Master of Public Health in Biomedical Informatics
May 15, 2026
August 25, 2026
Overview
The Master of Public Health (MPH) in Biomedical Informatics prepares professionals to apply data-driven, technology-based solutions to improve health outcomes in public health and health care settings. Designed for working professionals and students seeking flexibility, this program will be delivered fully online, allowing learners to complete their coursework from anywhere while maintaining access to Ohio State’s world-class faculty and resources.
The MPH in Biomedical Informatics combines a strong foundation in public health with advanced study in biomedical data management, analytics and informatics applications. Students learn how to collect, analyze and interpret health data to inform public health decision-making, health policy and clinical care systems.
Why choose Ohio State’s online MPH in Biomedical Informatics?
The MPH in Biomedical Informatics is ideal if you are a working professional who wants to apply informatics tools and data-driven approaches to improve public health practice, policy and research translation. It’s an ideal fit for individuals looking to enhance their current roles or transition into public health informatics, rather than those seeking to pursue PhD after completion.
If you plan to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Informatics or a related field and want to contribute to academic research, Ohio State offers the Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics.
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“While going into the program, I was concerned that by Ohio State being one of the largest institutions, I would feel like one in 1,000 students. Instead, I felt a sense of close-knit, connected support from both classmates and faculty.”
Stephanie Moore Ohio State Online Grad -
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
Derek Danek Ohio State Online Grad -
“I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized.”
Demi MacLennan Ohio State Online Grad -
"Ohio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others."
Cara North Ohio State Online Grad -
"As an online student, there's so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless."
Audra Hanners Ohio State Online Grad
Frequently Asked Questions
Please find key information about the Master of Public Health in Biomedical Informatics program below.
Biomedical Informatics is an interdisciplinary field that uses data, technology and analytical methods to improve health care and public health outcomes. It combines knowledge from biology, medicine, computer science and information technology to collect, manage and analyze health-related data.
Yes. The MPH in Biomedical Informatics from Ohio State is a 100% online program. You can complete all coursework from anywhere, giving you the flexibility to continue working while earning your degree.
This program is best suited for working professionals who want to apply informatics tools and data-driven approaches to improve public health practice, policy and research translation. It’s an ideal fit for individuals looking to enhance their current roles or transition into public health informatics, rather than those seeking to pursue PhD after completion.
Students typically come from health care, public health, data science, information technology or biological sciences backgrounds. The program welcomes professionals who want to strengthen their ability to use data and technology to improve population health outcomes.
Yes. The curriculum is designed with flexibility for working professionals. Many students continue their careers while completing coursework on a part-time basis.
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Academic Calendar
The Master Public Health in Biomedical Informatics program offers admission in the Autumn semester.
Academic Calendar
The Master Public Health in Biomedical Informatics program offers admission in the Autumn semester.
Admission Criteria
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Strong background in computer/information science or life sciences
- Excellent recommendations
- Strong personal statement
- GRE test scores are optional
Applicants must apply through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS), which includes a $150 application fee.
Application Materials
- $60 domestic
- $70 international
When you apply, you will submit the following materials with an application through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS). The SOPHAS application opens each August for an application deadline each May. There is a $150 SOPHAS application fee.
To complete your application, you must submit an official transcript of all post-secondary coursework where college credit was awarded. Official transcripts must be sent by the institution where credit was received. Ohio State students applying to an Ohio State Public Health program must submit their Ohio State transcript through SOPHAS. Learn more about transcripts and the SOPHAS submission process.
Please arrange to have three recommendations prepared. These can come from academic or professional connections who are familiar with your qualifications and potential for graduate study. Please contact your Enrollment Advisor with any questions about potential recommenders.
Prepare and submit a current resume or curriculum vitae as a part of the application process.
All applications for programs submitted through SOPHAS require a supplemental application ($60 domestic fee). This is emailed to you from The Ohio State University within a week after your centralized SOPHAS application reaches “verified” status. SOPHAS requires four to six weeks to verify an application.
Please prepare a personal statement that addresses the following:
- Your reasons for interest in the field of public health
- Your reasons for interest in your specific program of study and/or concentration
- Your reasons for interest in this school or program
- Your career goals
Success at Ohio State depends upon your ability to converse in, write and understand English. For more information about English proficiency requirements, consult Graduate and Professional Admissions.
All coursework earned outside of the United States must reflect the equivalent of a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree. The World Education Services, Inc. (WES) is the preferred agency to evaluate international education credentials.
The GRE is optional for all graduate degree programs in the College of Public Health. If you include official GRE scores as a part of your application, the codes for Ohio State are: SOPHAS – 4233.
Have questions on the application process?
Your enrollment advisor is here to help each step of the way.
Is this program offered in my state?
Click your state on the map below to view program availability.
