Eligibility and Requirements
KU selects applicants who demonstrate the academic achievement, integrity and motivation necessary for successful leadership in interprofessional health informatics. Previous health care experience is beneficial but not required.
This program is entirely online, with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous online learning and engagement. All classes are web-based and available anytime from anywhere in the world where an Internet connection is available.
International students: due to the number of required online courses for this degree, KU's health informatics program does not meet the U.S. student visa requirements at this time. Therefore, we are unable to accept individuals who are present in the United States on a student visa. If you are in the U.S. on another type of visa, please contact him@kumc.edu for additional application requirements.
The following sections describe the baseline eligibility requirements for admission to this degree program.
Bachelor's Degree
Student must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, documented by submission of official transcript(s) indicating the degree has been conferred, before starting the program. Students with degrees from outside the U.S. will be subject to transcript evaluation indicating the degree is equivalent to a U.S. degree and meets the minimum cumulative GPA requirements.
Grade Point Average
Students must possess a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on all undergraduate coursework.
Technical Standards and Accommodations
Because KU graduates are expected to function in a variety of clinical, research and educational situations, students must be able to meet the program's technical standards. Applicants who disclose a disability are considered for admission if otherwise qualified.
Vaccine and Clinical Site Requirements
Matriculated students will need to provide an immunization profile prior to participating in curricular and/or clinical experiences required by the program. Please read the information found at the bottom of the program's curriculum page and be sure that you understand these requirements.
Background Check and Drug Screening
The Joint Commission requires all incoming students to submit a background check and provide the report to the university. This one-time fee must be paid directly to the company performing the background investigation. This requirement only applies to students officially admitted into the program. A drug screen may also be required by each clinical residency site the student utilizes during the program. More information: School of Health Professions background check and drug screening.
Computer Competency and Standards
This program is 100% online. To be successful with completing coursework delivered online, students are expected to use a laptop or desktop computer that meets the minimum software and hardware requirements for this program.
English Language Requirement
All applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency.
For more on English language requirements, including minimum test scores, please see the KU Medical Center Office of International Programs. Test scores must be original forms sent directly from the administering agency to KU Medical Center. Photocopies will not be accepted. Use ETS school code: 6895.
Student Spotlight
Madison Boshers, Master of Science in Health Informatics Student
In December 2020, Madison Boshers finished her first semester in her Master of Science program, studying health informatics with a clinical focus. Boshers said, "I always knew I wanted to continue my education and stay in healthcare. I decided health care informatics would be the perfect way to incorporate my bachelor's degree in nursing, into a career transition."
Bosher works as a registered nurse at The University of Kansas Health System. Pursuing a degree that allows flexibility with her job was a priority when Boshers considered a graduate program. Ultimately, Boshers chose KU for the program's online format. Boshers said she enjoys her coursework and feels connected to online peers and faculty through discussion boards.
Boshers offers advice to future students: "Do your research and see what jobs are out there and consider if you would enjoy them. Know that you can come from any background and pursue this degree. Don't limit yourself."
Upon graduation, Bosher hopes to work at Cerner Corporation as a consultant or in The University of Kansas Health System's Health Information Technology Department as a clinical specialist.