Individuals aspiring to leadership and
management positions in the health care industry can get a solid
foundation in a bachelor's and master's degree program in health care
administration. Online programs allow students to earn a degree while
still employed.
For students interested in pursuing a career in health care
administration, a Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Administration degree
is often a solid starting point. Health care administrators work closely
with patients and doctors to deliver top quality health care. The
majority of health care administrators work in clinics, home health
agencies, doctor's offices and hospitals.
Students enrolled in a specialized undergraduate degree program in
health care administration also take courses in other disciplines, such
as English, mathematics and the natural sciences. A bachelor's program
takes four years to complete. A high-school diploma and acceptable
scores on college entrance exams, such as the ACT and SAT, are
prerequisites.
Students interested in distance learning are generally able to
complete the degree program online. Students need access to a computer
with high-speed Internet. Instructors blend traditional texts with
modern technologies, such as online presentations and course management
systems, to create a virtual learning environment.
List of Common Health Care Administration Courses
A bachelor's degree program is comprised of specialized courses
designed to prepare students for a career in health care or health care
leadership. Courses are predominantly in health care administration and
other related topics, such as ethical issues, legal issues and project
management.
Aging and Life Assessment Course
Students study the aging process through studies of psychometric
assessment and reflection. Students study modern and classic theories of
adult development. A focus of the course is designing and
implementation of plans for personal, professional and academic
development.
The Law and Health Care Course
Students get a comprehensive overview of the law and the unique
challenges posed by the health care system and health care
administrators. Access, affordability, health care interventions and
human rights are focal points. Students look at the concepts of
guardianship, quality assurance, risk management, review boards and
special needs groups.
Aging in Contemporary Society Course
The course looks at aging from a vast number of viewpoints, such as
biological, socioeconomic, cognitive function, geographical and life
history factors. Students look at some psychological issues involved in
aging, such as socialization, memory loss and self esteem.
Individuals with a bachelor's degree in health care administration
usually start off as assistants in hospitals, clinics, home health
agencies, or doctor's offices. In August 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (
www.bls.gov) reported that job prospects are good and a 16% increase in employment is expected from 2008-2018.
Online Master's Degree Programs in Health Care Administration Overview
A Master of Health Care Administration (MHA) is intended for
individuals seeking employment in leadership positions in the health
care industry. The curriculum is focused on giving students a
comprehensive, in-depth knowledge of working in the ever-growing field
of health care with classes that cover important topics, such as
currently practices, policies, procedures and challenges. A bachelor's
degree in a relevant field is a prerequisite. Many students also have
work experience.
A master's program in health care administration can usually be
completed in two years. Students interested in distance learning are
able to complete the majority of the curriculum online; however, some
programs may require short residencies for completion. Instructors use
contemporary online teaching methods, such as online presentations, chat
rooms, and course management systems. Communication with instructors
and classmates is conducted via e-mail.
List of Common Heath Care Administration Courses
Courses in a master's degree program are intended to help students
with career advancement. Students acquire hands-on experience that is
immediately applicable in their current employment. Students study
contemporary health care procedures, current policies and
health management issues.
Health Care Administration Ethics Course
Students study ethical issues unique to heath care administration.
Public policy, decision-making, clinical practice, legal issues and
professional practice are special topics of interest covered in the
course.
Students take an in-depth look at the health care administration from
a manager's point of view in terms of the manager's responsibilities
and involvement in community health care issues. Students study the
development, implementation and evaluation of successful community
health care programs.
Basics of Health Care Systems Course
This course gives students a broad overview of the U.S. health care
system. Areas of focus in the course include government agencies,
financial issues, regulations, progressive innovations and alternative
strategies.
A master's degree is usually necessary for individuals looking to
advance their career beyond the entry level. Graduates are poised to
take on leadership positions in health care administration in hospitals,
home health agencies, clinics and other places. In August 2010, the
U.S. Bureau of Labors Statistics reported that 38% of medical and health
service managers worked in hospitals and 19% worked in doctor's offices
or nursing facilities. In August 2010,
salary.com reported the
average annual salaries of home care coordinators and home care case
managers to be $28,000-$40,000 and $57,000- $69,000, respectively.
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