Leverage Data to Drive Healthcare Improvement

Data analytics and data science plays a valuable role in improving healthcare and reducing costs by enabling organizations to leverage data to tackle complex problems and make more informed decisions. Data analytics can be used to identify trends and patterns in patient care, improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and optimize resource allocation.

Harness the potential of data for informed decision-making in healthcare, positioning yourself as a leader in the evolving landscape. You will learn the fundamentals of data analytics including python, data visualization and the technical aspects of understanding data, in addition to creating models to tell a useful story - driving outcomes and change in healthcare settings.

100% Online

Earn your degree in a flexible 12-24 months

Downtown next to commuter rail entrance

Access to MGH Datasets

Utilize real-word data in your class exercises and projects.

Core Faculty

affiliated with Mass General Brigham

Our degree will prepare you to play a valuable role in data science and analytics in the healthcare sector with a strong foundation in the following areas:

  • Data analytics fundamentals: Learn about data analysis tools and techniques, such as python programming, data visualization, and statistical analysis, as well as understanding how to clean, organize, and manipulate data sets.

  • Technical aspects of understanding data: This may include learning about different types of data, such as structured and unstructured data, and how to identify and handle missing or incomplete data.

  • Creating models to tell a useful story: Learn about different types of models, such as regression, classification, and clustering, and how to select and apply the appropriate model for a given problem. And, be able to communicate the results of your analysis effectively to different stakeholders.

  • Driving outcomes and change in healthcare settings: This involves learning about the challenges and opportunities presented by data analytics in the healthcare sector, as well as understanding how to apply data analytics to address specific problems and improve patient care. Learn about the ethical and legal considerations related to the use of healthcare data.

Overview of the Application Process

MGH Institute’s Master of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics program welcomes applications with a baccalaureate degree who seek to become leaders in data analytics.

Application Deadline

Now accepting applications for programs starting: Fall 2024   

We are now accepting applications on a rolling admissions basis. Enrollment in the MSDA is by Director Review and Permission Only. If you have any questions, please email us at Admissions [at] mghihp.edu (Admissions[at]mghihp[dot]edu).

Application and Fee
All applicants are required to submit a completed online application. There is no application fee for this program.

Apply Now

Prerequisites

Degree

All applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university. Applicants that have earned a degree from a non-US institution are required to submit a course-by-course credential evaluation, see “Transcript” section. 

Prerequisite Course

There are no prerequisite courses required to apply for this program.  

Applicants are encouraged to have taken a Statistics course and/or have had experience, or familiarity, with computer programming languages, such as R. Your familiarity could have been gained in formal coursework, or through work experience/independent study, but is not required to apply to the program. Please contact the Data Analytics program if you have any questions related to this.

Learn more about our online prereqs or select an MGH Institute course below to view its description.

  • Introductory Statistics (3 credits) (Please be advised this course uses a different statistical software package than the one used/taught in the program.)

TOEFL/ IELTS
The language of instruction and clinical education at the MGH Institute is English and a high level of proficiency in both written and spoken English is required.  Applicants who have not completed either an undergraduate or graduate program where English is the language of instruction must demonstrate English Language proficiency as part of your application to the MGH Institute of Health Professions.  If you have questions about the language requirements, please contact the Office of Admissions.

  • Applicants who are citizens of Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
  • Applicants who are candidates for graduation from an accredited degree-granting program in the United States or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above are also not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Acceptance to the IHP will be contingent upon successful completion of this degree prior to matriculation.

Please note that in some circumstances, demonstrating English language proficiency may be required by the academic program even if you are a citizen of a country in which the (or one of the) national language(s) is English. Decisions about the need for TOEFL or IELTS scores are at the discretion of the academic program to which you are applying in coordination with the department of OES.

The IHP accepts either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). The test must have been taken within two years of the application deadline and official score reports are required. The minimum TOEFL (internet-based) score accepted is 89 and the minimum IELTS score accepted is 6.5.  

  • To forward your TOEFL score please contact the Educational Testing Service (ETS).  The MGH Institute of Health Professions code is 3513.
  • For IELTS, a Test Report Form may be mailed to MGH Institute of Health Professions and score information will be verified by the IHP directly. You may designate up to 5 schools to receive Test Report Forms at the time you register for the test.  To request additional Test Report Forms, contact your test center.

Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions about the MGH Institute’s English Language requirements. 

Applicants are required to submit a transcript from each college and/or university attended, even if a degree was not received from that institution. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted throughout the application process, and official transcripts will be required of all accepted and enrolled students, prior to matriculation. For transcripts to be considered official they must be in their original signed and sealed envelopes when received.

Unofficial transcripts uploaded after application submission must include, 1) The name of the institution and 2) list the student’s name, and 3) contain a transcript legend. If an unofficial transcript is received without this information, it will not be accepted. Grade reports and copies of diplomas, or screenshots of a document will not be accepted.  

For official transcripts, the Office of Admissions strongly encourages the use of online electronic transcript ordering which can be sent admissions [at] mghihp.edu (directly via email) to admissions. If this is not an option and your institution does not participate in electronic transcript delivery, please request official transcripts to be sent to the mailing address listed below:

Admission Office
MGH Institute of Health Professions
36 First Avenue
Boston, MA 02129

Foreign Transcripts: Applicants that have earned a degree from a non-US institution are required to submit a course-by-course credential evaluation from one of the following NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) members: Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc., SpanTran: The Evaluation Company, World Education Services (WES), or the Center for Educational Documentation. If you earned your bachelor's degree outside of the U.S. this credential evaluation must document minimum equivalency of a US baccalaureate degree or higher.

Statement of Intent

All applicants are required to compose an essay that addresses the following: 

  1. The reason you have applied to this program & MGH Institute of Health Professions
  2. How your past experiences (academic, personal, and/or extracurricular) have influenced your decision to apply
  3. Your specific area of interest and any applicable knowledge of statistics and/or programming skills
  4. Personal characteristics that will contribute to your success
  5. How completion of this program will assist you in reaching your professional goals.  

Essays should be 12 pt. font, double spaced, and no more than three pages in total. The statement of intent should be uploaded directly to your online application. 

(Optional) Diversity Statement  

All applicants will have the option to submit diversity statement:

​MGH Institute of Health Professions is committed to an inclusive campus climate that welcomes students who will enrich the diversity of thought and perspective, and therefore, enhance the learning experiences for all.

Essays should be typed, double-spaced, and no more than three pages in total. The (optional) diversity statement of intent should be uploaded directly to your online application. Please Answer the following below: 

​In what ways might you personally contribute to improving the experience of the campus as a welcoming and inclusive place to learn?

Recommendation Letters

Applicants are required to provide two recommendation letters. All recommendations are processed through our online application. Please provide contact information for each recommender within your online application.

Recommendation letters should come from individuals who are able to address your academic ability, character and integrity, as well as your potential for graduate professional study. Furthermore, at least one letter should come from an academic reference and one should come from a professional reference.

Resume or CV

Applicants are required to submit a current resume or CV.

Who do I contact for more information about the academic program, curriculum, or course requirements?
Please data-analytics [at] mghihp.edu (contact the Program).

Who do I contact for more information about the application process, my application status, or what documents to submit?
You are welcome to email the admission office, or call (617) 726-1304 weekdays between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time.

What is a good way to learn more about the MGH Institute?
Attend an admissions event for additional information.

Can I receive Financial Aid for this program?
Do not wait until you've been accepted to the program to learn about financial aid options available. Contact our Financial Aid office as soon as you have applied to ensure that you will be able to take advantage of all options available. When you apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you'll need the MGH Institute Federal School Code: G22316.

Since this is not considered a full-time graduate program, you may not be eligible for most traditional financial aid programs. However, you may be eligible for employer tuition reimbursement if this is a graduate program of study in your profession.

What is your mailing address?
MGH Institute of Health Professions
Office of Enrollment Services
36 1st Ave.
Charlestown Navy Yard
Boston, MA  02129

Are there other Conditions of Admission?
Yes. If applicable, final transcripts and test scores must be submitted to satisfy the conditions of admission.

I’m an international student. Can I receive an F-1 Visa?
Please see General Information for Prospective International Students.

The curriculum has been developed in collaboration with senior leaders from within Mass General Brigham and other local healthcare leaders.  

