Nurse practitioners (NPs) and other high-level nurses may wonder if there are opportunities to specialize in nursing informatics without pursuing an additional degree. For those who have already completed a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the solution may be the post-master's certificate in nursing informatics. This certificate program enables individuals to become nurse informaticists without requiring an additional degree, such as a doctoral-level nursing degree. NPs who go this route have the advantage of earning a quality education in their specialty of choice at a fraction of the price of a longer degree program.

2026 Best Online Nursing Informatics Post-Master's Graduate Certificates

Registered Nursing (.org) delivers comprehensive rankings of the best online Nursing Informatics Post-Master's Graduate Certificates, highlighting top programs that empower nursing professionals to advance their technological skills in healthcare. As technology transforms patient care, these virtual graduate certificates provide critical training in digital health systems, electronic medical records management, and innovative healthcare technologies. Distance learning options enable working nurses to enhance their expertise without disrupting current professional commitments, offering flexible pathways to specialize in this rapidly evolving field. These online programs bridge crucial knowledge gaps, preparing nurses to leverage cutting-edge informatics tools that improve patient outcomes and streamline clinical operations. For a detailed exploration of our ranking methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of Utah

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

Graduate Certificate - Nursing Informatics Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Online Nursing Informatics Graduate Certificate provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip healthcare professionals with advanced technological skills. Through a flexible online format, students explore critical informatics domains including clinical and public health informatics. The 15-credit hour curriculum emphasizes practical knowledge, requiring students to maintain a minimum B- grade in each course. With expert faculty guidance, participants can tailor their learning objectives and gain specialized insights into emerging healthcare technologies. The program's transcripted graduate certificate signifies advanced competency in applying informatics principles across healthcare settings, making graduates competitive in the rapidly evolving digital health landscape.

  • 15 credit hours required.
  • Interdisciplinary informatics focus.
  • Specializations in bioinformatics, public health.
  • Minimum B- grade required.
  • Faculty advisor provided.
  • Transcripted graduate certificate awarded.
  • Courses from Nursing Informatics Program.
  • Biomedical Informatics Department courses.
  • Standard course prerequisites apply.
  • Tailored to individual learning objectives.
#2

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, NJ - Public 4-Year - newbrunswick.rutgers.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Rutgers University-New Brunswick's online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics provides a robust 24-25 credit program tailored for nursing professionals seeking advanced technological expertise. Through comprehensive coursework spanning nursing informatics concepts, database design, and systems development, students gain cutting-edge skills for healthcare technology leadership. The program uniquely requires 225 practicum hours completed within New Jersey, ensuring localized practical experience. Students will be prepared for nursing informatics certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with curriculum designed to equip graduates for strategic roles in managing healthcare information systems. Military-friendly and featuring specialized seminar and independent study options, this program bridges theoretical knowledge with hands-on technological application in modern healthcare settings.

  • 24-25 credits.
  • 225 practicum hours.
  • Online program.
  • Eligible for certification.
  • Specialty courses offered.
  • Practicum in New Jersey.
  • Focus on informatics concepts.
  • Database design included.
  • Systems development lifecycle.
  • Project management training.
#3

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC - Public 4-Year - charlotte.edu

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Applied Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Online Graduate Certificate in Applied Nursing Informatics provides a strategic pathway for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses to elevate their technical competencies in healthcare information systems. This comprehensive 12-credit program enables professionals to develop advanced skills in clinical data management, strategic technology implementation, and healthcare analytics. Designed for working nurses seeking rapid skill enhancement, the certificate can be completed within one year, offering flexible online learning. Uniquely positioned for nurses wanting to integrate cutting-edge informatics knowledge, the program requires an active RN license and maintains a minimum 2.8 GPA standard. With no standardized entrance exam requirements, nurses can seamlessly transition into this transformative educational experience, emphasizing practical data analysis and technological strategic planning.

  • Online nursing informatics certificate
  • 12 credit hours total
  • Minimum 2.8 GPA required
  • No GRE needed
  • Four specialized courses
  • Requires active RN license
  • Completes within one year
  • Concurrent MSN studies possible
  • Focuses on data analytics
  • Strategic planning emphasis
#4

University of South Carolina

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

Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Graduate Study, Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Carolina's online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics offers advanced healthcare professionals a dynamic pathway to specialize in technology-driven nursing practices. This flexible online program enables experienced nurses to enhance their digital healthcare competencies without interrupting their current employment. With no GRE requirement and a preferred 3.0 GPA, the certificate can be completed in 3-6 semesters across 18-32 credit hours. Students benefit from comprehensive training that prepares them for national certification exams and advanced practice roles. The program emphasizes clinical practicum experiences and leadership development in healthcare informatics, ensuring graduates are equipped to leverage technology for improved patient care and healthcare system efficiency.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • Multiple nursing specialization tracks
  • 18-32 credit hour programs
  • 3-6 semester completion time
  • No GRE required
  • Preferred 3.0 GPA
  • Minimum 2400 nursing hours required
  • National certification preparation
  • Advanced practice and leadership options
  • Clinical practicum experiences
#5

