Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Clark
A Healthcare Administration Associate Degree provides an understanding of the healthcare industry, management, and business. Graduates can handle administrative tasks in various healthcare settings.
An associate degree in healthcare administration is an undergraduate program that prepares students for a healthcare management and administration career. Throughout the program, they engage in coursework and hands-on experiences that cover a wide range of topics, such as healthcare policies and laws, healthcare finance, human resource management, healthcare information systems, and healthcare delivery systems. They also learn to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world situations faced by healthcare professionals. The healthcare administration associate degree is designed to prepare candidates for entry-level positions in healthcare administration, such as medical office manager, healthcare services manager, medical records manager, and health information technician. Graduates of the program can work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, and government agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of healthcare administration services managers [1] is projected to grow 28 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
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Find the Best Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs
Numerous colleges nationwide offer associate programs in Healthcare Administration, making the selection process overwhelming. Nevertheless, the FBD Team meticulously assessed each program, considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, flexibility, technology, resources, and student support services. Through our Ranking Methodology, individuals can confidently choose the best healthcare administration associates degree:
| Univ | Address |
| Cambridge College | 500 Rutherford Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02129 |
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 Healthcare Administration Associate Degree
An online associate’s degree healthcare administration program is a flexible and convenient option for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare management. The program typically requires them to complete 60 credit hours, which can be completed entirely online, on-campus, or through a hybrid mode of delivery. Online programs offer the same curriculum and coursework as on-campus programs but with the added benefit of completing the coursework on their schedule. Depending on the program and the individual’s schedule, the program can be completed in two years or less. The curriculum may include courses in healthcare ethics, medical terminology, healthcare law and regulations, healthcare management, healthcare finance, and healthcare information systems. Candidates may be required to complete an internship or a capstone project to gain practical experience in the field. Some programs may also offer virtual simulations and case studies to provide hands-on experience. Graduates of an associate program in healthcare administration may be eligible for entry-level positions in healthcare management and administration.
Curriculum and Coursework
The Associate Program in Healthcare Administration curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education in healthcare management, finance, ethics, and information technology. In addition to core courses, they may have the opportunity to take electives that align with their career goals and interests. Core courses in this program may include Healthcare Systems and Policies, Medical Terminology, Management Principles, Finance, Ethics, Information Technology, Marketing, Operations Management, Human Resources Management, and much more. These courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the critical areas of healthcare administration. Individuals may also be able to participate in capstone projects, fieldwork, internships, or thesis requirements. These experiences can provide them with hands-on learning opportunities and real-world experience in the healthcare industry.
Here are brief descriptions of courses that candidates may encounter in an associate degree in healthcare administration:
Foundations in Healthcare Management
The course centers on healthcare delivery matters and methods relevant to various healthcare fields. Its content comprises the healthcare delivery system, health and illness concepts, medical terminology, interpersonal communication, roles of healthcare providers such as doctors, nurses, and support staff, patient assessment, critical thinking concerning patient care, infection control, and adherence to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
Computer Applications in Healthcare Organizations
This course equips students with the knowledge to comprehend the design, evaluation, selection, and implementation of computer applications in healthcare to facilitate top-tier patient care and informed management decisions. Additionally, it emphasizes managers’ ethical and legal obligations in collecting, storing, retrieving, and analyzing health information amidst the rising integration of computer applications in healthcare.
Management of Healthcare Delivery Systems
The course covers the structure and organization of the current healthcare system and potential pathways to the developing system. By merging theoretical concepts with practical experiences, students gain insight into the healthcare work environment and learn to be proficient, ethical providers, decision-makers, analysts, and managers.
Quality & Patient Safety in Healthcare
This course introduces the principles of quality and patient safety and their application, equipping students with the tools and skills to apply them in their work settings. Through this course, they can learn to analyze problems from a fresh perspective, participate in team-based problem-solving, identify potential issues, analyze risk management incidents, and recognize the methodologies employed to uphold and enhance quality and safety in healthcare.
