Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary master's combines core informatics principles with advanced visual communication and biomedical illustration. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology for communicators, medical imaging and image processing, principles of biomedical visualisation, clinical informatics and health data standards, database design and interoperability, and user-centred design for health applications.

Students also study practical techniques such as digital illustration and rendering, 3D modelling and animation for medical applications, interactive visualisation using web and mobile technologies, programming for data visualisation (commonly Python or R), and information design for patient education and professional communication. Coursework is complemented by modules on research methods, ethics and law in health communication, and project management.

The programme is organised around a mix of seminars, studio-based practice, lab sessions and project work. Students build a professional portfolio through assessed studio projects and a major capstone project or thesis that applies informatics methods to a real-world medical communication problem. Many programmes provide opportunities for short placements, collaborations with clinical departments and supervised practicum in partner hospitals or publishing environments.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant discipline such as biology, anatomy, health sciences, medical illustration, graphic design, computer science or a related field. Equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• A portfolio demonstrating visual communication skills is normally required for applicants from art or design backgrounds; applicants from scientific or computing backgrounds should include examples of visual or technical work where available.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, according to the university’s accepted tests and levels.

Career prospects

Graduates work across a broad range of sectors that require clear, accurate visualisation of health information. Typical roles include medical illustrator for publishers and academic journals, visualisation specialist in clinical research and academic medicine, user experience (UX) designer for health technology and medical devices, and information designer for patient education programmes.

Other career pathways include positions in biomedical communications departments within hospitals, government and public-health agencies, biotech and pharmaceutical companies (for training and regulatory submission materials), interactive media studios producing anatomical apps and simulations, and museum or exhibit design focused on health and medical history. Graduates also follow academic and research careers, or freelance and consultancy work producing instructional media, animations and infographics for clinical and educational clients.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s location in Chicago provides direct access to a vibrant medical and scientific community including affiliated hospitals and research centres, which supports practical collaborations and placement opportunities. The university’s strong health sciences presence and interdisciplinary ethos enable students to work alongside clinicians, researchers and computer scientists to develop projects with clinical relevance.

The university emphasises ethical practice and social responsibility, which is important for communicators working with sensitive health data and patient-facing materials. Students benefit from studio and lab facilities, library and imaging resources, and faculty with expertise spanning health informatics, anatomy and visual communication. The programme’s focus on a professional portfolio and applied capstone helps graduates move into industry, healthcare or research roles immediately after completion.