At the intersection of technology and medicine lies the nursing informatics field. Nurses who want to improve patient outcomes through the use of data and systems can advance to a nursing informatics role. With master's and doctoral degree levels available, prospective informatics nurses have a wealth of educational opportunities to choose from.

2026 Best Nursing Informatics Programs

Nursing informatics blends nursing science with data management and analytics to revolutionize healthcare delivery. RegisteredNursing.org understands the growing demand for skilled nursing informaticists, particularly with the rise of telehealth and remote patient monitoring. We've ranked the best online nursing informatics programs to help aspiring professionals advance their careers. Online programs offer flexibility for working nurses, making it easier to balance education with career and personal commitments. These virtual programs also expand access for nurses in remote areas. Our rankings consider several factors to ensure programs meet high standards of quality and prepare graduates for success in this evolving field. Explore our carefully researched list to find the perfect program for your career goals. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT - Private 4-year - wgu.edu

Master's - Master of Science, Nursing - Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Western Governors University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Nursing Informatics provides a comprehensive program for healthcare professionals seeking technological innovation in patient care. Designed with a competency-based curriculum, students can complete the degree in approximately 24 months while paying a flat tuition rate of $5,035 per term. The program emphasizes advanced data management skills, enabling graduates to analyze complex healthcare information and develop strategic technology solutions. CCNE-accredited and military-friendly, this program offers unique opportunities like earning a NAHQ Healthcare Quality certificate. Students can transfer up to 47% of credits and benefit from a flexible learning environment without requiring prior RN work experience.

  • Online, flexible BSN to MSN program
  • $5,035 per six-month term
  • 64% of graduates finish in 24 months
  • 47% transfer credits accepted
  • CCNE-accredited nursing degree
  • No RN work requirement for admission
  • Includes NAHQ certificate opportunity

Master's - Master of Science, Nursing - Nursing Informatics (RN to MSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Western Governors University's RN to MSN Nursing Informatics online program offers a dynamic pathway for working nurses to advance their technological expertise. Spanning potentially 36 months, the curriculum integrates clinical knowledge with sophisticated health information systems and analytics. Students develop critical skills in data management and strategic decision-making, preparing for high-demand healthcare informatics roles. The program features CCNE accreditation, flexible self-paced learning, and no mandatory RN work requirement. Participants can transfer up to 90 credits and potentially earn a NAHQ certificate. Tuition remains consistent at $5,035 per six-month graduate term, making advanced education accessible and career-focused.

  • Online RN to MSN pathway
  • Tuition $5,035 per term
  • CCNE-accredited program
  • Flexible, self-paced learning
  • No RN work requirement
  • Potential to finish in 36 months
  • Clinical practice experiences included
  • Earn NAHQ certificate possible
  • Transfer up to 90 credits
  • Career growth in healthcare informatics
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#2

Duke University

Durham, NC - Private 4-year - duke.edu

Master's - MSN in Health Informatics

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Duke University's MSN in Health Informatics offers a dynamic hybrid program designed for working healthcare professionals seeking advanced technological expertise. Students receive comprehensive training in electronic health data management and clinical systems development through flexible online learning with two mandatory campus intensives. The curriculum emphasizes transformative healthcare technology skills, preparing graduates for high-demand roles like clinical informatics specialists and data analysts. Graduates can potentially earn between $100,000 to $200,000 annually. While specific entrance exam requirements aren't detailed, the program meets national informatics standards and provides personalized learning approaches. With 224 clinical practicum hours and interactive distance-based courses, students gain practical experience in leveraging cutting-edge technological solutions to improve patient care outcomes.

  • Hybrid online/campus learning
  • 224 clinical practicum hours
  • Top 3 Nursing Schools ranking
  • Distance-based interactive courses
  • Meets national informatics standards
  • Personalized learning approach
  • Advanced technology training
  • Competitive career opportunities
#3

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu

Master's - Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University's online Nursing Informatics master's program stands out as a pioneering digital health education pathway, strategically designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced technological expertise. The part-time curriculum empowers nurses to seamlessly integrate complex data management techniques with patient care strategies. Students benefit from individually tailored practicums, nationally recognized faculty, and comprehensive ANCC certification preparation. With a low student-faculty ratio and technology-focused coursework, graduates emerge as innovative leaders capable of transforming healthcare through sophisticated technological solutions. The program emphasizes developing actionable insights that optimize organizational workflows and support nursing research, practice, and administrative functions.

