For students attending the Joint Master's Programme in Health Informatics FAQ

Q: In short, what is the programme about?

A: The Master’s Programme in Health Informatics is a two-year interdisciplinary programme jointly delivered by Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University. This unique collaboration bridges the gap between healthcare, information technology, and data science, preparing students for transformative careers in digital health, healthcare analytics, and clinical system design.

As healthcare systems worldwide face increasing complexity, digitization, and demand for data-driven decision-making, health informatics has emerged as a crucial discipline. The programme equips students with the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary to design, implement, evaluate, and lead IT- and data-based digital systems in healthcare and life sciences settings.

The programme provides a tailored curriculum that enables all students, regardless of previous training in medicine, nursing, computer science, or engineering, to gain a holistic and practice-oriented understanding of health informatics. Students from both technical and clinical backgrounds are warmly welcome. 

Q: Why choose this programme?

A: This Master’s Programme offers an academically rigorous and professionally relevant education in health informatics. It is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, integration of academic theory with real-world practice, and focus on the responsible use of technology in healthcare. 

Through collaboration between Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, students benefit from the strengths of both institutions and graduate with the skills needed to shape the future of healthcare through digital innovation. 

After completing the programme, students will receive one degree, but with two titles, a Master of Medical Science by Karolinska Institutet and a Master of Science by Stockholm University.

Q: What are the entry requirements for the programme?

A: The specific entry requirements for the programme are as follows:

• A bachelor’s degree or a professional degree equivalent to a Swedish bachelor’s degree (at least 180 credits) in a relevant field, such as healthcare, biomedicine, medical technology, computer and systems sciences, informatics, or a related discipline.
• Documented proficiency in English, equivalent to English B in Swedish upper secondary education, demonstrated through an internationally recognised test such as TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.

All applications are assessed by the admissions team, which evaluates submitted documentation to determine whether applicants fulfil the eligibility requirements.

Q: How can applicants strengthen their application and improve their chances of being admitted?

A: Applications are assessed based on the KI CV and several evaluation criteria, including:

• Education
• Duration of studies
• Research experience
• Work experience
• Statement of intent
• Overall assessment

More detailed information about these criteria is provided within the KI CV template. It is therefore important that the CV is carefully completed and clearly presents relevant experiences, qualifications, and achievements.

A well-structured and detailed application that demonstrates both academic background and motivation for the field can help strengthen an applicant’s profile.

Q: How competitive is the programme, and how many places are available each year?

A: The programme is highly competitive, attracting a large number of applicants each year. Typically, around 600 to 900 applications are received annually, while approximately 40 places are offered.

Q: Is it possible to submit a late application or be considered after the application deadline?

A: All applications must be submitted by the official deadline. Late applications cannot be accepted, and it is not possible to be considered for admission or added to a waitlist after the deadline has passed.

Q: Is it possible to switch from another master’s programme to this programme after admission?

A: It is not possible to switch directly between master’s programmes after admission. Applicants who wish to enrol in a different programme need to submit a new application through the regular admissions process in a future admission cycle.

Q: How likely is it to be offered a place from the reserve list, and when might reserve applicants be notified?

A: It is not possible to predict how far the reserve list will move in a given admission cycle. Movement on the reserve list depends on how many admitted applicants choose to accept or decline their places, which varies from year to year.

If places do become available, reserve candidates may be contacted after the official response deadline for admitted applicants, typically in June and July. 

Q: Is it possible to defer admission to a later year?

A: Deferral of studies may be granted in specific circumstances, but it is not automatic. Requests must be supported by valid and documented reasons, such as medical, social, or other exceptional circumstances.

In general, applicants must have been formally admitted and meet the conditions outlined by the university. Each application for deferral is assessed individually.

Further information about eligible reasons, requirements, and how to apply can be found on the university’s website:
https://education.ki.se/bachelors-masters-studies/apply/deferral-of-the-study-start

Q: Are there any funding or scholarship opportunities available?

A: Karolinska Institutet and external organisations offer a range of scholarship opportunities for master’s students, although availability depends on eligibility and application timelines.

Karolinska Institutet provides a limited number of scholarships for fee-paying students, such as the KI Global Master’s Scholarship, which is awarded to a small number of highly qualified applicants each year in a competitive selection process. 

In addition, the Swedish Institute (SI) offers fully funded scholarships, such as the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals and the Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants. 

There are also external scholarship opportunities provided by national and international organisations, as well as country-specific funding schemes. Students are encouraged to explore these options independently and apply directly where eligible. 

Since scholarship deadlines and eligibility criteria vary, prospective students are strongly advised to plan ahead and apply early, as competition for funding is high. You can read more about these scholarships here: https://education.ki.se/bachelors-masters-studies/scholarships

Q: What’s the curriculum and structure of the programme?

A: The programme is delivered over four semesters (120 ECTS) and consists of core courses, integrated project work, and a master’s thesis. The curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on, real-world exposure to clinical environments, industry projects, and research settings.

