Find Programs & Earn a Degree in Healthcare Management
Doctors and nurses cover the clinical aspects of patient care, but the people at the front desks and in the back offices are just as important. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 17 percent increase in employment healthcare management through 2024, as hospitals, clinics and other healthcare organizations turn to strong management teams to handle the business decisions that will both improve patient care and boost the bottom line. Keep reading for more information on getting a degree and finding a job in healthcare management.
Top Healthcare Management Programs: 2017
Pursuing a degree in healthcare management puts students on the path to become an essential leader in the medical field. Students learning in one of these programs will develop essential communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills that will be necessary for successful management of a healthcare facility. The first step to achieving a career in healthcare management is picking your school, which is why we've compiled a list of the top programs offered throughout the country. Explore the top-ranking healthcare management schools and programs for 2017 in the list below.
#1 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Davenport University, a private college in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Enrollees can choose from one of 31 bachelor's programs, including 24 that offer remote study. Studens gain access to a supportive learning environment as they complete their degree.
Learners in the bachelor of science in health services administration program complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Enrollees receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Depending on eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. The institution reports 98% of degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#2 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 115 bachelor’s degrees from University of Toledo. Of these programs, 10 are offered online. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
While enrolled in UT’s healthcare administration bachelor of science degree, learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the field. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree by declaring minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, enrollees can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 95% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $6,964.
#3 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Long Island University
Brookville, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Long Island University, a private school in Brookville, New York, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The Brookville-based university supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Degree-seekers in the school’s BS in health administration gain relevant skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and select elective courses. Learners can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to help defray the costs of education. The school reports 95% of enrollees receive some form of aid.
#4 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Clarkson College
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider Clarkson College. Students can choose from five in-person bachelor's degrees and three remote programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff through virtual classrooms and in-person learning environments.
Learners in the school’s bachelor of science in health information administration gain skills and knowledge through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and select elective courses. The college connects enrollees with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the program.
Degree-seekers may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The college reports 78% of learners receive some form of aid.
#5 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education through the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Learners can choose from a variety of in-person and online degrees, including 51 total bachelor's programs and seven remote study programs.
The university connects students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. Enrollees in the healthcare management BS program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. These classes equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future healthcare management careers.
Learners seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, the school reports 95% receive some form of financial aid.
#6 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Park University
Parkville, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Park University supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Enrollees can choose from in-person and remote degree programs.
Upon enrollment in the healthcare administration general BS program, students connect with a supportive learning community. Learners build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Learners can also receive guidance through other institutional resources, including career services.
Depending on eligibility, enrollees can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports 93% of degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#7 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Joseph's College of Maine provides flexible study for learners seeking bachelor's-level education. Students can pursue multiple program modalities, connecting with supportive faculty and colleagues through in-person and online learning environments.
Enrollees in the school’s bachelor of science in health administration program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge they need for their healthcare administration careers. Students engage foundational and advanced concepts through interactive study to gain practical knowledge.
Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. A leader in student success, the college connects learners with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
The financial aid office can also connect students with funding opportunities to help make the costs of college manageable. According to the school, 98% of incoming students receive financial aid.
#8 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Temple University. The school offers hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Learners can choose from one of 137 bachelor's degree programs, including remote study across six programs.
After enrolling in the bachelor of science in health information management, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. As part of the program curriculum, learners complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees can also pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. Learners can also connect with campus resources like career services to help them find jobs after graduation.
The school connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. According to the university, 90% of enrollees receive financial aid, with the average amount totaling $8,964.
#9 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Louis University, a private institution in Saint Louis, Missouri, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The school offers 85 bachelor's degree programs, 11 of which are fully remote. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Students in the university’s BS in health management program complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their studies. Depending on their career goals, learners can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program duration.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 97% of enrollees receive financial aid.
#10 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Ferris State University's in-person and online degree offerings. Learners can choose from 98 in-person bachelor's degree programs and 10 remote programs. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community with faculty and peers.