  • 6 Part-time Semesters
  • Fully Online Learning Format
  • Individually Tailored Practicums
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty
  • ANCC Certification Preparation
  • Career Growth Potential
  • Technology-Focused Curriculum
  • Low Student-Faculty Ratio
#4

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI - Public 4-Year - umich.edu

Master's - Certificate in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Michigan's Certificate in Health Informatics offers a transformative online program targeting healthcare professionals eager to leverage technological innovation. Designed for bachelor's degree holders with minimum one-year healthcare experience, this 15-credit interdisciplinary curriculum blends online instruction with immersive learning experiences. Students gain advanced skills in health information systems, positioning themselves strategically for emerging informatics roles. The program's unique approach prepares graduates to drive technological advancement in healthcare settings, potentially qualifying participants for specialized informatics certifications. With no health professional licensure requirements, this flexible program accommodates working professionals seeking cutting-edge technological expertise in healthcare delivery.

  • 15 total credits required
  • Online and immersion learning
  • Interdisciplinary program approach
  • No health professional licensure required
  • Practicum with informatics leaders
#5

University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC - Public 4-Year - sc.edu

Master's - MSN in Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina's online MSN in Nursing Informatics offers a cutting-edge curriculum designed to transform healthcare technology integration. Students explore complex intersections between nursing practice and advanced digital systems, developing critical skills in data management, electronic health records, and technological innovation. With no GRE requirement and a flexible 36-credit hour program, students can complete coursework part-time while maintaining professional commitments. The comprehensive practicum enables hands-on learning, allowing students to apply informatics principles directly within their current healthcare environments. Graduates are prepared for specialized roles like clinical informatics specialists, equipped to enhance patient care through strategic technological interventions and data-driven decision-making processes.

  • 36 credit hours total
  • Online distance format
  • Full or part-time options
  • No GRE required
  • National certification preparation
  • Flexible workplace practicum
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • 225 total clinical hours
#6

Nova Southeastern University

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

Master's - M.S.N. in Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's online M.S.N. in Nursing Informatics provides a cutting-edge curriculum designed to equip healthcare professionals with advanced technological competencies. The 36-credit program strategically integrates comprehensive nursing knowledge with sophisticated data management techniques, preparing students to revolutionize healthcare information systems. Students engage in 170 clinical hours, developing skills to analyze, communicate, and leverage complex medical data. With a mentored practicum opportunity and flexible online scheduling, the program is ideal for working nurses seeking career progression. While no specific entrance exam is highlighted, the program offers financial aid options and ranks among top informatics education platforms, emphasizing practical, technology-driven healthcare solutions.

  • 36 total credit program
  • Fully online delivery
  • 170 clinical hours required
  • Advanced health informatics focus
  • Mentored practicum opportunity
  • Flexible course scheduling
#7

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu

Master's - MS in Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Utah's online MS in Nursing Informatics prepares healthcare professionals to leverage advanced technological solutions in clinical environments. Students explore innovative strategies for integrating digital systems into patient care, developing sophisticated analytical skills essential for modern healthcare transformation. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time learning pathways with a total cost under $38,000, making it an accessible option for working professionals. Graduates emerge equipped to design and optimize clinical decision-making systems, potentially pursuing roles like nurse informaticist or clinical system analyst. A nationally ranked program featuring interdisciplinary coursework and experienced faculty, it emphasizes practical experiences and cutting-edge informatics applications. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the program prioritizes professional development and technological competence.

  • Online full-time/part-time options
  • Total program cost under $38k
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Practicum placement opportunities
  • Co-offered informatics courses
  • Flat-rate online tuition
  • Experienced nursing informatics faculty
#8

CUNY City College

New York, NY - Public 4-Year - ccny.cuny.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

CUNY City College's Master of Science in Nursing Informatics represents a cutting-edge online program designed for practicing healthcare professionals seeking technological innovation. Students gain comprehensive skills in healthcare information systems management, advanced data analytics, and digital transformation strategies. The program offers a robust curriculum with a six-credit practicum experience, preparing nurses to become strategic technological leaders. While requiring an unencumbered RN license and maintaining a 3.0 GPA admission threshold, the program boasts a remarkable 91% five-year completion rate. CCNE accredited and targeting the growing demand for informatics specialists, graduates can anticipate competitive career opportunities with potential salaries exceeding $100,000. Two recommendation letters are required for admission, with flexibility for up to 12 transfer credits.

