Not all health care professionals wear scrubs or take care of patients. Health care administrators are involved in the daily operations at hospitals, health systems and other types of medical organizations and facilities. Also called medical service managers and/or health care executives, these professionals are in high demand with a variety of career options, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Master of Health Administration degree program at Montana State University Billings is designed to provide the knowledge and skills required for leaders in health services management and administration.
In addition to managing facilities, services, programs, staff, budgets and relationships with other organizations, health care administrators’ scope of responsibilities depends on the size and type of the organization.
Health care administrators need to have an understanding of medical terminology and the way patient care organizations operate. Additional competencies for this profession include knowledge of health care delivery and financial structures and management.
For those considering a career in health administration in Montana, a bachelor’s degree is required, and a master’s degree will position you for the best job prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this career is expected to grow by 28% nationwide over the next decade.
With a focus on rural-frontier health care delivery, MSU Billings’ MHA degree is ideal for working professionals, clinicians, mid-level managers and others who desire to enter and advance in this dynamic field. Richard Mickelson, an MHA graduate and director of emergency services at Billings Clinic, agrees.
“With the program being completely online, it supported my ability to maintain full-time employment and maintain work, life and school balance,” he says. “The program at MSU Billings exceeded my expectations and strengthened my ability to be an administrator in today's health care environment.”
Jenna Jones, MHA program alumni and director of the radiologic technology program at City College
The program consists of a sequence of concentrated online courses, a two-day professional seminar each semester and a capstone project. An internship is required of students who do not have a strong background in health care management or administration. The MHA degree is typically completed in 20 to 24 months.
Separately, a new Certificate in Health Administration Leadership is now available. With only 18 credits of graduate courses, students can complete the certificate within one year. This program is customizable to meet the working student’s needs, and includes concepts such as leadership, management, budgeting, finance and communication.
Lacy Bangert, DHA, Master of Health Administration program director, says, “Students in the MHA program can expect us to provide them with theories and knowledge but also have some very hands-on practical project experience. Most of our classes are taken online, so students can complete them on their own time.”
Jennifer Molk, a current MHA student, found a supportive environment that led to her having a fulfilling experience while obtaining an excellent education. “I find that the instructors are always reaching out, always available, engaging with us to make sure that we have the tools we need to meet the expectations of the program,” she says.
Josey Smiedala, an MHA program graduate currently working in health care outreach and communications at Billings Clinic, says the cohort was a major benefit of the program. “Because the cohorts are fairly small, you really get to know your faculty and the other members in your program. It really sets you up for success.”
Now enrolling for fall 2023. Students can enroll for either a fall or spring start.
