A health informatics degree in South Carolina offers a wealth of opportunities in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
South Carolina’s major healthcare systems, such as MUSC Health, Prisma Health, and Lexington Medical Center, are continually investing in digital transformation, creating a consistent demand for skilled informatics professionals to drive innovation and efficiency.
Initiatives like the South Carolina Health Information Exchange (SCHIEx) are crucial for secure and confidential information sharing among providers.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) strategic plan also emphasizes data-driven decision-making underscoring the critical role of informatics in achieving public health goals and ensuring wise spending of taxpayer funds.
2025 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in South Carolina
Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in South Carolina? You're in the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch programs that match your career goals. Our rankings highlight schools that offer strong curricula, experienced faculty, and valuable hands-on learning opportunities. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, these programs can set you on the path to success in the fast-growing field of health informatics. Curious about how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology to see what makes each stand out.
University of South Carolina-Upstate
Spartanburg, SC - Public 4-Year - uscupstate.edu
Bachelor's - Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
USC Upstate's Bachelor of Arts in Health Informatics is an online program designed for individuals entering or advancing in the healthcare IT field. It combines health information management with computer technology across 122 credit hours, emphasizing leadership and IT skills without requiring ACT or SAT scores for admission. This flexibility caters to high school graduates, transfer students, and professionals seeking to pivot into health informatics, supported by admission counselors for a seamless application process.
- Online program available
- 122 credit hours required
- Focus on health IT
- Leadership skills development
- Flexible for career advancers
Master's - Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Carolina-Upstate offers a Master of Science in Informatics online, tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in IT, communications, and business. This 30-credit program allows customization with electives in Information Resource Management or Healthcare Information Management, focusing on practical skills like IT project management and innovation. Admission requires a 2.5 undergraduate GPA, two recommendation letters, and a statement of intent. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for those looking to advance into leadership roles without the hurdle of standardized tests.
- 30-credit program.
- Online program type.
- Minimum GPA 2.5.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Statement of intent required.
- Core courses in IT.
- Electives in IRM or HIM.
- Focus on practical skills.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Independent study option.
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - Public 4-Year - clemson.edu
Master's - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics, M.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clemson University's M.S. in Biomedical Data Science and Informatics offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, focusing on big data management and analysis in biology, medicine, and public health. This program stands out for its flexibility, with courses available at various locations including The Medical University of South Carolina, allowing students to align their studies with career aspirations. A notable advantage is the no GRE requirement, making it accessible for many. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum from biomedical informatics to population health, requiring 32-34 hours of coursework. Ideal candidates have a bachelor's in a related field, with prerequisites in calculus, biology, and programming.
- Interdisciplinary program
- Focus on big data
- 32-34 hours coursework
- Multiple campus locations
- No GRE required
- Fall semester admission
- Combined B.S./M.S. options
- Non-thesis available
- Prerequisites required
- 3-4 semesters completion
Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Precision Medicine - Campus Based - Visit Website
The PhD program in Biomedical Data Science and Informatics at Clemson University, with a Precision Medicine concentration, merges computing and engineering with biomedical sciences. This program is tailored for students aiming to excel in health informatics, offering research opportunities and specialized tracks. It requires a bachelor's degree in a related field, along with calculus, biology, and programming prerequisites. Financial assistance is available, supporting students in their academic and research endeavors. This full-time program is perfect for those looking to dive deep into the analysis of large-scale data from electronic health records and biomedical texts.
- Interdisciplinary PhD program
- Concentration in Precision Medicine
- Combines computing and biomedical expertise
- Full-time program
- Requires bachelor's in related field
- Calculus and biology prerequisites
- Programming experience needed
- Financial assistance available
- Research opportunities in health informatics
- Prepares for careers in biomedical data science
Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Population Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
Clemson University's PhD in Biomedical Data Science and Informatics, concentrating on Population Health, is a collaborative effort with the Medical University of South Carolina. Designed for individuals with backgrounds in computing, math, engineering, or biomedical sciences, this program focuses on managing and analyzing biomedical data. The curriculum requires 67 graduate credits, emphasizing research and culminating in a dissertation. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's in a related field, calculus, biology, and programming experience, preparing students for impactful careers in health informatics.
- Joint program with MUSC.
- Focus on Population Health.
- 67 graduate credits required.
- Background in related field needed.
- Emphasis on research and dissertation.
Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Clinical and Translational Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Offered in partnership with the Medical University of South Carolina, Clemson University's PhD in Biomedical Data Science and Informatics with a Clinical and Translational Informatics concentration is an interdisciplinary program. It equips students with the skills to analyze data from electronic health records and biomedical texts, targeting those with backgrounds in computer science, math, engineering, or biomedical sciences. The program is research-intensive, requiring a bachelor's degree in relevant fields, calculus, biology, and programming experience. Tailored to individual goals, it prepares students for careers at the intersection of computing and health sciences.
- Joint program with MUSC
- Focus on Clinical and Translational Informatics
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Full-time study requirement
- Background in relevant fields needed
- Skills in large-scale data analysis
- Prepares for informatics careers
- Research-focused
- Tailored to student goals
- Admission requires calculus
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu
Master's - Health Information Technology, M.H.I.T.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Carolina-Columbia's hybrid Master's in Health Information Technology (M.H.I.T.) program is tailored for professionals aiming to merge IT with health administration. This program stands out for its flexible hybrid format, offering both online and on-campus learning opportunities. Notably, online students benefit from in-state tuition rates, and on-campus students may access fellowships. Drawing courses from the College of Engineering and Computing, Nursing, and Public Health, the curriculum is designed to equip graduates with leadership capabilities in health IT, emphasizing project management, systems analysis, and innovation. A unique aspect is the no GRE requirement for applicants with relevant professional experience, making it accessible for seasoned professionals.
- Hybrid program format
- In-state tuition online
- Fellowships available
- CAHIIM accredited
- 95% alumni recommendation
- Professional internship option
- Diverse course offerings
- Leadership skill development
- Project management training
- Medical terminology focus
Limestone University
Gaffney, SC - Private 4-year - limestone.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Limestone University offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics (MSHI) entirely online, tailored for professionals seeking to advance in the health informatics field. This program merges healthcare with information technology, preparing graduates for high-demand roles with a median salary of $100,980. The curriculum covers systems analysis, database design, and healthcare policy, designed to be completed in as little as one year. With no GRE required for admission, the program is accessible to those with a bachelor's degree, offering flexibility for working adults. Recognized as a STEM field with an 18% job growth projection, it's an ideal choice for those aiming to lead in health informatics.
- 100% online program
- Complete in as little as one year
- STEM field with 18% job growth
- Median pay of $100,980
- Flexible for working adults
- Multidisciplinary curriculum
- Focus on healthcare and IT
- Outstanding faculty support
- No on-the-job training required
- Bachelor's degree required for admission
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, SC - Public 4-Year - web.musc.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Medical University of South Carolina offers an online Master of Science in Health Informatics, designed for professionals seeking to advance in healthcare IT. This CAHIIM-accredited program focuses on data analytics, preparing graduates for high-demand roles such as data analysts and chief information officers. With small class sizes and a flexible online format, it's ideal for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills for efficient patient care management. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, with financial aid available for eligible students. Notably, the program boasts a high employment rate post-graduation and fosters strong faculty-student relationships, all without the need for academic transfers.
- Online program format
- Prepares for healthcare IT roles
- Flexible for working professionals
- Accredited by CAHIIM
- Financial aid available
- Small class sizes
- Focus on data analytics
- High employment rate post-graduation
- No academic transfers required
- Strong faculty-student relationships
Winthrop University
Rock Hill, SC - Public 4-Year - winthrop.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Professional Studies
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Winthrop University offers an online Bachelor of Professional Studies with a concentration in Health Informatics, tailored for those aiming to merge healthcare with technology. This program stands out for its emphasis on practical skills such as database management, patient privacy, and programming with Python and SQL, all taught through a flexible online format. Ideal for working professionals, it requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission but does not mandate work experience or entrance exams like the ACT or SAT. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in healthcare IT, with a curriculum that also hones leadership and management abilities for advancing in the field.