Learn data analytics in an experiential way. All technical courses are taught with a hands-on approach - you will apply tools and methods as you learn them. In addition, in the two-semester Application of Analytics course, you will solve a real-world problem that a client has (a hospital, a clinic, or a healthcare provider) using data and methods learned in the program. 

View Curriculum

  • Data analysis and visualization: learn programming languages such as Python, as well as how to effectively visualize and communicate data.

  • Data management and storage: learn about databases and data management systems, as well as understanding how to store and organize large amounts of data.

  • Healthcare informatics: learn about the use of technology and data in healthcare, including electronic health records (EHRs), clinical decision support systems, and other health information systems.

  • Statistical analysis: learn about statistical methods and techniques for analyzing and interpreting data, such as regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and machine learning.
     

  • Clinical outcomes: Outcomes related to the effectiveness of healthcare treatments and interventions. Examples may include measures of patient survival, disease management, and symptom improvement.

  • Patient satisfaction: The degree to which patients are satisfied with their healthcare experience, including factors such as the quality of care, convenience, and communication with healthcare providers.

  • Cost and efficiency: Measures of the cost of healthcare services and the efficiency with which they are delivered. For example, data analytics may be used to identify opportunities for cost savings or to optimize the use of resources.

  • Population health: Refers to the overall health status of a population, including factors such as morbidity, mortality, and risk factors for disease. Data analytics can be used to identify trends and patterns in population health and to develop interventions to improve population health outcomes.

In healthcare data analytics, enterprise information systems (EIS) play a crucial role in the collection, storage, and analysis of data. By using EIS, healthcare organizations can more efficiently and effectively manage and analyze large amounts of data from a variety of sources, including patient medical records, claims data, and population health data.

For example:

  • Clinical decision support: EIS can be used to provide real-time clinical decision support to healthcare providers, helping them to make informed decisions about patient care.

  • Population health management: EIS can be used to track and analyze population health data, helping healthcare organizations to identify trends and patterns and develop interventions to improve population health outcomes.

  • Quality improvement: EIS can be used to track and measure key quality indicators, such as patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and cost efficiency. This can help healthcare organizations identify areas for improvement and implement changes to drive better outcomes.

  • Data integration: EIS can be used to integrate data from a variety of sources, allowing healthcare organizations to get a more complete and accurate picture of patient health and care.

Digital stewardship and governance in healthcare data analytics refers to the principles and practices that guide the responsible and ethical use of healthcare data for analytics and decision-making. It involves the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and systems to ensure healthcare data is collected, stored, used, and shared in a manner that protects the privacy and security of patients, and that complies with relevant laws and regulations, such as HIPAA in the US.

It also involves the development and implementation of best practices and standards for the management of healthcare data, such as the use of standardized terminology (e.g., SNOMED) and the adoption of data governance frameworks, such as the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles.

Finally, it involves the development and implementation of ethical guidelines and principles to ensure that the use of healthcare data for analytics and decision-making is fair, transparent, and accountable, and does not result in discrimination or harm to patients or other stakeholders. This may involve the use of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) and other methods to provide clear and interpretable explanations for the decisions and actions of AI systems.

This concentration focuses on the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for effective and responsible leadership and practice in the field of healthcare data analytics. This includes the ability to effectively manage and lead teams, communicate effectively with stakeholders, use data-driven decision-making and problem-solving skills, and uphold professional ethical standards.

Some specific skills and knowledge include:

  • Understanding the role of healthcare data analytics in healthcare delivery and decision-making
  • Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and professional standards, such as HIPAA in the US
  • Knowledge of data management and governance best practices, such as the FAIR principles
  • Understanding of statistical and computational methods and tools used in healthcare data analytics
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical and complex information to a non-technical audience
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills

In addition to technical skills and knowledge, leadership and professionalism in healthcare data analytics also involves the development and maintenance of professional ethical standards, including a commitment to transparency, accountability, fairness, and non-discrimination in the use of healthcare data for analytics and decision-making.

A distinctive feature of the program is interprofessional experience, allowing students to collaborate and practice what they learn as they would in the real world - working with varying disciplines and personalities. You will enroll in courses with students from Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology, Master of Health Administration, and Health Professions Education. Shared course topics include leading interprofessional teams, diversity equity and inclusion, data analytics, and organization systems leadership. 