Duke University

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

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate with Major in Health Informatics

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Duke University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics is a robust online and hybrid program tailored for healthcare professionals seeking advanced technological competencies. Designed specifically for master's degree holders with health-related work experience, the one-year curriculum integrates intensive online instruction with strategic on-campus sessions. Students develop sophisticated skills in clinical information systems, data management, and technological innovation through a comprehensive 19-credit program. The certificate offers a personalized practicum experience, enabling professionals to apply cutting-edge health informatics strategies in real-world contexts. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and prior health-related professional background, making it an ideal pathway for registered nurses and healthcare administrators aiming to excel in the evolving digital healthcare landscape.

  • One-year comprehensive program
  • Online and on-campus instruction
  • 19 total credit hours
  • For master's degree holders
  • Health-related work experience
  • Two certificate options available
  • Intensive individualized practicum
  • Technical and clinical focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Fall semester start
#6

Vanderbilt University

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

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University offers a robust online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics tailored for graduate-prepared nurses seeking advanced technological expertise. This 18-credit program uniquely blends comprehensive analytics training with healthcare technology integration, enabling professionals to enhance their informatics skills without disrupting current employment. Designed as a part-time curriculum, students can complete six total courses across four semesters, with no practicum requirement. The program strategically addresses the growing demand for tech-savvy nursing professionals by providing sophisticated technology training and analytics-focused coursework, empowering nurses to transform healthcare technological landscapes.

  • 18-credit part-time program
  • No practicum required
  • Six total courses
  • Four semester completion
  • Graduate nurse focused
  • Analytics-focused curriculum
  • Technology integration training
#7

University of Michigan

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

Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Health Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Michigan's online Health Informatics Certificate provides a strategic pathway for health professionals seeking advanced technological expertise. Targeting bachelor's degree holders with healthcare experience, this 15-credit interdisciplinary program delivers comprehensive training in healthcare technology innovation. Students benefit from a flexible remote learning environment that combines self-paced coursework with immersive practical experiences. The curriculum prepares graduates for emerging informatics leadership roles and potential professional certifications. Key program features include interdisciplinary learning, no healthcare licensure prerequisites, and a robust practicum that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world applications in digital healthcare transformation.

  • 15 total credit program
  • Remote learning curriculum
  • No healthcare licensure required
  • Interdisciplinary learning approach
  • Immersion practicum experience
  • Flexible elective options
  • Prepare for informatics certifications
#8

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX - Public 4-Year - uttyler.edu

Graduate Certificate - Nursing Informatics, Quality & Safety Certificate

Concentration: Quality & Safety - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a cutting-edge online Post-Bachelor's Nursing Informatics, Quality & Safety Certificate specifically targeting professionals seeking advanced competencies in healthcare technology and quality improvement. The program emphasizes Quality & Safety concentration, enabling nurses to develop sophisticated skills in data analysis, information systems management, and clinical practice enhancement. With a competency-based practicum, students gain practical expertise aligned with national certification standards from ANCC and HIMSS. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, the program requires a 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and a statistics course prerequisite. Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in healthcare facilities, consulting firms, and governmental organizations, positioning themselves at the intersection of clinical practice and technological innovation.

  • Online Post-Bachelor's Certificate
  • Competency-based practicum
  • ANCC/HIMSS certification mapped
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • BSN degree prerequisite
  • Nursing informatics focus
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Quality improvement skills
  • Information systems expertise
#9

Rutgers University-Newark

Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Informatics

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rutgers University-Newark's online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics provides advanced nursing professionals a cutting-edge technological education. The comprehensive 24-25 credit program integrates 225 practicum hours exclusively within New Jersey, equipping students with sophisticated skills in database design, systems development, and informatics project management. Designed for nurses seeking specialized technological expertise, the curriculum prepares graduates for professional certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Military-friendly and fully online, this program offers a strategic pathway for nursing professionals to enhance their technological competencies and advance their career prospects in healthcare technology.

  • Online post-master's certificate program
  • 24-25 total credit hours
  • 225 practicum hours required
  • New Jersey practicum requirement
  • Nursing informatics certification eligible
  • Specialty courses in nursing technology
  • Systems development focused curriculum
  • Project management training included
#10

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate Health Care Informatics

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a cutting-edge online Graduate Certificate in Health Care Informatics designed to empower healthcare professionals and technology enthusiasts. This comprehensive 16-credit program can be completed in 1-1.5 years, providing flexible learning for individuals seeking to advance their knowledge in digital healthcare technologies. Uniquely positioned for both nursing and non-nursing backgrounds, the certificate explores critical domains including decision support systems, semantic representation, and information system lifecycles. Students engage with elective coursework in knowledge management and digital health tools, preparing them to enhance patient safety and technological innovation in healthcare settings. The program boasts an affordable estimated tuition of $12,560 and offers scholarship opportunities.

