Individuals interested in healthcare management typically complete a degree program in health service administration. Online programs are available, and curricula may include general business courses with an option to specialize in an area of healthcare administration.
Essential Information for BHSA Programs
Health service administration bachelor's degree programs consist of 120-180 credits and usually take about four years to complete. Concentrations or specializations in particular areas may be offered, and some programs can be completed entirely online. Degree-completion programs are available and are geared towards students who have already completed up to 60 college credits, hold an associate's degree or already have some experience in the healthcare industry. In addition, either a paid or non-paid internship may be required.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Healthcare ethics, marketing, finance, human resource management, information systems</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Other Requirements</b> </td><td> Internships may be required</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Career Options</b></td><td> Health services manager, health information manager, nursing home administrator</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Annual Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $104,280 (<i>for medical and health services managers</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 32% growth (<i>for medical and health services managers</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h2 id="section---BachelorSDegreeInHealthServiceAdministrationCurriculum">Bachelor's Degree in Health Service Administration Curriculum</h2><p>The curriculum of a bachelor's degree in health service administration covers a range of topics including several general business courses as well as human resources courses. At some universities, a concentration in a particular area such as long-term care or community healthcare can be chosen. An internship at a school-partnered external facility may also be a requirement for the completion of the degree. Typical courses include:
</p><ul><li>Healthcare ethics
</li><li>Marketing
</li><li>Finance
</li><li>Human resource management
</li><li>Information systems
</li><li>Organizational behavior
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyDegree">What Can I Do With My Degree?</h3><p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that a master's degree is often the standard credential needed to secure a position as a health services administrator, manager or executive. However, a bachelor's degree may be sufficient for some entry-level positions, a position in an administrative department or a position as a health information manager. In some states, a bachelor's degree and state licensure will qualify you to work as a nursing home administrator. In 2020, the BLS determined the median salary of medical and health services managers to be $104,280.</p>
