Best Nursing Informatics Programs – 2020

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.
2020 - Best Nursing Informatics Programs

Nursing informatics is a growing field for RNs who want to take on a high-level role improving processes for optimal patient care outcomes. This highly analytical nursing career requires an advanced registered nursing degree with specialized training. Those interested in the pathway can enroll in a number of available online/hybrid programs to suit their growing careers and busy schedules. Many schools have begun adding nursing informatics programs to meet the demand for specialized RNs, and choosing the right one can feel stressful. That's why we have ranked the top nursing informatics programs in the nation. Take a look at our rankings below to get started on your educational pathway today.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, visit our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/).
Wilmington, NC

In just five to eight semesters, students can earn a DNP with a specialization in technology and informatics from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. With pathways including a BSN to DNP and an MSN to DNP, UNC Wilmington's nursing department is focused on creating clinical leaders. Graduates of the program are able to demonstrate high-level skills in the valuable field of nursing informatics.
DNP Programs- Technology And Informatics Online/Hybrid
Tuition & Fees:
- $$$$$
Quick Facts:
- Public 4-Year
- Other DNP concentrations offered include transcultural nursing, nursing education, and others
- Scholarships available
Americus, GA

Georgia Southwestern State University's MSN program in Nursing Informatics trains RNs to become proficient in healthcare technology through a curriculum that includes courses in Applied Statistics and Data Mining, Process Improvement for Health Care, and much more. The full-time program can be completed in 22 months, though part-time options are also available. By the time they graduate, students will have completed 36 total credit hours and completed a 3-hour focused project.
MSN Programs- Nursing Informatics Online/Hybrid
Tuition & Fees:
- $$$$$
Quick Facts:
- Public 4-Year
- Some grad programs offered online
- APRN Loan Repayment Program available
Lawrence, KS

The University of Kansas has multiple degree options for students interested in nursing informatics. A DNP pathway is available, as well as an MSN that has recently merged with the MS in Health Informatics (MSHI) degree. These programs emphasize analysis and skills in implementing and evaluating information systems to support patient care.
DNP Programs- Nursing Informatics Online/Hybrid
- Nursing Informatics Online/Hybrid
Tuition & Fees:
- $$$$$
Quick Facts:
- Public 4-Year
- The DNP degree is delivered in an online format
- The school has been around since 1905
Chicago, IL

The University of Illinois at Chicago has dedicated itself to the art of nursing informatics by offering two distinct degree options. The MS in Health Informatics trains students to hone their skills even further by adding Health Data Science concentration. Those looking to earn a DNP can enroll in UIC's Health Systems Leadership and Informatics DNP program, which prepares nurses to lead complex data-driven healthcare organizations.
DNP Programs- Health Systems Leadership and Informatics Online/Hybrid
- Master of Science in Health Informatics Online/Hybrid
Tuition & Fees:
- $$$$$
Quick Facts:
- School has a Hospital Affiliation
- Public 4-Year
- Staff arranges clinical sites and preceptorships
Big Rapids, MI

