If you’re interested in pursuing a Health Informatics degree, you can complete your degree in as little as 28 months through online programs such as the one at Adelphi University. A degree in health informatics is essential for the future of the medical industry. Jobs in health care are rapidly increasing especially since the 2015 deadline for health care establishments to use electronic records is approaching. This, along with the slow increase of U.S. economic growth, has made the health care field especially appealing for those who want to make a career out of helping others.

Institutions such as Adelphi have a degree program that is designed for those who are already working in the health care field. There are also academic tracks for those who want to enter into a health care career. Those who are in the business and IT fields can benefit from online degree programs as well.

A 2012 report from Burning Glass Technologies and Jobs for the Future states that jobs in health informatics have increased by 36 percent in the last four years. This is encouraging news for those who are going into the field as these numbers are likely to increase.

There are a variety of health informatics positions. Professionals in these positions require a number of skills that include but are not limited to: training, education, technology, research and consulting. Graduates are qualified to take jobs in public health care facilities as well as hospitals, research labs and private medical practices.

The courses required for the degree support the notion that health informatics is essential to improving the care of patients. As a student, you’ll gain the necessary skills to combine business strategies, technology and health care information to benefit others.

Choose a program, which includes a responsive curriculum that is indicative of what employees are looking for. Some universities have a working relationship with the nation’s health care systems. Choose a school that has an understanding of the challenges that come with a career in health care and prepares students to overcome them.

Since health care professionals come from diverse backgrounds, most online curriculum mixes the concepts of health information and business in course models. Classes in information system and management theory are also available. When choosing an online school, take into account that the faculty should have professional experience in business, health care and technology. The faculty should include doctors and clinical researchers who can provide first-hand information that is especially valuable in today’s ever-changing health care industry.