Fastest Online MSN in Health/Nursing Informatics Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a fast-track online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

A fast-track online MSN in health/nursing informatics is designed for working nurses who want to advance quickly into specialized roles at the intersection of healthcare and technology. These programs typically combine a focused core curriculum in nursing theory, data analytics, and information systems with applied learning through a capstone project and supervised internship or practicum hours.

Coursework is delivered in asynchronous or hybrid formats, allowing for flexible study schedules while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Tuition generally ranges from $20,000 to $40,000, depending on the institution, credit requirements, and delivery model.

Where can I work after completing an online MSN in health/nursing informatics?

An online MSN in health or nursing informatics prepares graduates for roles that combine clinical expertise with healthcare technology and data management. Nursing informatics specialists find employment across the following sectors:

• Health Care (75%): The majority work in hospitals, clinics, or health systems as nurse informaticists, clinical analysts, or IT liaisons, supporting patient safety, data integration, and systems implementation.
• Professional Services (7%): Graduates serve as consultants or implementation specialists, helping healthcare organizations adopt new technologies and meet regulatory standards.
• Technology (5%): Some work with health tech companies, focusing on software development, system usability testing, or data security in digital health platforms.
• Education (3%): Informatics nurses may teach in academic settings or develop training programs for healthcare staff on EHR systems and data literacy.
• Government (3%): Roles include public health informatics, data analysis for federal programs, or policy support related to healthcare IT infrastructure.
• Fortune 500 Companies (3%): Graduates contribute to corporate health initiatives, insurance analytics, or occupational health programs using informatics insights.

How much can I make with an online MSN in health/nursing informatics?

Earning an online MSN in health or nursing informatics can pave the way to well-paying, specialized roles in healthcare technology and data management. Here’s a snapshot of what you might expect:

• Average Salary: Informatics nurses typically earn around $98,400 per year, translating to $47.30 per hour.
• Salary Range by Experience: Entry-level roles often start between $70,000–$80,000, while experienced professionals can expect $120,000–$150,000, especially in senior or director-level positions

• Location: Urban areas and states like California and Washington tend to offer higher compensation, sometimes over $120,000–$145,000 annually.
• Education and Certification: Holding an MSN, or even a DNP, and certifications like the ANCC’s NI-BC, CPHIMS, or CAHIMS can earn over $100,000 annually.

List of the Fastest Online MSN in Health/Nursing Informatics Programs for 2025

1. University of South Carolina - Columbia

The University of South Carolina - Columbia delivers an online MSN in nursing informatics, which equips RNs to leverage healthcare data systems, improve decision-making, and enhance patient outcomes. The curriculum includes core MSN courses and informatics-focused classes, paired with supervised practicum experiences. Special features include remote clinical placements and flexible scheduling, preparing graduates for roles like nurse informaticist and eligibility for informatics certifications.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Cost: $770.25 (in-state) / $870.25 (out-of-state) per credit hour
• Total Credits: 36
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an online master of science in health informatics that integrates Christian values with training in health IT systems, data analytics, and workflow optimization. The curriculum focuses on data management, EHRs, clinical decision support, security, and usability. It includes a 16‑week applied practicum and prepares graduates for various healthcare roles, with eligibility for industry certifications like CPHIMS or CAHIMS.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Cost: $840 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 42
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Duke University

Duke University’s MSN in health informatics equips nurses to harness information technology and electronic health data to enhance patient, community, and population health outcomes. Delivered primarily online with two brief on-campus intensives, the program integrates core MSN courses with informatics-focused classes and an applied synthesis practicum. Graduates are prepared for roles as informatics nurse specialists in clinical, administrative, or IT settings.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Cost: $2,250 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 38
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

4. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland features an online MSN in health informatics, designed to develop nurse leaders in health information systems and data management. The program emphasizes nursing informatics theory, IT project management, and systems design, and includes a 500-hour practicum arranged at a local site. Students also benefit from free ANCC certification prep workshops to enhance readiness for informatics certification and roles in clinical, vendor, or federal settings

• Program Length: 2 years
• Cost: $926 (in-state) / $1,643 (out-of-state) per credit hour
• Total Credits: 36
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

5. Millersville University

The online MSN in nursing informatics from Millersville University equips registered nurses to blend clinical expertise with health IT, data analysis, and systems-level thinking. Delivered fully online with accelerated 7‑week courses, it emphasizes healthcare data, EHR systems, project management, and telehealth. Students complete an 84‑hour practicum and prepare for certification exams like ANCC Informatics (NI‑BC) and CAHIMS.

