When someone first thinks about a job in the health care industry, they may picture a doctor or a nurse. As important as these roles are, many people can find it daunting to pursue a clinical role, be it the amount of schooling it requires or perhaps they just can’t stand the sight of blood. Doctors and nurses, however, could not do these jobs without a team of support ensuring they have sufficient funds, equipment and personnel. If you’re a compassionate, caring person who sees yourself in the medical field (minus the years of school and blood), you should consider earning a bachelor’s of science in Health Care Management.
What Can I Do With a Health Care Management Bachelor’s Degree?
A Health Care Management bachelor’s degree is a great option for someone looking to earn their bachelor’s degree or advance their career. Completion of this degree may lead to jobs such a manager of a non-clinical department, or, if you are already a clinician, a leadership role in your area of expertise. Courses include everything from public health care regulations and marketing to information technology and management tools, so you’ll learn a wide range of skills that are essential for entering the medical workforce. Keep reading to learn more about what job category might be right for you.
Administrative Services Managers
An administrative service manager ensures the health care facility runs smoothly and efficiently by coordinating its supportive services. Their duties may include, but are not limited to:
- Departmental budget planning and allocation of supplies
- Record-keeping
- Assisting with long-term planning and development of the healthcare facility goals
- Overseeing staff development, training programs, and policy development
- Drafting and editing communications for the executive team
Requirements for becoming an administrative services manager vary by the organization you are applying for, however, candidates are expected to have a bachelor’s degree. Candidates who have a strong history of administrative experience and management skills may also stand out to future employers.4 Other important non-quantifiable skills are also essential to be effective, such as:
- Strong speaking, listening, and writing skills
- Cogent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Efficient time management
Health Educators
Health educators teach people and communities how to live healthier lifestyles. Their main goal is to provide people with the knowledge and tools to avoid developing life-threatening diseases and health issues. They do so by instructing people about healthy eating habits and what unhealthy activities to avoid. Health educators also collect data to discuss with healthcare facilities, as well as:
- Plan and implement treatment plans to address their patients’ needs
- Evaluate, design, and recommend health information materials
- Facilitate classes
- Consult with physicians and healthcare staff regarding health educational services
To become a health educator, you need at minimum a bachelor’s degree. Many employers at health educator jobs require a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential.5
Medical and Health Services Managers
Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate all the behind-the-scenes of a healthcare facility. This can include hospitals, nursing homes, and group practices.6
Without them, it’s hard to imagine these places running as efficiently as possible. Other responsibilities apart of medical and health services manager jobs include:
- Managing the facility staff, including hiring, training, and supervising
- Maintaining budgets
- Coordinating the best ways to deliver care to patients by working with the facility healthcare leaders
- Developing and implementing policies
To become a medical and health services manager you must have at least a bachelor’s degree, however, more and more employers are looking for candidates with master’s degrees. Common degrees for this position include health administration, health management, and public health administration.7 Prospective managers should also have relevant work experience in an administrative or clinical role at a prior healthcare facility. Other important non-quantifiable skills include:
- Strong analytical skills and extremely detail-oriented
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Technical skills to keep up with software and electronic health records
Why Get a Health Care Management Bachelor’s Degree
Deciding which health care management program is right for you is a big decision. Making the right choice can lead to better jobs down the line, and possibly a better salary. There are many programs to choose from, so you’ll want to keep your goals and lifestyle in mind when selecting. Here are a few core things to focus on when selecting a program:
- Class size. Look for programs that offer small class sizes so you can maximize your individual attention from your instructor.
- Cost. Education can cost a pretty penny, but it pays for your future. Each level of higher education can help you develop more skills that give you access to higher paying jobs. If cost is a barrier to you, check to see if the program participates in financial assistance programs. Student loans, grants, and scholarships may be available to those who qualify.
- Career-training or externships. The classroom is where you’ll learn the skills, but the real world will put those skills to the test. Make sure the program you choose offers opportunities to learn outside of the classroom before you graduate.
How Long is a Health Care Management Program?
It’s exciting to think about all the courses you’ll take to complete a Health Care Management program, but you’re also probably wondering how long it will take to finish. Many health care management jobs require a bachelor’s degree, however, depending on your prior academic level, you could earn a health care management bachelor’s degree in as little as 18 months.
Prepare for a Career in Health Care Management With San Joaquin Valley College
San Joaquin Valley College’s programs offer you the education and training you need to advance your career in the healthcare industry. They are committed to the success of every student by emphasizing integrity, community, professionalism, communication and diversity as our key values. Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning to a new career, our program will allow you to explore jobs such as health educators, managers, researchers, and so much more. You’ll gain valuable skills and knowledge that will help you serve your community alongside doctors and nurses. See what difference you can make by enrolling now.
Health Care Management FAQ
How Long to Get a Health Care Management Degree?
SJVC’s health care management degree can be completed in as few as 18 months online.
