Healthcare is one of the largest industries, thus providing a need for healthcare administrators to create and maintain an effective system and environment. Efficiency and effectiveness are key components to a successful healthcare organization. Within the field, there are many career opportunities for individuals to pursue. Online healthcare administration programs are a great opportunity to advance within the industry.
New healthcare regulations, technology, and an aging population are contributing factors that have increased the need for administrative positions. A bachelor’s degree provides a unique skill set that has limitless opportunities and growth within hospitals, healthcare organizations, private foundations, government agencies, laboratories, and more.
An online degree in healthcare administration gives students the knowledge of the healthcare industry with courses discussing laws and ethics, economics, information systems, and more. Beginning a career with a healthcare administration degree provides opportunities to improve the healthcare system and its operations. If you’re searching for a career as a registered nurse, we have compiled a list of the best RN programs and the best rn to bsn programs.
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, Florida |
| 2 | Reinhardt University | Waleska, Georgia |
| 3 | King University | Bristol, Tennessee |
| 4 | Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions | Loma Linda, California |
| 5 | Brigham Young University-Idaho | Rexburg, Idaho |
The Best Healthcare Administration Programs
University of Central Florida
University of Central Florida’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration degree prepares students for entry-level roles within the healthcare field. This degree allows for career opportunities within health care agencies, hospitals, private practices, and more. The program also prepares students for continuing education in related fields of study. This degree is an excellent fit for those who have little to no experience in healthcare. The program lays down the fundamentals and skills to be proficient within health services managers’ administration roles.
Reinhardt University
Reinhardt’s Healthcare Administration online bachelor’s degree provides a unique approach to developing and applying skills to healthcare positions. Online students have access to tutorials that provide in depth understanding of course material at a slower pace to ensure students have the tools to succeed. Those who are interested in managerial roles in private and public sectors, are a good match for health care administration and would excel within the program. Courses include supply chain management, patient safety, health care law, and more.
King University
King University’s online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration takes on a leadership model while focusing on areas such as ethics, organization, human resources, etc. The program gives students the skills to shape the future of health care. King University’s goal is for students to apply the theories and knowledge that they have learned into their practices. The 100% online curriculum allows students to access assignments from any location at any time.
Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions
Loma Linda University, a health sciences institution, offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that is both rigorous and useful. Medical and health service management is an occupation that seeks out highly qualified individuals who can largely help the lives of many people and communities. Students will be trained in health care leadership, emotional intelligence, health information management, financial management, and more to help prepare for future management roles. This program has some prerequisites regarding courses, before applying be sure to look into those requirements.
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Brigham Young University-Idaho prepares its students to thrive in an evolving world of healthcare. Students continue on to entry-level jobs within the healthcare industry after completing their Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration degree. The degree also requires an internship with a healthcare provider, where students are actively part of the administration team to gain experience. This degree also creates a solid foundation to pursue further higher education in the healthcare field.
The University of Toledo
The University of Toledo’s online Bachelor of Healthcare Administrator program is designed for individuals who are seeking administrative roles in hospitals, insurance companies, physician offices, and other related areas. UT has made many resources available to students who are online to make earning a degree easier and as stress-free as possible. Healthcare administrators provide vital links between providers, payers, and patients, and UT’s program helps students learn how to be an effective part of that process.
City University of Seattle
City University of Seattle students pursuing a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration degree can seek administrative or management positions across all health-related organizations and systems. A capstone is required as the last course in the curriculum to show applied knowledge to address situations in a problem-solving, administrative role. Students will learn the importance of financial, legal, and ethical frameworks for the healthcare industry.
Jackson State University
Jackson State University, a public institution aims to produce technologically advanced, diverse, ethical, and global leaders through its online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration. The program provides students with direct field experience, as well as coursework manageable for working adults. The university teaches practical and theoretical practices within the curriculum to encourage students to apply what they’ve learned once they are in the field.
Saint Joseph’s College
Saint Joseph’s College offers excellent online degree programs. Its Healthcare Administration degree is the foundation and framework for all future health care professionals. This health services administration program is a great start for future educational pursuits as well as to advance even further in a career. Its faculty are experts in the fields they teach and many currently hold positions in the healthcare industry. The college also holds memberships with industry associations which help strengthen its curriculum. The program is designed for students with little to no healthcare experience to start with the basics and progress into more complex material later on in the program.
