West Virginia has a small number of graduate programs in health informatics and health information management. The two master’s degrees below include a campus-based health informatics program at a public university and a fully online health information management program from a private university headquartered in Charles Town.
The two programs differ in title, delivery, and accreditation. One is a CAHIIM-accredited health informatics degree with a required internship, while the other is an online health information management degree built around compliance, data governance, and analytics.
Compare the degree type, curriculum, delivery format, cost, and accreditation before applying.
West Virginia Health Informatics Programs
| School | Location | Program | Format | Estimated Tuition | Typical Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marshall University | Huntington | MS in Health Informatics, 33 credits | Campus, evening classes; some online sections | About $19,355 for West Virginia residents | 18–24 months |
| American Public University | Charles Town | MS in Health Information Management, 40 credits | Online | $18,800 tuition; about $20,255 with fees | About 13–24 months (est.) |
Tuition estimates use the rates available when each profile was reviewed. Universities can change tuition, fees, schedules, and admission policies. Confirm current costs and requirements with each school.
Which West Virginia Program May Fit You Best?
For a Campus-Based Health Informatics Degree
Marshall University offers a 33-credit MS in Health Informatics through its Lewis College of Business. Most core courses meet in person in Huntington one evening a week, and the curriculum combines health care administration, information systems, statistics, and health informatics. Students complete a required 400-hour internship.
The program is accredited by CAHIIM. It does not require the GRE or GMAT, and West Virginia residents pay the lowest tuition rate. Marshall also lists a dual MD/MS in Health Informatics for medical students.
For a Flexible Online Degree
American Public University offers a 40-credit online MS in Health Information Management with monthly starts and 8- to 16-week courses. Coursework covers health information law and compliance, clinical terminologies, data security, leadership, and a healthcare data analytics lab, followed by a capstone. Reduced rates are available for military students and first responders.
The master’s degree is not CAHIIM-accredited and does not by itself lead to RHIA eligibility. Students who need that credential should confirm their certification route before enrolling.
For Registered Nurses
Neither West Virginia master’s program is a nursing degree. Through its 2026 combination with Rasmussen University, the American Public University System now also includes an online MSN with a Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics specialization. Nurses should confirm that the program is available to West Virginia residents.
Other Options at West Virginia University
West Virginia University does not offer a graduate degree in health informatics. It does offer a graduate certificate in Health Data Science and a bachelor’s degree in Health Informatics and Information Management, with an accelerated pathway into its Master of Health Administration. These options may suit students who want shorter data training or a management degree.
How to Compare West Virginia Health Informatics Degrees
Check the Official Degree Title
A program’s title often shows its main focus. Marshall awards an MS in Health Informatics, which centers on information systems, analytics, and technology in health care. American Public University awards an MS in Health Information Management, which puts more weight on compliance, coding systems, privacy, and data governance.
Confirm Accreditation
CAHIIM accredits health informatics and health information management programs. Marshall’s MS in Health Informatics holds CAHIIM accreditation, while APU’s MS in Health Information Management does not. Students planning to sit for a specific credential should check its eligibility rules before choosing a program.
Consider the Schedule
Marshall’s core courses meet in person in Huntington, so students should plan for regular evening travel to campus. APU’s courses are fully online with monthly starts. Students who work full time should compare the weekly workload and course sequence of each program.
Calculate the Full Cost
Tuition is only one part of the cost. Students should also review university and college fees, technology fees, books, and travel. Marshall’s rates depend on residency, with a metro rate for some Kentucky and Ohio counties. APU charges one rate for all states and offers reduced military and first-responder rates. Employer tuition assistance, graduate assistantships, and transfer credit may lower the final amount.
Explore More Health Informatics Programs
Compare West Virginia with health informatics programs by state, review online health informatics programs, or learn more about master’s degrees in health informatics.