Why Informatics?
Defining the field: Biomedical informatics is the science of collecting, storing, and transforming health data into actionable knowledge that improves decisions in research and patient care.
Interdisciplinary nature: It bridges medicine, computer science, data analytics, and behavioral science. Connecting technology with real-world health challenges.
Rising demand: As healthcare increasingly relies on data and AI, biomedical informaticians are among the most sought-after
professionals in clinical, research, and industry settings.
Impact on lives: Informatics fuels innovations such as predictive models for disease prevention, AI-driven clinical decision support, and precision medicine tailored to the individual.
Why McWilliams?
Unique distinction: McWilliams SBMI is the only free-standing school of biomedical informatics in the nation, and one of the largest programs of its kind in the world.
Global leadership: At the forefront of the AI revolution in healthcare, McWilliams faculty lead research projects tackling challenges such as Alzheimer’s disease, patient safety, and digital equity.
Comprehensive programs: Graduate students can pursue flexible online or in-person master’s degrees, two doctoral
options (PhD for research and DHI for practice leadership), and certificates that stack into degrees.
Expert faculty: Students learn directly from leaders recognized nationally and internationally for their contributions to health
informatics, data science, and bioinformatics.
Houston advantage: Located in the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical complex, students access unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, practicum experience, and networking with leading hospitals and research institutions.
Is Graduate School Right for Me?
Who we serve: Our students come from diverse backgrounds: computer science, nursing, medicine, public health, business, and engineering. and share a desire to improve healthcare through innovation.
Skills that thrive here: Critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to work across disciplines are skills of successful informatics students.
Career outcomes: Graduates advance into leadership roles in healthcare systems, technology companies, academia, government, and industry, shaping the future of healthcare delivery.
Flexibility: Whether full-time or part-time, online or hybrid, programs are designed to meet the needs of working professionals as well as those pursuing research care