Students in the bachelor of science in health information management program benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, including industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can choose electives and declare minors or degree concentrations. Learners receive guidance from academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The college reports 95% of learners receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid award package totaling $9,769.
#11 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of 54 bachelor’s degrees from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Enrollees in the school’s healthcare management baccalaureate program gain vital skills and knowledge through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to pick electives and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. On average, students receive $8,392 in financial aid.
#12 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Duquesne University provides flexible options for students seeking bachelor's-level study. Learners can choose from a variety of programs, including in-person and online degrees. According to the school, undergraduates can access 77 bachelor's degree programs on campus or pursue remote study across five degree tracks.
Learners in the health administration BS program benefit from a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers complete a robust education, including general and advanced coursework that familiarizes them with the healthcare administration field.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can choose electives and pursue degree concentrations or minors that suit their career goals. Learners further benefit from access to other institutional resources like career services.
Enrollees can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. According to Duquesne, 100% of students receive financial aid awards.
#13 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Utica College
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Utica College provides flexible options for students seeking bachelor's-level degrees. Learners can pursue remote study or take classes on the college's campus in Utica, New York. Enrollees connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.
Learners in the healthcare management program benefit from a robust curriculum that offers intensive study. Enrollees engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study to gain practical knowledge.
Students can also customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. While enrolled, learners have access to institutional resources like career services and academic advising.
Enrollees can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution reports 98% of degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#14 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
The College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The College of Saint Scholastica supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Duluth, Minnesota. Regardless of location, enrollees can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Upon enrollment in the bachelor of science in health informatics and information management, students follow a rigorous program curriculum. They gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Learners can choose electives and declare minors or degree concentrations that align with their professional goals. Students can also access institutional resources such as career services and academic advising.
When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. The school reports 99% of enrollees receive some form of aid.
#15 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY Polytechnic Institute supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. Students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Regardless of location, enrollees can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Students in the health information management program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. They complete foundational and advanced coursework to gain a well-rounded education.
Learners can select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors to align their education with their professional aspirations. Enrollees can also receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
To manage the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. The institution reports 96% of degree-seekers receive financial aid.
#16 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
University of Mississippi
University, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Mississippi provides flexible learning options for undergraduate students near and far. Located in University, Mississippi, this public institution features in-person and virtual programs which offer supportive learning communities and instruction from prominent faculty.
Students in the BS in health informatics and information management program complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Learners can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors or degree concentrations. Enrollees receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports 86% of degree-seekers receive aid.
#17 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Regis University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can enroll at Regis University. Located in Denver, Colorado, this private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. These degrees offer learning environments that connect enrollees with supportive faculty and peers.
Throughout their studies, learners in the BS in healthcare administration program complete relevant coursework to prepare them for jobs in the field. Enrollees can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their learning.
Students can choose electives and declare minors or degree concentrations to align their education with their professional goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
The university connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs.
#18 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Pennsylvania provides premier degrees suitable for undergraduate students. Learners can enroll in one of 93 campus-based bachelor's programs. Students at this school connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Enrollees in the healthcare management and policy BS complete foundational and advanced coursework. Depending on their career goals, learners can select elective courses and declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration. Students can also access institutional resources like career services and academic advising.
Depending on eligibility, degree-seekers can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. According to the university, 59% of enrollees receive financial aid awards.
#19 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis's bachelor's programs. Learners can choose from 84 in-person bachelor's degrees and seven remote programs. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
Students in the bachelor of science in health information management take field-specific foundational and advanced classes. In consultation with an academic advisor, learners can select electives and declare minors or degree concentrations to align their education with their professional goals. Students also receive guidance from resources like career services.
Enrollees may qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to IUPUI, on average, students receive $10,960 in financial aid.
#20 Top Associate Degree Programs in Healthcare Management
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible study should consider University of Kansas. Enrollees can pursue remote study or learn on the college's campus in Lawrence, Kansas. Both learning environments enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff.
