The healthcare management industry is predicted to be one of the fastest-growing in the United States, as the large baby-boom population ages and needs additional medical care. With Americans living longer, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 23 percent through 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To help address this projected workforce demand and in response to interest from students, American InterContinental University (AIU) is announcing a new Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree.
The Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree is a 180-credit program that teaches critical skills in healthcare management, administration, public policy and human resources in order to prepare students for contemporary workplace needs. The program is designed to prepare students who are currently working in the healthcare field, as well as those who wish to enter the field, for positions in healthcare administration, medical and health services management, health facility management and medical practice management.
"As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, there is an increasing need for management professionals with a new set of skills," said Dr. George Miller, president of AIU. "AIU established the new Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree program because we are committed to providing our students with the skills they need to seek a successful career in healthcare management."
As part of the new Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree, students will take courses covering topics including financial management, risk management and quality assurance in healthcare. The program is designed to help students understand how various business principles and functions converge in the healthcare setting, how legislation and regulations influence healthcare practice and management, and how the media influences public opinion regarding health policy issues. Students learn how to apply their knowledge and skills to solve practical problems and make informed decisions relevant to the healthcare setting.
Specialized Programs
AIU will offer two specializations within the Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree:
- Health Services Administration Management: This specialization focuses on preparing students for administrative roles in hospitals, extended care facilities and medical offices, with insurance providers and in industries related to healthcare delivery.
- Gerontology Management: This specialization prepares people for administrative roles at facilities and with service providers who serve the unique medical, social and financial needs of the elderly.