Master of Science in Healthcare Data Analytics

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.