Through Degree Forward’s partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), working adults can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management while receiving one-on-one coaching and personalized support from Degree Forward. If you’re interested in healthcare but don’t necessarily want to provide direct patient care, this degree may be worth considering.
Healthcare organizations need more than doctors, nurses and clinical professionals to serve patients effectively. They also rely on leaders, administrators and operations professionals who help keep systems running smoothly behind the scenes.
For many working adults, healthcare management offers an opportunity to combine a passion for helping people with interests in leadership, communication and problem-solving. Healthcare managers are needed in public health departments, behavioral health organizations, home health agencies, assisted living facilities and more
So how do you know if it’s the right fit for you?
Many adults returning to college are drawn to healthcare because they want meaningful work that positively impacts others. But not everyone wants a clinical role.
Healthcare managers help improve the systems, processes and services that support patient care. They may oversee teams, coordinate operations, improve workflows or help healthcare organizations better serve their communities.
As Dr. Raylynn Henry, Executive Director of Degree Forward, explains, healthcare management focuses on the business and leadership side of healthcare rather than direct patient care.
If you’re passionate about helping people but aren’t interested in becoming a nurse, physician or therapist, healthcare management may offer another path into the healthcare field.
Healthcare organizations are complex environments with many moving parts.
Successful healthcare leaders often enjoy:
If you’re someone who naturally looks for ways to make systems work better, healthcare management could align well with your strengths.
Many professionals pursue healthcare management after spending years in clinical or support roles. For example, some nurses, medical assistants and healthcare support professionals reach a point where they want to move into leadership positions.
Henry said Degree Forward even partners with a rehabilitation facility that encourages employees with leadership potential to earn their bachelor’s degrees. One licensed practical nurse enrolled after her employer identified her as a strong candidate for an administrative role.
A healthcare management degree helped her build the leadership and business skills needed to take that next step.
For professionals who already understand healthcare from the front lines, a healthcare management degree can help open doors to advancement opportunities.
Not every healthcare professional works directly with patients.
Healthcare organizations also need people who can:
If you’re interested in how healthcare organizations operate, healthcare management may be a natural fit.
One reason many adults returning to college are attracted to Degree Forward’s healthcare management program is its project-based approach.
Instead of focusing on traditional lectures and exams, students complete projects that reflect real workplace challenges and scenarios.
Many working adults are able to apply what they’re learning immediately in their current roles, making the degree especially valuable for working adults.
Returning to school can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been out of the classroom for several years.
That’s why Degree Forward pairs students with dedicated coaches who provide guidance throughout the entire process — from enrollment to graduation.
Students receive support with academic planning, goal setting and overcoming obstacles that might otherwise delay degree completion.
For healthcare management students, Degree Forward also works to connect learners with coaches who understand the healthcare field and can provide industry-specific insight along the way.
Through Degree Forward and SNHU, a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management could be a strong fit if you:
Healthcare organizations need strong leaders just as much as they need strong clinicians. If you’re looking for a way to make an impact behind the scenes while supporting quality patient care, healthcare management may be the next step in your educational and professional journey.
Do I need healthcare experience before earning a healthcare management degree?
Not necessarily. Some working professionals come from healthcare backgrounds, while others enter the field through administrative or business-focused roles.
Can nurses move into healthcare management?
Yes. Many healthcare professionals pursue healthcare management degrees to prepare for leadership and administrative positions.
Is healthcare management only for people who want to run hospitals?
No. Healthcare management skills can be applied in medical offices, rehabilitation facilities, nonprofit organizations, insurance companies and many other healthcare settings.
How long does it take to complete a healthcare management degree?
Completion timelines vary based on previous college credits, work experience and individual pace. Degree Forward works with students to create plans that fit their personal and professional responsibilities.
Learn more:
Can a Business Degree Help You Advance Even If You’re Already Employed?
What can you do with a communications degree?
How flexibility and support can help you earn your degree
Discover the power of project-based learning for degree completion
Find out how adults can manage career and family while earning their degree
Start your degree completion journey with Degree Forward and discover a pathway designed to fit your life.