School of Information launches accelerated master's degree in health informatics
Thursday, 04/23/2026
By Abigail McFeeHigh-performing undergraduates in the University of Michigan School of Public Health can now earn a master’s degree in health informatics by adding one academic year to their studies.
The Master of Health Informatics program, launched in 2012 and offered jointly by the School of Information, School of Public Health and Medical School, brings together U-M expertise in data, technology and health care to prepare graduates to improve health systems and outcomes.
Through the new accelerated degree, SPH graduates can develop technical skills — including in AI applications — that complement their foundation in public health.
What can I do with a degree in health informatics?
Understanding data and technology is the key to improving patient outcomes, designing better health services and developing tools, like mobile health apps and fitness trackers, that improve the lives of consumers.
“We need people who are trained in this way,” said Dane Jacobsen, a 2019 graduate of the MHI program. “We need people who think through an informatics lens, because there is so much complexity in IT infrastructure, data and clinical work. Having that kind of training is powerful.”
Technical advancements in the health care industry make health informatics one of the fastest-growing fields in the nation. MHI graduates build successful careers across health systems, tech companies, health care product organizations, consulting firms and startups.
What are the benefits of an accelerated master’s degree?
The accelerated timeline will reduce tuition costs by up to 50%. Students can also graduate, and begin earning the salary associated with an MHI degree, one year sooner.
To qualify for the AMDP in health informatics, you must currently be enrolled in the U-M School of Public Health with a minimum 3.2 GPA. You will register for the program by submitting an application in your senior year, with a final deadline of May 15 for fall 2026. Qualified students are automatically admitted.