• Program Length: 14–24 months
• Cost: $605 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 37
• Accreditation: National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA)

6. Georgia Southwestern State University

Georgia Southwestern State University delivers online MSN with a concentration in nursing Informatics, equipping nurses with advanced competencies in health information technology, data analytics, and clinical decision support. It features five core nursing courses and seven informatics-focused classes, including a focused project and practicum arranged locally with RN preceptors. Graduates are prepared for roles such as informatics nurses and are eligible for the ANCC Informatics certification.

• Program Length: ~22 months
• Cost: $263 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 36
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

7. Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online MSN in nursing informatics designed to blend nursing science with information systems to enhance patient care. Delivered through flexible 8-week asynchronous courses, it emphasizes health informatics, epidemiology, policy & ethics, and telehealth technology. The program includes local supervised practicums and prepares graduates for roles such as clinical informatics specialists and nurse programmers, with CCNE accreditation for advanced nursing leadership roles.

• Program Length: ~18 months
• Cost: $580 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 36
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

8. Nova Southeastern University

The online MSN in nursing informatics at Nova Southeastern University equips RNs with expertise in data management, computer science, and information systems to transform healthcare delivery. The program is delivered asynchronously and emphasizes data-driven care, clinical information systems, and health IT. Students complete 200 supervised practicum hours and gain hands-on experience integrating technology into clinical settings. Graduates are prepared for informatics leadership and ANCC certification eligibility. 

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Cost: $796 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 36
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

9. Commonwealth University

The MSN in health informatics program at Commonwealth University is a fully online program blending advanced nursing science with information technology and analytics. It prepares RNs to improve patient care systems, EHR implementation, data analysis, and telehealth coordination. The curriculum emphasizes six-week asynchronous coursework with flexible start dates, preparing nurses for strategic roles in healthcare technology. Graduates qualify for roles such as nurse informaticist, clinical informatics specialist, or telehealth coordinator.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Cost: $733 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 39
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

10. Capella University

Capella University’s MSN in Nursing Informatics is a flexible, fully online program offered in both GuidedPath and FlexPath formats. It emphasizes integrating healthcare technology, data analytics, and system implementation to enhance patient care. It includes 500 practicum hours in clinical settings with faculty and preceptor support. The curriculum features virtual labs and real-world informatics projects. Graduates qualify for leadership roles in healthcare IT, such as nurse informaticist and clinical systems analyst, and are eligible for ANCC and other industry certifications.

• Program Length: 14-24 months
• Cost: $465 per credit hour
• Total Credits: 54
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

How long does it take to complete an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

An online MSN in health/nursing Informatics program typically takes 18 to 36 months to complete, depending on the student's prior education, enrollment status, and program structure. Full-time students may finish in as little as 18 to 24 months, while part-time students may take up to three years.

Some accelerated tracks allow experienced nurses to complete the degree more quickly, while bridge programs may extend the timeline for those entering without a BSN.  Similar pacing considerations apply to fastest online general studies degree programs, where transfer credits and flexible formats can shorten completion time.

Many programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible, asynchronous coursework that can be completed around a nurse's schedule. Clinical practicum or capstone projects are often included and may add additional time depending on availability and coordination with approved healthcare settings.

Some students opt for accelerated data analytics training programs to build relevant skills faster, while transfer credits and prior experience can also influence the duration of the program.

How does an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program compare to an on-campus program?

Deciding between an online or on-campus MSN in health/nursing informatics program depends on your lifestyle, preferred learning style, and professional goals. Both formats offer rigorous training in clinical data management, but they differ in structure, accessibility, and support services.

To help you choose the right path, the table below compares essential aspects of both program formats.

