BS in Information Technology – Health Informatics

Graduates with a degree in information technology (IT) as well as a concentration in health informatics can enter a fast-growing field that works to improve the efficiency of a physician’s or hospital’s medical records and analyzes data to develop money-saving solutions for health care providers. Working in IT in a hospital or other medical facility requires at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology. Job titles for this degree include computer systems administrator and computer systems analyst.

Requirements for Earning a BS in Information Technology

Requirements for earning a bachelor’s degree in information technology with a concentration in health informatics can vary by state. Successful graduates usually complete the following steps:

Earn proper bachelor’s degree (requirements vary by state). Students who complete a bachelor’s degree in information technology can choose to concentrate on IT in a particular industry, such as healthcare.
Earn proper master’s degree (requirements vary by state). Graduates can progress in the IT profession with a master’s degree in information technology or business administration with a concentration in information systems.
Pursue continued education. Technology progresses so quickly that continuous study is necessary to remain competitive. Employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities as well as private training institutions offer continuing education courses to help workers learn the latest technology skills.

Average Salary and Career Data

The expected salary, career growth, and work environment for an IT professional in healthcare might include:

Computer Systems Administrators/Analysts – Median expected salary: $66,310 according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Prospects – Employment is expected to grow much faster than average with excellent job prospects because computer networks will continue to be an integral part of business with organizations adopting more sophisticated technologies to operate, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Setting – Computer systems administrators/analysts in healthcare find employment in hospitals, private practices, home healthcare services, nursing care facilities and outpatient care.

Job Duties and Responsibilities for a Computer Systems Administrator

A computer systems administrator/analyst is typically responsible for the following job responsibilities:

Testing, maintaining and monitoring healthcare information systems, such as a patient records database.
Developing, documenting and revising healthcare system design procedures, test procedures and quality standards.
Reviewing and analyzing computer systems and databases for efficiencies and possible cost savings.
Providing staff with assistance in computer-related difficulties.
Working with clients regarding the kind of information technology needs a computer program or system must address.