How Do I Get In? Will I Qualify?
We’re often asked: “How do I get into a program like this?”
The good news? Your path to joining our program may be more accessible than you think!
Our Clinical & Health Informatics graduate programs are intentionally designed to welcome students from a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds. As a multidisciplinary program—drawing on expertise from five renowned schools and colleges at a world-class university—we value diverse perspectives and skill sets.
Who Should Apply?
We encourage applications from professionals in healthcare, IT, public health, data science, and related fields who are ready to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Important Notes
Because our program is fully online, we do not issue visas for study in the United States. Additionally, unless approved by the Program Director, students in Clinical & Health Informatics may not:
- Accept graduate assistantships or other appointments that result in a tuition waiver
- Enroll in other UW–Madison graduate programs concurrently
- Take courses outside the approved curriculum
Have questions about your eligibility or background?
We’re here to help you explore your fit.
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✅ All Applicants Must Have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework
- lower GPAs will be considered if you demonstrate strong professional experience or growth
- Language proficiency, if applicable – non-native English speakers, or applicants who have not completed a degree in English:
- TOEFL iBT: 92
- IELTS: 7.0
- Duolingo English Test: 125
🌟 Ideal Applicants May Also Have:
- Professional experience in IT, statistics, computer science, healthcare, or a related field — or a strong motivation to pursue a career change
- A clear area of interest in informatics, data analytics, clinical care, health IT, or related domains
- Prior coursework or experience in statistics or analytical/computational methods
- experience examples might include using Excel for data analysis, managing EHR systems, coding, etc.
📄 Application Materials Required:
- Online application
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- We suggest these be from people who know your work ethic, quality, and/or goals
What to Include in Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement is a key part of your application. It helps us understand your motivations, goals, and readiness for graduate study in Clinical & Health Informatics.
At a minimum, please address:
- Why you are applying to this program
- Your professional and academic goals, and how this program aligns with them
Depending on your background, you may also want to address one or more of the following:
- What strengths or experiences will help you succeed in this program’s interdisciplinary, online coursework?
- What challenges do you anticipate as a graduate student, and what kinds of support might help you succeed?
- Are there any unusual circumstances you’d like us to consider—such as career changes, life challenges, or past academic performance?
- If you don’t have prior experience in healthcare, IT, or related fields… explain your interest in Clinical & Health Informatics and how you plan to apply what you learn in your career.
Master’s Degree
- Spring term admission – by December 15th
- Summer term admission – by April 15th
- Fall term admission – by August 1st
MS degree students must apply through the UW-Graduate School. You will create or sign in to an existing account. Please ensure you have the materials listed above available when you are ready to apply.
Contact program staff at learn@ictr.wisc.edu if you have any questions or visit the Graduate School’s Admissions FAQ page.
Graduate “Capstone” Certificate
- Spring term admission – by January 1st
- Summer term admission – by May 1st
- Fall term admission – by August 15th
Capstone Certificate students apply as University Special students through Adult Career and Special Student Services (ACSSS). Applications are received and processed by ACSSS, with a final decision held for approval by the Program Director.
“The Capstone Certificate was the perfect option to ease into formal education after sixteen years of full-time employment in nursing. The program provided me with the opportunity ‘get my toes wet’ before committing to the master’s degree and continue at a pace that works for me, my job, and my family”.
– Sarah Wolf, RN, BSN, CCP Capstone Certificate and MS degree alum