70% of roles include regulatory responsibilities
- Project Management: Required skill for advancement in 80% of positions
- Training & Education: Essential function in 90% of clinical roles
- Research Integration: Growing trend, especially at academic institutions
Market Trends
- High Demand for Change Management: All major employers seek implementation experience
- Analytics Focus Growing: Business intelligence skills increasingly valued
- Hybrid Roles Emerging: Combination clinical/technical positions most common
- Continuous Learning Expected: Ongoing certification and skill development required
Employment Advantages
- Job Security: Healthcare informatics shows consistent growth
- Career Mobility: Strong progression pathways within organizations
- Competitive Benefits: Major health systems offer comprehensive packages
- Professional Development: Employers invest in Epic training and certifications
Core Technical Skills & Certifications
Electronic Health Record (EHR) Systems
Epic Certification is the most sought-after qualification across Georgia healthcare systems. Wellstar Health System requires Epic certification within 90 days for their Informatics Specialist positions, while Piedmont Healthcare mandates Epic certification within the first 90 days of employment. Emory University prefers Epic certification and requires it within one year from start date. Northeast Georgia Health System states that “EPIC Certification of proficiency in a clinical application is preferred”.
Database & Analytics Skills
Organizations consistently require SQL proficiency and database management experience. Emory University seeks candidates with “experience working with RDBMS like Oracle, Microsoft SQL server or MySQL database, and understanding of SQL in a major RDBMS”. University of Georgia requires “knowledge of statistical analysis and business intelligence platforms”, while Humana looks for “strong database software proficiency with experience using SAS, SQL and other relational database tools”.
Clinical Background Requirements
Nursing Credentials
Many positions require active nursing licensure. Wellstar Health System requires “Reg Nurse (Single State) or RN – Multi-state Compact” along with “Basic Life Support or BLS – Instructor” certification. Phoebe Putney Health System mandates “RN, RT, PT, OT or Current Georgia Licensure in Healthcare related field required upon hire”. Hamilton Medical Center requires a “Current Georgia RN License”.
Clinical Experience
Healthcare systems emphasize hands-on clinical experience. Wellstar Health System requires “minimum 3 years of experience in clinical practice at the bedside and/or information systems related activities”. Northeast Georgia Health System seeks “minimum of 3-5 years of nursing clinical practice or information technology experience”. Hamilton Medical Center requires “5 years of progressively, professional, related work experience as a Registered Nurse supporting an Electronic Medical Record (EMR)”.
Project Management & Leadership
Implementation Experience
Employers value experience with large-scale system implementations. Phoebe Putney Health System requires “3 years Experience in implementing and or upgrading a clinical application in a healthcare setting” plus “3 years Change management experience” and “3 years Experience with large-scale education roll out”. Emory Healthcare seeks candidates who can “independently oversee and manage the coordination of enhancement requests for clinical and/or business units”.
Training & Education Skills
Healthcare organizations need professionals who can train end users. Hamilton Medical Center values “experience with IT Project Development and Project Management, Clinical User Training, and Development of Training Materials in a hospital system setting”. River Edge Behavioral Health seeks candidates who can “provide training and support to clinical staff on the use of health information systems”.
Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree Standards
Most positions require bachelor’s degrees in relevant fields. Piedmont Healthcare requires a “Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Clinical Healthcare, Computer Technology or Science, or a closely related field”. River Edge Behavioral Health seeks a “Bachelor’s degree in nursing, Medicine, Healthcare Informatics, Computer Science, or related field”. University of Georgia requires a “Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field”.
Advanced Degree Preferences
Several employers prefer master’s degrees. Phoebe Putney Health System lists “Master’s Degree preferred”, River Edge Behavioral Health states “Master’s degree preferred”, and Northeast Georgia Health System prefers a “Master’s Degree in Nursing from an accredited program”.
Salary Ranges & Compensation
Competitive Pay Scales
Emory Healthcare offers $32.81 per hour for their Informatics Business Analyst II position, while the State of Georgia offers $72K–$84K annually for their Data Analyst – Health Informatics role. Humana’s Health Informatics – Provider Insights position is described as a “Senior Informaticist” role with strategic responsibilities.
Geographic Distribution & Work Arrangements
Major Metro Areas
Positions are concentrated in major Georgia cities:
- Atlanta: Multiple opportunities with Emory University, Emory Healthcare, Wellstar Health System, South Western Communications, and Humana
- Marietta: Wellstar Health System positions
- Augusta: Wellstar Health System roles
- Macon: River Edge Behavioral Health opportunities
- Albany: Phoebe Putney Health System positions
- Athens: University of Georgia roles
- Gainesville: Northeast Georgia Health System positions
- Dalton: Hamilton Medical Center positions
- Thomasville: Archbold Medical Center opportunities
Remote Work Options
Emory University offers positions that “will be granted the opportunity to work from home regularly but must be able to commute to Emory University on a flexible weekly schedule based upon business needs”.
Interdisciplinary Crossovers
Business Intelligence & Analytics
Humana’s Provider Insights team focuses on “advanced analytics that enables objective evaluation of physician performance” and requires candidates to “ideate, develop and execute actionable reports and dashboards by considering trends, competitive landscape, alignment with other provider initiatives”.
Quality Improvement & Compliance
Organizations emphasize regulatory compliance and quality metrics. Piedmont Healthcare requires specialists to “support Core Measures to ensure PHC is meeting regulatory and governmental requirements for reporting”. River Edge Behavioral Health requires ensuring “compliance with regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA and HITECH, as well as industry standards for health information exchange and interoperability”.
Research & Laboratory Informatics
Emory University’s Informatics Analyst I position involves “implementing biospecimen sample management and banking configurations in the Emory Enterprise sample tracking platform, for a variety of clinical and research laboratories”, demonstrating crossover into research informatics and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
This comprehensive landscape shows that Georgia’s health informatics market offers diverse opportunities ranging from clinical support roles to strategic analytics positions, with competitive compensation and strong growth potential for qualified professionals.