Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Laura Martinez
Start your journey to healthcare leadership with an Associate’s in Healthcare Management—build essential skills for a fulfilling career in healthcare administration.
Health Care Management involves administering and coordinating healthcare services, ensuring the efficient delivery of quality patient care. Pursuing an online healthcare management associate’s degree equips students with foundational knowledge in healthcare administration, preparing them for various roles within the healthcare industry. They learn about various aspects of healthcare, including healthcare ethics, finance, human resources management, and healthcare information systems. On completing an online healthcare management associate degree, students are well-prepared for seamless transitions to bachelor’s programs at various colleges and universities. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the employment outlook for Health Care Management professionals is promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to experience a steady growth in employment opportunities, with a projected increase of 28 percent from 2022 to 2032 [1].
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Find the Best Associate’s in Healthcare Management Programs
Finding the best online associate programs in health care management can be challenging. Students must check faculty quality, student support services, available funding, accreditation, and program flexibility. Researching each school thoroughly is crucial to ensure a rewarding educational experience and successful career advancement in the dynamic field of healthcare management. The teams at FBD have meticulously researched the best programs using a proprietary methodology and prepared a list of colleges offering the best online healthcare management associates:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Cincinnati | 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221 | $13,224 | 72% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Associate’s in Healthcare Management Program
Associate degrees in healthcare management are typically two-year programs, providing foundational knowledge in healthcare administration. These programs, requiring around 60 semester or 90 quarter credit hours, aim to prepare students for seamless transitions into four-year healthcare management or administration degrees. The curriculum covers essential aspects of healthcare management, including ethics, finance, human resources, and information systems. These programs cater to diverse schedules, whether delivered online, offline, or through hybrid modes. Most institutions offer hands-on experiences, internships, and on-site learning opportunities from the first semester. Upon completing associate degrees in healthcare management, graduates can take up various roles within healthcare administration, including administrative assistant in healthcare, patient services coordinator, health information technician, medical office assistant, quality improvement assistant, healthcare customer service representative, and so on.
Curriculum and Coursework
An associate degree in healthcare management provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of managing healthcare services. This two-year program equips students with essential knowledge in healthcare administration, organizational leadership, and healthcare policies. The curriculum is structured to facilitate seamless credit transfer to four-year healthcare management or administration programs and offers a deep understanding of various aspects of the healthcare field. The coursework is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of key concepts and skills relevant to managing and administrating healthcare services. While specific courses may vary among institutions, a typical healthcare management associate degree curriculum includes a combination of general education courses, core healthcare management courses, and electives. Here is an overview of the common subjects covered in the program:
Introduction to Healthcare Management:
This course provides foundational knowledge on healthcare systems, organizational structures, and management principles. Students learn about healthcare policies, ethics, and the role of managers in healthcare settings. This course lays the groundwork for understanding the complexities of managing healthcare organizations effectively.
Healthcare Finance
This course explores the financial aspects of healthcare systems, including budgeting, reimbursement methods, and healthcare economics. Students learn to analyze financial statements, understand billing processes, and navigate insurance systems. This course equips future healthcare managers with essential skills to optimize financial resources and ensure the sustainability of healthcare organizations.
Human Resources in Healthcare
This course explores the unique challenges and practices of managing personnel in healthcare settings. Topics include recruitment, training, compliance with regulations, and addressing workforce issues specific to healthcare, such as staffing shortages and employee burnout. This course prepares students to effectively manage and support healthcare professionals, ensuring quality patient care and organizational success.
Healthcare Ethics and Compliance
This course explores ethical dilemmas and legal obligations within healthcare settings. Students examine principles of medical ethics, patient rights, and confidentiality. Additionally, they learn about compliance regulations, such as HIPAA, and how to ensure organizational adherence. This course equips future healthcare managers with the knowledge to navigate complex ethical and legal issues while upholding patient care standards.
Health Information Systems
This course explores the utilization of technology to manage healthcare data effectively. Students learn about electronic health records (EHRs), data security, and interoperability standards. They also explore the role of information systems in improving patient care, streamlining operations, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This course prepares students to leverage technology for efficient healthcare management and decision-making.