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
Career Outlook
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Apply knowledge of engineering, biology, chemistry, computer science, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological, agricultural, and health systems and products, such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and health management and care delivery systems.
Work Activities
Evaluate the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment. Prepare technical reports, data summary documents, or research articles for scientific publication, regulatory submissions, or patent applications. Design or develop medical diagnostic or clinical instrumentation, equipment, or procedures, using the principles of engineering and biobehavioral sciences.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $71,860
- Mid Level: $106,950
- Senior Level: $165,060
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7.4%
Related Careers
- Biochemists and Biophysicists
- Bioinformatics Scientists
- Chemical Engineers
- Nanosystems Engineers
- Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Job Sectors
- Engineering and Technology
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- Design
- Physics
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate clinical research projects. Direct the activities of workers engaged in clinical research projects to ensure compliance with protocols and overall clinical objectives. May evaluate and analyze clinical data.
Work Activities
Schedule subjects for appointments, procedures, or inpatient stays as required by study protocols. Perform specific protocol procedures such as interviewing subjects, taking vital signs, and performing electrocardiograms. Assess eligibility of potential subjects through methods such as screening interviews, reviews of medical records, or discussions with physicians and nurses.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $79,830
- Mid Level: $161,180
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7.5%
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
- Social Science Research Assistants
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Administrative
- Medicine and Dentistry
What They Do
Apply principles and methods of bioinformatics to assist scientists in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics. Apply bioinformatics tools to visualize, analyze, manipulate or interpret molecular data. May build and maintain databases for processing and analyzing genomic or other biological information.
Work Activities
Analyze or manipulate bioinformatics data using software packages, statistical applications, or data mining techniques. Extend existing software programs, web-based interactive tools, or database queries as sequence management and analysis needs evolve. Maintain awareness of new and emerging computational methods and technologies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $40,330
- Mid Level: $71,490
- Senior Level: $154,140
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.9%
Related Careers
- Biological Technicians
- Data Scientists
- Database Architects
- Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
- Statistical Assistants
Job Sectors
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Biology
What They Do
Conduct research using bioinformatics theory and methods in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics. May design databases and develop algorithms for processing and analyzing genomic information, or other biological information.
Work Activities
Develop new software applications or customize existing applications to meet specific scientific project needs. Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports. Create novel computational approaches and analytical tools as required by research goals.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $54,500
- Mid Level: $93,330
- Senior Level: $159,780
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.6%
Related Careers
- Bioinformatics Technicians
- Biostatisticians
- Data Scientists
- Geneticists
- Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Job Sectors
- Biology
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Chemistry
What They Do
Apply knowledge of nursing and informatics to assist in the design, development, and ongoing modification of computerized health care systems. May educate staff and assist in problem solving to promote the implementation of the health care system.
Work Activities
Translate nursing practice information between nurses and systems engineers, analysts, or designers, using object-oriented models or other techniques. Use informatics science to design or implement health information technology applications for resolution of clinical or health care administrative problems. Develop or implement policies or practices to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, or security of patient information.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $63,160
- Mid Level: $103,790
- Senior Level: $166,030
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
10.7%
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Health Education Specialists
- Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Nurse Practitioners
Job Sectors
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Education and Training
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Apply knowledge of healthcare and information systems to assist in the design, development, and continued modification and analysis of computerized healthcare systems. Abstract, collect, and analyze treatment and followup information of patients. May educate staff and assist in problem solving to promote the implementation of the healthcare information system. May design, develop, test, and implement databases with complete history, diagnosis, treatment, and health status to help monitor diseases.
Work Activities
Assign the patient to diagnosis-related groups (DRGs), using appropriate computer software. Compile medical care and census data for statistical reports on diseases treated, surgery performed, or use of hospital beds. Design databases to support healthcare applications, ensuring security, performance and reliability.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $39,120
- Mid Level: $67,310
- Senior Level: $112,130
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
16.3%
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Clinical Research Coordinators
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Medical Records Specialists
- Patient Representatives
What They Do
Apply knowledge of health care and database management to analyze clinical data, and to identify and report trends.
Work Activities
Design and validate clinical databases, including designing or testing logic checks. Process clinical data, including receipt, entry, verification, or filing of information. Generate data queries, based on validation checks or errors and omissions identified during data entry, to resolve identified problems.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $63,650
- Mid Level: $112,590
- Senior Level: $194,410
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
36%
Related Careers
- Bioinformatics Technicians
- Clinical Research Coordinators
- Data Scientists
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Social Science Research Assistants
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Medicine and Dentistry
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
Work Activities
Direct, supervise and evaluate work activities of medical, nursing, technical, clerical, service, maintenance, and other personnel. Develop and maintain computerized record management systems to store and process data, such as personnel activities and information, and to produce reports. Plan, implement, and administer programs and services in a health care or medical facility, including personnel administration, training, and coordination of medical, nursing and physical plant staff.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $69,680
- Mid Level: $117,960
- Senior Level: $219,080
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
28.5%
Related Careers
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- Health Education Specialists
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Social and Community Service Managers
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Education and Training
What They Do
Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.
