Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics)
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) programs at Fort Hays State University prepare students to excel at the rapidly evolving intersection of technology and healthcare. These programs equip students with the skills necessary to manage, analyze, and optimize healthcare IT systems, including telemedicine platforms, electronic health records, and the transmission of medical device data, to support improved patient outcomes.
Graduates develop a strong foundation in healthcare and information technology, preparing them for a diverse range of roles in the field of health informatics. The curriculum combines technical expertise with hands-on experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare industry.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) at Fort Hays State University?
The B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) stand out for their strong integration of technical and healthcare-focused coursework. This unique blend prepares students to apply information technology effectively within healthcare settings. The curriculum is aligned with industry-recognized certifications, enabling students to confidently navigate the challenges and opportunities of modern healthcare technology systems.
The programs also offer flexible learning options, available online and on campus, to support the diverse needs of students. In addition, partnerships with healthcare institutions provide valuable real-world experience, enriching students’ education and strengthening their career prospects.
Who is this program for?
These programs are designed for individuals passionate about healthcare and technology. They are well-suited for students seeking to merge their IT skills with a commitment to enhancing patient care and healthcare delivery. The programs accommodate a wide range of career goals and interests, making them ideal for:
- Aspiring health informatics professionals
- Future health IT managers
- Health information managers
- IT administrators in healthcare
Real-World Applications
The programs prepare students to tackle real-world challenges in health informatics. Through hands-on projects and applied learning, students develop technical skills essential for managing high-performance IT systems in large healthcare settings. Opportunities to collaborate with healthcare institutions provide practical experience, equipping students for roles such as IT system engineers, health IT consultants, and healthcare systems managers.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University keeps students at the forefront in the field of health informatics by incorporating the latest advancements and trends into the curriculum. Students learn to design, build, and manage IT systems that support healthcare technologies, ensuring smooth health informatics operations. Elective courses offer opportunities to explore emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and data mining, enabling students to address complex healthcare challenges. This emphasis on innovation ensures graduates are well-prepared to adapt to industry changes and contribute to advancements in health informatics.
Hands-on Activities
The B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) programs emphasize hands-on learning through real-world projects, internships, and applied research. These experiences help students develop practical skills in health IT systems, data analysis, and healthcare management. The programs also offer opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and professional development events, enabling students to connect with industry experts, stay current with health informatics trends, and demonstrate their expertise.
What You’ll Learn:
- Manage and leverage datasets
- Oversee mission-critical information systems
- Ensure the confidentiality and security of health information
- Ensure critical communication systems are working optimally
- Understand legal and ethical considerations
How You’ll Learn:
- Apply knowledge to real-world health IT scenarios
- Gain proficiency in leading tools and systems
- Work with peers on group projects
- Learn from experts in health informatics and IT
- Engage in a real-world culminating project
The core curriculum in both programs offers a strong foundation in information technology, blending practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Students start with internet systems, internetwork communications, and client-server models, gaining hands-on experience.
Electives enable students to specialize in areas such as data analysis, big data, predictive analytics, healthcare environments, and health informatics. This flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, while developing essential skills for the field.
B.A. students must complete 10 credits of foreign language, while B.S. students can apply these credits as free electives.
INF 291: Internetworking I
Students in this course will study the application of theories relevant to data communications for global internetworking and apply those concepts to a variety of assignments, including hands-on networking labs and projects. During the study, topics include the fundamentals of internetworking, the role of protocols, and layered communications within data networks. Students will also learn about physical and logical network addressing, the devices and services that support data communications, as well as the fundamental concepts associated with routing and switching.
INF 685: Fundamentals of Network Security
This course focuses on security concepts related to internetworks, including security policy design and management, security technologies and solutions, firewalls, hands-on implementation using firewalls, Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA), and secure VPNS.
NURS 440: Informatics for the RN
This course will instruct students on basic informatics concepts, computer applications, information competency and literacy, basic statistical concepts of research, and legal and ethical standards in the healthcare setting. Students will assess the applicability of informatics in healthcare settings.
Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) and the Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates have many exciting and impactful career options. Each program's comprehensive curriculum prepares students for health informatics areas like healthcare IT, data analysis, and management roles. Here are some of the promising career prospects:
Health Informatics Specialist
Health informatics specialists manage and analyze healthcare data using electronic health records and health IT systems to improve patient care. They develop solutions, troubleshoot issues, and ensure effective use of technology, helping healthcare organizations optimize operations and make data-driven decisions.
Health IT Consultant
Health IT consultants guide healthcare organizations in selecting, implementing, and optimizing health IT systems like electronic records and telemedicine. They provide training, support, and strategic advice to enhance patient care and help providers navigate complex health technology.
Health Information Manager
Health information managers oversee the accuracy, confidentiality, and security of health information systems. They ensure compliance with legal standards, manage health information teams, and implement IT solutions to improve healthcare delivery, safeguarding sensitive patient data and maintaining institutional trust.
Data Analyst
Data analysts in health informatics interpret healthcare data to identify trends and support decision-making. Using statistical tools, they generate insights that help improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency across hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and research institutions.
Telecommunications Systems Engineering for Healthcare
Telecommunications systems engineering for healthcare ensures secure and reliable communication between interconnected systems, while meeting federal and state privacy regulations. This includes telemedicine, patient records, clinical tests, and imaging exchanges. Designing and managing these systems is essential to support the healthcare IT infrastructure.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers related programs that complement health informatics, allowing students to specialize in technology, healthcare, and data analysis, thereby enhancing their skills and career opportunities. These include:
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Information Systems)
- B.S. in Computer Science
- Master of Professional Studies (Computer Networking)
- Master of Professional Studies (Information Assurance Management)
Health informatics is the field that focuses on the design, implementation, and management of technical IT systems that manage, transfer, and exchange healthcare information, as well as the implementation of processes for protecting and analyzing patient records to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
Students pursuing a B.A. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) are required to complete ten credit hours of instruction in a language other than English. This requirement is designed to provide students with a broader cultural and linguistic perspective.
In contrast, the B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Health Informatics) does not mandate foreign language study, allowing students to focus more intensively on technical and scientific coursework within their field of study. Despite this key difference, both degree programs share similar overall requirements in terms of total credit hours and core coursework. This equivalence ensures that students receive a comprehensive education within their major field of study, regardless of the chosen degree path.
Yes, health informatics is a growing field with strong career prospects and opportunities for advancement.
Health informatics specialists manage IT systems, analyze healthcare data, design and implement new systems, and ensure systems are secure to improve patient care.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
- Online
