Explore Health Systems Engineer Schools (2024)

Looking to start your journey as a Health Systems Engineer? Finding the right education is key. Here's a curated list of schools offering quality Health Systems Engineer programs:

  • We've identified top institutions known for excellent Health Systems Engineer education.
  • Options include both local schools and nationally recognized programs.
  • Each listing highlights relevant degree programs for aspiring Health Systems Engineer professionals.
  • You'll also find information on related career paths in the field.

Browse through these options to find a program that aligns with your career goals in the Health Systems Engineer industry.

Top Health Systems Engineer Schools (2024)

View our ranking methodology here
#1Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#2Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#3Tippecanoe County

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$10,080
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,356
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:45,125
#4Hennepin County

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$14,328
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,328
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:39,727
#5San Diego County

Ashford University

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$12,240
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,240
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:10%
Total Enrollment:34,190
#6Maricopa County

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

Health Systems Engineer Required Education (2024)

To pursue a career as a Health Systems Engineer, you will need to meet specific educational requirements. Here are the education options available at both minimum and advanced levels:

  • Minimum Education:

    • A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is typically required. Acceptable fields of study include:
      • Health systems engineering
      • Industrial engineering
      • Biomedical engineering
      • Systems engineering
      • Healthcare management

  • Advanced Education:

    • A master's degree can enhance your qualifications and may be preferred by some employers. Advanced degrees options include:
      • Master of Science in Healthcare Engineering
      • Master of Health Administration
      • Master of Business Administration with a focus on healthcare
      • Master of Science in Industrial Engineering

  • Ph.D. Programs:

    • For those interested in research or academic positions, pursuing a Doctorate in relevant fields can be beneficial. Consider doctoral programs that focus on:
      • Health systems research
      • Operations research in healthcare
      • Health informatics

Completion of these educational programs equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills required to effectively contribute to the optimization of healthcare systems.

Health Systems Engineer Professional Certifications & Licenses (2024)

To enhance your qualifications as a Health Systems Engineer, consider obtaining the following certifications and licenses which are commonly recognized in the field:

  • Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS)
    Offered by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), the CPHIMS certification validates your knowledge and competency in healthcare information and management systems.

  • Certified Healthcare Technology Manager (CHTM)
    This credential is provided by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). It focuses on the management and application of healthcare technology.

  • Lean Six Sigma Certification
    While not specific to healthcare, Lean Six Sigma certifications (Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt) demonstrate your ability to improve processes and efficiency, which is highly relevant in health systems engineering.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
    Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this certification is beneficial if you aim to manage projects within healthcare systems.

  • Healthcare Quality Management Certificate
    Various organizations offer certificates focusing on healthcare quality management, emphasizing the development of quality improvement skills.

  • Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA)
    Awarded by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), this certification covers health information management and is valuable for understanding data systems within healthcare.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) License
    If your work involves engineering principles, obtaining a PE license may be necessary, especially in cases where you oversee the design and implementation of engineering projects in healthcare settings.

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
    Cybersecurity is crucial in healthcare; thus, a CISSP certification can enhance your credentials in safeguarding health information systems.

Consider these certifications to reinforce your expertise and improve your career prospects in health systems engineering.

Job Duties for Health Systems Engineers

  • Adapt or design computer hardware or software for medical science uses.

  • Conduct research, along with life scientists, chemists, and medical scientists, on the engineering aspects of the biological systems of humans and animals.

  • Evaluate the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment.

Technologies and Skills Used by Health Systems Engineers

Analytical or scientific software

  • SAS
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks

Enterprise application integration software

  • Extensible markup language XML
  • Microsoft Teams

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Health Systems Engineer Internships, Apprenticeships & Practical Training

As a Health Systems Engineer, gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships is vital to complement your academic knowledge. Numerous organizations offer opportunities tailored to those entering the field. Here are some examples of potential experiences you might consider:

  • Healthcare Technology Companies: Many tech firms that develop healthcare software and systems provide internships focused on improving healthcare delivery systems. You can work on projects that involve data analytics, usability testing, and system optimization.

  • Hospitals and Health Systems: Major hospitals often have summer internship programs for students. You may assist in analyzing operational processes, evaluating patient flow, or implementing quality improvement initiatives. This hands-on experience in a clinical setting helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

  • Government Health Agencies: Positions in organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or state health departments allow you to engage in research projects and community health studies, focusing on public health systems and policy analysis.

  • Consulting Firms: Management consulting firms that specialize in healthcare systems may offer internships where you can assist in strategic planning, process optimization, and performance improvement projects for various healthcare clients.