Legal Aspects of Healthcare
Healthcare professionals make daily decisions influenced by legal principles, which may lead to legal implications. As the law continually evolves, students in healthcare management need a fundamental understanding of how it pertains to their scope of duties. This course imparts practical knowledge of health law, including contract law, torts, and malpractice, as well as the primary federal and state regulations and diverse healthcare topics. Such knowledge equips them to handle everyday legal and practical issues confronting the healthcare industry.
Some additional courses under the associate’s degree in healthcare administration include:
- Medical Terminology
- Healthcare Ethics and Law
- Health Information Management
- Healthcare Finance
- Healthcare Quality Management
- Healthcare Marketing
- Healthcare Economics
- Healthcare Policy and Regulation
- Human Resources Management in Healthcare
- Healthcare Operations Management
- Healthcare Information Systems
- Introduction to Public Health
- Healthcare Leadership and Management
- Professional Communication in Healthcare
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Students pursuing a healthcare administration associate’s degree program gain valuable learning outcomes and skills that employers in the healthcare industry highly seek. This program is designed to provide them with a solid foundation in healthcare management principles and practices and the ability to apply them to real-world situations. Here are some of the learning outcomes and skills that candidates can expect to gain from pursuing an associate in healthcare administration program, including the ability to:
- demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the organization and structure of healthcare systems, including the roles of healthcare professionals and support staff, as well as the delivery of healthcare services;
- demonstrate usage of computer applications to support high-quality patient care, management decisions, and administrative and financial management;
- demonstrate understanding of quality and patient safety principles in healthcare, including how to analyze problems, experience team problem-solving, recognize potential issues, and identify methodologies to maintain and improve quality and safety in healthcare;
- demonstrate a basic knowledge of health law, including contract law, torts, malpractice, and critical federal and state regulations;
- demonstrate practical communication skills, including communicating technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Types of Degrees Healthcare Administration Students Can Obtain
The healthcare administration associates program prepares individuals to manage healthcare systems effectively and efficiently. Students can obtain different types of associate’s degrees in healthcare administration. These degrees offer them different paths to developing their skills and knowledge in the field and preparing them for other careers.
Associate of Science in Health Administration Services (ASHAS)
The Associate of Science in Health Administration Services (ASHAS) degree program focuses on healthcare administration’s technical and scientific aspects. It gives students a strong healthcare management, informatics, finance, and law foundation. This degree is designed for those pursuing healthcare administration, management, or information technology careers.
The Associate of Arts in Health Administration Services (AAHAS)
The Associate of Arts in Health Administration Services (AAHAS) degree program focuses on the social and human aspects of healthcare administration. It gives students a strong foundation in healthcare ethics, communication, policy, and management. This degree is designed for those pursuing healthcare administration, management, or advocacy careers.
Areas of Specialization for Healthcare Administration Students
The associate’s degree in healthcare administration students typically do not specialize in a particular area at the associate level. Instead, the focus is on building a foundational understanding of healthcare administration principles and practices. This degree program covers various topics, including healthcare law and ethics, healthcare finance, medical terminology, healthcare informatics, and healthcare operations management. Those who wish to specialize in a particular area of healthcare administration typically need to pursue a master’s degree or higher.
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
When it comes to pursuing an associate’s degree in healthcare administration, students have the option of enrolling in either full-time or part-time programs. Full-time programs typically take two years to complete, while part-time programs may take longer, depending on the individual’s schedule and pace. Full-time programs are designed for those who can commit to attending classes full-time. They provide a more structured learning environment, with classes held during the day. Individuals typically take four to five courses per semester. Full-time programs are ideal for those looking to complete their degrees quickly and enter the workforce as soon as possible. On the other hand, part-time programs are designed for candidates with work or family commitments that prevent them from attending classes full-time. These programs offer more flexibility, with classes held during evenings and weekends, allowing them to balance their education with other responsibilities. Part-time programs may take longer to complete, but they allow for spreading their coursework over a more extended period, making it easier to manage their workload.