  • 100% Online Degree Format
  • 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
  • Six-Credit Practicum Experience
  • 70,000 Informatics Specialists Needed
  • High Salary Potential Over $100k
  • 91% Five-Year Completion Rate
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Unencumbered RN License Required
  • Two Recommendation Letters Needed
  • Up to 12 Transfer Credits Accepted
#9

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu

Master's - Nursing Informatics Specialty

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Alabama at Birmingham's Nursing Informatics Specialty provides a comprehensive master's program uniquely tailored for nurses seeking technological leadership roles. With a rigorous 40-credit curriculum, the hybrid program seamlessly blends synchronous online coursework and strategic on-campus intensives. Students explore advanced intersections between computer science, cognitive science, and nursing practice, developing sophisticated skills in health information systems design and implementation. The program requires an unencumbered nursing license and a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission. Military-friendly and featuring a hospital on campus, UAB prepares informatics professionals to revolutionize healthcare technology, offering part-time study options for working nurses. A BSN serves as a prerequisite for program entry.

  • 40 credit hour program
  • Hybrid distance-accessible format
  • Part-time study option
  • Advanced practice nurse preparation
  • Technology-focused curriculum
  • Synchronous online classes
  • On-campus intensives included
  • BSN required for admission
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Unencumbered nursing license needed
#10

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu

Master's - Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Alabama's online Master of Science in Nursing Informatics program offers a cutting-edge curriculum designed to train advanced practice nurses in healthcare technology integration. Students develop sophisticated skills in electronic health record management, data analytics, and technological system design. The program uniquely prepares professionals to bridge clinical practice with innovative information technologies, emphasizing practical applications in healthcare transformation. With no certification exam required and 120 clinical practice hours, graduates gain comprehensive expertise in leveraging digital tools to enhance patient care and organizational efficiency. Military-friendly and featuring flexible clinical rotation options, this program positions nurses at the forefront of technological healthcare innovation.

  • Fully online program
  • No certification exam required
  • 120 clinical practice hours
  • Interdisciplinary healthcare focus
  • Advanced nursing technology skills
  • Flexible clinical rotation options
  • Comprehensive informatics curriculum
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2023 Final Release Data.

Choosing a Nursing Informatics Program

Before choosing a nursing informatics program, nurses should consider the following:

Accreditation

Accreditations are an essential way of ensuring that a nursing informatics program is reputable. National organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and/or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the main accrediting bodies for graduate nursing programs. Some nursing informatics programs may also be accredited by local or regional organizations as well.

Program Cost

Advanced nursing informatics programs typically list their tuition fees by credit. For both MSN and DNP level programs, students can expect to pay tuition of roughly $400-$700 per credit hour, on average. Doctoral nursing informatics programs tend to be more expensive overall, as they require more credits to complete. Tuition costs often don't include additional expenses, such as books, course materials, and other mandatory fees.

Program Length

For MSN nursing informatics programs, students will need to complete around 37 credit hours, which equates to roughly 2-3 years of study. Both part-time and full-time options are typically available. For DNP programs, approximately 73 credit hours are required, and the degree can be achieved in around 3-4 years of dedicated study.

Internship/Externship Opportunities

A certain number of clinical hours are required for both MSN and DNP nursing informatics programs, so it's a good idea to see what kind of partnerships a prospective school has with area hospitals and medical facilities. Some schools will let students choose their own internship/externship sites for their clinical rotations.

Online/Campus Options

Many schools now offer both online and campus-based nursing informatics program options to accommodate a wider variety of students. Some schools even offer "hybrid" programs, where most coursework is completed online, but some lectures and labs are held on campus.

Nursing Informatics Degree Levels Offered

Prospective informatics nurses can choose between a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Both degrees prepare nurses with the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to excel in this advanced role. DNP programs take things a step beyond the MSN curriculum to provide a more in-depth informatics education.

MSN Programs

Students enrolled in an MSN-level nursing informatics program will develop skills in clinical information systems, strategic planning, and more. The curriculum consists of both advanced core nursing courses and specialty courses, including Data Analytics, Synthesis of Specialty Practice, and Database Systems in Healthcare. For nurses seeking a health-based option see our MSN in health informatics guide.

DNP Programs

DNP-level nursing informatics programs add to the MSN curriculum, preparing students to function as managers and leaders within the specialty. Courses taken may include Knowledge Management in Healthcare, Interpreting Research for Applied Science, and Organizational Foundations for Leading Change. The University of Kansas Medical Center is an example of a school offering a DNP in Nursing Informatics.

Learn about post-master’s nursing informatics certificate programs.

Online Nursing Informatics Programs

With technology being the main foundation of the nursing informatics specialty, it's no wonder that students are gravitating toward online programs. These online programs allow students to complete courses when and where they choose, making them ideal for today's hectic schedules. Many schools with campus-based nursing informatics programs also offer online options.

