Do you love helping people? Are you compassionate, patient and calm under pressure? Do you want to make a difference, not just a living? If so, a career in healthcare has probably crossed your mind before.

Many people are reluctant to explore a career in healthcare because they believe you need a medical degree or clinical experience. If this has been a barrier for you, you should know that there are so many ways to contribute to patient success besides practicing medicine and patient-facing care. An online bachelor’s in healthcare management could be the key to finding a non-clinical role you love.

This online degree opens pathways for those who are more interested in the business, patient experience and administrative aspects of providing care. A BS in healthcare management online is particularly well-suited for those who want to work in managerial or leadership roles within healthcare organizations.

What is a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management?

A Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management is a 4-year undergraduate degree program that can be delivered in an online format and focuses on preparing students for careers in the healthcare industry with a specific emphasis on management and administration. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex and rapidly evolving healthcare environment.

There are many different concentrations that students can choose to specialize in. These subfields allow students to tailor their education to align with specific areas of interest or career goals.

A few examples include: 

• Health information management: This type of program focuses on the management of health information systems, electronic health records and healthcare data. Students studying information management in healthcare will learn about how to best use technology in healthcare administration.
• Health policy and advocacy: Students who specialize in advocacy and healthcare policy concentrate on understanding and advising on healthcare regulations. Students may choose to explore health policy analysis, healthcare law and the impact of policy decisions on healthcare organizations.
• Healthcare finance: Students who enjoy budgeting and financial analysis should consider focusing on healthcare finance. This career track focuses on the fiscal aspects of healthcare management and the important role finances play in healthcare delivery.
• Healthcare marketing: This track explores marketing principles as they apply to healthcare organizations. Students will learn how to promote healthcare services and navigate the marketing challenges specific to the healthcare industry.

Related: Health Information Management Online Associate

Is healthcare management a good career?

The healthcare industry is dynamic, complex and always adapting. Healthcare managers and administrators play a critical role in the delivery of patient care. They ensure that everything in their office or facility runs smoothly. They are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities, managing resources and optimizing processes to enhance patient care.

Healthcare finances are complex and have many moving parts. Knowledgeable healthcare managers are essential for budgeting, financial planning and resource allocation. They work to ensure that healthcare services are financially sustainable and that organizations can continue to provide high-quality care.

The healthcare industry is heavily regulated too. There are numerous laws and policies that govern patient care, privacy and organizational practices. Healthcare managers play a vital role in ensuring compliance with these legal and ethical standards.

Whether their work takes them behind a desk or out onto the floor, healthcare managers go where they’re needed. They are adaptable critical thinkers that make sure every member of their team can work in concert. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the role of healthcare managers becomes increasingly critical in navigating complexities and driving positive outcomes for patients and the healthcare system as a whole.

Is earning a BS in healthcare management a good investment?

Major changes to the healthcare system following the global pandemic demonstrated just how important the need for strong leadership is in healthcare. Today, the job is in higher demand than ever before. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in fact, estimates that the field is slated to grow at more than five times the rate of most other careers in the next 10 years.

Healthcare management graduates may be in demand due to the dynamic nature of the healthcare industry. The increasing complexity of healthcare systems, the emphasis on efficiency and quality improvement and the need for effective leadership contribute to the demand for professionals with healthcare management expertise.

The value of a healthcare management professional may also be reflected in the field’s competitive salaries. Professionals in healthcare management roles often receive salaries that are commensurate with their skills and responsibilities. The level of demand for these graduates contributes to the attractiveness of compensation packages in the healthcare industry.

If working with technology that’s on the cutting edge of development sounds exciting to you, you’ll be happy to hear that the healthcare industry is a great place to be. Medicine is always investing in and exploring new technologies with the goal of enhancing patient care, improving efficiency, and streamlining operations. Healthcare management bachelor’s holders have the opportunity to work with and oversee the implementation of these technologies, ranging from electronic health records to healthcare analytics. This contributes to their professional growth and skill development.

A bachelor’s degree in healthcare management may be highly sought after because it provides a versatile yet stable foundation, preparing graduates for a variety of careers within the healthcare sector. Whether in hospital administration, health information management, quality improvement or healthcare consulting, graduates have the flexibility to pursue diverse career paths based on their interests and strengths. 

A look at the online bachelor’s in healthcare management

What to expect in an online program for this degree

An online bachelor’s in healthcare management is the same as a classroom program, typically including a combination of general education courses, core healthcare management courses and electives. The specific curriculum will vary between institutions, but there are common foundational elements you’ll find in almost any program.