What is the average cost of an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

The average cost of an online MSN in health/nursing informatics typically ranges from $600 to $900 per credit hour. However, tuition can vary significantly, with some programs as low as $263 per credit and others exceeding $2,000. Most programs require between 36 and 42 total credits, resulting in an average total tuition of approximately $25,000 to $38,000. A

dditional expenses such as technology fees, books, or practicum coordination may apply, depending on the institution.

Several factors influence program cost. Public universities may offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private institutions often have flat rates regardless of residency. Programs delivered in accelerated formats or with competency-based models—similar to shortest online liberal arts degrees—may allow faster, potentially more cost-effective completion.

Other factors include curriculum design, faculty expertise, practicum placement support, and access to advanced simulation tools or certification prep resources.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Students pursuing an online MSN in health/nursing informatics can access multiple financial aid options to manage tuition costs. Below are the key sources of support available to graduate nursing students:

• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Graduate students may borrow up to $20,500 annually through the FAFSA, with interest accruing from the time of disbursement.
• Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP): This federal loan program forgives up to 85% of the loan amount for graduates who work as full-time nursing faculty at accredited institutions.
• Graduate PLUS Loans: Credit-based federal loans cover remaining educational expenses not met by other aid and offer flexible repayment terms.
• HRSA Scholarships and Grants: Federal programs like the Nurse Corps Scholarship cover tuition and provide stipends for students who commit to working in underserved areas.
• Institutional Scholarships and Assistantships: Universities often award merit-based scholarships or assistantships that reduce tuition for MSN informatics students.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement and Industry Grants: Many healthcare employers and organizations, like HIMSS, provide funding or tuition assistance to support graduate nursing education.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Applicants to an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program must meet a set of academic and professional qualifications. Below are the most common prerequisites required by accredited programs:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) and Active RN License: A BSN from an accredited institution and a current RN license are typically required. Some students reduce costs by enrolling in the cheapest BSN programs available through public universities or online RN-to-BSN pathways.
• Minimum Undergraduate GPA: Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0. Some competitive programs prefer 3.2 or higher.
• Clinical Nursing Experience: One to two years of recent nursing experience is often required. This ensures readiness for practicum components.
• Foundational Undergraduate Coursework: Applicants may need prior courses in statistics, health assessment, or pathophysiology. Some programs include these within their curriculum.
• Bridge or Leveling Courses: Students without the required coursework may need to complete bridge courses. These may cover informatics, biostatistics, or database systems.
• Additional Admission Materials: Common requirements include transcripts, recommendations, and a personal statement. Most programs also require proof of RN licensure and background checks.

What courses are typically in an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

An online MSN in health/nursing informatics program blends nursing practice with information science courses, focusing on the design and application of healthcare technologies. Below are the typical courses included in such programs:

• Foundations of Nursing Informatics: Introduces the principles, history, and scope of nursing informatics, emphasizing its impact on clinical decision-making, patient safety, and healthcare quality.
• Healthcare Information Systems: Covers the structure and function of electronic health records, clinical decision support systems, and data exchange networks within healthcare institutions.
• Data Analytics and Decision Support: Focuses on using data analysis and evidence-based tools to improve patient outcomes, resource allocation, and administrative decision-making in clinical settings.
• Database Management and Health Data Standards: Teaches design, retrieval, and management of clinical databases using standardized vocabularies and coding systems such as SNOMED CT and LOINC. Many students look for fast-track master's in management information systems online to gain these skills quickly and advance into leadership roles in health IT.
• Informatics Leadership and Project Management: Prepares students for leadership roles by covering change management, strategic planning, and the implementation of informatics projects in healthcare organizations.
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Informatics: Examines healthcare data privacy, HIPAA regulations, ethical dilemmas, and cybersecurity responsibilities in digital health environments.
• Practicum or Capstone: Provides hands-on experience through a supervised practicum or final project, allowing students to apply informatics knowledge in a real-world clinical or administrative setting.