Year 1: Foundation and Methodology

The first semester introduces health informatics as a scientific field and practice area. Students with clinical backgrounds take bridging courses in computing and data science, while those with technical backgrounds study healthcare systems, clinical processes, and medical terminology. All students then engage in a course exploring healthcare needs, information management, digital systems, and their role in health service delivery.

In the second semester, the programme delves deeper into the core methodologies of health informatics. Students learn how to perform business analysis in healthcare, elicit and model user requirements, evaluate systems, and apply internationally recognized health IT standards. Training in data science and scientific research methods prepares students for both applied development work and academic inquiry.

Year 2: Application and Specialization

In the third semester, students focus on the practical application of their skills. They take courses in project management and explore current trends and research in the field. In addition, students choose one course in either information security or digital entrepreneurship.

The final semester is devoted to a master’s thesis, where students independently investigate a research question or develop a digital solution in collaboration with hospitals, healthcare companies, government agencies, or academic research groups. Many projects are carried out in real-world settings, offering invaluable professional experience. More information about the courses and schedules is available here: https://education.ki.se/student-at-ki/all-course-and-programme-websites/joint-masters-programme-in-health-informatics/programme-outline

Q: What does the study schedule look like, and is it possible to combine the programme with part-time work?

A: The schedule for each course is typically published approximately two weeks before the course start. The autumn schedule is not expected to differ significantly from schedules in previous years.

Lectures are generally not recorded. While not all lectures are mandatory, students are expected to actively participate in group work, as most courses include collaborative components. Attendance at compulsory lectures and seminars is required.

The programme is full-time and academically demanding. Some students do work alongside their studies to a limited extent, but this requires careful planning. In addition to scheduled teaching activities, students need to allocate time for group work, independent study, exam preparation, and individual assignments. More information about the courses and schedules is available here: https://education.ki.se/student-at-ki/all-course-and-programme-websites/joint-masters-programme-in-health-informatics/programme-outline. For information on start and end dates of the semester, please check the Academic Calendar

Q: When does the programme start, and what should students do before the start of the semester?

A: The official start of the autumn semester is typically at the end of August or beginning of September. Before the programme begins, newly admitted students are required to register for their first course in the student system (Ladok).

Detailed information about the introduction, registration process, and start of studies is provided to admitted students in advance of the semester. It is therefore important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure timely registration and participation at the start of the programme. You can find more information here: https://education.ki.se/student-at-ki/all-course-and-programme-websites/joint-masters-programme-in-health-informatics/newly-admitted-student-to-the-joint-masters-programme-in-health-informatics

Q: When are course schedules published, and are courses held on campus or online?

A: Course schedules are typically published approximately two weeks before the start of each course. In the meantime, students may refer to previous years’ schedules to get a general idea of the structure, although some changes may occur.

The mode of teaching varies between courses. Some components may be delivered online, while others take place on campus depending on the course design. However, the programme is campus-based, and the majority of teaching activities are conducted on site, even if some lectures or sessions are offered online.

Q: Do I have to attend the mandatory registration in the beginning of each course?

A: Yes, if you don´t attend you will not be registered to the course. Admitted students who fail to register for studies at KI within the prescribed time, i.e. mandatory sessions, forfeit their place on the course/study programme.

Q: Is it possible to study this program by distance?

A: No. The program is a regular program (not distance) and held at Karolinska Institutet, Solna and Stockholm University, Sweden.

Q: When do students have Christmas holiday?

A: The autumn semester formally stops in the middle of January. Karolinska Institutet doesn´t have any winter break, but the national holidays in December and in the beginning of January are lesson free. When you start the program you can contact the course leader and ask for the preliminary schedule for Christmas time. For KI semester dates see the Academic calendar.

Q: Are internships or industry placements formally integrated into the programme, and how are practical experiences provided?

A: The programme does not include formal internships or industry placements. However, it incorporates practical elements through activities such as study visits to healthcare organisations, IT companies, and public authorities.

In addition, guest lecturers from these sectors are regularly invited to contribute to the teaching, providing insights into real-world applications and current practices within the field. These components offer students opportunities to engage with professionals and gain exposure to relevant workplace contexts. Moreover, students may independently arrange internships, for example during the summer period, to gain additional practical experience alongside their studies.

Q: Will there by study visits?

A: During the programme, several study visits are made to various healthcare units, IT companies, and authorities, and guest lecturers from these organizations are also invited. In addition, there are great opportunities to write a thesis in collaboration with clinics and industry. This ensures that students engage with authentic problems and real stakeholders, making their learning deeply relevant and immediately applicable.

The learning environment is international and interdisciplinary. Courses are taught in English, and students come from diverse academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds. Collaboration across disciplines is not only encouraged but essential, reflecting the realities of modern healthcare transformation.

Q: How are thesis projects typically organised? For example, do students collaborate with external organisations?

A: Some master’s thesis projects are carried out in collaboration with external organisations, such as hospitals, healthcare providers, government agencies, companies, or academic research groups. These collaborations provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and gain practical experience within the field of health informatics.

