Overview of Master of Science (MS) Degree Program in Health Administration
Majors Overview January 1, 2018This article talks about the Master of Science (M.S.) degree program in Health Administration and its education requirements, coursework, career options, job and wage outlook, and continuing education options.
Master of Science (MS) Program in Health Administration
Students who wish to learn about the application of basic healthcare industry principles of management, business, law and accounting would benefit from enrolling in a Master of Science (M.S.) in Health Administration program. They also learn about leadership and teamwork. An administrative residency or paid internship is also in some programs.
Students can complete most programs in 2 years; program graduates are ready for effective leadership in a healthcare organization with an evidence-based management mindset. Employers include various healthcare organizations, such as consulting firms, hospitals, and insurance companies.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold an undergraduate major with a specified GPA in math, business, accounting, economics, or a similar field. Many schools expect applicants for admission to submit professional work experience, and proof of professional licensure or certification is also necessary. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam is a requirement for international students. Incoming students must also submit letters of recommendation, an essay, and resume.
Coursework
Program coursework comprises credit hours that can vary between 36 and 91 hours; varying by program, core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Financial Accounting
•Business strategy
•Health law
•Management information systems
•Healthcare marketing
•Health Economics
•Service Marketing Management
•Healthcare Administration
•Management Economics
•Data analysis
Career Options
Program graduates can choose from several different leadership opportunities in the diverse field of health administration. They can seek career opportunities as healthcare administrators, medical office managers, and facility administrators at:
•Hospitals
•Home health agencies
•Health maintenance organizations
•VA facilities
•Insurance companies
•Community health centers
•Public schools
•Long-term care facilities
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2016 – 2026 decade, medical and health services managers are expected to see a 20% job growth (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Work settings include nursing care facilities, medical group practices, and health practitioner’s offices. In May 2016, medical and health services managers brought in an average annual wage of $96,540 (BLS).
Continuing Education Options
Program graduates who seek university-level research or teaching jobs may pursue a doctorate in health administration. They can also pursue various certificate programs to gain instruction in specialized topic areas that may enhance their marketability.
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