Combined MD and MSHIA Degree

The combined MD and Master of Science in Health Informatics and Analytics (MD/MSHIA) degree includes digital health training in medical school education in addition to the 4-year medical school curriculum. Clinical informaticians provide a broad range of services to improve patient care, including enhancing electronic health records systems, clinical decision support, data visualization and interpretation, and health-related knowledge management.

HWCOM’s medical students in the third period of study may apply to the MSHIA program. Each college (College of Medicine and College of Business) independently reviews and admits applicants to its programs. Students admitted to both programs are permitted to enroll in classes.

Combined degree students complete the first 3 years of coursework in the MD degree program at HWCOM. At the beginning of the fourth period of study of the MD degree program curriculum, students admitted to the combined program pause their medical studies and begin classes as part of the MSHIA program.

Classes in the MSHIA program are taken during fall, spring, and early summer semesters of the medical student’s fourth year of study to complete the 27 hours of course work in the MSHIA program. Ten credits taken through HWCOM are applied toward the 37 credits required for the MSHIA degree. At the beginning of the fifth year, students resume study as part of the MD degree program curriculum. Students who successfully complete all requirements graduate with both degrees at the end of the 5 years.