Health Data Science, M.S.

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Saint Louis University

Program Overview

SLU’s Master of Science in Health Data Science prepares you for a career in today’s data-driven health care industry, combining health data analytics, machine learning and health care knowledge. It suits students and working professionals from clinical, research, technical or public health backgrounds who want to turn health data into better decisions, and it complements SLU’s health informatics, biostatistics and health outcomes research programs.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations in health data. You’ll start with HDS 5000 Foundations in Health Data Science and HDS 5130 Healthcare Organization, Management, and Policy, which give you the health care context behind the data. You’ll build your technical base through ORES 5160 Data Management and Programming in Healthcare and HDS 5310 Analytics, Statistics & Visualization Methods in Health Data Science. You also take ORES 5300 Foundations of Health Outcomes Research, so you understand how data answers real clinical and policy questions.

Year 2: Advanced modeling and AI in medicine. You’ll move into the advanced applied courses, such as HDS 5330 Predictive Modeling and Health Machine Learning, HDS 5430 Image Processing and Deep Learning Diagnostics and HDS 5530 Natural Language Processing in Medicine. These put you at the cutting edge of how AI is changing diagnosis, clinical records and patient care. By the end, you’ll have a portfolio of models and analyses built on health care data.

Focus Areas: Health data management and programming, statistics and visualization, predictive modeling and machine learning, deep learning for medical imaging, natural language processing in medicine, health care policy and management, and health outcomes research.

Learning Outcomes: The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the data-driven health care industry, with the courses above building skills in managing health data, applying statistics and machine learning, and using AI methods such as deep learning and natural language processing on clinical data.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The MS is awarded by Saint Louis University, which is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been continuously accredited since 1916. The program also connects to professional practice through its location in SLU’s School of Medicine, in the Department of Health and Clinical Outcomes Research, and through its links to SLU’s health informatics, biostatistics and public health programs.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): More than 25 graduate and professional programs at Saint Louis University ranked in the top 100 of U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Graduate School Rankings, released on April 7. These are university-wide graduate rankings, not rankings of the MS in Health Data Science itself, so describe them as a sign of SLU’s graduate strength. SLU is also a private Jesuit research university founded in 1818, and it is the oldest university west of the Mississippi River.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Saint Louis University, the Health Data Science, M.S. program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for success in the rapidly evolving field of health data analytics. Students engage in practical learning through a combination of cutting-edge facilities, advanced software tools, and collaborative projects that prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in practical settings.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Health Data Science program:

- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to modern computer labs equipped with the latest technology for data analysis and visualization.
- Advanced Software Tools: Proficiency in industry-standard software such as R, Python, SAS, and Tableau, which are integral for data manipulation and analysis.
- Collaborative Projects: Opportunities to work on group projects that simulate real-world health data challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internship Opportunities: Connections with local healthcare organizations and research institutions for internships that provide valuable industry experience.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research labs where students can engage in projects that contribute to the field of health data science.
- Field Trips: Organized visits to healthcare facilities and data analytics firms to gain insights into the practical applications of health data science.
- Libraries and Resources: Utilization of the Pius XII Memorial Library, which offers extensive resources and databases for research and study.
- Institute for Health and Equity: Collaboration with this institute allows students to engage in interdisciplinary research and community health initiatives.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Science in Health Data Science at Saint Louis University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities in a rapidly growing field. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Data Analyst, Health Informatics Specialist, and Biostatistician, among others. The demand for skilled professionals in health data science is on the rise, making this program an excellent choice for those looking to make a significant impact in healthcare.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Saint Louis University offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for health data science students. The university also provides access to job boards and internship opportunities through partnerships with local healthcare organizations.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the Health Data Science program have a strong employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. According to recent data, starting salaries for graduates can range from $70,000 to $90,000, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: SLU has established partnerships with leading healthcare institutions and tech companies, providing students with real-world experience through internships and collaborative projects. These connections enhance job placement opportunities and allow students to work on cutting-edge health data initiatives.

- Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that the curriculum meets industry standards and prepares students for certification exams, which can further enhance their employability.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work for prestigious organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UnitedHealth Group, and various hospitals and research institutions, showcasing the program's strong reputation in the field.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the M.S. in Health Data Science, students have the option to pursue a Ph.D. in related fields such as Public Health, Health Informatics, or Biostatistics. This advanced study can lead to roles in academia, research, or high-level consultancy positions, allowing graduates to further contribute to the evolving landscape of health data science.