Program Overview
The Master of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics (MS HCDA) trains individuals with the cutting-edge analytical, information system, and computational skills necessary to compete in today’s health care market. The changes that have occurred over the past few decades in the health care sector have presented a new demand for a workforce that can leverage electronic data to improve the quality and cost-efficiency of health care. The MS HCDA is the only health care analytics program in Arkansas. For those wishing an introductory level program, we also offer a Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Analytics, which can be obtained in two semesters.
New business models and payment reforms have drastically transformed health care from a reactive system with fragmented accountability to a proactive approach that demands accountability and rewards efficiency, quality, and cost containment. These changes, coupled with the exponential growth of electronic health data, have created a niche market for professionals who specialize in interpreting data in useful ways for health care practitioners, facilities, programs, and government entities.
The program uses a multi-disciplinary approach intended to advance students in data aggregation methods, statistical methods, data mining, and forecasting algorithms, visualization techniques and data management, including database skills and design techniques. Because the program is housed at the state’s only academic health center, students will find an unrivaled hands-on learning experience within a vast network of health care professionals and database systems.
In 2018, the Department of Health Policy and Management began offering a graduate certificate in Healthcare Analytics for professionals seeking a basic understanding of database systems and the fundamentals of data analytics. The MS HCDA was created to fill the gap at the master’s level.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must possess the minimum of a U.S. baccalaureate degree (in any field) with a minimum 3.0 GPA (during the last two years) to be considered for admission. A minimum of 150 on each component of the GRE (Verbal and Quantitative) is recommended, but not required.
Curriculum
The MS HCDA is supported by the Department of Health Policy and Management. It is comprised of 36 credit hours (12 courses) and is designed to be completed in two years for a full-time student. The program requires three college-credit hours of statistics, which may be completed upon acceptance. A number of courses in the program are offered online or in a blended format. In the final semester of the program, students will synthesize and apply their knowledge and methodologies in the form of a required thesis/capstone project. The overall curriculum model for the MS in HCDA degree includes:
- Core Courses: 24 semester credit hours
- Elective Courses: 9 semester credit hours
- Thesis/Capstone Project: 3 semester credit hours
MS Healthcare Data Analytics Program Competencies
MS in Healthcare Data Analytics Degree Plan Full-Time Enrollment Guide – Recommended Schedule
For More Information
Mandana Rezaeiahari, Ph.D.
Program Director
4301 West Markham, Mail Slot #820
Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 320-7597
Email: MRezaeiahari@uams.edu