Health care administrators are in charge of the business aspects of the health care field. Responsibilities for health care administrators include coordination and delivery of health care. They work closely with physicians and manage groups of 10 to 15 people for smaller practices and 40-50 people for larger. Health care administration is a fast-paced and often challenging work environment. Many positions include around-the-clock responsibility.

The rapid growth of the health care industry has led to increasing job opportunities at all levels.

The median salary for medical and health services managers in 2009 was $81,850, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries vary depending on your experience, place of employment, and geographic region.

Health Care Administration Training

The standard credential for health care administrators is a master's degree, but a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, college, or school is suitable for entry-level positions. Many graduate programs are one to two years and may also include an internship in health care administration as requirement.

Health care administration courses are available at accredited universities, colleges, and schools both on campus and online. Common core courses include algebra and English. Health care administration courses are meant to encompass the diversity of the field and include courses in public management, business, psychology and office practices.

Licensure is required for nursing care facility administrator but is not required for all other areas of medical and administrative management.

Smaller businesses and physician offices may provide on-site training in replacement of a formal education or degree program.

Ashley Dodge

Welcome to AUPHA • http://www.aupha.org • http://www.aupha.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1 • The Association of University Programs in Health Administration • Medical and Health Services Managers • http://www.bls.gov • http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos014.htm • Bureau of Labor Statistics • Programs in Health Services Administration • http://www.washington.edu • http://depts.washington.edu/mhap/ • University of Washington