Online Degrees in Health Services Administration: Overviews by Level

Those seeking careers as health services managers are typically required to hold a degree in health services administration. A bachelor's degree generally suffices for entry-level positions in this field, while many organizations prefer a master's degree for individuals seeking advancement. Several colleges and universities throughout the United States offer these programs online, offering students the flexibility of taking classes from home.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Health Services Administration

A 4-year online bachelor's degree program for prospective health services managers can focus on health systems, medical office operations and health care ethics, resulting in a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Applied Science. Some schools offer a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Health Services or Health Care Administration. Most schools require applicants to hold an associate's degree or to have taken previous coursework in accounting, economics and business applications.

Program Information and Requirements

Distance education bachelor's degree programs in health services administration can be taken entirely online or are a hybrid, with some classes offered on campus. Some programs include an internship or seminars requiring on-campus or off-site attendance as well.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Health Services Administration Courses

Online coursework generally includes introductory and advanced courses in health systems management and operations, health care finance, laws and ethics. Other topics may include medical terminology, managed care and epidemiology. An internship might also be required.

Health Systems Administration Course

This course provides fundamental or introductory information about current U.S. health care systems, while focusing on management methods related to medical offices. A history of health systems might also be discussed..

Health Care Finance Course

This course provides a basic overview of health care financial management. Accounting methods, budgeting, costs and reimbursement practices are usually discussed.

Health Care Ethics Course

Students gain insight into proper health office professionalism. Patient confidentiality, patient consent and decision-making are among the topics addressed.

Graduate Career Information

Online graduates are prepared for entry-level positions at hospitals, clinics or insurance companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), job growth for health services managers is expected to be 16% between 2008 and 2018. In 2009, the median yearly salary was just under $82,000.

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Online Master's Degree in Health Services Administration

An online master's degree program in health services administration emphasizes theories and research in health care management, organization and administration. Graduation results in a Master of Health Administration or Master of Science. A bachelor's degree is typically required for entrance. Some colleges might also require 2-3 years of work experience in the health field.

Program Information and Requirements

Most online master's degree programs in health services administration take about three years to complete and are conducted fully online. Some schools offer a fast track option allowing for completion of the program in less time. A clinical research project or paper might also be required.

Online Master's Degree in Health Services Administration Courses

The curriculum of an online master's degree program in health services administration includes advanced courses in health care management, health systems, managed care, health policies and research. Classes can also be taken in health care marketing, human resources management and accounting. Some programs offer seminars in advanced topics.

Health Care Administration Course

Leadership methods in health care are typically addressed. Students learn to develop business plans for different types of health care facilities and study theories in health services administration.

Health Care Systems Course

This course addresses health systems theories and organizational development. Students have the opportunity to study the history of U.S. health care delivery systems, current public health policies and the roles of government, hospitals, health care personnel and policymakers.

Managed Care Course

The various types of managed care plans are discussed, such as Medicaid and Medicare. The history of managed care plans, benefits, limitations and reimbursement practices are among topics likely to be discussed.

Graduate Career Information

Obtaining a graduate degree in health services administration online can lead to upper-management or executive positions in the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, advanced positions in health services administration, including executive officers and department heads, pay annual salaries in the range of $100,000-$140,000.

Continuing Education Information

While many graduates consider a master's degree in health services administration a terminal degree, some choose to pursue a doctorate. Online Doctor of Health Administration programs, however, are uncommon.
Voluntary certification is available in this field. The American Health Information Management Association offers certification as a Registered Health Information Administrator. Continuing education requirements may be necessary to maintain this certification.