QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security is a specialised qualification designed to prepare healthcare practitioners, managers, and IT professionals to navigate the intersection of clinical care, data management, and information security.

This diploma equips learners with the skills to manage health data systems, ensure patient confidentiality, and support secure, data-driven decision-making across healthcare settings.

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security is positioned at Level 6 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), equivalent to the final year of a UK bachelor’s degree. The qualification blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on the ethical use, analysis, protection, and governance of digital health information.

Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of health informatics systems, electronic health records, cybersecurity risks, data privacy regulations, and the governance structures required to protect sensitive health information.

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security offers a critical foundation for professionals at the forefront of digital healthcare. With a curriculum that addresses both technical competence and ethical responsibility, this qualification supports career advancement while contributing to the safe and effective use of health information in modern care systems.

Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security:

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.

Unit Ref#Unit TitleCreditsGLHTQT
QC28085- 1Principles of Healthcare Informatics20100200
QC28085-2Electronic Health Records and Digital Health Systems20100200
QC28085-3Information Governance and Legal Frameworks20100200
QC28085-4Cybersecurity and Risk Management in Healthcare IT20100200
QC28085-5Health Data Analytics and Decision Support20100200
QC28085-6Ethical and Professional Issues in Health Informatics20100200

Entry requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security:

Minimum Age

  • Applicants must be at least 19 years old at the time of enrolment.

Educational Background

  • A recognised Level 5 qualification (such as a diploma or foundation degree) in healthcare, health science, information technology, or a related field.
    or
  • A relevant undergraduate degree (or equivalent international qualification) in health, computing, or data science.
    or
  • Applicants without formal qualifications may be admitted through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), based on professional experience and demonstrated knowledge.

Experience

  • It is recommended that applicants have a minimum of 1–2 years’ experience in healthcare, IT, or data-related roles.
  • This may include roles such as health records officer, clinical coder, healthcare administrator, IT technician in a healthcare setting, or data analyst.

Language Proficiency

  • For non-native English speakers, one of the following is required:
    • IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or
    • An equivalent English language qualification recognised by UK awarding bodies.
  • Exemptions may apply if the applicant has studied or worked in an English-speaking environment.

Learning outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security:

Principles of Healthcare Informatics

  • Understand the role and scope of healthcare informatics in modern health systems
  • Analyse the flow and lifecycle of health data within digital environments
  • Apply key principles of data standards, coding systems, and interoperability
  • Evaluate the impact of informatics on patient care, safety, and clinical decision-making

Electronic Health Records and Digital Health Systems

  • Explain the structure and functions of electronic health records (EHRs)
  • Assess the benefits and limitations of EHR implementation in clinical settings
  • Identify integration issues across digital health platforms and care pathways
  • Demonstrate knowledge of system usability, accessibility, and data entry standards

Information Governance and Legal Frameworks

  • Interpret key data protection legislation, including GDPR and healthcare-specific regulations
  • Apply principles of confidentiality, consent, and data sharing in practice
  • Assess organisational responsibilities in maintaining information security
  • Evaluate compliance frameworks and risk associated with data handling

Cybersecurity and Risk Management in Healthcare IT

  • Identify common cybersecurity threats in healthcare IT systems
  • Apply best practices for data security, access control, and user authentication
  • Analyse organisational risks related to digital vulnerabilities
  • Develop response strategies for data breaches and incident reporting

Health Data Analytics and Decision Support

  • Apply basic statistical and analytical tools to healthcare datasets
  • Interpret clinical and operational data to support strategic decision-making
  • Understand predictive modelling and its use in population health management
  • Communicate findings effectively using data visualisation tools

Ethical and Professional Issues in Health Informatics

  • Identify ethical dilemmas in the collection and use of health data
  • Evaluate the balance between innovation and patient rights in digital health
  • Apply professional standards and codes of conduct in informatics practice
  • Reflect on issues of equity, digital access, and cultural sensitivity in health IT

The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Healthcare Informatics and Data Security is designed for professionals working at the intersection of healthcare and technology. It is ideal for individuals who are involved in managing, analysing, or securing health-related data within clinical, administrative, or policy settings.

This course is suitable for:

  • Healthcare professionals using or managing electronic health records and digital systems
  • IT staff working within health and care organisations seeking healthcare-specific expertise
  • Health information managers, data analysts, and clinical coders
  • Compliance officers and data protection leads in healthcare institutions
  • Public health professionals and researchers working with patient data
  • Graduates aiming to enter the field of digital health, health informatics, or cybersecurity

It is particularly relevant for those looking to enhance their understanding of data governance, cybersecurity risks, and ethical frameworks in the context of modern digital health environments. The qualification supports career development in both clinical and non-clinical roles where secure, ethical, and informed use of data is critical.