High School
Informatics nurse specialists must have strong knowledge of computer science, information technology, and nursing science. Take classes in computer science (including database management and programming, biology, chemistry, physics, health, and mathematics. Research and writing skills are also needed for this type of work, so be sure to take communications and English classes also.
Postsecondary Education
Most employers prefer to hire informatics nurse specialists who hold a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and significant coursework or a certuificate in health informatics. This is typically the minimum education requirement. Undergraduate nursing and health care courses are in topics such as nursing research, anatomy, public health nursing, nursing practice and theory, chemistry, nutrition, and health promotion and disease prevention. To gain an advantage in the job market, many go on to earn a master's in nursing, with a specialization in informatics. Graduate informatics nursing courses include topics like health care database systems, the workflow in health care systems, systems analysis and design, nurse leadership, and nursing technology.
Certification
Some colleges and universities offer certificates in health informatics. For example, the University of Pittsburgh offers a nursing informatics certificate. Classes include Introduction to Health Informatics, Clinical Information Systems, Information Technology Project Management, and Nursing Informatics Practicum. Contact schools in your area to learn more about available programs.
Other Education or Training
The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) and other professional associations offers webinars, workshops, and other continuing education opportunities. Recent educational offerings from the AMIA included Introduction to Biomedical and Health Informatics, Clinical Decision Support, and Generative AI for Oncology Care and Research.
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