Admission Requirements for a Healthcare Administration Associate Degree
It is crucial to be aware of the admission requirements that need to be fulfilled when considering pursuing an Associate’s degree in Healthcare Administration. Although admission requirements for healthcare administration Associate’s degree programs can vary from school to school, there are standard criteria that applicants should meet to be considered for admission. Typical admission requirements for a healthcare administration associates degree program may include the following:
- High school diploma or equivalent
To be eligible for admission, students must have a high school diploma or an equivalent credential, such as a GED. - Minimum GPA
Many programs require individuals to have a minimum GPA, typically 2.0 or higher, to be considered for admission. - College readiness assessment
Students may need to take a college readiness assessment, such as the ACT or SAT, to demonstrate their readiness for college-level coursework. - Prerequisite courses
Some programs may require applicants to complete prerequisite English, math, and science courses. - Application materials
Students must submit an application that typically includes transcripts, test scores, and an application fee. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, personal statements, or interviews. - Health and background checks
Some programs may require candidates to undergo health and background checks before admittance.
How to Ensure a Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Is Accredited
When looking for an associate degree in healthcare administration, it’s essential to ensure that the program is accredited. Programmatic accreditation is specific to a particular program and evaluates the program’s quality and curriculum. The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) [2] is the primary accrediting body for Healthcare Administration programs in the United States.
Some regional bodies may accredit specific programs, including
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) [3]
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) [4]
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC) [5]
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) [6]
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) [7]
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) [8]
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) [9]
One can use the guide to college accreditation if they have other doubts about this process.
Where to Find Free Courses For Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Students
Free healthcare administration courses offer numerous benefits, including accessibility to valuable knowledge without financial barriers, enabling individuals to explore the field and develop essential skills. These courses often provide insights into healthcare management principles, regulations, and industry trends, empowering learners to advance their careers or transition into healthcare administration roles. Additionally, free courses facilitate lifelong learning and professional development, allowing them to stay updated with evolving practices and technologies in the healthcare sector, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare delivery and organizational efficiency. Some free healthcare administration courses candidates can look up include:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Problem Solving [10] | The course introduces commonly used quality tools for addressing everyday problems and challenges in healthcare. Its main objective is to establish a shared knowledge base for healthcare professionals, irrespective of their specific roles. The course is equally relevant for all healthcare professionals and does not require prior experience in problem-solving skills. It takes learners through a logical flow of analyzing and solving various challenges they may encounter daily, facilitating a seamless learning experience. | Udemy |
| An Introduction to Innovation in Healthcare [11] | An Introduction to Innovation in Healthcare” is a free online course FutureLearn offers. The course explores the latest healthcare innovations and trends, including using technology and data to improve patient outcomes. Participants will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare industry and learn about the role of innovation in driving positive change. | Future Learn |
| Analytics in Healthcare Management and Administration [12] | The course offers learners the opportunity to discover how business analytics can enhance the performance of healthcare organizations and ways to identify and address issues that impact patient care. It covers topics such as the components of care continuity, strategies to achieve continuity, and characteristics of patient-centeredness. Additionally, it reviews the structure and value of randomized controlled trials and the importance of decision-making at an individual level. | Coursera |
| Health Information Systems to Improve Quality of Care in Resource-Poor Settings [13] | The “Health Information Systems to Improve Quality of Care in Resource-Poor Settings” course on MIT OpenCourseWare is designed to introduce students to the importance of Health Information Systems (HIS) in improving the quality of healthcare services in resource-poor settings. The course covers the design and implementation of HIS, using data for decision-making, and evaluating HIS effectiveness. It also includes case studies and examples from real-world deployments of HIS in low-income settings. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
Ways to Pay for a Healthcare Administration Associate Degree
Paying for a Healthcare Administration associate degree can present significant challenges due to various financial constraints. Firstly, tuition, fees, textbooks, and other educational expenses can be substantial, especially for students from low-income backgrounds or those supporting families. Additionally, many pursuing this degree may already be working full-time or part-time jobs to make ends meet, leaving limited time and resources for education-related expenses. Therefore, in such cases, paying for a healthcare administration associate degree can be achieved through various means:
Scholarships
Scholarships are another valuable resource for funding education, as they do not require repayment. Students pursuing a Healthcare Administration associate degree should seek scholarships tailored to their field. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement, leadership abilities, community involvement, or other specific criteria set by organizations, institutions, or professional associations. By applying for scholarships, they can offset tuition costs and reduce the financial burden of earning their degree.