General education requirements take approximately two years (eight semesters) to complete. If you know what area of healthcare management you’re most interested in, consider future program requirements when choosing your core classes. You’ll need basic writing and communication skills, humanities credits, natural and social science credits and basic math or higher.

Electives can deepen your insight into patient care, healthcare systems or extracurricular interests. Every program will have room for several elective courses. Depending on the program, you may have the opportunity to choose electives that align with your interests or career goals. Examples could include courses in healthcare marketing, project management or specific areas of healthcare specialization.

Core classes, which are program-specific, are designed to provide students with the info they need to understand the role they will play in a modern healthcare system.

Some examples of common courses an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management program might offer include:   

• Introduction to healthcare systems: An overview of the structure, components and functions of healthcare systems
• Healthcare ethics and law: Examining legal and ethical issues specific to the healthcare field
• Strategic management in healthcare: Developing skills in planning, decision-making and leadership within healthcare settings
• Healthcare finance: Understanding financial management in healthcare organizations, including budgeting and reimbursement
• Health information systems: Learning about healthcare technology, electronic health records and data management
• Healthcare policy and regulation: An exploration of healthcare policies, regulations and their impact on management decisions

Many online healthcare management programs include a hands-on component as well, so you may need to travel to campus or a clinical facility to complete this portion of your education. This guided instruction is usually called an internship or capstone project. It’s a kind of practical experience that allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. These experiences give students a chance to learn directly from professionals in the healthcare industry, providing a personal and integrative perspective of the field.

Admission requirements for an online degree in healthcare management can vary. Most colleges consider a GPA of 2.0 or higher to be acceptable for admittance, but it is important to review the admission requirements carefully for each and every school.

Tuition and fees are another important variable to consider as you shop around for the perfect program. Many factors play a role in determining the cost of a particular degree: Public or private college online? Accelerated program or typical four-year cadence? Program advisors can answer specific questions about the costs of your online degree program. They can also direct you to resources that could help you pay your tuition.

Career pathways

Graduates with a bachelor’s in healthcare management are qualified for many entry-level positions in healthcare. A small sample of some common roles well-suited to graduates with an online bachelor’s from an accredited school may include:

• Healthcare administrator/manager: Manage staff, ensure compliance with regulations and oversee day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities
• Healthcare coordinator: Coordinate and organize healthcare services, programs or events in a healthcare facility or community setting
• Medical office manager: Manage the administrative aspects of a medical office such as staffing, scheduling, billing and compliance with healthcare regulations
• Health information manager: Manage health information data, including electronic health records (EHRs). Ensure accuracy, privacy and compliance with healthcare information management standards.
• Quality improvement coordinator: Create initiatives to assess and improve the quality of healthcare services using data analysis, performance measurement and implementation of improvement strategies
• Patient services manager: Oversee the delivery of patient services, addressing patient satisfaction and service-oriented aspects of patient care
• Admissions coordinator: Coordinate patient admissions to ensure a smooth intake and discharge process
• Managed care coordinator: Work with managed care organizations to coordinate healthcare services for covered individuals
• Community health manager: Manage health programs or services at the community level, focusing on public health initiatives and community well-being

Those who work in the umbrella of healthcare management jobs can rest easy knowing that their services are in high demand. Median job growth in all occupations combined, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is around 3%; healthcare management, however, is projected to grow 23.2% through 2034.

Average salaries for those who work in this field are also attractive. The median wage for this profession is listed as $117,960 by the BLS annually, with the highest 10% of the profession earning more than $219,080 . 

How to succeed in an online program for this degree

To successfully complete an online bachelor’s in healthcare management, you’ll need a combination of self-discipline, time management, effective communication skills and engagement with course materials.

Setting clear goals is an important first step. Follow through on your goals by developing a realistic study schedule that accommodates your existing commitments. Consistency is key in online learning, and there is no one there to hold you to your homework and assignments but you.

Staying organized is also key. Keep track of assignments, deadlines and important dates whichever way is most convenient for you. You can use digital tools, planners or calendars to stay organized. Make a backup of your to-do lists, deadlines and time commitments, too—accidents can and do happen. Your instructors cannot make exceptions for tech failure, bad internet connections or power outages.

Also, engage. It’s important to participate in and contribute to class discussions, forums and other interactive activities. It can be tempting to keep to yourself in an online program, but if you want to succeed in your online studies, it’s essential that you actively participate. Share your insights, ask questions and respond to your peers. This not only enhances your learning but also fosters a sense of community in the virtual classroom.

