Healthcare Administration Degree Options - Video
Healthcare administrators can be found in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. Most healthcare administrators obtained their jobs after earning a degree in Public Health or Healthcare Administration. These degree programs teach students the skills needed to administer and manage systems of acute, community and long-term healthcare.
Description of Degree
A degree in Healthcare Administration prepares students to manage healthcare systems and processes in clinic, hospital or nursing home settings. Students with a bachelor's degree in this area will be able to obtain entry-level positions in the field but will need to continue their education should they want to move into a management position.
Skills Obtained/Typical Courses
The courses in a Healthcare Administration degree program are designed to familiarize students with healthcare regulations, industry trends and management skills. Specific coursework can vary depending on the program but typically includes lessons in:
- Finance for Healthcare
- Healthcare Management
- Long-term Healthcare Management
- Healthcare Planning
- Human Resources in Healthcare
- and Healthcare Law and Ethics
Higher Educational Options
Graduates who wish to work at the senior management level of healthcare administration are expected to have a master's degree. Options for this advanced degree include a Master's of Business Administration in Healthcare, Master's of Healthcare Administration or a Master's of Public Health. Students in a master's program will learn skills that go beyond foundations of healthcare to include business analysis, decision-making and leadership. More time will be spent on mastering legalities and ethics in the healthcare industry along with specific topics of healthcare management.
Career Options and Occupational Outlook
With a bachelor's degree in Healthcare Administration, students can look for an entry-level position such as an operating assistant or health services assistant manager. Upon receiving an advanced degree in this field, students can seek out positions like department manager, contract negotiator, hospital administrator, or even chief executive officer. Responsibilities of healthcare administrators range from hiring personnel and coordinating doctor and nurse schedules to budgeting and working with board members. General business functions such as accounting, marketing and benefits may also happen under this umbrella of work.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, a degree in Healthcare Administration can lead to a variety of job opportunities in multiple healthcare settings. It is a degree option that provides variety, giving grads the opportunity to work in areas from marketing to business operations to human resources.