Franklin Pierce University
The Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program offered by Franklin Pierce University is offered 100% online. Expand your knowledge base for a variety of careers in the healthcare industry, including work in mental health and long-term healthcare facilities, residential care facilities, government, and public health agencies, insurance, and healthcare management companies. Work closely with professors who are experts in their fields and understand the unique needs of adult students in small classes. Transfer up to 84 credits from other accredited colleges or military programs. Finish in as little as 18 months.
University of Minnesota Crookston
The University of Minnesota Crookston offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Management for students to advance their careers in various health care services. Students will be able to gain positions with the right opportunity with the help of UMC. Upon completion of the healthcare management degree, students will feel confident managing the current challenges in the healthcare industry.
Indiana Wesleyan University
As a private liberal arts university, Indiana Wesleyan provides an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration through a biblical format. The program focuses on health and wellness management and leadership as well as principles and policies within the industry. Students who complete the program will be able to evaluate solutions and strategies for complex problems in the healthcare industry.
Drexel University
Drexel University offers a part time online Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration. Students will gain both qualitative and quantitative knowledge about the health care industry regarding ethics, health care law, policy, and more. Distance learners have the same access to information and materials as on campus students. This degree will help students learn advanced skills and receive the accreditation needed to seek out career opportunities.
New England College
New England College has created a large online community with programs and faculty that ensure student success. NEC offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that focuses on administration and patient relationships and care. Students will learn a variety of laws, regulations, theories, and complex administrative strategies to help them fill positions using their full potential. With up to date curriculum, this degree provides a promising career in the healthcare industry.
Tiffin University
Tiffin University’s online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration provides students with the knowledge for non-clinical management and administrative roles in healthcare companies. To complete the program an internship or health care administration project is required for additional experience. Tiffin University is career-focused, training its students for the positions they desire as well as maximizing earning potential. The program is a unique blend of real-life application and academics.
Colorado Christian University
Colorado Christian University provides education through a Christian perspective with an emphasis on ethics and personal relations. CCU provides a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that teaches practical management and leadership. Improving patient outcomes and employee productivity are key concepts that healthcare administrators need to be aware of and always be working on. The program also focuses on recent laws and regulations affecting health care, providing up-to-date, real-time situations that students will face once in the field.
Hodges University
Hodges University Bachelors of Healthcare Administration is designed for students to become an active and quality leader in the industry. Hodges University is known for its student engagement, and its easily accessible resources for students to better succeed. HU teaches analytical skills, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills to effectively address situations and become a successful leader in the healthcare administration industry.
Concordia University Texas
Concordia University Texas provides a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Administration provides insight and knowledge to the complex world of healthcare. Healthcare is constantly changing, with this the program teaches skills and information to be able to adapt to significant changes. The program focuses on critical skills such as marketing, accounting, and HR as foundations for administrative work. Within this degree, there are multiple concentrations to choose from for students who are interested in becoming experts in a specific subject.
Champlain College Online
Anchored in the real world of healthcare and led by expert-practitioner instructors, Champlain College Online’s healthcare administration bachelor’s degree gives students a competitive edge. Courses ensure that students are familiar with ethics, laws, and regulations, as well as healthcare systems and organizations. With a strong foundation of industry-focused technical, legal, and strategic skills, as well as key soft skills (such as communication and leadership), students are trained to be effective healthcare leaders and health administration professionals. Most of the students will be able to apply their learnings to their workplace well before program completion.
Robert Morris University
Robert Morris University offers a wide range of healthcare administration degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration. Through its eight-week courses, students will develop the necessary skills for entry-level leadership positions within health agencies. It is important to note that the Health Sciences Bachelors degree in Health Administration program requires an undergraduate thesis in health care. With many changes in health care, Robert Morris University stays up to date with its curriculum, to ensure a quality and relevant education that can create a foundation for students’ careers. While the healthcare industry is large, RMU hopes to provide higher education that pertains to all aspects of healthcare and can help students progress in their desired area of focus.
