Health care management
Health care managers and administrators keep our hospitals and doctor’s offices running on all cylinders, providing the support and direction that ensures patients receive the best care. These behind-the-scenes difference-makers play a pivotal role in developing new medical products and services that empower health care providers, enhance treatment options, and serve local communities.
555,500
health care managers
will be employed by 2029
$100,980
average salary
for medical and health services managers*
*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Bachelor’s degree
An online bachelor’s degree in health care management or administration can lead to a rewarding career path for future practitioners and today’s career changers. Common degree options include a Bachelor of Science in Medical Services and Health Management, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Care and Technology Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration.
Master’s degree
A master's degree may be required for certain managerial positions in the health care industry. It's also highly recommended for competitive jobs where additional education could give you an edge over other applicants. You might consider an online MBA with a concentration in health care management. Or a Master of Health Administration. There are many paths. Let’s find yours.
Doctorate degree
Those who wish to further their education after earning a master’s degree can pursue either a DHA (Doctor of Health Administration) or a Ph.D. in Health Care Management, though these program options are not as prevalent. Most doctoral candidates pursue this path with the goal of teaching at the college level.
Graduate certificates
An online graduate certificate in health care management offers an alternative path to a degree. Though it is not as in-depth as a full program, it can grant you faster access to a particular field or specialization. And your graduate coursework can often be applied to a master’s degree down the road.
Courses and bootcamps
Both options provide an expedited way help you stay competitive as the analytics industry grows and evolves. You’ll learn new skills — plus refine existing ones — and emerge better prepared for wherever the future takes you.
Do you need a license to enter the field of health care management?
A license is typically not required in medical and health services management, though there are a few exceptions. Nursing home administrators must be licensed through their state. Specific requirements vary, but most states mandate that you complete a state-approved training program and pass a national licensing exam.
While not required, professional affiliations can grant you access to additional educational resources and networking opportunities that can help you move ahead in your career. For example, the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and the American Association of Healthcare Administration Management (AAHAM) both offer certification options that are worth pursuing.
As the world’s learning company, we strive to provide personalized pathways and identify high-quality learning options that lead to the jobs of the future. Courses, degrees, and certifications are subject to change so we can ensure we’re providing the most relevant options available today.
