The Certificate in Health Care Administration is comparable to a minor of 18 semester units and, with prerequisite course work, may require up to 24 semester units for completion. Components of the program include the forms of organization and operation of health care systems, human resources management, leadership and development, financial management, and marketing. The Certificate may be combined with major programs from a variety of fields including, but not limited to, behavioral and natural sciences, humanities, health professions, business and public administration, and social work and is conferred as a post-baccalaureate certificate (or concurrently with the BS/BA). The courses taken for the certificate (with a grade of "B" or better) may apply toward the MS program at the discretion of the Program Director.
Health care administrators are usually prepared at the masters' degree level for job entry into upper management. There is, however, increased emphasis to prepare health care professionals to function as managers at other levels as well. Increasingly, physicians are also seeking preparation in the elements of management. These diverse groups use management skills in the health services and related fields. These include hospitals, nursing homes, health departments, health maintenance organizations, health planning and regulatory agencies, health management and review companies, group medical practices, health insurance firms, pharmaceutical and medical supply companies.
Course substitutions may be made at the consent of the Director.