Grants
Grants provide financial assistance that does not require repayment, making them an attractive option for funding education. Students can seek out grants tailored to healthcare administration that are often awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or other criteria. These grants may be offered by federal or state governments, as well as by colleges, universities, or private organizations.
Federal Financial Aid
Individuals need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Federal aid can help cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Employer Assistance
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees pursuing further education related to their field. Candidates can check with their employer to see if they provide financial support for their education.
Work-Study Programs
Applicants can explore work-study opportunities on campus or within the healthcare industry. These programs allow them to work part-time while studying, providing income to help cover educational expenses.
Student Loans
Individuals can consider taking out student loans to cover remaining educational costs as a last resort. They need to research loan options carefully and understand terms, interest rates, and repayment plans to make informed borrowing decisions. Some donors help pay for such loans.
Career Opportunities and Salaries for Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Graduates
Upon graduating with an Associate’s degree in Healthcare Administration, students can expect to find career opportunities in various work settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, physician offices, and insurance companies. Some job titles available to graduates include medical records clerk, healthcare billing specialist, patient services representative, and healthcare office manager.
Some roles that candidates of healthcare administration associate’s degree can pursue include:
- Medical Office Manager
- Healthcare Administrative Assistant
- Health Information Technician
- Patient Services Coordinator
- Billing Coordinator
- Healthcare Compliance Officer
- Admissions Coordinator
- Medical Records Coordinator
- Health Services Manager
- Practice Administrator
- Clinic Coordinator
- Insurance Coordinator
- Medical Secretary
- Healthcare Quality Improvement Coordinator
- Patient Experience Coordinator
Some of these occupations are highlighted below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars [14] | Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars organize, manage, and secure patient health information. They ensure medical records’ accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality, manage electronic health records (EHR) systems and comply with regulatory and legal requirements. They also code and categorize patient information for insurance and billing purposes and work with medical staff to ensure timely and accurate record-keeping. These roles require knowledge of medical terminology, EHR systems, and data management skills. | Analytical Skills, Technical Skills, Communication Skills, Knowledge of Medical Terminology | $62,990 | 16% (much faster than average) |
| Medical Records Coding Manager [15] | A medical records coding manager oversees the coding and classification of medical diagnoses and procedures for proper billing and record-keeping. They ensure coding procedures comply with legal and industry standards and may be responsible for training coding staff on best practices. In addition, they work with medical providers to resolve coding discrepancies and communicate with insurance companies to ensure timely and accurate reimbursements. The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of coding systems and medical terminology. | Analytical skills, Attention to detail, and Knowledge of Coding systems and medical terminology. | $88,136 | 11% (as fast as average) |
| Medical and Health Service Managers [16] | Medical and health services managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing the delivery of healthcare services in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. They manage financial and personnel resources, develop and implement policies, and ensure compliance with regulations and standards. They work with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care and improve efficiency. | Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. | $110,680 | 28% (much faster than average) |
| Medical Administrative Assistant [17] | Medical administrative assistants support medical professionals, schedule appointments, manage patient records, answer phones, and maintain medical files. They require excellent communication and organizational skills, proficiency in medical terminology, computer literacy, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. | Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, Organizational and Time-management abilities, | $44,330 | 8% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Graduates
Certifications and licensing for healthcare administration require a certain level of education and work experience to ensure that professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field. While a healthcare administration associate degree can provide foundational knowledge, it may not be enough to meet the requirements for certification or licensing. Higher-level programs, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, may be necessary to meet these requirements. Additionally, specific certifications and licenses may be more applicable to professionals with more advanced degrees and experience.
