School of Information

The FSU School of Information Health Information Technology Certificate program prepares students to be leaders in the Health IT field by strengthening skills in information management, technology integration and implementation, information organization, and information leadership. As information technology becomes seamlessly integrated with healthcare delivery, there is an increased demand for health professionals who can fully utilize and add value to clinical and public health data.

At its core, the acquisition, storage, retrieval and use of information forms the basis of enhancing quality of care, reducing costs of delivery and improving access. The certificate is specifically designed to develop technical, leadership, and analytical skills that will facilitate success. Students will gain a detailed overview of health informatics, providing them with an entry point into the industry and with knowledge and skills that will help them integrate emerging technologies into practice. The courses provide a broad understanding of the industry, current issues and events, such as the “meaningful use” of electronic medical record systems, and eHealth approaches for health promotion and patient self-management.

The program is designed for entry-level students (undergraduate level) and is open to all majors. Courses are offered face-to-face. Students who complete the certificate will be able to:

• Discuss the role of the “health informatics” professional within the current healthcare system
• Articulate the role of data/information in the healthcare delivery process
• Describe new technology and communication approaches for healthcare delivery and health promotion
• Participate in the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of healthcare data systems
• Discuss the process of and issues related to health IT implementation and management
• Explain the process of technology adoption at the organizational and individual levels
• Integrate various stakeholder viewpoints in designing health informatics systems
• Demonstrate effective communication skills in interacting with various stakeholders including health care providers, administrators, patients and health consumers