Regis University
Regis University’s Online Bachelor’s In Healthcare Administration Degree can be completed within 24-30 months. Students can apply at any time, and some previous credits can potentially be transferred. Some of the courses in the program include health care economics, fundamentals of managed care, risk management, and health care information systems. A capstone course is required upon completion of the degree to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of health care administration.
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette
The Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Administration provided by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette prepares students for entry and mid-level positions postgraduate life. The school offer accelerated courses, and five start dates in August, October, January, March, and June. A few courses include health care across cultures, disabilities in American society, and the health care delivery system. While the program does not prepare students for the nursing field or to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing, many of their students later enroll in their MBA online degree program. The university accepts transfer credits from accredited colleges and universities.
Choosing the Right Online Healthcare Management Program.
The first thing you should look for in a healthcare management program is whether it is accredited. This will ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date and meets industry standards. Some of the renowned accreditation organisations include CAHME and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Besides institutional accreditation, you can also look for programmatic healthcare regulatory compliance and accreditation issued by recognized healthcare groups such as the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education.
The curriculum of the program should also be aligned with your career goals. If you want to move into a leadership position such as that of a healthcare administrator, choose a program that offers courses in management and administration. If you are interested in clinical work, look for a program that provides healthcare policy and regulations coursework.
When considering a bachelor’s in healthcare administration program, also look at the faculty teaching the courses. Ideally, the faculty should have both academic and industry experience so that they can offer real-world insights into the material.
Finally, consider the cost of the program and whether it offers any scholarships or federal financial aid opportunities. Many online programs are flexible with tuition payment plans, so be sure to ask about this before you enrol.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the right online healthcare management program.
How to Become a Healthcare Administrator
1. Earn a Degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare administration is one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States.
If you are interested in a career in healthcare administration, you will need a bachelor’s degree in health administration or an associate degree in healthcare administration. While a bachelor’s degree will give you the best opportunity for advancement, an associate degree can provide you with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to begin your career.
In addition to your educational requirements, you will also need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. Healthcare administration is a people-oriented profession, and you will be working closely with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals on a daily basis.
2. Advance Your Education.
If you want to fast-track your career past entry-level jobs, you may want to consider pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare administration. A master’s degree will allow you to specialize in a particular area of healthcare administration, such as long-term care or hospital administration. In addition, a master’s degree will prepare you for senior-level management positions and give you the skills and knowledge necessary to run a healthcare facility successfully.
3. Get Certified.
While certification is not always required, it can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Several professional organizations offer certification for health administration, such as the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management
To be eligible for certification, you will need to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and meet experience requirements. Some of the top certifications for health care administrators include:
- Certified Revenue Cycle Executive (CRCE)
- Certified Revenue Cycle Professional
- Certified Revenue Integrity Professional.
Benefits of an Online Healthcare Administration Programs Degree.
- Self-paced education
Online education offers students the ability to control the pacing and order of their units. They can also rewind and review sections as needed. Each online healthcare administration degree program comprises on-demand video lessons, curated readings, and detailed assignments. These features allow learners to rewind and review sections as needed.
- Relatively affordable compared to traditional on-campus learning.
In addition to saving on commuting, relocating, and other associated costs, online students may be able to take advantage of lower tuition rates. Some schools offer discounts for online learning students. Students can also earn/transfer credit for prior learning or experience, which can save time and money.
- Accelerated programs.
Some schools offer accelerated online healthcare administration degrees, which can be completed in as little as 18 months. These programs are designed for working adults who want to earn their degree quickly and move into leadership roles.
- Flexible schedule.
Online students can study at any time of day or night that works for them. They can also take courses part-time or full-time, depending on their needs. This flexibility is ideal for working adults who need to balance their education with their careers and other responsibilities.
- Increased opportunities for networking.
Online healthcare administration programs allow students to network with other professionals from around the world. This can be beneficial for finding jobs and networking for career advancement.
What Are The Main Courses in Healthcare Administration?