  • 100% online format.
  • 1-1.5 years to complete.
  • 16-credit program.
  • Focuses on healthcare data and technology.
  • Open to non-nursing degree students.
  • Core courses in decision support.
  • Electives in digital health tools.
  • Estimated tuition $12,560.
  • Scholarships and financial aid available.
  • No nursing background required.
*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 dataset.

Choosing a Post-Master's Nursing Informatics Certificate Program

Selecting the perfect post-master's nurse informaticist certificate program may seem challenging at first, mainly if the nurse has not attended school in some time. There are a few key things to keep in mind when researching programs, and choosing the right fit can be made simple by considering the following:

  • Accreditation– Choosing a quality, properly vetted certificate program is extremely important. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are two of the most respected and well-known agencies that accredit nursing programs in the United States. Students are encouraged to seek out programs that bear the mark of these organizations.
  • Cost– A main factor for most prospective students, tuition and fees for post-master's nurse informatics certificate programs can vary widely. Aside from these main costs, students need to account for textbooks and other supplies. Online students may need to purchase equipment such as a laptop, webcam, and/or special software. It's a wise idea to consider the full cost of a certificate program, including incidental expenses, before making a decision, as this can make a seemingly inexpensive program more expensive than initially thought.
  • Program Length– While city, state, type of school, and other factors contribute to program length, most post-graduate nursing informatics certificate programs require 15-26 credits to complete. They are typically capped off with a certain number of clinical practicum hours. Students should carefully consider the curriculum and how it aligns with their future goals, rather than choosing the shortest program blindly.
  • Online Options– Many schools have expanded to offer online certificate program options. These options are popular, allowing students to take courses from the comfort of their own homes. Another new program option is the "hybrid" program, which will enable students to take select classes online, with the remainder being taken on campus. Students should inquire whether these program options are offered at their school of choice.
  • Internship/Externship Options– With hands-on experience often a requirement, it's a good idea to ask about partnerships a school might have with area hospitals and medical facilities. If the program is online, students can often arrange for a local preceptorship upon approval from the faculty.

Online Post-Master's Nursing Informatics Certificate Programs

Due to the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare technology, online nursing informatics post-master’s certificate programs are experiencing unprecedented growth. For nurses accustomed to traditional classroom environments, this digital learning approach may appear both appealing and intimidating. While online nursing informatics programs offer numerous benefits, including flexible scheduling and interactive technology platforms, they may not be suitable for every learner’s needs and preferences.

Online vs. Classroom-Based Post-Master's Nursing Informatics Certificate Programs

Since many nurses continue to work while they pursue their certification, online post-master’s nursing informatics certificate options make this circumstance feasible. Students enrolled in online courses have maximum flexibility in when and where they study. This convenience is also ideal for those with children or other obligations that may make a traditional campus-based program difficult.

Online programs aren't for everyone, however. Those who prefer face-to-face interaction, collaboration with other students, and closer relationships with their professors may find traditional programs more suitable. Some online students also have issues with the slower pace, whereas classroom programs tend to have more predictable hours and a higher level of structure. While online programs eliminate the need for costly commuting and parking expenses, traditional programs don't usually have as many technological requirements. For those seeking the best of both worlds, hybrid programs that combine online and traditional campus-based courses offer a great middle ground, but may not be as widely available.

Post-Master's Nursing Informatics Certificate Admissions Requirements

Those interested in enrolling in a post-master's nursing informatics certificate program should take care to ensure that they meet all the admissions requirements. While each school will differ, most include the following:

  • MSN degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • Current unencumbered license as an RN
  • Official college transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Professional letters or recommendations
  • Interview or personal essay

Post-Master's Nursing Informatics Certificate Curriculum

The post-master's certificate for nurse informatics is comprised of specialty courses designed to familiarize students with informatics, information systems, database and project management, and more. Furthermore, a minimum number of practicum hours will also be required. Course titles may include:

  • Intro to Healthcare & Nursing Informatics
  • Regulator, Legal, and Ethical Issues in Healthcare Informatics
  • Clinical Information Systems for Clinical Practice
  • Information Technology Project Management
  • Managing Data & Information

Helpful Resources

Other Degree Programs

List of Post Master’s Certificate Nurse Informatics Programs

Jump to Your State Listings

Arizona

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

Georgia

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

Maryland

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Baltimore, MD 21201
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New York

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New York, NY 10010
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Pennsylvania

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Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100 x2838

Texas

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

Utah

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

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