What types of specializations are available in an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Online MSN in health/nursing informatics programs offer specialized tracks that align with specific professional goals in clinical practice, technology, and leadership. Below are common specializations available:

• Clinical Informatics: Focuses on integrating informatics tools into patient care to support clinical workflows, improve outcomes, and enhance evidence-based practice.
• Healthcare Data Analytics: Emphasizes statistical modeling, big data processing, and visualization techniques to guide data-driven decision-making.
• Leadership and Administration: Prepares nurses for management roles by combining informatics with strategic planning, healthcare operations, and change leadership.
• Public Health Informatics: Applies informatics to population health monitoring, epidemiological surveillance, and health education across communities. Some students engage in accelerated health information management programs online to quickly enter this growing field and support data-driven public health initiatives.
• Policy and Regulatory Informatics: Examines the role of informatics in shaping health policy, ensuring compliance, and guiding ethical standards in health IT use.
• Consumer Health Informatics: Focuses on patient-facing technologies, health literacy, and engagement tools that empower individuals to manage their health.
• Nursing Education and Informatics: Combines instructional design with informatics to train future nurses using simulation, e-learning, and data-driven evaluation methods.

How to Choose the Best Online MSN in Health/Nursing Informatics Program

Selecting the best online MSN in health/nursing informatics program involves evaluating certain factors to ensure it supports your academic goals and professional advancement. Below are six essential steps to guide your decision:

• Verify Accreditation: Make sure the program is from a regionally accredited school. It should also be approved by CCNE or ACEN to ensure academic and professional credibility.
• Review Curriculum and Specializations: Look at core courses, electives, and capstone or practicum options. Choose programs offering specializations that match your career path, such as data analytics or clinical leadership. Some nurses even consider broad-based programs like a fast track online interdisciplinary studies degree when they want flexibility to blend multiple areas of expertise.
• Assess Admission Requirements: Check if you need an RN license, BSN degree, minimum GPA, or prior nursing experience. Some programs may also ask for recommendation letters or personal statements.
• Compare Flexibility and Format: Consider whether the program is full-time or part-time. Review if classes are live or self-paced, and whether the structure fits your current work schedule.
• Calculate Total Cost and Financial Aid: Review tuition, tech fees, and hidden costs. Explore financial aid, scholarships, or tuition reimbursement through your employer if available.
• Evaluate Outcomes and Support Services: Look at graduation rates, student reviews, and job placement data. Strong programs often include academic advising, career support, and technical help.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Graduates of an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program are equipped for advanced roles that combine clinical knowledge with health technology. Below are common career paths available:

1. Informatics Nurse Specialist

An Informatics Nurse Specialist blends clinical expertise with data systems to optimize patient care through technology. This role focuses on evaluating, customizing, and maintaining health IT tools to improve workflows and outcomes. Professionals in similar tech-driven fields—such as those with an accelerated geographic information systems online degree—also work at the intersection of data and applied problem-solving, highlighting the versatility of technology-focused training. Collaboration with healthcare teams, IT professionals, and administrators is key to ensuring smooth integration and effective use of digital health platforms.

Median salary: $89,465 per year.

2. Health Information Systems Director

The Health Information Systems Director leads the strategy, implementation, and oversight of all digital infrastructure within a healthcare organization. Responsibilities include managing system upgrades, maintaining compliance, and improving data access. This position ensures technology solutions support long-term operational goals and patient safety standards across departments.

Median salary: $130,822 per year.

3. Healthcare Data Analyst

A Healthcare Data Analyst interprets clinical and administrative data to uncover trends, measure performance, and guide decision-making. Using tools like SQL, Python, or R, the analyst transforms raw information into actionable insights. Their work helps reduce costs, increase efficiency, and identify opportunities for quality improvement in patient care services.

Median salary: $67,478 per year.

4. Health Informatics Researcher

A Health Informatics Researcher investigates how digital tools impact healthcare delivery, clinical outcomes, and policy. Research often includes analyzing EHR use, studying telemedicine models, or testing decision-support systems. Professionals with a master's degree in health informatics salary can expect competitive earnings, reflecting their specialized expertise and growing demand in research and academic settings.

Median salary: $72,027 per year.