Ferris State University offers students a 37-credit MSN degree with a Nursing Informatics concentration. Enrolled students can take one to four courses at a time to maximize flexibility, and the diverse online community allows students to interact. The goal of Ferris State's program is to produce leaders in the field of nursing informatics who can meet the needs of complex healthcare systems.
MSN Programs- Nursing Informatics Online/Hybrid
Tuition & Fees:
- $$$$$
Quick Facts:
- Public 4-Year
- Other available MSN concentrations include Nursing Education and Nursing Administration
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 on 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 a 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 it 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 to an online nursing informatics program is the convenience factor. Students are able to complete coursework in 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 the transportation savings. Grantham University, for example, offers an online MSN in Nursing Informatics that charges tuition of around $325 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 includes:
- 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.
Select Your State:
Alabama
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Troy University MSN Programs | Troy University School of Nursing, Pell Ave Troy, AL 36081 (334) 834-2320 |
University of Alabama at Birmingham MSN Programs
| 1720 2nd Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35294 (205) 975-7529 |
Arizona
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Arizona State University Graduate Certificate Programs
| 411 N Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85004 (480) 965-7788 |
Grand Canyon University MSN Programs | 3300 West Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85017 (855) 428-5673 |
University of Phoenix MSN Programs | 1625 W. Fountainhead Pkwy Tempe, AZ 85282 (866) 484-1831 |
California
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of San Diego MSN Programs
| 5998 Alcal? Park San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 260-4600 |
Colorado
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University College at the University of Denver Programs | 2211 South Josephine St. Denver, CO 80208 (303) 871-2291 |
University of Colorado MSN Programs
| 12950 E. Montview Boulevard Aurora, CO 80045 (303) 724-2152 |
Florida
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Miami MSN Programs | P.O. Box 248153 Coral Gables, FL 33124 (305) 284-3666 |
Georgia
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Columbus State University MSN Programs
| 4225 University Avenue Columbus, GA 31907 (706) 507-8800 |
Georgia Southwestern State University Graduate Certificate Programs
| 800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive Americus, GA 31709 (877) 871-4594 |
Georgia State University MSN Programs
| 33 Gilmer St SE Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 413-2000 |
Illinois
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Illinois at Chicago DNP ProgramsMSN Programs | 845 South Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60612 (312) 996-7800 |
Iowa
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Mount Mercy University MSN Programs
| 1330 Elmhurst Drive NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (319) 363-8213 |
Kansas
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Kansas DNP Programs
| 1246 West Campus Road Room 153A Lawrence, KS 66045 (785) 864-6414 |
Maryland
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Maryland Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
| 655 W. Lombard St. Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 706-6109 |
Massachusetts
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Regis College MSN Programs | 235 Wellesley Street Weston, MA 02493 (781) 768-7000 |
Michigan
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Ferris State University MSN Programs
| 200 Ferris Drive Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231) 591-2270 |
University of Michigan MSN Programs | 426 N. Ingalls St. Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (734) 763-5985 |
Minnesota
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
The College of St. Scholastica MSN Programs
| 1200 Kenwood Avenue Duluth, MN 55811 (800) 447-5444 |
University of Minnesota DNP Programs | 308 Harvard Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 624-9600 |
New Jersey
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Fairleigh Dickinson University Graduate Certificate Programs
| 1000 River Rd Teaneck, NJ 07666 (201) 692-2000 |
Rutgers School of Nursing Graduate Certificate Programs
| 180 University Avenue Newark, NJ 07102 (973) 972-4307 |
Thomas Edison State University Graduate Certificate Programs
| 111 W State St Trenton, NJ 08608 (888) 442-8372 |
New York
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing Graduate Certificate Programs
| 433 First Avenue New York, NY 10010 (212) 998-5300 |
North Carolina
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Duke University MSN Programs
| 307 Trent Drive Durham, NC 27710 (919) 684-3786 |
The University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill DNP Programs
| Carrington Hall Chapel Hill, NC 27599 (919) 962-2211 |
University of North Carolina Wilmington DNP Programs
| 601 S. College Road Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 962-3000 |
Pennsylvania
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
DeSales University Graduate Certificate Programs | 2755 Station Ave. Center Valley, PA 18034 (610) 282-1100 x2838 |
University of Pittsburgh MSN Programs
| 3500 Victoria Street Pittsburgh, PA 15261 (412) 624-4586 |
Tennessee
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Middle Tennessee State University MSN Programs | 1301 East Main Street Murfreesboro, TN 37132 (615) 898-2300 |
Texas
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Texas Tech University Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
| 3601 4th St. Lubbock, TX 79430 (806) 743-2730 |
West Texas A&M University MSN Programs
| 2501 4th Ave Canyon, TX 79016 (806) 651-0000 |
Utah
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Utah Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
| 10 South 2000 East Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (801) 581-3414 |
Virginia
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Liberty University MSN Programs
| 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 (434) 582-2000 |
Washington
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Washington MSN Programs
| 1410 NE Campus Parkway Seattle, WA 98195 (206) 543-2100 |
WGU Washington BSN to MSN Programs | 20435 72nd Ave S #301 Kent, WA 98032 (877) 214-7004 |
Wisconsin
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee DNP Programs | 2442 E. Kenwood Blvd. Milwaukee, WI 53211 (414) 229-1122 |
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.