Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Healthcare Administration Programs in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Rio Rancho.
Are you looking to advance your career with a degree in healthcare administration?
In this article, we’ll explore the top Healthcare Administration Programs in New Mexico that can help you achieve your professional goals.
From master’s degrees to associate programs, you’ll find the details you need to make an informed decision.
The University of New Mexico – Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
The University of New Mexico’s Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program caters to the increasing need for professional education in healthcare administration. Recognized as an associate member of the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA), this program ensures quality and industry-respected education.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Focus Areas: The curriculum emphasizes healthcare policy, administration issues, health analytics, healthcare finance, quality improvement, and leadership.
- Program Goals: The objective is to produce culturally competent, evidence-based managers and leaders who can significantly impact population health within their organizations.
- Program Structure: The MHA is a 48-credit hour program, available both part-time and full-time, catering to working professionals and full-time students alike. Courses are offered both face-to-face and online via Zoom, making it flexible and accessible.
- Cohort Size: With a small class size of around 20 students per year, the program encourages collaborative learning and individual attention.
This two-year full-time or three-year part-time program equips students with essential skills and knowledge for career growth in healthcare administration.
New Mexico Highlands University – Online MBA in Healthcare Administration
The Online MBA in Healthcare Administration at New Mexico Highlands University is meticulously designed to arm students with the skills necessary to make significant contributions in the healthcare sector.
What sets this program apart:
- Customization: This MBA integrates core business coursework with specialized healthcare administration studies, tackling both local and national healthcare challenges through real-world case studies.
- Format: Offered in an eight-week, fully online format, it allows students to learn at their own pace, making it ideal for working professionals.
- Core Subjects: Topics like healthcare policy, leadership models, and the impact of technology on leadership are key components.
- Program Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, outpatient treatment centers, and beyond.
The program, which can be completed in as little as 12 months, provides a contemporary education that equips students with analytical processes and critical thinking skills.
Pima Medical Institute – Associate Degree in Health Care Administration
The Associate Degree in Health Care Administration from Pima Medical Institute offers an education grounded in business, administration, and healthcare organization. Available entirely online, it’s accessible to students in various locations, including Albuquerque.
Key highlights include:
- Accreditation: Accredited through the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC SARA), making it available to non-Arizona residents.
- Course Content: Core skills such as office management, electronic health records, business communications, and human resource management.
- Career Prospects: Graduates find roles as front desk supervisors, medical office specialists, patient representatives, in hospitals, clinics, insurance industries, and educational institutions.
- Job Market: There’s a growing demand in administrative roles due to an aging population.
Furthermore, Pima Medical Institute provides career services to aid students with job placements and interview preparation, ensuring practical support during and after the program.
Central New Mexico Community College – Health Services Management Associates in Applied Science (AAS)
Central New Mexico Community College offers the Health Services Management Associates in Applied Science (AAS) program, focusing on preparing students for entry-level management roles in the healthcare industry.
Here’s what to expect:
- Career Preparation: The program develops critical thinking skills essential for making informed management decisions in healthcare settings.
- Role of Health Services Managers: These professionals plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services across public and private sectors, adapting to changing healthcare laws, regulations, and technologies.
- Continuing Education: Graduates can seamlessly transition to a Bachelor’s program for further education in healthcare management and medical administration.
This program is ideal for those looking to begin or enhance their careers in health services management, providing essential knowledge for handling dynamic industry demands.
New Mexico State University – MBA with a Concentration in Health Services Management
New Mexico State University (NMSU) offers an MBA with a specialization in Health Services Management. This program blends general MBA coursework with healthcare-specific education, creating a robust learning experience for aspiring healthcare administrators.
Key Features of the Program:
- Admission Requirements: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required. Up to nine transfer credits from AACSB-accredited programs are accepted under specific conditions.
- Course Structure: The curriculum includes twelve courses, encompassing essential MBA subjects like Accounting for Managers, Business Information Systems, and the Legal Environment of Business.
- Health Services Management Concentration: This includes specialized coursework in Health Services Organization and Delivery, Public Health Law and Ethics, and Health Informatics.
- Capstone Requirement: The program culminates in a Professional Paper/Presentation, ensuring students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
The versatility of this program—allowing students to earn MBA credits during their undergraduate studies and its comprehensive approach—creates a well-rounded education platform. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in healthcare management, equipped to handle both business and healthcare operation challenges.
The University of New Mexico (UNM) – Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Concentration in Nursing Administration
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Nursing Administration at The University of New Mexico is tailored for working nurses aiming to step into leadership roles. Accredited and highly-regarded, this program equips nurses with the managerial skills required for healthcare administration.
Program Highlights:
- Relevant Curriculum: Students delve into quality improvement, change management, and consulting within healthcare settings, priming them for roles like nurse managers, directors of nursing, health policy leaders, and chief nursing officers.
- Flexible Learning: The program is designed for working professionals, offering flexibility in scheduling.
- Community Focus: Emphasis is placed on innovative nursing practices and addressing healthcare challenges, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
For example, alumni Deborah Anne Silver successfully transitioned into a public health nursing role and then became a risk manager post-graduation, showcasing the practical impact of the program.
Western New Mexico University – MBA with a Concentration in Health Care Administration
Western New Mexico University presents an MBA program with a Concentration in Health Care Administration, blending rigorous business education with healthcare management training.
Key Components:
- Program Structure: This 42-credit program includes standard MBA coursework along with specialized healthcare courses such as Health Care Systems, Finance, Informatics, and Contemporary Healthcare Issues.
- Admission Flexibility: Applicants with a GPA of 3.2 or higher in their final 64 credit hours are exempt from the GMAT requirement.
- Flexible Delivery: Courses are available both online and on-campus, catering to varied learning preferences.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), ensuring high educational standards.
Graduates gain analytical skills and health services knowledge, positioning them well for effective leadership roles in healthcare management.
Finding the Right Healthcare Administration Program in New Mexico
Choosing the ideal healthcare administration program is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant bodies like AUPHA, AACSB, or ACBSP.
- Curriculum: Choose a program with a curriculum that covers essential areas such as healthcare policy, finance, management, and emerging healthcare issues.
- Flexibility: Whether online, hybrid, or face-to-face, ensure the program fits your personal and professional schedule.
- Career Support Services: Look for institutions that provide job placement services, internships, resume building, and networking opportunities.
- Costs: Evaluate tuition fees and available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, or assistantships.
- Duration and Commitment: Determine whether the program’s duration and part-time or full-time options align with your lifestyle and obligations.
- Reputation: Research the program’s success rates, alumni outcomes, and overall reputation.
Healthcare Administration Programs By State
Concluding Thoughts on Healthcare Administration Programs
Choosing the right healthcare administration program is a pivotal step in your career journey. New Mexico offers diverse programs ranging from associate degrees to specialized MBAs that can match your career aspirations and personal circumstances. Evaluate each option based on factors such as accreditation, flexibility, and support services to find the best fit for you. For more information, visit the program links provided throughout this article.