Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration
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Lead Your Future in a Dynamic and Growing Healthcare Industry
NU’s BS in Healthcare Administration curriculum focuses on helping you understand how healthcare leaders have had to develop, manage in-the-moment decisions, and transition rapidly to a hybrid or telemedicine healthcare system. You’ll study industry-current coursework and learn from subject matter experts in various administrative roles in the healthcare field. You’ll also participate in an eight-week capstone project designed to provide you with an unsurpassed, hands-on experience that can prepare you for a leadership role within this dynamic and growing field.
An international pandemic has made the healthcare industry the focus of our attention and has generated a strong and growing demand for administrative professionals who possess the knowledge and skills to help it run smoothly.
If you have an interest in building a career in healthcare but don’t want to work in a clinical setting, a degree in healthcare administration can position you for success in a variety of positions. National University’s Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration is designed to equip you with the leadership and practical management skills needed to lead organizations and teams in diverse healthcare settings.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Ranked top 10 in the nation for graduating students in the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program among online nonprofit 4-yr private Universities. It had the largest growth rate of graduates year-over-year in 2022.
Course Details
Preparation for the Major
- 13 courses; 58.5 quarter units
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Designed to assist individuals to establish health behaviors for optimal physical, emotional, and sexual health and maintain a healthy environment.
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Presentation of healthcare service terminology and word forms. Includes language describing health and disease. Emphasizes development of medical vocabulary employing the building of terms for application in understanding and analysis of medical records.
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A survey of basic accounting theory and the application of accounting principles, this course includes the recording and summarization of business transactions in the form of financial statements under the rules of generally accepted accounting principles. (GAAP). It is designed for students who have little or no prior knowledge of financial accounting, this course corresponds to Principles of Accounting I at other colleges.
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Prerequisite: ACC 201
This course is an overview of the use of financial accounting and cost accounting data for the design and preparation of reports to aid management in organizing, directing, controlling, and decision-making functions. The topics include the fundamentals of cost accounting, budgeting and responsibility accounting for cost and profit centers.
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Prerequisite: HSC 300; HSC 310; HTM 310; HCA 400; HCA 401; HCA 402; HCA 403; HSC 430; HCA 405; HCA 407; HCA 409; HCA 425; HCA 450; ODV 420
Practical application of the knowledge and skills required for a healthcare administration professional in a healthcare agency. Students will be assigned to agencies according to their interests and the availability of an approved internship site. Two-month requirement. Grading is by S/H/U only. Course is eligible for In Progress (IP) grade. Graduates will enhance their opportunities for professional growth and job placement through carefully planned capstone experience. Healthcare administration involves the organization, financing and delivery of services to prevent and treat illness and disease, including programs that serve the public and private sectors at all levels—local, state and federal.
And the following courses
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An introduction to concepts, procedures and software used in the statistical analysis of data in the health professions.
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Prerequisite: ILR 260
Focus is on the influence of culture on illness, health, and rehabilitation. The relationship that culture plays in the health and wellness of both individuals and the community in which they live will be explored.
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Prerequisite: BST 322; ILR 260
Presents concepts and processes of this core public health discipline. Occurrence, distribution, effects, and control of diseases and conditions examined from a broad perspective. Applications of epidemiological methods included.
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Prerequisite: ILR 260
Introduction to concepts of pathological process from a public health viewpoint. Consideration of historical and contemporary disease patterns based on an understanding of pathogenic, behavioral, and environmental dimensions.
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Prerequisite: ILR 260
Considers the significant influence that individual and collective behavior exerts on health status. Relationships of behavior and social variables are examined, including natural and built environments, economics, and public policy.
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In this course, students will study the price system, market structures, and consumer theory. Topics covered include supply and demand, price controls, public policy, the theory of the firm, cost and revenue concepts, forms of competition, elasticity, and efficient resource allocation, among others.
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This course provides an examination of aggregate economic activity. It includes a study of aggregate supply and demand, the monetary and banking systems, aggregate economic accounting, inflation, unemployment, the business cycle, macroeconomic policy, and economic progress and stability, among other things.
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Prerequisite: ENG 102
Examines race, gender, ethnicity and class in 20th century American society. Introduces students to methods for studying the changing nature of our society and explores ways in which our increasingly urbanized and technological culture affects all aspects of professional and unskilled work. May involve work in oral history.
Requirements for the Major
- 15 courses; 67.5 quarter units
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Recommended Preparation: Completion of all Coursework in Preparation for the Major
Foundational introduction to the healthcare management profession. Examination of the theories, principles, and styles related to leadership, administration, and management as applied to healthcare organizations. Focuses on evolving trends in management, management and leadership theories, and skills in planning, organizing, decision-making, staffing, leading, communicating and motivating health care personnel.