Human Resource Management
- Healthcare facilities are complex organizations that must manage a wide range of human resources to function correctly. This course will provide students with an overview of the various aspects of human resource management in healthcare, including payroll, benefits, employee relations, and recruitment. Students will also learn how to develop policies and procedures to ensure that a healthcare facility runs smoothly and efficiently.
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- By the end of the course, students should have a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in managing human resources in a healthcare setting.
Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare
Those in the field of health administration must be familiar with the legal and ethical issues that healthcare organizations must comply with. This course teaches students about ethical patient care practices and policies that influence healthcare delivery. Topics covered in the course may include patient privacy, informed consent, and the government regulations of healthcare providers. Students also learn how to deal with complaints and lawsuits.
Healthcare Finance and Accounting
Students learn the financial and accounting principles essential for managing a healthcare facility. Learners study the connection between financial resources and the delivery of healthcare services. The course is usually designed to help students learn how to balance cost with quality care. Topics that could be covered in the course include healthcare pricing, healthcare systems, supply and demand in healthcare, cost-benefit analysis, and the insurance system.
Healthcare Administration
This course provides an overview of the duties and responsibilities of healthcare administrators. Students learn about the different healthcare management systems and the departments that make up healthcare facilities. The course covers how to apply effective management in real-world healthcare settings.
Managing Population Health
This course explores the concepts of population health and epidemiology. Students learn how to identify risk factors for disease and how to develop strategies for preventative care. The course also covers topics such as biostatistics, environmental health, and social determinants of health.
Medical Terminology
In this course, students learn the language of medicine. This course is designed to help students understand and interpret the medical terms and abbreviations used in patient charts, diagnoses, prescriptions, and other medical records.
Best Online Healthcare Management Programs: FAQ’s
What Can I Do With a Healthcare Administration Degree?
Healthcare administration is an exciting field with many opportunities for advancement. Graduates can work in various management roles within the healthcare industry such as healthcare office manager, hospital administrator, health services manager, nursing home administrator, clinical supervisor, practice manager, and finance manager, among other roles.
Is A Healthcare Administration Degree Worth It?
Yes. A bachelor’s in healthcare administration degree is worth it. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical and healthcare managers is projected to grow 32 percent between 2020 to 2030. The increased use of electronic health records (EHRs) has especially driven up the demand for health administration professionals with knowledge of health services systems and health information systems.
What is the Average Salary for Healthcare Administration Programs Graduates?
The average salary for entry-level healthcare professionals with an associate degree ranges from $60,000 to $90,000. However, those with a degree and certifications typically make over $100,000 a year.
BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) May 2021 average wage statistics for medical and health services managers in top industries were:
- Hospitals; state, local, and private: $119,450
- Government: $117,000
- Outpatient care centers: $99,540
- Offices of physicians: $98,230
- Nursing and residential care facilities: $83,550
The top best-paying states for health administrators according to Occupational Employment Statistics are:
- New York – $155,430
- District of Columbia – $151,370
- Massachusetts – $140,270
- Washington – $138,580
- New Jersey – $136,580
Note that the amount quoted is an estimated average. Healthcare administrators with certifications and several years of experience can make over $205,620 a year in some areas, like Washington D.C.
How Fast Can You Earn a Bachelor’s In Healthcare Administration Degree Online?
A bachelor’s in healthcare administration can be completed in as little as 24 months. However, the actual length of time it takes to complete a degree depends on the type of program and the school you attend. Some programs offer an accelerated degree which can be completed in less time. These programs are typically geared towards working students who have already earned some college credits in other related or non-related programs.
How Much Does an Online Healthcare Administration Programs Degree Cost?
A healthcare administration degree online program costs between $30,000 to $50,000. In-state students can expect to pay less in general. However, some schools offer the same rates for both in-state and out-state online healthcare programs.
We know that finding the best school to fit your unique needs can be a huge challenge. For that reason, we work hard to develop lists of the best schools based on the characteristics most important for you. Whether that be cost of attendance, student success, resources available, flexibility of schedule, or any other number of important factors, we’ve got you covered. For more information about our ranking process and to find lists of schools based on specific characteristics, check out our methodology page.
For more programs check out our associate’s in healthcare administration page.
If your school isn’t included on this list but deserves consideration for an updated version, please contact us today!