- Online program flexibility
- 18-credit concentration
- Focus on Health Informatics
- Python and SQL training
- Leadership skills development
- 2.0 GPA requirement
- No work experience needed
- Career in healthcare IT
- Data privacy focus
- Competency-based learning
2025 Most Affordable Health Informatics Programs in South Carolina
Pursuing a Master's in Health Informatics in South Carolina offers exciting opportunities for professionals looking to advance their careers in healthcare technology. Students across Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville can find accessible programs designed to meet growing industry demands. Affordable educational pathways are crucial for professionals seeking to enhance their skills without incurring overwhelming student debt. These programs prepare graduates to leverage technology in healthcare settings, bridging critical gaps between patient care and innovative digital solutions. By focusing on low-cost options, aspiring health informatics professionals can strategically invest in their future, gaining advanced knowledge and credentials that significantly boost career potential in this rapidly evolving field.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| University of South Carolina-Columbia |
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| Medical University of South Carolina |
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| Clemson University |
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List of South Carolina Colleges With Health Informatics Degree Programs
Looking for health informatics degree programs in South Carolina? Below is a list of colleges offering these programs. Each entry includes the school's location, key program features, and a link to more details. This guide helps you compare options easily. Find the right fit for your education and career goals in health informatics.
Charleston, SC
Medical University of South Carolina
- Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- Prepares for healthcare IT roles
- Flexible for working professionals
- Accredited by CAHIIM
- Financial aid available
- Small class sizes
- Focus on data analytics
- High employment rate post-graduation
Clemson, SC
Clemson University
- Master's - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics, M.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Interdisciplinary program
- Focus on big data
- 32-34 hours coursework
- Multiple campus locations
- No GRE required
- Fall semester admission
- Combined B.S./M.S. options
- Non-thesis available
- Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Clinical and Translational Informatics - Campus Based - Website
- Joint program with MUSC
- Focus on Clinical and Translational Informatics
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Full-time study requirement
- Background in relevant fields needed
- Skills in large-scale data analysis
- Prepares for informatics careers
- Research-focused
- Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Population Health - Campus Based - Website
- Joint program with MUSC.
- Focus on Population Health.
- 67 graduate credits required.
- Background in related field needed.
- Emphasis on research and dissertation.
- Doctorate - Biomedical Data Science and Informatics
Concentration: Precision Medicine - Campus Based - Website
- Interdisciplinary PhD program
- Concentration in Precision Medicine
- Combines computing and biomedical expertise
- Full-time program
- Requires bachelor's in related field
- Calculus and biology prerequisites
- Programming experience needed
- Financial assistance available
Columbia, SC
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- Master's - Health Information Technology, M.H.I.T.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- In-state tuition online
- Fellowships available
- CAHIIM accredited
- 95% alumni recommendation
- Professional internship option
- Diverse course offerings
- Leadership skill development
Gaffney, SC
Limestone University
- Master's - Master of Science in Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- Complete in as little as one year
- STEM field with 18% job growth
- Median pay of $100,980
- Flexible for working adults
- Multidisciplinary curriculum
- Focus on healthcare and IT
- Outstanding faculty support
Rock Hill, SC
Winthrop University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Professional Studies
Concentration: Health Informatics - Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- 18-credit concentration
- Focus on Health Informatics
- Python and SQL training
- Leadership skills development
- 2.0 GPA requirement
- No work experience needed
- Career in healthcare IT
Spartanburg, SC
University of South Carolina-Upstate
- Bachelor's - Health Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online program available
- 122 credit hours required
- Focus on health IT
- Leadership skills development
- Flexible for career advancers
- Master's - Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- 30-credit program.
- Online program type.
- Minimum GPA 2.5.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Statement of intent required.
- Core courses in IT.
- Electives in IRM or HIM.
- Focus on practical skills.
