M.S. in Computer Information Systems
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems at NEC is a 36-credit program that can typical...
M.S. in Health Informatics
Henniker, New Hampshire
INTAKE: Jan, April, May, Aug & Oct
Program Overview
The M.S. in Health Informatics at NEC is a 36-credit program, often referred to as an Executive MS in Health Informatics, which can typically be completed in as little as 18 months. It is built upon the knowledge domains and standards established by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), ensuring a curriculum that meets recognized industry benchmarks. The program is designed for working professionals, offering a hybrid format that blends online coursework with intensive weekend on-campus residencies, providing flexibility while fostering valuable in-person interaction.
STEM-Designated: A significant advantage for students, particularly international students on F-1 visas, is that NEC's M.S. in Health Informatics program is STEM-designated. This designation allows eligible graduates to apply for an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) for an additional 24 months, beyond the initial 12 months, offering a total of up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. This greatly enhances post-graduation career opportunities and professional development for international students in the U.S. healthcare IT sector.
Curriculum: The curriculum is rigorous and practical, focusing on developing both technical knowledge and organizational management skills essential for leveraging health data. Core courses typically cover foundational areas such as Health Informatics Management Principles, Design and Implementation of Health Information Systems, Database Design, Health Informatics Compliance and Integrity, Security Strategies for Healthcare Systems, Managing the Healthcare Project, Healthcare Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, and Visualizing Healthcare Data. The program also includes a required internship component, providing students with invaluable real-world experience. The Executive hybrid program further delves into areas like data mining, machine learning for decision-making, and compliance requirements, exposing students to new and emerging tools and technologies.
Research Focus: While primarily an applied program, the M.S. in Health Informatics at NEC integrates a practical research focus. Students are trained to apply concepts and tools to identify, analyze, and creatively solve complex problems related to the design and implementation of health informatics systems. This includes understanding the main principles and practices of healthcare data management, interpreting and utilizing biomedical information, and developing policies for data integrity and compliance. The program encourages students to examine standards for data exchange and implement compliance requirements throughout the information life cycle, fostering a problem-solving approach grounded in real-world healthcare challenges. Faculty research interests may also influence project topics, encompassing areas like healthcare information systems, health data analytics, and electronic health records.
Industry Engagement: NEC's program is strongly aligned with industry demands, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the expanding healthcare and related IT fields. The curriculum focuses on equipping students with skills to optimize healthcare delivery, improve patient care, and increase operational efficiency through technology. The required internship component is a key aspect of industry engagement, allowing students to gain practical experience and apply their learning in real healthcare settings. The program's adherence to CAHIIM standards further ensures that the knowledge and skills acquired are relevant and recognized by employers in the health information management sector. NEC also has academic partnerships, for instance, with organizations like the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), which can facilitate professional development for community health professionals.
Global Perspective: New England College maintains a commitment to a diverse and inclusive learning environment, attracting students from around the globe. The M.S. in Health Informatics program emphasizes understanding care delivery from a global perspective and prepares students to contribute to the enhancement of healthcare delivery worldwide. For international students, the university provides comprehensive support, including assistance with visa processes and practical training opportunities like Curricular Practical Training (CPT). The universal nature of health data management and the ethical and regulatory considerations involved mean that the skills learned are highly applicable in various global healthcare contexts, allowing graduates to impact health outcomes on an international scale.
Location
Henniker, New Hampshire
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 12555
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 43 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
New England College (NEC) is supporting talented international students by offering a range of merit-based scholarships designed to make quality education more accessible and affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and other achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to NEC are automatically considered for merit scholarships during the admission process. Awards vary based on the student’s academic record, test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards, the Presidential Scholarship, is granted to exceptional international students with outstanding academic credentials.
Athletic Scholarships: NEC offers athletic scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment in NCAA Division III sports. These scholarships are awarded based on athletic performance, team needs, and coach recommendations, providing support while balancing academics and athletics.
Specialized Program Scholarships: Certain academic departments at NEC may offer scholarships targeting high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Education, Creative Writing, and Health Sciences. These targeted awards help attract top talent and support focused areas of study.
New England College's Master of Science (M.S.) in Health Informatics program prepares graduates for a critical role at the nexus of healthcare, information technology, and data management.
Health Informatics Specialist/Analyst: These professionals are central to managing and analyzing healthcare data. They work to identify trends, improve healthcare outcomes, and enhance operational efficiency within healthcare organizations. Their duties often involve interpreting complex health data and developing solutions to improve clinical and administrative processes.
Clinical Informatics Specialist: Bridging the gap between clinical practice and information technology, Clinical Informatics Specialists optimize the use of electronic health record (EHR) systems and other clinical technologies. They ensure that technology is seamlessly integrated into patient care workflows, aiming to improve patient safety, quality of care, and overall efficiency.
Health Information Manager: Responsible for the strategic management of health information systems, Health Information Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of health IT infrastructure. They ensure the integrity, security, and accessibility of patient health information, crucial for compliance with regulations like HIPAA.
Healthcare IT Project Manager: These professionals lead and oversee various IT projects within healthcare settings, such as EHR implementations, system upgrades, or the adoption of new health technologies. They ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the specific needs of healthcare providers.
Data Analyst (Healthcare Focus): With a strong emphasis on healthcare data, these analysts extract meaningful insights from large datasets to improve quality of care, reduce costs, and support evidence-based decision-making. They utilize data visualization tools and statistical methods to communicate complex findings.
Informatics Nurse Specialist: For registered nurses with an interest in technology, this role combines clinical expertise with informatics knowledge. Informatics Nurse Specialists play a key role in optimizing EHR use, implementing telehealth solutions, and promoting patient engagement through technology, ultimately improving patient care outcomes.
Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO): This is a high-level leadership position, typically held by a physician with extensive informatics expertise. CMIOs oversee an organization's entire health IT strategy, ensuring that technological advancements align with clinical goals, enhance patient care, and improve operational effectiveness.
Health Informatics Consultant: Consultants provide expert advice to various healthcare organizations on topics such as health IT implementation, data management best practices, system optimization, and regulatory compliance. They may work independently or for consulting firms, addressing diverse client needs.
Healthcare Data Scientist: Leveraging advanced analytical skills, including machine learning and statistical modeling, Healthcare Data Scientists extract deep insights from complex healthcare data. They develop predictive models for patient outcomes, disease progression, and operational efficiencies, driving innovation in research and clinical practice.
Public Health Informatics Specialist: These professionals apply informatics principles to public health challenges. They work with public health agencies to manage and analyze data related to disease surveillance, outbreak management, health disparities, and population health initiatives, using technology to improve community health outcomes.