  • Academic Research Labs: Seek internships with university research projects that focus on healthcare systems engineering. In these roles, you may be involved in data analysis, model simulations, and working collaboratively with faculty members on research publications.

  • Health Information Technology (HIT) Companies: Interning with HIT companies can expose you to electronic health record (EHR) implementation and optimization projects. Engaging with software developers and healthcare providers will enhance your understanding of system requirements and user experiences.

  • Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies: Many of these companies have internships in their operations or supply chain divisions. You may tackle projects aimed at improving operational efficiencies and understanding regulatory requirements in health systems.

  • Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations focused on public health often look for interns to assist with data collection and impact analysis. This type of experience can be beneficial if you are interested in how health systems impact community health.

Taking part in these internships and apprenticeships will provide you with essential skills, networking opportunities, and a better understanding of the complexities involved in health systems engineering. Make sure to align your internships with your career interests to maximize the benefits of these experiences.

Health Systems Engineer Continuing Education & Professional Development (2024)

As a Health Systems Engineer, it is essential to engage in ongoing education and professional development to stay current with industry trends, enhance your skills, and advance in your career. The following are avenues you may pursue to facilitate your growth in this dynamic field:

  • Certifications

    • Consider obtaining certifications relevant to health systems engineering, such as:
      • Certified Healthcare Engineer (CHE): This certification demonstrates your expertise in healthcare engineering principles.
      • Certified Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt: These certifications focus on process improvement, quality control, and operational excellence, which are vital in healthcare systems.
      • Project Management Professional (PMP): This certification enhances your project management skills, essential for leading healthcare initiatives.

  • Advanced Degrees

    • Pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in health systems engineering, healthcare management, or related fields can significantly enhance your qualifications and knowledge base. These advanced degrees often cover topics like health informatics, systems design, and policy analysis.

  • Workshops and Seminars

    • Attend workshops and seminars focused on the latest technologies, methodologies, and best practices in health systems engineering. Look for events hosted by professional organizations such as:
      • The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
      • The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
      • The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)

  • Webinars and Online Courses

    • Take advantage of online learning platforms offering courses related to health systems engineering. Platforms such as Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning provide flexible options to enhance your knowledge in areas like data analytics, health informatics, and systems optimization.

  • Conferences and Networking Events

    • Participate in industry conferences where you can learn from experts, share your insights, and network with peers. Events hosted by organizations such as HIMSS, the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS), and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) offer opportunities for collaboration and growth.
  • Professional Organizations
    • Join professional organizations that focus on health systems engineering and related fields. Membership can provide access to resources, publications, and networking opportunities. Notable organizations include:
      • The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
      • The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)

  • Mentorship Programs

    • Seek out mentorship opportunities within your organization or through professional associations. A mentor can provide guidance, share experiences, and help you navigate your career path effectively.

  • Research and Publications

    • Engage in research projects or contribute to academic and industry publications. Publishing your findings in reputable journals can elevate your professional standing and contribute to advancements in the field.

  • Interdisciplinary Learning

    • Explore courses or training in related disciplines such as healthcare policy, informatics, data science, or quality improvement. Understanding these areas can enhance your ability to work in collaborative environments within healthcare settings.

By consistently pursuing these continuing education and professional development opportunities, you can ensure that your skills and knowledge remain relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of health systems engineering.

What To Look For When Deciding On Campus vs Online Degree Programs for Health Systems Engineers (2024)

When considering a career as a Health Systems Engineer, your educational route plays a significant role in your preparedness and opportunities in the field. Both online and campus-based education programs offer unique advantages and challenges that you should weigh carefully based on your personal preferences, learning style, and life commitments.

Online Education Programs

  • Flexibility: Online programs offer the convenience of studying from any location and at a time that suits you. This is particularly beneficial if you are balancing work, family, or other commitments.

  • Self-Paced Learning: Many online courses allow you to progress through materials at your own pace. This can accommodate your learning speed, helping you to fully grasp complex concepts before moving on.

  • Diverse Resources: Online learning often includes multimedia resources such as videos, interactive simulations, and virtual labs. These can enhance your understanding of complex health systems engineering principles.

  • Networking Opportunities: While you may miss face-to-face interactions, many online programs include discussion forums, webinars, and group projects that allow you to connect with peers and instructors.

  • Technological Skills Development: Navigating online learning platforms helps you develop essential technological skills that are increasingly necessary in today’s healthcare environments.

Campus-Based Education Programs

  • Structured Learning Environment: If you thrive in a more structured setting, campus-based programs provide a routine and direct supervision by instructors that may enhance your learning.

  • Hands-On Experience: Many campus programs facilitate practical experiences, such as laboratory work, simulations, and internships with healthcare providers, which are vital for applying theoretical knowledge.