The output of software, data, is taking over the way that healthcare operates. A fundamental understanding of how metrics are created, improved, and maintained is a vital function for any healthcare professional working today. 

Combined Data Analytics and Pre-Health Certificate

Designed for aspiring health professionals who want to apply to graduate school and differentiate themselves with technology and data. Receive academic preparation in addition to a linkage transitioning you seamlessly into graduate school. This graduate certificate will appear on your academic transcript, helping future graduate schools know that you’ve completed rigorous prerequisite coursework.

If you'd like to then work toward your masters at the IHP, pre-health certificate students who earn a 3.0 GPA or better in the certificate program are eligible for contingent admission to the IHP Data Analytics masters degree program. 

Learn more

she8 [at] mgb.org (Email the Program Director) to get started with your individualized certificate plan.

Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid

Tuition Reduction for MGB Employees, Alumni and Affiliates 

Employees across the MGB system can receive a reduction in their tuition of up to 40%.

This is a fully online program with some on-campus learning experiences. Online programs offer the convenience and flexibility of being able to complete coursework from anywhere, as long as you have a stable internet connection. This can be especially useful for working professionals who may not have the time or ability to attend classes in person.

However, it is worth noting that the program includes occasional on-campus learning experiences. These may be required in-person sessions or events, such as workshops or seminars, that take place on campus. It is important to carefully review the program requirements and schedule to ensure you are able to attend these on-campus learning experiences, as they may be a key part of the program.

It is also worth considering the potential benefits of in-person learning experiences, as they can provide an opportunity for face-to-face interaction with faculty and classmates, as well as hands-on learning opportunities that may not be possible in an online setting.

Data analytics in healthcare is a rapidly expanding field that is relevant to both clinical and non-clinical healthcare professionals, as well as to individuals looking to make a career change into the healthcare sector.

Clinical healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers, can benefit from learning about data analytics by gaining a better understanding of how data can be used to improve patient care and outcomes. For example, data analytics can be used to identify trends in patient care, identify areas for improvement, and optimize resource allocation.

Non-clinical healthcare professionals, such as administrators, managers, and other support staff, can also benefit from learning about data analytics by gaining a better understanding of how data can be used to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and make more informed decisions.

Career changers who are interested in the healthcare sector may also find data analytics to be a valuable area of study, as the demand for skilled professionals in this field is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

Earning a master’s degree can have an impact on one’s salary. The 2018 Burtch Works study, for example, found that those with a master’s degree in data analytics earn a median base salary of $92,500. Of course, salaries can vary based on job responsibilities, employer, location, etc. 

The MS in Healthcare Data Analytics program consists of 36 credit hours. Students can complete the program on a full- or part-time basis, usually earning a degree within 2 years. 

Upcoming Admissions Events

Upcoming Events

22 May
Consortium on Healthcare Innovation Partnerships (CHIPS)
May 22 2024 8:00am-5:00pm
University of California, Riverside School of Medicine
08 Jun
Consortium on Healthcare Innovation Partnerships (CHIPS)
Jun 8 2024 8:00am-2:30pm
1CW conference center

Speaker Series

blue screen with the words "The future of AI in Life Science, Elemental Cognition, AI for when you can't afford to be wrong, Eric Brown, PhD, VP of elemental cognition

a slide says healthcare, social media, and data analytics with an illustration of a person wearing a stethoscope in a cell phone

Faculty Working in the Field

Benefit from a faculty with strong affiliations to Mass General Brigham, ensuring your education is rooted in real-world expertise and relevance.

Nicole Danaher-Garcia, PhD

Assistant Professor Health Professions Education Healthcare Data Analytics

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Senior Data Analyst Institutional Research & Effectiveness Term Lecturer, Healthcare Data Analytics

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Term Lecturer Healthcare Data Analytics

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Program Director Adjunct Assistant Professor Healthcare Data Analytics

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Unlock Your Potential

Work-Life Balance and Professional Growth
Juggling work and student life? We've got your back.
At MGH IHP, we support working professionals like you. Our programs help you excel academically while managing your career. With flexible scheduling options, you can pursue your degree without compromising your professional success. Gain practical work experience through internships, co-op placements, and collaborative projects, building a strong network while learning. 

Student Work Opportunities