A Look at the Health Informatics Job Market in South Carolina
Based on current job postings from major healthcare systems, academic medical centers, and government agencies across South Carolina, health informatics professionals have access to diverse, well-compensated opportunities spanning clinical analytics, system implementation, and specialized informatics roles. Here’s what employers are seeking:
Clinical Background Requirements
Nursing Credentials Essential
- Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System (Spartanburg) requires BSN plus 5 consecutive years licensed clinical nursing for their Nursing Informatics Analyst I role, with ANCC Informatics Nurse certification required within 18 months
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) (Charleston) mandates bachelor’s/master’s in professional healthcare discipline (nursing, radiologic technology, medical technology, therapy, pharmacy) plus 3 years clinical experience and 2 years clinical informatics experience for Clinical Informatics Analyst positions
- McLeod Health (Springdale) requires registered nurse license plus 5 years clinical setting experience and Epic Informaticist certification within 6 months for Nurse Informaticist roles
Specialized Clinical Disciplines
- McLeod Health (Florence) seeks PharmD degree plus acute care hospital and pharmacy informatics experience for Informatics Pharmacist Specialist, requiring South Carolina pharmacy license and Epic medication module certification
- Epic (Savannah, GA) targets physicians with several years inpatient/outpatient experience, preferably family medicine, pediatrics, or internal medicine, plus extensive Epic software experience for Applied Informatics roles
Technical Skills & Systems Expertise
Epic Systems Mastery
- Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System offers Informatics Instructional Designer I positions requiring Epic Application Curriculum Certification and Training Environment Build Accreditation within 90 days, plus Epic Clinical Informatics Certificate within 6 months
- Prisma Health (Columbia) seeks Epic Ambulatory Analysts ($75K-$100K) for implementation, support, and optimization of Epic Ambulatory systems
- MUSC requires Epic certification within 6 months for multiple informatics analyst positions
Advanced Technical Competencies
- Veterans Health Administration (Charleston) offers Program Analyst positions ($90K annually) requiring analytical research approaches, database administration, and forward thinking competencies
- Atrium Health (Charlotte, NC) seeks Clinical Informatics Coordinators ($74K-$99K) with healthcare informatics, IT, or computer science backgrounds plus HL7 and database management knowledge
Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree Minimum
- Most positions require bachelor’s in healthcare disciplines, information technology, or computer science
- MUSC accepts associate’s degree with 6 years experience or master’s with 2 years experience for certain analyst roles
Advanced Degrees Preferred
- Spartanburg Regional prefers MSN with informatics focus for nursing informatics positions
- Veterans Health Administration accepts PhD or equivalent doctoral degree, or 3 years progressive graduate education for senior analyst roles
- McLeod Health requires PharmD from accredited pharmacy school
Salary Ranges & Compensation
Entry to Mid-Level Positions
- Spartanburg Regional: Salary ranges not disclosed but comprehensive benefits packages included
- Atrium Health: $74K-$99K for Clinical Informatics Coordinator roles
- Prisma Health: $75K-$100K for Epic Ambulatory Analyst positions
Senior/Specialized Roles
- Veterans Health Administration: $90K annually for GS-11 Program Analyst positions with federal benefits
- McLeod Health: Salary not disclosed for Informatics Pharmacist Specialist but includes full-time 80 hours bi-weekly schedule
Cross-Disciplinary Integration
Clinical-IT Interface
- MUSC emphasizes integration of clinical practices with information technology for patient care enhancement
- Spartanburg Regional combines nursing science with information and analytical sciences to improve patient outcomes
- McLeod Health integrates pharmacy operations with medication-related technologies including automated dispensing systems and infusion pumps
Quality & Compliance Focus
- Veterans Health Administration requires knowledge of clinical decision support systems, regulatory compliance, and patient management systems
- MUSC emphasizes patient safety enhancement, National Patient Safety Goals compliance, and regulatory guidelines
- Atrium Health focuses on healthcare regulation compliance and quality patient care delivery
Specialized Requirements
Professional Certifications
- Spartanburg Regional prefers Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Associate/Professional in Health Information & Management Systems (CAHIMS/CPHIMS)
- MUSC requires industry-accepted informatics/IT certification within 6 months
- McLeod Health mandates current BLS certification and active professional licensure
Geographic Considerations
- Epic (Savannah) requires relocation to Madison, WI with full reimbursement and 25% travel commitment
- Veterans Health Administration offers flexible work arrangements and compressed schedules
- Spartanburg Regional provides hybrid work options for instructional designer roles
Training & Development Focus
Educational Leadership
- Spartanburg Regional emphasizes training delivery (50% of time), learning material development, and Epic training environment management
- MUSC includes mentoring junior staff and training material development responsibilities
- McLeod Health involves training pharmacy residents, students, and technician students
System Implementation & Optimization
- MUSC focuses on workflow optimization, process improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies
- Atrium Health emphasizes system upgrades, testing, implementation coordination, and performance monitoring
- Prisma Health centers on system optimization, data analysis, and trend identification
The South Carolina health informatics market demonstrates robust opportunities across academic medical centers, regional health systems, and federal agencies, with strong emphasis on Epic systems expertise, clinical backgrounds, and comprehensive training programs. Career progression paths range from entry-level analyst positions to specialized leadership roles, offering competitive compensation and extensive professional development opportunities.