A few more common courses that students find across healthcare management associate programs include:
- Medical Terminology
- Cultural Competency in Technology
- Health Law and Regulations
- Healthcare Marketing and Communication
- Managed Care and Health Insurance
- Introduction to Public Health
- Healthcare Administration Internship
- Quality Improvement in Healthcare
- Medical Office Management
- Healthcare Economics
- Introduction to Epidemiology
- Ethical Issues in Healthcare
- Risk Management in Healthcare
- Healthcare Customer Service
To understand the associate’s program, refer to the Guide to Associate’s Degree.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
An associate degree healthcare management is an entry point into the healthcare industry, enabling individuals to secure entry-level positions in healthcare administration and management. The foundational knowledge acquired prepares individuals to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. This adaptability is crucial as the industry changes technology, regulations, and healthcare delivery models.
The program is designed to equip students with a range of skills and knowledge essential for success in healthcare management, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the demands of the healthcare industry. By the end of the program, an online associate degree healthcare management student will demonstrate the ability to:
- identify and apply foundational principles of healthcare management, gaining insights into the organizational structures and management practices specific to healthcare settings;
- analyze various data relevant to healthcare management, including financial data, patient records, and operational metrics, fostering the ability to make informed decisions;
- utilize suitable methodologies and technologies specific to healthcare management, ensuring proficiency in healthcare information systems and other technological tools;
- recognize and apply interdisciplinary methods to examine and solve complex problems within the healthcare industry, emphasizing a holistic approach to healthcare management;
- apply quantitative reasoning and scientific knowledge to solve problems in healthcare management, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based decision-making;
- interpret data relevant to healthcare management from various sources, including patient records, published resources, and digital media, enhancing the ability to make informed decisions;
- make analytical observations in both field and laboratory settings, developing practical skills that are directly applicable to the challenges encountered in healthcare management;
- discuss the intricate relationship between the healthcare environment, societal factors, and the broader healthcare system, fostering an understanding of the broader impact of healthcare decisions.
Types of Degrees Healthcare Management Students Can Obtain
An online healthcare management associate’s degree provides various degree options, each offering a different level of education and specialization, including an Associate of Arts in healthcare management, an Associate of Science in healthcare management, and an Associate of applied science in healthcare management.
Associate of Science in Healthcare Management
This two-year degree program equips students with foundational knowledge in healthcare management. Coursework includes principles of administration, healthcare ethics, and basic financial management. Geared towards entry-level positions, graduates are well-prepared for administrative roles within diverse healthcare settings.
Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Management
Focusing on managing health information systems, this degree program prepares students for specific roles in medical coding, health information technology, and data management within healthcare organizations. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills and technological proficiency relevant to the healthcare information landscape.
Associate of Arts in Healthcare Management
These degrees provide a comprehensive perspective on health administration, covering various topics such as organizational behavior, healthcare policy, and leadership skills. Graduates from Associate of Arts programs are prepared for various entry-level positions in healthcare administration, offering a well-rounded education in the healthcare industry’s managerial and human aspects.