Finally, take advantage of all available resources, such as online libraries, research databases and academic support services. These resources can contribute to the depth and quality of your work. If you’re struggling with coursework or facing challenges, seek help early. Most online programs offer support services, including tutoring, academic advising and technical support.

Resources

You can connect with professionals, get access to scholarship opportunities and stay up to date on industry news by exploring professional associations. Here are a few recommendations for aspiring healthcare management students and professionals:

• Professional Association of Health Care Office Management
• American Health Information Management Association
• American College of Health Care Administrators
• Association of University Programs in Health Administration
• Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
• American College of Healthcare Executives

Choosing the right online program checklist

Researching as many programs as possible before narrowing your list of contenders down to your top choices should be the first step you take. The factors that are most important to your ultimate education choice will be highly individual, but it’s important to understand why the program you’re selecting is right for you.

Ask yourself, does this program:

• Align with my career goals? It’s crucial to align your educational pursuits with your career goals. Clearly define and prioritize your career objectives within the healthcare management field. Consider the specific areas of healthcare management that interest you the most, whether it’s hospital administration, health information management or another specialization.
• Have a good reputation? Research the faculty’s expertise, the program’s overall success and the achievements of its graduates. Seek out reviews or testimonials from current students or alumni. A program with a positive reputation often indicates a commitment to quality education and may provide a better foundation for your career.
• Fit my budget? Make a cost-comparison analysis when making decisions about your online education. Consider tuition and fees, but also account for additional costs such as textbooks, technology requirements and internet. Check with the financial aid office and career advisor at your school to learn more about scholarship and grant opportunities.
• Provide accreditation assurance? Ensure that the program you choose holds the necessary accreditation from recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation is crucial for validating the quality and rigor of the education you receive. Programs accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) adhere to industry standards, ensuring that you receive a relevant and respected degree in healthcare management.

Putting it together

If you’re ready to learn more about the vital role of healthcare managers, the demand for their skills and the diverse career paths available to them, there’s no better time to start. Career outlooks are bright for managers and administrators in healthcare, and this field is a rewarding pathway for those who love to help others during their time of need.

Start your journey towards your bachelor’s in healthcare management today. Find online four-year programs in healthcare management that align with your interests, goals and budget by simply clicking Find Schools.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Why is there a growing need for healthcare managers?

An aging population, increase in chronic disease and illness and increasingly complex policies and regulations make healthcare managers essential to a clinic, private practice or hospital’s success. Just as the need for healthcare workers continues to grow, so does the need for strong servant leaders who can support them. 

What advantage is there to earning a degree in healthcare management over a clinical degree?

Healthcare management graduates enjoy high demand in the job market, competitive salaries, opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technologies and a range of career options. The additional benefits, such as networking opportunities and the rewarding feeling of making a positive impact on patient care, contribute to the attraction of a career in healthcare management.

Practical care degrees, such as Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, Nurse or Physician Assistant, require practical experience. This on-the-job experience can be a challenge to acquire if you are a full-time student who works full-time as well. With an online degree in healthcare management or administration, there are no additional licenses to earn or practicum hours to complete before you start working.

Variety is another benefit to a role in healthcare administration. No two days bring the same challenges for any healthcare facility, and it’s a manager’s job to tackle any issue that isn’t addressed during a provider visit. Staffing, hiring, budgets, employee retention, supplies: you name it, a manager is either dealing with it or delegating to make sure it gets done. If you find a fast pace and variety stimulating, this may be a great fit.

I work full-time and have never attended college before. Can I succeed in an online program?

Online degree programs offer flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework remotely. This is beneficial for individuals who may have work or family commitments. It’s true that online learning can present its own set of challenges: it requires discipline, commitment and strong time management skills. But it also makes it possible for individuals who can’t attend daytime classes to earn the same degree as on-campus students. There are resources available to help online students stay on track, just as there are for on-campus learners; tutoring, for instance, as well as online office hours and access to library resources from the comfort of your home computer—all these factors and more ensure the same high-quality experience offline or in person.

Going back to school isn’t in my budget right now. Are there resources that can help?

Absolutely. There are various resources and options to explore if you’re looking for financial assistance or resources to support your education. Explore federal financial aid options such as FAFSA  (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your eligibility for grants, loans and work-study programs. Additionally, many scholarships are available based on academic merit, field of study or other criteria. This is especially true for in-demand fields such as healthcare. Other resources may include employer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs, online learning platforms that offer affordable or free courses such as Coursera or edX, and If you have a military background, investigate GI Bill benefits and other military education programs that can provide financial support for education.

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