A health administration concentration focuses on the management and operational side of healthcare organizations. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses in leadership, finance, and organizational strategy.

Quick Answers

What is a health administration concentration in healthcare?

A health administration concentration is a focused set of courses within a healthcare program that emphasizes this subject area.

What do you typically study in this concentration?

Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover core concepts, applied methods, and domain-specific tools related to health administration.

Is this concentration available online?

Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.

Back to Healthcare Concentrations

At a Glance

  • Focus area: Healthcare organizational management, finance, and operations
  • Key career: Medical and Health Services Managers – $117,960 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
  • Employment: 565,840 positions nationwide (BLS, May 2024)
  • Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization
  • Accreditation: CAHME accreditation available for MHA programs

For an overview of all degree paths, see the Healthcare Program Guide.

What you typically study

Course TopicWhat You Learn
Healthcare Organizational LeadershipStrategic planning, governance structures, and executive decision making
Healthcare Financial ManagementBudgeting, revenue cycle, reimbursement models, and cost analysis
Health Law & ComplianceRegulatory frameworks, HIPAA, fraud prevention, and risk management
Human Resources in HealthcareWorkforce planning, recruitment, and staff development in clinical settings
Healthcare Quality ManagementPerformance metrics, accreditation standards, and continuous improvement
Health Information SystemsEHR implementation, data governance, and technology planning
Career outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median annual wages for Medical and Health Services Managers were $117,960 in May 2024. The field employs 565,840 professionals nationwide. Healthcare administration roles span hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, consulting firms, and government agencies.

Questions to ask before choosing this concentration

  • How many courses are required versus elective options?
  • Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
  • Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
  • Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?

How healthcare concentrations compare

ConcentrationKey CareerMedian SalaryEmployment
Health AdministrationMedical and Health Services Managers$117,960565,840
Healthcare ManagementMedical and Health Services Managers$117,960565,840
Health InformaticsHealth Information Technologists$67,31037,620
Healthcare PolicyEpidemiologists$83,98011,460
Health EducationHealthcare Social Workers$68,090185,940
Public HealthEpidemiologists$83,98011,460

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.