Q: Does the programme include opportunities to study artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare?

A: The programme does not offer a dedicated specialisation in artificial intelligence (AI). However, students have opportunities to engage with AI-related topics through coursework, project work, and their master’s thesis.

Q: To what extent is the programme focused on the Swedish healthcare system, and can the knowledge be applied internationally?

A: The programme includes coursework that addresses the organisation and governance of healthcare, with elements that draw on the Swedish system. For example, the course Healthcare Organisation and Management examines how healthcare systems are structured and managed, with particular attention to the opportunities offered by digitalisation and their application in quality improvement and service development.

At the same time, the programme is designed to provide knowledge and skills that are broadly applicable across different contexts. As the programme is taught in English and attracts students from Sweden and internationally, graduates are prepared to apply their competencies both within Sweden and in international settings.

After graduation, alumni contribute to the development and improvement of healthcare systems in a variety of national and global contexts.

Q: What research opportunities are available to students during the programme?

A: Research involvement within an established research group is not a formal part of the programme curriculum. However, there are opportunities for students to engage in research activities.

Occasionally, research groups share opportunities for student involvement in ongoing projects, which are communicated to students in the programme. In addition, some students take a proactive approach by independently contacting research groups at Karolinska Institutet or other universities to explore potential collaborations or research roles alongside their studies.

Opportunities for research engagement depend on factors such as individual initiative, prior experience, available funding, and alignment with ongoing research projects.

While publications are not guaranteed, some students go on to publish their master’s thesis in collaboration with their supervisor, provided the work meets the standards required for scientific publication.

Q: Are there opportunities for research assistant roles within the department?

A: For current job and research-related opportunities at Karolinska Institutet, you are encouraged to regularly check the official vacancies page:
https://ki.se/en/about-ki/jobs-at-ki/available-positions-at-ki

Any available research assistant roles are advertised there. Opportunities may vary depending on ongoing projects and departmental needs, and applicants must apply directly to listed positions.

Q: What kinds of career opportunities do graduates typically pursue after completing the programme, both in Sweden and internationally?

A: Graduates of the programme pursue a wide range of roles within health informatics and related fields. Common positions include:

• Health informatics specialists, Clinical informaticians, or consultants in hospitals, government agencies, and global health organizations
• Project managers, IT managers, or consultants for health IT implementation and digital transformation
• Clinical data analysts or decision support developers
• Product managers in MedTech or digital health startups
• IT strategist in healthcare
• CMIO (Chief Medical Information Officer) or CCIO (Chief Clinical Information Officer)
• System specialists, application experts, system developers, requirements analysts, interaction designers, evaluators.
• Researchers or doctoral students in health informatics, biomedical data science, or public health

The combination of interdisciplinary training, methodological depth, and practice-integrated learning activities ensures that graduates are well-prepared to lead digital innovation and systemic change in healthcare environments worldwide. Career opportunities are available both in Sweden and internationally. In the Swedish labour market, certain roles, particularly within healthcare organisations and the public sector, may require proficiency in the Swedish language.

More information about the programme content and career opportunities is available on the programme website:
https://education.ki.se/student-at-ki/all-course-and-programme-websites/joint-masters-programme-in-health-informatics

Q: What is the average starting salary for graduates of the HI programme in Sweden?

A: The starting salary for graduates of the Health Informatics programme in Sweden varies depending on factors such as job role, level of responsibility, sector, and location. It is therefore difficult to provide a single exact figure.

Graduates may work in a range of settings, including healthcare authorities, regional organisations, national agencies, and the private medtech industry, where salary levels can differ. 

Q: What proportion of graduates obtain relevant employment after completing the programme?

A: There are no official statistics available on the percentage of graduates who secure relevant employment within a specific timeframe after graduation.

Despite this, available information on alumni career paths indicates that graduates enter a diverse range of roles within health informatics, healthcare, digital health, and related sectors in Sweden and abroad. Career progression and employability may depend on individual qualifications, professional networks, and labour market demand.

Q: Do international (non-EU) students find employment after graduation, and in what types of organisations do graduates typically work?

A: While there are no official statistics specifically tracking employment outcomes by nationality or time to employment, graduates of the programme—including international (non-EU) students—have successfully secured positions both in Sweden and internationally.

Alumni work across a broad range of organisations, including public sector bodies such as Swedish regions, national authorities (e.g. the National Board of Health and Welfare and the Swedish eHealth Agency), as well as private sector organisations such as medtech companies and health IT firms. Graduates are also employed in research and academic environments related to health informatics.

Individual examples indicate that some students obtain relevant employment before or shortly after graduation. However, outcomes may vary depending on factors such as prior experience, language proficiency, and labour market conditions.

There are individual success stories. Example: Winner Ng, an international student, graduated in 2020 and got a role as Health Informatics Specialist at Encare AB in Stockholm, ahead of graduation. Read more about it here: https://ki.se/en/collaboration/ki-alumni/get-inspired-by-ki-alumni/alumni-winner-aspires-to-developing-it-solutions-that-are-clinical-user-oriented