Areas of Specialization for Healthcare Management Students
Specializations in education allow students to delve deeper into specific subjects, honing their expertise and skills. Students gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience relevant to their career goals by focusing on their studies. Specializations also provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, hands-on learning, and preparing students for success in their chosen fields. Essentially, they tailor education to individual interests and aspirations, enhancing learning outcomes and professional prospects. Many of the healthcare management associate degree programs offer concentrations such as :
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Information Management | This specialization explores the strategic and meticulous management of health information systems within the complex landscape of healthcare settings. This area of study significantly emphasizes the proficient handling of electronic health records (EHRs) and the strategic utilization of health data analytics to derive meaningful insights. | Various roles as Health Information Manager, Medical Records Supervisor, Health Data Analyst, Health Information Technician, Health Informatics Specialist etc. |
| Healthcare Finance | This specialization gives students a comprehensive understanding of financial management principles tailored to the dynamics and intricacies of the healthcare industry. Healthcare Finance encompasses various financial planning, budgeting, and accounting aspects within healthcare organizations. | Various roles as Healthcare Financial Analyst, Hospital Finance Manager, Revenue Cycle Manager, Healthcare Auditor, Health Economics Specialist, etc. |
| Healthcare Administration | This specialization is a comprehensive and strategic program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the multifaceted world of healthcare leadership. This specialized area of study delves into the broad aspects of healthcare administration, covering organizational behavior, policy implementation, and strategic planning within healthcare settings. | Various occupations include Healthcare Administrator, Hospital Executive, Clinic Manager, Health Services Manager, Healthcare Consultant etc. |
| Healthcare Ethics and Compliance | This specialization is a nuanced and critical field of study within healthcare management that provides students with a deep understanding of the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks that shape decision-making and conduct within the healthcare industry. One primary focus is the exploration of ethical considerations in healthcare leadership. | Various occupations as Healthcare Ethics Officer, Compliance Specialist, Risk Management Analyst, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Healthcare Compliance Auditor, etc. |
| Human Resources in Healthcare | This specialization is a comprehensive program that focuses on human resource practices tailored to the unique context of healthcare organizations. This specialized study area equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage changes to the diverse healthcare industry workforce effectively. | Various occupations as Healthcare HR Manager, Recruitment Specialist, Employee Relations Coordinator, Training and Development Manager, Compensation Analyst, and more. |
| Health Information Systems | This specialization is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and optimize information systems within healthcare settings. This specialized study area focuses on leveraging technology to enhance patient care, streamline administrative processes, and facilitate data-driven decision-making in the healthcare industry. | Various occupations as Health IT Manager, Clinical Informatics Specialist, Health Information Systems Analyst, EHR Implementation Specialist, Health Data Integration Manager, and so on. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The associate in healthcare administration is a foundational program designed to seamlessly transfer into a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Typically requiring 60 semester or 90 quarter credit hours, this two-year program covers essential healthcare management concepts, including organizational behavior, ethics, and compliance. Students can choose from flexible study options, including full-time, part-time, and online formats, accommodating various schedules. The program’s adaptability ensures accessibility for working professionals and allows completion in 12 months or less for some institutions. Full-time students can complete the program within two years, while part-time students may take 3-4 years to fulfill the requirements.
Requirements for Getting into an Associate’s in Healthcare Management Program
Earning an online healthcare management associate’s degree is appealing due to its accessibility and the opportunity to pursue diverse career paths upon completion. Admission requirements for online healthcare management associate’s degree programs can vary across institutions. However, typical requirements for an online healthcare management associate degree include the following:
- completed application form along with the associated application fee
- prerequisite for entry is usually a high school diploma or its equivalent
- completion of the GED test or an equivalent qualification.
- minimum 2.5 GPA or more requirement for admission, with variations across institutions
- pre-college coursework in English, Math, and Science is often prescribed (Applicants not meeting this requirement may need to take additional courses as part of the curriculum)
- some colleges require ACT or SAT scores
- statement of purposes from applicants, outlining their motivations and goals
- International applicants may be required to meet specific English language proficiency standards.
How to Ensure an Associate’s in Healthcare Management Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that educational institutions meet quality standards set by accrediting agencies. For students, accredited programs assure a quality education recognized by employers and other institutions. Accreditation also facilitates credit transfer, eligibility for financial aid, and licensure or certification eligibility, enhancing students’ opportunities for career advancement and academic success.