Upon enrollment in the health information management bachelor’s program, students complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures. These classes give degree-seekers the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the healthcare administration field. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts through interactive study to gain practical knowledge.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Learners can also receive guidance from career services.
The university connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $6,834.
Earning a Degree in Healthcare Management
The range of opportunities in healthcare management means there is room for individuals with varying educational backgrounds. Those who wish to assume managerial positions will likely need at least a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or healthcare management, and many employers prefer candidates with graduate degrees. However, it's also possible to enter the field more quickly – often as assistants or office workers – by earning a two-year associate degree, and then building experience and getting additional education to progress later. Following are some of the pathways for interested students.
Community College
- Time to Complete: 2 years
- Credential Earned: Associate degree
- Description: A high school diploma or GED is needed to enroll in an associate degree program in healthcare management, which is designed to provide specialized knowledge and career training for students who want to enter the field as clerical workers or administrative assistants, or assume other support positions. Graduates should emerge with a solid understanding of medical terminology, medical coding and billing procedures, and basic leadership skills they can apply in healthcare settings.
- Curriculum: Curriculum may include both online and classroom-based instruction in areas including electronic medical records (EMR), healthcare statistics and trends, and general healthcare management. Some programs also let students gain real-world experience by completing a practicum at an area medical facility. Students round out their training in healthcare management with general education classes in subjects such as English, mathematics, and social and natural sciences.
Sample Courses:
Associate degree programs in healthcare administration and healthcare management introduce students to the various business aspects of healthcare, including records management, office management, budgeting, and billing. Some programs offer training in the specialized field of medical coding and are designed to prepare students to sit for an exam that will certify them as medical coders. In addition to liberal arts coursework, students in these programs might also take:
Students learn the terminology used in medical offices, basic operations common to medical offices (such as billing procedures and insurance processing), and patient communication skills.Medical Office Management
Provides an introduction to best practices in storing, accessing and sharing medical records, as well as legal and ethical concerns related to health records management.Health Records Management
This introduction to the medical coding process may also include the study of common insurance and healthcare programs, reimbursement issues, and insurance processing.Medical Coding
Trains students to become proficient in computer use, specifically medical software programs.Introduction to Medical Software
4-Year College/University
- Time to Complete: Four years
- Credential Earned: Bachelor's degree
- Description: Bachelor's degree programs in healthcare administration and management may be completed online, on campus or some combination of the two. They are comprehensive programs of study designed to provide a solid background in healthcare economics, law and ethics, health services management, and healthcare information systems, in addition to general education requirements. A high school diploma or GED, sometimes with a minimum GPA, is required for entry.
- Curriculum: Curriculum includes general business management courses, marketing and sales fundamentals, organizational communication, and the principles of accounting and finance. Specialized courses beyond the core curriculum may cover ethics and decision making in the context of healthcare, quality assurance risk management, and healthcare economics.
Sample Courses:
Coursework in a bachelor's degree program delves more deeply into healthcare management, including theoretical principles and their applications in the real world, and the evolving nature of healthcare delivery and policy in the United States. Graduates of bachelor's degree programs in healthcare administration should be prepared to take entry-level positions with healthcare organizations such as hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities or private practice offices. Sample courses for these degree programs include:
A look at the political climate and how various acts, legislation, and policies have historically changed healthcare in the United States, and how things may evolve in the future.Healthcare Policy
Study of traditional management theory, as well as organizational structures in different healthcare environments.Management Principles
Provides a comprehensive review of insurance products and the managed healthcare sector, delivery of healthcare services, and emerging trends in the industry.Health Insurance and Managed Care
Teaches essential skills for managing human resources, staffing issues in the context of healthcare, resource planning, and an overview of HR trends in the healthcare industry.Human Resource Management
Healthcare Management Careers At-a-Glance
Healthcare management applies business principles to the delivery of clinical care. The people who work behind the scenes in a hospital, clinic or other healthcare organization make sure that things run smoothly. They may supervise a team of doctors, nurses, specialists, and other administrative professionals to coordinate activities and facilitate cooperation. Other tasks may include handling departmental conflicts, creating and managing budgets, and serving as a liaison between different staff members to help the organization achieve both its clinical and financial goals.