  • In-Person Networking: Attending classes on campus fosters face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers, allowing for the development of professional relationships and networking opportunities.

  • Access to Campus Resources: Traditional universities often have extensive resources available to students, including libraries, research facilities, and academic advising, which can enhance your overall educational experience.

  • Extracurricular Activities: Campus life may offer opportunities to engage in clubs, organizations, and events that can be beneficial for personal and professional growth.

Considerations for Your Decision

  • Learning Preference: Reflect on whether you learn better in a structured, in-person environment or if you prefer the flexibility and independence that online learning offers.

  • Life Circumstances: Evaluate your current life situation. If you have time constraints due to work or family obligations, online programs might be more suitable.

  • Career Goals: Consider how important the networking and hands-on experiences offered by campus programs are for your chosen career trajectory. Certain positions may value practical experience more highly.

  • Accreditation and Reputation: Regardless of the format you choose, verify that the programs are accredited and respected within the health systems engineering community. This can have a significant impact on your job prospects after graduation.

By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision on whether an online or campus-based education program is the right path for your journey in becoming a Health Systems Engineer.

Health Systems Engineer Typical Career Path (2024)

As you embark on a career in health systems engineering, you can expect to progress through various roles as you gain experience and develop your skills. Here’s a breakdown of the typical career path you might follow:

Entry-Level Positions

  • Health Systems Analyst: In this role, you will analyze healthcare systems and processes to identify areas for improvement. You will gather data, assist with data management, and support project leads in various initiatives.
  • Quality Improvement Coordinator: This position involves supporting quality assurance initiatives within a healthcare organization. You will work with data metrics, help develop policies, and assist in implementing improvement strategies.
  • Clinical Informatics Specialist: Here, you will focus on optimizing the use of information technology in clinical settings. Your tasks may include training healthcare staff on new systems and analyzing clinical workflows to enhance efficiency.

Mid-Level Positions

  • Health Systems Engineer: At this level, you will be engaged in designing and implementing solutions that streamline healthcare operations. You will lead projects, work with various healthcare teams, and analyze system performance.
  • Project Manager in Health Systems: In this capacity, you will manage specific projects related to healthcare systems. You will coordinate staff, resources, and timelines while ensuring that projects meet established goals.
  • Healthcare Data Analyst: This role involves working with extensive datasets to provide insights that can drive decision-making. You will use statistical analysis and data visualization tools to communicate findings to stakeholders.

Advanced Roles

  • Director of Health Systems Engineering: In this leadership position, you will oversee a team of engineers and analysts. Your responsibilities will include strategic planning, resource allocation, and collaboration with executive management to drive initiatives that improve health system performance.
  • Chief Information Officer (CIO) in Healthcare: This executive role involves managing the information technology strategy of a healthcare organization. You will ensure that IT systems meet operational needs and support overall healthcare objectives.
  • Consultant for Health Systems Optimization: As a consultant, you will provide expertise to various organizations seeking to enhance their healthcare delivery systems. This may involve assessing current practices, recommending improvements, and facilitating implementation.

As you progress along this career path, you will find opportunities to specialize in various areas, such as clinical informatics, patient safety, or healthcare operations management. Continuous education and professional development will be important to advancing your career in health systems engineering.

Related Fields and Alternative Career Paths to Health Systems Engineers (2024)

Pursuing a career as a Health Systems Engineer opens up a variety of related fields and alternative career paths that leverage similar educational backgrounds and transferable skills. Here are some career options for you to consider:

  • Healthcare Information Technology Specialist
    This role focuses on managing and optimizing health information systems. With a background in systems engineering, you would be well-equipped to implement technology solutions that enhance patient care and streamline processes.

  • Operations Research Analyst
    If you enjoy analyzing data and improving operational efficiencies, transitioning to an operations research analyst position could be a natural fit. Your skills in problem-solving and systems thinking will be invaluable in studying and optimizing business processes in various industries, including healthcare.

  • Quality Improvement Manager
    Transitioning into quality improvement positions allows you to use your systems engineering skills to enhance healthcare delivery. Your understanding of systems analysis can help in assessing the effectiveness of existing procedures and developing strategies for improvement.

  • Project Manager in Healthcare
    Your strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex projects can lead you to a role as a healthcare project manager. Drawing from your engineering background, you can effectively plan and execute projects that enhance healthcare operations and patient outcomes.

  • Clinical Informatics Specialist
    Specializing in clinical informatics can be an excellent way to utilize your knowledge of systems and data analysis. This role involves working at the intersection of medicine and information technology, improving how healthcare data is managed and used.