The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) [2] focuses on accrediting healthcare management programs. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) [3] accredits business programs, including those offering healthcare management concentrations.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
For a deeper understanding of accreditation, please refer to the Guide to College Accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Associate’s in Healthcare Management Students
Free online courses offer accessible pathways for skill development and breaking financial barriers. While lacking formal accreditation, they provide valuable knowledge. They facilitate personal and professional growth, empowering learners with diverse expertise. These courses make education accessible, fostering continuous learning and adaptation in a dynamic world. Here are a few free Healthcare Management courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Leading Healthcare Quality and Safety [4] | This course is designed to equip healthcare practitioners and professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to champion patient safety and lead quality improvement initiatives at both micro and macro levels within healthcare practice. Participants explore the fundamental principles of healthcare quality, exploring the scientific foundations of patient safety and quality improvement. | Coursera |
| Health in Numbers: Quantitative Methods in Clinical & Public Health Research [5] | In this course, students analyze sample datasets using appropriate computer software to reinforce their understanding of the discussed methods. They will gain a robust understanding of these essential quantitative methods, establishing a solid foundation for further clinical and public health research studies. | Harvard University |
| Managing Health and Safety in Healthcare [6] | This comprehensive free online course provides participants with essential knowledge and skills in safety management practices tailored for healthcare settings. Students learn to manage occupational safety and health effectively, covering key aspects applicable to all healthcare environments. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for an Associate’s in Healthcare Management Degree
With tuition fees soaring yearly, students face challenges enrolling in online associate healthcare management degree programs. To ease this burden, exploring alternative financing options becomes essential. Seeking scholarships, grants, or tuition reimbursement programs can alleviate financial strain. Additionally, considering part-time employment or employer sponsorship may provide avenues for covering educational expenses without incurring excessive debt. Here are a few funding options for students, elaborated below:
Scholarships offer financial aid for students based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling access to education for diverse backgrounds. Scholarships foster talent, incentivize excellence, and promote equity in education. They empower individuals to pursue their aspirations and contribute to society’s advancement.
Grants for students provide financial assistance for education expenses, often based on financial need or specific criteria. Unlike loans, they don’t require repayment, easing the financial burden. Grants promote access to education, support diverse learners, and foster academic achievement. They play a crucial role in ensuring equal opportunities and societal advancement.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form for students seeking financial aid for college. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on financial need.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Associate’s in Healthcare Management Degree
After graduating with an associate in healthcare management, individuals can enter a field critical for the smooth operation of medical organizations. This career path offers a fulfilling and dynamic professional journey, emphasizing the importance of balancing compassion with strong leadership skills. Healthcare administrators are pivotal in ensuring efficient healthcare delivery, contributing significantly to the industry’s success. Here are some job roles that graduates of Healthcare Management associate’s degree can pursue:
- Hospital Administrator
- Nursing Home Administrator
- Clinical Manager
- Health Information Manager
- Pharmaceutical Industry Administrator
- Healthcare Technology Manager
- Consultant in Healthcare Administration
- Regulatory Affairs Manager (e.g., CDC, FDA)
- Insurance Claims Manager
- Public Health Administrator
- Rehabilitation Center Administrator
- Mental Health Facility Administrator
Some occupations are elaborated below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical and Health Services Managers [1] | Medical and Health Services Managers are tasked with planning, directing, and coordinating medical and health services. This may involve overseeing entire healthcare facilities, specific clinical areas, or medical practices catering to groups of physicians. | Analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, leadership skills, and technical skills. | $110,680 | 28% (much faster than average) |
| Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars [7] | Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars play a pivotal role in healthcare organizations, providing expertise in computerized healthcare systems and the analysis of clinical data. Their responsibilities span the entire lifecycle of healthcare systems, from determining requirements to evaluating and supporting system implementations. | Analytical skills, detail-oriented, integrity, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills. | $62,990 | 16% (much faster than average) |
| Public Health Social Worker [8] | Public Health Social Workers are crucial in addressing the diverse needs of individuals, groups, and communities within a public health context. These professionals are dedicated to preventing and coping with challenges that impact people’s lives, particularly in fostering overall community well-being. | Communication, compassion, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills. | $55,350 | 7% (faster than average) |
| Health Human Resource Managers [9] | Health Human Resource Managers are crucial in planning, coordinating, and directing administrative functions within healthcare organizations. Their primary responsibilities include overseeing the workforce, linking organizational management with employees, and strategically planning human resources initiatives. This role is a vital link between top executives and the broader employee base. | Communication, decision-making, interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills. | $136,350 | 5% (faster than average) |
| Health Education Specialists [10] | Health Education Specialists play a pivotal role in promoting wellness and improving the well-being of individuals and communities through educational initiatives. In healthcare facilities, these specialists work closely with patients and their families, providing one-on-one education on diagnoses, treatment options, and overall health management. | Analytical, communication, instructional, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. | $59,990 | 7% (faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Associate’s in Healthcare Management Graduates
Certifications and licensing can bolster the credentials of online associate students in Healthcare Management, enhancing their employability and career prospects. While not always mandatory for entry-level positions, obtaining relevant certifications demonstrates expertise and commitment to the field. Additionally, certain roles may require specific certifications for eligibility, making them essential for career advancement in healthcare administration. Here are a few professional certifications that an online Healthcare Management associate degree student can pursue:
Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) [11]
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) certification is a highly esteemed credential that showcases an individual’s expertise in healthcare quality management. Administered by the Healthcare Quality Certification Commission (HQCC), the CPHQ certification symbolizes a commitment to upholding and enhancing the quality of healthcare services.
