Essential Information
A Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration offers foundation courses in all areas of healthcare management as well as general humanities, science, math, communications, and social sciences courses. Upon completion of this 4-year program, students should be able to enter entry-level to mid-level administration positions in hospitals or other healthcare organizations.
Students are not required to have any previous experience, but must have a high school diploma or its equivalent to enter the program. Entering the program with an associate's degree in any field is also an option. However, those students with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in a healthcare-related major may receive credit for already completing some of the core courses. Several specializations exist which students typically pursue after completing the core courses in the program, such as finance, marketing, human resources, patient care, informational systems, staff relations, planning and development, and material management.
Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Administration
A bachelor's degree in this field covers core topics in healthcare as well as marketing, finance, and human resources. Most of these courses are theoretical because they explore the U.S. healthcare system and its role in 21st century society. However, some involve practical courses in patient care techniques as well as financial and administrative practices.
Core courses may include:
- Computer technologies and information systems
- Communications in a professional environment
- Healthcare systems in the U.S.
- Medical ethics and laws
- Management and human resources
- Psychology
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
Although students can choose to work in many different specializations, there are a few popular career tracks most students choose to follow. These options include:
- Hospital director
- Head of hospital marketing
- Director of hospital human resources
- System and database manager
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary among medical and health services managers was $104,280 as of 2020. Between 2019 and 2029, employment opportunities for these professionals were projected to increase 32%, reports the BLS.
Healthcare administration bachelor's degree programs typically cover topics in healthcare, finance, human resources management, computer technologies and systems, marketing, and material management. Completion of these degrees prepares students for a variety of jobs within the field.