Work Activities
Collect samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, or asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels or identify sources of pollution. Investigate hazardous conditions or spills or outbreaks of disease or food poisoning, collecting samples for analysis. Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $36,130
- Mid Level: $49,490
- Senior Level: $85,630
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7%
Related Careers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Chemistry
- English Language
- Biology
- Law and Government
What They Do
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Work Activities
Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings. Monitor effects of pollution or land degradation and recommend means of prevention or control. Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $50,130
- Mid Level: $80,060
- Senior Level: $134,830
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7.3%
Related Careers
- Conservation Scientists
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
- Industrial Ecologists
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Biology
- Customer and Personal Service
- Law and Government
- Computers and Electronics
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The Master of Public Health in Biomedical Informatics is a 45-credit-hour program organized into five key curricular domains that provide both breadth and depth in public health and informatics. Students complete foundational coursework (11 credit hours), specialization courses (20 credit hours) and electives (9 credit hours) tailored to their professional interests. The curriculum also includes an Applied Practice Experience (2 credit hours) and an Integrative Learning Experience (3 credit hours), allowing students to apply their skills in real-world situations. In addition, all students participate in Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) activities, collaborating across disciplines to address complex health challenges.
3 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
Must take this 1 credit hour course twice (2 credit hours).
2 credit hours
3 credit hours
Ethics Courses
You will select one 3 credit hour electives course as part of your specialization requirements.
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
Elective Courses
You will select 9 credit hours of elective courses. Students should work with staff and faculty advisors in the Department of Biomedical Informatics to identify suitable electives outside of the suggested list below.
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
Credit hours vary
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
2 credit hours
3 credit hours
4 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
3 credit hours
2 credit hours
3 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
2 credit hours
3 credit hours
Sample 2-year Curriculum
Below is a sample curriculum plan for a student to complete the program in 5 semesters.
| Term | Course | Credit Hours | Terms Offered |
| Year 1 – Autumn | PUBHLTH 6210 PUBHLTH 6014 BMI 5710 | 3 2 3 | AU AU AU |
| Year 1 – Spring | PUBHLTH 6013 PUBHLTH 6015 PUBHBIO 6211 BMI 5740 BMI 7891 | 2 2 3 3 1 | SP SP AU, SP SP AU, SP |
| Year 1 – Summer | PUBHLTH 7189 ELECTIVE | 2 3 | AU, SP, SU AU, SP, SU |
| Year 2 – Autumn | BMI/PUBHLTH 5760 BMI 7000+ ELECTIVE ETHICS COURSE | 3 3 3 3 | AU AU AU, SP, SU AU, SP, SU |
| Year 2 – Spring | PUBHLTH 7998 PUBHLTH 6016 ELECTIVE BMI 7891 | 3 2 3 1 | AU, SP, SU AU, SP, SU AU, SP, SU AU, SP, SU |
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
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Program Faculty
Our faculty are experienced public health and biomedical informatics professionals who bring a combination of real-world practice and academic expertise to the classroom. They are dedicated to mentoring students and preparing them to apply data-driven solutions to improve population health.
Featured Faculty
Amy Ferketich, PhD
Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs
Professor Epidemiology
Dr. Ferketich’s research falls into the following areas within the field of tobacco control: smoking cessation, tobacco use surveillance, tobacco policy and tobacco regulatory science. With respect to smoking cessation, her independent research is largely focused on smokers who can be reached through health care providers and the health care system. In the past, she has led smoking cessation studies that targeted Medicaid-enrolled adults in southeast Ohio, adults with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and female primary care patients in Appalachia. Her surveillance work includes secondary analyses of population-based data from the United States, China and Italy. Her research in the area of tobacco control policy has involved work with clean indoor air ordinances and tobacco advertising. Finally, her work in tobacco regulatory science included a study focused on examining the impact of waterpipe warning labels on short-term smoking behaviors. She is currently co-leading (with Megan Roberts) a project focused on adolescents and young adults who use nicotine pouches or e-cigarettes, with a goal of examining factors that influence trajectories in use over a two-year period. This study is part of Ohio State’s Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science.
Testimonials
Hear what Ohio State online students and graduates are saying about learning online.
“The MPH in Biostatistics complemented my skills gained in medical training, leading to a positive impact on both my NIH-funded research and evidence-based patient care.”
“Ohio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others.”
“This degree will give me more tools to do the work I’m doing with more impact and enable me to better respond to the health needs of the population I serve.”
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester.
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