Health Informatics
Students of health informatics learn to use technology, tools, and data to plan and deliver high-quality, sustainable healthcare.
The aim of health informatics is to improve health care through the effective management and utilisation of health information, data, and systems, and to use the knowledge gained to solve problems and make decisions about health care and services. This can lead to a more affordable, flexible health system and better health outcomes for people. Health Informatics students develop a blend of analytical and technical skills and learn how to take a multi-disciplinary approach. They also bring to future workplaces skills such as analysing information and data and communicating findings to non-technical audiences.
Roles and career pathways
Health Informatics graduates with an undergraduate qualification may work as data analysts and advisers, project coordinators, or progress to team leader roles. They could secure roles such as business analyst or solutions developer in areas such as national patient flow or health intelligence.
A postgraduate qualification or relevant work experience would normally be required for research or management in the health sector. With their valuable transferable skills in data analysis and critical thinking, graduates may also find similar roles beyond the health sector, particularly in other areas of public policy, administration, and technology.
Where Health Informatics graduates work
Graduates will apply their critical thinking, analytical, and interpersonal skills in a range of health and related organisations, including the Ministry of Health, District Health Boards (DHBs), Primary health organisations (PHOs), or non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Some examples of where Health Informatics graduates may work include:
- Te Whatu Ora
- Te Aka Whai Ora
- Manatū Hauora-Ministry of Health
- Pharmac
- Ryman Healthcare
- Management or public policy consultancies such as EY
Build relevant skills and experience
Part-time work and volunteering during study all help to increase your job prospects when you graduate. Programmes such as Wellington Plus and Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP) develop leadership skills and workplace experience. Students who volunteer in the health sector can learn more about where they can apply their skills and develop valuable connections. The Bachelor of Health offers Research and Enquiry in Health and Health Internship courses, which provide students the opportunity to develop applied research or workplace skills and experience. Places for the health internship are limited. The WFHSS Internship course run by the Wellington Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences also helps develop leadership skills and practical workplace experience.
Make career connections
Making connections with individuals and groups during your degree can help you learn more about career opportunities. Health Informatics New Zealand (HiNZ) is a not-for-profit organisation with a focus on education and networking. HiNZ supports the field of health informatics, has student membership, and runs a range of events, including an annual conference. Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington's Alumni as Mentors programme for final-year students also helps enhance your connections and employability while studying.