Additional Resources for Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Graduates
For healthcare administration associate degree students, various resources can assist in furthering their graduate studies. These resources can be accessed outside of the traditional curriculum by joining and following different organizations related to healthcare administration. Here are some resources that may be useful:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) [18] | The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) has been focused on advancing leaders and the field of healthcare leadership excellence for over 85 years. With a commitment to integrity, lifelong learning, leadership, diversity, and inclusion, ACHE is the professional home to over 48,000 healthcare executives. Members can access networking, education, and career development opportunities at the local level through an established network of 76 chapters. |
| National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) [19] | The National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM) is a professional organization serving individuals in healthcare access management. Their mission is to promote best practices, standards, and professionalism in patient access services, including registration, scheduling, admissions, and other related functions. NAHAM provides education, certification, networking, and advocacy opportunities to its members, helping them to enhance patient experiences, improve revenue cycles, and support the overall success of healthcare organizations. |
| American Public Health Association [20] | The American Public Health Association (APHA) is a non-profit organization that promotes and protects public health. Its mission is to improve the health of individuals and communities by advocating for policies that prioritize health, preventing diseases and injuries, and promoting healthy behaviors. APHA provides leadership in public health education, research, and advocacy, working to create a world where everyone can achieve their best possible health. The organization comprises public health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders committed to advancing public health initiatives. |
| Healthcare Financial Management Association [21] | HFMA is dedicated to assisting its members, comprising individuals and organizations, in attaining peak performance within the intricate and demanding US healthcare system. With a vast community of over 100,000 members, including healthcare finance leaders and professionals from diverse sectors, HFMA offers a comprehensive range of resources. These include practical tools, educational programs, industry analysis, and strategic guidance. By leveraging HFMA’s resources, hospitals, health systems, provider organizations, physician practices, business partners, and payer markets can effectively address their unique challenges and meet their specific needs. HFMA’s support enables its members to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry and achieve optimal outcomes. |
| Medical Group Management Association [22] | The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) delivers insights, solutions, and advocacy to achieve medical practice excellence, serving members, customers, and the healthcare community as a trusted partner. With a vision of advancing the healthcare business today for a better tomorrow, MGMA offers abundant hard-copy and digital resources and exceptional peer-to-peer and mentor-to-peer support systems to help members achieve their personal and professional goals. MGMA is leading the way in healthcare advancement through consistent expert resources and solutions. |
FAQs About Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs
What is an associate’s degree in healthcare administration?
An associate’s degree in healthcare administration is a two-year undergraduate program that provides students with foundational knowledge in healthcare management, operations, and regulations. They learn about healthcare systems, ethical and legal issues, and financial and human resources management. Graduates of this program are prepared for entry-level positions in healthcare management and can pursue further education in the field.
Why should you do an associate’s degree in healthcare administration online?
Are there accelerated online healthcare administration associate degrees?
What can you do with an online associate’s degree in healthcare administration?
Is an associate’s degree in healthcare administration online worth it?
What is the duration of an associate in healthcare administration online program?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Healthcare Administration Services Manager
The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
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)
Udemy-Healthcare Problem Solving
Future Learn- An Introduction to Innovation in Healthcare
Coursera- Analytics in Healthcare Management and Administration
MIT OpenCourseWare- Health Information Systems to Improve Quality of Care in Resource-Poor Settings
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Outlook for Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
Salary.com- Medical Records Coding Manager
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Medical and Health Service Managers
Salary.com- Medical Administrative Assistant
American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM)
American Public Health Association