Healthcare Management: Career Basics
Healthcare administrators oversee operations for a medical or healthcare facility. This may involve managing daily activities such as staffing and billing, or, farther up the ladder, creating and implementing organizational policies and making strategic business decisions. Hospital and practice administrators must have strong problem-solving and communication skills, and be competent to take on leadership roles to manage different departments effectively.Healthcare Management: In Depth
Hospital and practice administrators can wear many hats, but ultimately they are responsible for leading an organization and achieving its business objectives. They are involved with budgeting, marketing, hiring, and general operations of the facility. Work involves troubleshooting problems, monitoring progress on projects, and resolving conflicts.
In larger facilities, administrators typically work as a team, with each individual responsible for a specific department. In smaller clinics and practice settings, the duties of an administrator are often cross-departmental, with work involving conducting meetings with other managers, reviewing budgets, and outlining patient care and employee objectives.
Typically, a career in healthcare management begins with managing lower-level administrative staff, handling scheduling duties, and consulting with department managers. After gaining experience, they may be promoted to head a particular department or even an entire organization.
Specializations
As healthcare becomes more specialized, schools are responding by offering specific educational tracks to match. Several possible options include:
Students learn about health information and data management—from disease patterns to demographics—and how the use of that data can impact the operations of an organization. Coursework covers creating effective systems for managing and interpreting data.Healthcare Informatics
Focuses on the constantly evolving legislation related to U.S. healthcare, such as insurance reform and privacy obligations, and how they influence procedures and policy decisions in an organization.Healthcare Law and Policy
Students learn the fundamentals of healthcare economics through reviewing the principles of accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and raising capital, all within the context of a healthcare setting.Financial Management
In some cases, students pursuing a general business degree may choose a concentration in healthcare management. They learn to apply general business skills like marketing and accounting to the operations in a healthcare environment. Course topics may include ethics in healthcare, sociology of medicine, and health policy and politics.
Healthcare Management Career and Salary Outlook
Increased demand for medical services, especially by aging baby boomers, means that job opportunities in healthcare management should be plentiful. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the field will grow by 17 percent through 2024, far higher than the average of all occupations. Hospitals employ most medical and health service managers; for those who wish to work outside of traditional hospital settings, other options include nursing and residential care facilities and physicians' offices.
| Industry | Total Employment (May 2015) | Mean Hourly Wage (May 2015) | Mean Annual Wage (May 2015) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 112,480 | $54.89 | $114,180 |
| Offices of Physicians | 34,570 | $49.08 | $102,080 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 20,160 | $42.29 | $87,970 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 19,940 | $48.30 | $100,470 |
| Home Healthcare Services | 19,670 | $45.80 | $95,260 |
Certificates and Salary Boosters
After earning a degree in healthcare management, individuals may add to their skills, improve their marketability, and potentially increase their salaries by achieving specialty certifications in various areas. Certification demonstrates not only knowledge but commitment to the profession, as most require continuing education for renewal. Following are just a few available certifications related to healthcare management:
Certified Professional Coder
Offered by the AAPC, an association for professional medical coders, this certification is available to those who pass an exam; individuals can learn the material through an associate degree or certificate program specializing in medical coding.
American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management
This organization offers several tiered certifications, representing different levels of experience, for those focused on revenue cycle management.
Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems
Targeted to professionals who work with healthcare information, certification requires candidates to hold a bachelor's degree, have several years of prior experience, and to pass an exam.
Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives
For individuals who have undertaken graduate studies, this board certification demonstrates advanced skills in administration and is appropriate for those in senior management positions.