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Focuses on legal and ethical concepts, principles of ethics and law and use in resolving ethical conflicts and dilemmas in health care. Scope of practice, informed consent, employee and patient rights and responsibilities, patient abuse, and the influence of finance and corporate culture will be explored. Sample cases will be analyzed.
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A history of the U.S. health care delivery system will be explored to understand the current issues and trends. The changing roles of the components of the system as well as technical, economic, political, and social forces effecting change will be discussed. Inpatient, outpatient, and long term care will be explored.
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Innovative and best practice technology applications to support human health by individuals, professionals, care delivery organizations, and communities. Internet-based health resources, smart phone/mHealth applications, telehealth, and health-related social networks. Systems, standards, and policies to connect people and technologies securely across healthcare ecosystems.
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Recommended: Prior completion of: all Coursework in Preparation for the Major
Concepts of human resources in healthcare organizations, such as training, motivation and direction. Elements of employee selection, compensation, financial incentives, work standards, and leadership principles in healthcare organization considered.
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Prerequisite: Completion of all Coursework in Preparation for the Major.
Introduction to continuous quality improvement in healthcare. Includes evaluation and risk management methods. Introduces outcome measurement and case management fundamentals. Introduces team development, analytical statistics, and process knowledge themes.
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Recommended: Prior completion of: All Coursework in Preparation for the Major.
Introduction to the application of economics to decisions regarding the amount, organization, and distribution of healthcare services. Examine the structure, organization, activities, functions, and problems of healthcare from an economic perspective. Emphasis on management problems and policy issues in healthcare with regard to allocation of scarce resources.
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Recommended: Prior completion of: all Coursework in Preparation for the Major.
Fundamentals of healthcare financial management and budgeting, including financial organization of healthcare services, sources of operating revenues, management of working capital, and allocation, control, and analysis of resources.
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Focuses on case and outcomes management application to clinical practice. The case management and outcomes management processes, barriers, utilization review, legal and financial aspects of each and evidence-based healthcare will be explored.
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Recommended Preparation: Completion of all courses in Preparation for the Major; Recommended: Prior completion of: HSC 410; HCA 402; HCA 403; HCA 405
Development of planning strategies in healthcare organizations. Examination of planning methods from needs assessment through program design. Emphasis on strategic planning strategies.
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Recommended Preparation: Completion of all courses in Preparation for the Major; Recommended: Prior completion of: HCA 407
Introduction to contemporary marketing theory, strategies, and implementation processes in healthcare organizations. Focus on identification of market opportunity, communication, planning and promotion, pricing decision-making, and development of distribution channels and service designs. Emphasis on community and not-for-profit marketing concepts.
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An introduction to the impact that individuals, groups, and structure have on behavior within organizations for the purpose of applying such knowledge toward improving an organizations effectiveness. The course will focus on work-related behavior with an emphasis on individual and group performance as it relates to organizational productivity and processes. A central theme will be the development of “people” skills to help all employees- staff, front-line supervision, and management- improve their effectiveness.
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Recommended: Prior completion of: all Coursework in Preparation for the Major.
Consideration of healthcare policy and politics. Consideration of the role of federal, state and local government healthcare public policy impact on health services.
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Recommended: Prior completion of: all Coursework in Preparation for the Major.
Examination of factors that impact global health systems; analysis of health care delivery systems and influential governmental, economic, social and political forces. Consideration of healthcare resource development and allocation.
Choose ONE of the following three
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Prerequisite: HSC 300; HSC 310; HTM 310; HCA 400; HCA 401; HCA 402; HCA 403; HSC 430; HCA 405; HCA 407; HCA 409; HCA 425; HCA 450; ODV 420
Practical application of the knowledge and skills required for a healthcare administration professional in a healthcare agency. Students will be assigned to agencies according to their interests and the availability of an approved internship site. Two-month requirement. Grading is by S/U only. Course is eligible for In Progress (IP) grade.
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Prerequisite: Completion of the major requirements
This two-month capstone project undertaken by allied health students when they have completed the core courses in the program provides an opportunity for the student to complete the outcomes management project proposal developed in HSC 430. Results will be reported orally and in written form. Students will also design and participate in a collaborative service learning experience in a community, ambulatory, home or health care setting. Students will complete the portfolio of their work from core courses and revise as needed to create an impressive final portfolio that can be used. Grading is H, S, or U only.
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Exploration of the healthcare system and public health issues facing global communities. Tour location and experience the healthcare, economic, political, legal, and cultural environment of a host country. Development of thorough knowledge of global public health through combination of pre-departure study, on-site lectures and presentations by host country experts and healthcare leaders,post-tour analysis and reflection.
*This internship course is only available to students who reside in California.
Hear From Our Students
Degree and Course Requirements
To receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Administration, students must complete at least 180 quarter units as articulated below, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper division level, and a minimum 69 units of the University General Education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, additional general electives may be necessary to satisfy total units for the degree. The following courses are specific degree requirements. Refer to the section on undergraduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation. All students receiving an undergraduate degree in Nevada are required by State Law to complete a course in Nevada Constitution.