5. Clinical Systems Integration Specialist

The Clinical Systems Integration Specialist ensures seamless connectivity among various healthcare technologies and databases. This role involves configuring interfaces, troubleshooting system errors, and supporting interoperability across platforms. The specialist enhances efficiency and promotes accurate, real-time access to critical patient information by aligning IT architecture with clinical needs.

Median salary: $81,094 per year.

What emerging trends are shaping online MSN programs in health/nursing informatics?

Online MSN programs in health/nursing informatics are increasingly incorporating advanced technologies and innovative curricular practices to address evolving industry demands. Programs are integrating data science, artificial intelligence-driven decision support, and cybersecurity protocols into core coursework to prepare graduates for a digitally transformed healthcare environment. Additionally, trends such as telehealth expansion and cloud computing are prompting academic institutions to revise clinical simulations and practicum experiences, ensuring that students build competencies in managing both patient care and IT systems. For those looking to diversify their clinical expertise while embracing digital transformation, options like the 12 month DNP program online offer complementary pathways that underscore the need for rapid adaptation in healthcare education.

What is the job market for graduates with an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

The job market for graduates with an online MSN in health or nursing informatics is exceptionally strong and growing faster than average across the healthcare and IT sectors. According to the industry report, employment for nursing informatics jobs is projected to grow 16% from 2023 to 2033, significantly outpacing the national average of 4%.

Similarly, clinical informatics and healthcare IT jobs are expected to see a 16% increase over the same period, driven primarily by the continual expansion of electronic health records (EHRs) and data-driven care models.

Market trends continue to drive growth in nursing informatics. The widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), rising use of artificial intelligence in clinical settings, and growing demand for healthcare data analysis are expanding job opportunities.

In the past year alone, job postings in health informatics increased by over 40%. As demand rises, health informatics salary trends also reflect this growth, with competitive compensation becoming a major incentive for professionals entering the field.

How does the ROI of an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program compare to alternative online nursing degrees?

Evaluating the return on investment (ROI) for an online MSN in health/nursing informatics involves comparing tuition expenses, potential salary increases, and long-term career outcomes. Graduates often see higher earnings due to specialized roles that command competitive salaries, while the program’s accelerated format may reduce both time and overall cost of education. In contrast, prospective students looking for more economical options might explore the cheapest online RB-BSN programs, which can be a viable stepping stone into clinical leadership roles though they may offer different career trajectories. This comparison enables candidates to assess whether the advanced skill set of an MSN justifies the investment relative to alternative nursing pathways.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online MSN in Health/Nursing Informatics Programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online MSN in Health/Nursing Informatics Programs

Can I work while enrolled in a fast-track online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Yes, many students successfully maintain employment while enrolled in a fast-track online MSN in health or nursing informatics program. However, because accelerated programs move quickly and require intensive study, strong time-management skills are essential.

Online delivery offers flexibility, but coursework, projects, and potential practicum experiences can be demanding. It is recommended that students coordinate with employers and academic advisors to ensure a manageable balance between work responsibilities and academic commitments.

Is the GRE required for the online MSN in health/nursing informatics program?

Most online MSN programs in health or nursing informatics do not require the GRE, particularly those designed for working professionals or offered in an accelerated format. Admissions decisions typically focus on factors such as prior academic performance, RN licensure, professional experience, and personal statements.

However, requirements can vary by institution, so applicants should verify with each program individually to confirm whether GRE scores are necessary for admission consideration.

Can I transfer credits from another MSN or nursing program?

Yes, many online MSN in health/nursing informatics programs accept transfer credits from accredited graduate-level nursing programs, particularly for foundational coursework. However, institutions typically have limits on the number of transferable credits and may require a minimum grade or recency of completion.

Transferability is also subject to course equivalency evaluations. Prospective students should consult program advisors early to assess which credits may be eligible for transfer.

Does an online MSN in health/nursing informatics program require in-person clinical hours?

Yes, most online MSN in health/nursing informatics programs include practicum or field experience components, though the number of hours and settings vary. These are typically completed in person at an approved healthcare facility, often near the student’s location.

While the coursework is delivered online, the practicum allows students to apply informatics principles in real-world clinical or administrative environments. Some programs may assist students in arranging local placements to meet this requirement.