Advantages of an Online Program

The main advantage of an online nursing informatics program is the convenience factor. Students are able to complete coursework on their own time, allowing them to keep up with work, family, and other important obligations. Students based in rural areas may also find online programs advantageous, as it affords them the option to complete their education without a long commute. For those interested in lowering expenses, online programs allow students to virtually eliminate transportation expenses such as gas, tolls, and parking fees.

Program Accreditation

Like traditional campus-based programs, online nursing informatics programs should be properly accredited. ACEN and CCNE accreditations are recommended. These accreditations can give some peace of mind to students who may be apprehensive about enrolling in an online program.

Costs and Length

Credit requirements for online programs are the same as campus-based programs, though online options typically offer more flexibility in course completion. Therefore, program length for these online versions may fluctuate more based on the student's wants and needs. Tuition costs are also similar, though students may be able to find more affordable online options, and can also factor in transportation savings. Grantham University, for example, offers an online MSN in Nursing Informatics that charges tuition of around $350 per credit hour.

What Are the Admissions and Certification Requirements?

Students can generally expect the following admissions requirements from a nursing informatics program:

  • BSN or higher from an accredited university
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
  • Satisfactory GRE scores may be required
  • One or more years of nursing experience
  • Current, active RN license
  • Current resume or CV
  • Letters of recommendation and personal statement

Informatics nursing certification (RN-BC) is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Eligibility requirements for the examination include:

  • Must hold a current U.S. RN license
  • Must hold a BSN or higher
  • Must have practiced the equivalent 2 years as a full-time nurse
  • Must have completed 30 hours of continuing education in informatics nursing in the last 3 years
  • Must have practiced a minimum number of hours in the nursing informatics field

List of Nursing Informatics Programs

Nursing informatics programs can be found all over the country, including the following schools listed below.

Jump to Your State Listings

Alabama

Troy University School of Nursing, Pell Ave
Troy, AL 36081
(334) 834-2320

MSN Programs
1720 2nd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294
(205) 975-7529

Arizona

Graduate Certificate Programs
411 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(480) 965-7788

3300 West Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85017
(855) 428-5673

1625 W. Fountainhead Pkwy
Tempe, AZ 85282
(866) 484-1831

California

MSN Programs
5998 Alcal? Park
San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 260-4600

Colorado

2211 South Josephine St.
Denver, CO 80208
(303) 871-2291

MSN Programs
12950 E. Montview Boulevard
Aurora, CO 80045
(303) 724-2152

Georgia

MSN Programs
4225 University Avenue
Columbus, GA 31907
(706) 507-8800

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive
Americus, GA 31709
(877) 871-4594

MSN Programs
33 Gilmer St SE
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 413-2000

Illinois

845 South Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 996-7800

Iowa

MSN Programs
1330 Elmhurst Drive NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
(319) 363-8213

Kansas

DNP ProgramsMSN Programs
1246 West Campus Road Room 153A
Lawrence, KS 66045
(785) 864-6414

Maryland

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
655 W. Lombard St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 706-6109

Michigan

MSN Programs
200 Ferris Drive
Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 591-2270

426 N. Ingalls St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
(734) 763-5985

Minnesota

MSN Programs
1200 Kenwood Avenue
Duluth, MN 55811
(800) 447-5444

308 Harvard Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
(612) 624-9600

New Jersey

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
1000 River Rd
Teaneck, NJ 07666
(201) 692-2000

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
180 University Avenue
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 972-4307

Graduate Certificate Programs
111 W State St
Trenton, NJ 08608
(888) 442-8372

New York

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
433 First Avenue
New York, NY 10010
(212) 998-5300

North Carolina

MSN Programs
307 Trent Drive
Durham, NC 27710
(919) 684-3786

DNP Programs
601 S. College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 962-3000

Pennsylvania

Division of Nursing
2755 Station Ave.
Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100 x2838

MSN Programs
3500 Victoria Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
(412) 624-4586

Tennessee

1301 East Main Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37132
(615) 898-2300

Texas

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
3601 4th St.
Lubbock, TX 79430
(806) 743-2730

MSN Programs
2501 4th Ave
Canyon, TX 79016
(806) 651-0000

Utah

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
10 South 2000 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
(801) 581-3414

Virginia

MSN Programs
1971 University Blvd
Lynchburg, VA 24515
(434) 582-2000

Washington

MSN Programs
1410 NE Campus Parkway
Seattle, WA 98195
(206) 543-2100

College of Health Professions
20435 72nd Ave S #301
Kent, WA 98032
(877) 214-7004

Wisconsin

2442 E. Kenwood Blvd.
Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 229-1122

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