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A BS in Healthcare Administration can open doors in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, social assistance, finance and insurance, professional, scientific, and technical services, educational services, manufacturing, and public administration.
Employers in this field are looking for skills in management, communications, leadership, operations, planning, coordinating, problem solving, customer service, business administration, and research. By earning your BS in Healthcare Administration from National University, you will be prepared to seek roles in the healthcare field such as:
- Practice Managers
- Area Supervisors
- Executive Directors
- Practice Administrators
- Revenue Cycle Managers
- Nurse Care Managers
- Project Managers
- Clinic Managers
- Revenue Cycle Consultants
- Revenue Cycle Management Specialists
- Program Coordinators
- Directors of Nursing
- Health Services Administrators
- Office Managers
- Medical Office Managers
- Audit and Reimbursement Leads
- Directors of Operations
- Patient Access Managers
- Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professionals
- LTSS Service Coordinators
SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: April 22, 2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.
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National University offers courses both online and on-site, so you can study when and where it’s most convenient for you. By taking one course each month, you’re able to focus on one subject at a time. You’ll also be learning from practitioners in the field who’ll share their real-world insights from their on-the-job experiences.
At NU, you’ll never have to feel alone in your studies. You’ll have the support of your professors, faculty, staff, and a number of student services – from the writing center to the Veteran’s center, available from day one through graduation, and even beyond as you pursue your future in healthcare administration.
Our admissions team reviews applications year-round, so you can begin your studies as soon as next month. We offer a number of grants and scholarships, and as a military-friendly Yellow Ribbon school, active-duty servicemembers and their immediate family members have access to tuition discounts.
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A BS in Healthcare Administration can prepare you for a career in one of the largest industries in the nation. Skilled healthcare workers are always in demand. And on top of that, healthcare administration professionals are in demand and often command high salaries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 32% by 2030, which is much faster than other occupations, and their median annual wage for was $101,340 in May 2021.*
National University’s industry-current curriculum and market-relevant capstone experiences are designed to help you prepare for an important, in-demand career in:
- Hospitals
- Local, state, federal government
- Private and public health centers
- Health/dental/eye insurance companies
- Urgent care facilities
- Elderly care facilities
- Physician clinics
*Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm
Program Learning Outcomes
- Differentiate the roles and perspectives of clinical practitioners, nonclinical staff, supervisors, and managers within healthcare organizations
- Describe the management, leadership, and healthcare theories and components of the healthcare delivery system in the United States
- Evaluate the impact of factors that affect the policies, management, and operation of healthcare organizations
- Analyze quantitative and qualitative healthcare data and information for effective decision making
- Explain the legal and ethical principles and responsibilities of healthcare organizations to individual patient and community healthcare needs
- Design an analytic strategy to frame a potential issue and solution relevant to the community and stakeholders
- Explain strategic and marketing priorities of healthcare organizations in relationship to the needs and values of a community
Hear From Our Faculty
Watch our video to learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program from Dr. Tyler Smith, Program Director for Public Health.
“The goals of the program are to bring you from someone who is just entering the discipline to someone who can lead teams and manage large organizations in the healthcare setting.”
– Tyler C Smith, MS, PhD, Professor and Chair, Department of Health Leadership, School of Health Professions
Admissions
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
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Why Choose National University
- Four-Week Courses
- 190+ Degree Programs
- Online or On-Site
- Year-Round Enrollment
- Military Friendly
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 230,000 alumni worldwide.
“My favorite part of the program was the internship course at the end. The support, interaction, and collaborative working teams helped stretch my knowledge and mentor others just as I have been mentored throughout my career.”
-Brandon Hauk-Ramirez, Class of 2022
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Frequently Asked Questions
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A bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration provides the educational background needed to pursue a career in healthcare management. You’ll receive the training, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills to be successful in your future job, which may include strategic planning for healthcare organizations, human resources recruiting, and promoting healthcare organizations through marketing.
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Yes, if you’re interested in a meaningful and rewarding career that also challenges you, healthcare administration is an excellent choice.
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Yes. The time commitment to earn this degree is two to three years, which isn’t long when you consider this degree will open doors to desirable jobs, give you a competitive edge in the job market, and potentially boost your salary.
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A bachelor’s in healthcare administration typically requires 180 quarter units and takes four years to complete, though many online options offer an accelerated curriculum for students who want to graduate in under four years.
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Begin your path to a career in healthcare administration by first completing a bachelor’s degree. Participate in capstones and the capstone project to gain hands-on, applicable skills and the experience needed to prepare for the job you want. During this time, you can also network, make connections, work with your faculty mentor, and work on a resume with the help of NU’s Career Center, along with a list of references as you intern.
The Key Grant Scholarship
Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
Additional Disclosure
*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program-specific . Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.