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) [12]
The Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) certification is a specialized credential designed for finance professionals seeking to excel in the complex healthcare industry. Administered by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), the CHFP certification signifies a comprehensive understanding of financial management principles tailored to healthcare settings.
Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®)[13]
The Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®) certification is a specialized credential designed for professionals to ensure healthcare information’s privacy and security. Offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the CHPS® certification is particularly relevant in the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare information management.
Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) [14]
The Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) designation is a prestigious certification offered by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) for professionals dedicated to ensuring compliance within the healthcare industry. Designed to validate expertise in healthcare compliance, the CHC certification is highly regarded and demonstrates a commitment to upholding ethical standards and regulatory requirements.
Additional Resources for Associate’s in Healthcare Management Graduates
For students pursuing an online associate’s in healthcare management or recent graduates, joining a professional organization can be highly beneficial. These associations provide access to job boards, articles, forums, and extensive networking opportunities within the healthcare administration field. Such resources can enhance career prospects, provide valuable insights, and foster connections crucial for professional growth and development. Here are a few resources that students with an associate degree in Healthcare Management online could be associated with:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American College of Healthcare Executives | The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) is a distinguished professional organization advancing healthcare leadership and management excellence. With a focus on developing, educating, and supporting individuals in the healthcare sector, ACHE has established itself as a premier association for healthcare executives in the United States. |
| Health Care Administrators Association | The Health Care Administrators Association (HCAA) is a top-notch nonprofit group supporting various professionals in the healthcare field, including benefit administrators, insurance carriers, audit firms, technology organizations, and more. With a history spanning over 40 years, HCAA has been a key player in reshaping the self-funding industry, making it an essential option in the U.S. healthcare system. |
| Healthcare Financial Management Association | The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) is a prominent professional organization focused on advancing healthcare’s financial management. At its core, HFMA is dedicated to providing comprehensive resources, education, and support to individuals engaged in healthcare financial management, offering a valuable platform for professional development and industry collaboration. |
| Medical Group Management Association | The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) is a preeminent professional association dedicated to advancing the field of medical practice management. Committed to empowering medical group practices and facilitating meaningful change in healthcare, MGMA provides a vital platform for administrators, executives, and healthcare leaders. |
| American Health Information Management Association | The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is a leading professional association dedicated to advancing the field of health information management (HIM). Membership in AHIMA spans diverse healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics, reflecting the association’s broad influence in the industry. |
FAQs About Associate’s in Healthcare Management Programs
How do I understand if an associate’s Healthcare Management program is for me?
Determining if an associate’s Healthcare Management program suits an individual involves carefully evaluating their interests, career goals, and offerings. An individual should begin by exploring the curriculum to ensure it aligns with their professional aspirations in healthcare administration. Consider the courses offered, such as healthcare policy, organizational management, and medical ethics, to gauge their relevance to personal interests.
How long does completing the online associate’s degree in Healthcare Management take?
Are there accelerated online Healthcare Management associate degrees?
What can you do with an online Healthcare Management associate’s degree?
Is an associate’s degree in Healthcare Management online worth it?
Is the associate’s degree in Healthcare Management readily available online?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Medical and Health Services Managers
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Leading Healthcare Quality and Safety-Coursera
Health in Numbers: Quantitative Methods in Clinical & Public Health Research-Harvard University
Managing Health and Safety in Healthcare-Alison
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Health Human Resource Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Public Health Social Worker
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Health Education Specialists
Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)
Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®)
Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC)
American College of Healthcare Executives
Health Care Administrators Association
Healthcare Financial Management Association
Medical Group Management Association