  • Healthcare Consultant
    With expertise in systems engineering, you may choose to work as a healthcare consultant, analyzing challenges in health systems and advising on strategic solutions. Your skills in process optimization and data analysis can provide immense value to health organizations.

  • Health Policy Analyst
    If you are interested in shaping healthcare policies, this role allows you to apply analytical skills to assess healthcare laws and regulations that affect health systems. Your engineering background will help you understand complex systems and their implications for policy decisions.

  • Bioinformatics Specialist
    If you have an interest in combining biological sciences with computing technologies, pursuing a career in bioinformatics could be an exciting direction. Your systems engineering skills can help in analyzing biological data for drug development or genomics research.

  • Environmental Health and Safety Engineer
    Your engineering principles can also be applied in this field, where you would focus on developing systems and processes that ensure safety and health standards in various environments, including healthcare facilities.

  • Health Data Analyst
    If working with data excites you, consider becoming a health data analyst. This role involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting complex health data to assist healthcare organizations in making informed decisions.

Each of these roles offers potential pathways from your foundational education and skills as a Health Systems Engineer. Explore these alternatives to determine which aligns best with your interests and career aspirations.

Health Systems Engineer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (2024)

  • What degree is required to become a Health Systems Engineer?
    Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering, industrial engineering, health systems engineering, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or higher.

  • Is certification necessary for Health Systems Engineers?
    While certification is not strictly required, obtaining credentials such as the Certified Health Systems Engineer (CHSE) can enhance your qualifications and job prospects.

  • What additional courses should I consider while studying?
    Focus on courses in statistics, systems design, operations research, data analysis, and health informatics. These subjects will help you develop essential skills for the field.

  • How important is a background in healthcare for Health Systems Engineers?
    Having a background or experience in healthcare can be beneficial, as it helps you understand the specific challenges and needs within healthcare systems.

  • Are internships valuable for aspiring Health Systems Engineers?
    Yes, internships provide practical experience, networking opportunities, and insights into real-world applications of health systems engineering, increasing your employability.

  • What skills should I develop for a career in health systems engineering?
    Key skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, project management, and proficiency in data analysis and modeling software.

  • Can I transition to Health Systems Engineering from another engineering discipline?
    Yes, many professionals transition into this field from other engineering disciplines, especially if they pursue additional coursework or training in healthcare systems.

  • What is the typical job outlook for Health Systems Engineers?
    The job outlook is positive due to the ongoing demand for efficiency and improvement in healthcare services. Growth is expected as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on engineering solutions.

  • Are there specific industries that hire Health Systems Engineers?
    Health systems engineers are commonly employed in hospitals, public health agencies, healthcare consulting firms, and medical device companies.

  • What are the career advancement opportunities in this field?
    With experience, you may advance to roles such as senior engineer, project manager, or health systems director. Further education, like an MBA or PhD, can open doors to leadership positions.

Additional Resources for Health Systems Engineers (2024)

  • American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
    Website: ASEE
    This organization provides resources for engineering education, including information on programs, conferences, and publications related to health systems engineering.

  • Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
    Website: IISE
    IISE offers access to a range of professional development resources, including journals, conferences, and a network of professionals in industrial engineering, which includes health systems engineering.

  • American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
    Website: ACHE
    ACHE provides resources for healthcare leaders and includes educational materials related to health systems engineering and management.

  • National Science Foundation (NSF) - Engineering Education Programs
    Website: NSF Engineering Education
    This site offers information about funding and research opportunities that can support your education and advancement in engineering disciplines, including health systems engineering.

  • Health Systems Engineering Consortium
    Website: HSEC
    HSEC focuses on collaboration among academia and industry to promote the field of health systems engineering, offering resources, webinars, and networking opportunities.

  • Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
    Website: HIMSS
    This organization emphasizes information technology in healthcare. It provides resources such as research, reports, and education that are valuable for health systems engineers focused on IT integration.

  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
    Website: CMS
    The CMS offers data, analysis, and tools related to healthcare systems in the U.S. Understanding these resources can be vital for applying engineering principles effectively in healthcare settings.

  • The Joint Commission
    Website: The Joint Commission
    Access standards, education, and research related to healthcare quality and safety, which can help inform your work as a health systems engineer.

  • National Institute of Health (NIH) - Department of Health and Human Services
    Website: NIH
    Access funding opportunities, research studies, and health information that can be useful for health systems engineers involved in healthcare research.

  • Coursera - Health Systems Engineering Courses
    Website: Coursera
    A platform offering online courses from top universities, including health systems engineering-related programs that can help build your skills remotely.

Utilizing these resources effectively will enhance your understanding of the field and support your educational and career aspirations in health systems engineering.