Healthcare Administration Programs in Des Moines IA

Choosing the right Healthcare Administration Program in Des Moines, IA can shape your future career in meaningful ways.

This guide highlights the best programs in the area, detailing their unique offerings and benefits for aspiring healthcare administrators.

Make an informed decision and advance your career with these top choices.

Des Moines University – Master of Health Care Administration (M.H.A.)

Des Moines University offers a Master of Health Care Administration (M.H.A.) designed for professionals aiming to excel in leadership roles. This program stands out due to its flexibility and comprehensive online format.

Key Features:

• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
• Curriculum: The program includes 48 credits covering essential areas such as financial management, health policy, and leadership in healthcare.
• Hands-on Experience: Students gain experience through field-based learning or long-term care internships.
• Mentorship: Personalized mentorship and career advising are available to students.
• Tuition and Scholarships: A flat-rate fee structure makes the program affordable. Scholarships such as the McGraw and Tim Campbell Scholarships help ease financial burdens.
• Flexibility: The program’s format allows you to balance your studies with your professional and personal life.

This program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in various healthcare administration roles. For more details, visit Des Moines University – Master of Health Care Administration.

Mercy College of Health Sciences – Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration

Another excellent option is the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from Mercy College of Health Sciences. It’s designed for students ready to enter the healthcare administration field or those seeking career advancement.

Key Features:

• Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
• Curriculum: Offers courses on U.S. healthcare delivery, healthcare economics, and human resources management.
• Flexibility: The program offers online completion options, ideal for professionals managing personal and work responsibilities.
• Practicum: Students engage in a 2-credit practicum to gain real-world experience.
• Faculty Expertise: Faculty members hold PhDs and bring substantial industry experience.
• Networking: Provides opportunities to connect with healthcare partners and access enrollment coaches.

With its robust curriculum and practical experience opportunities, this program prepares you for a successful career in healthcare administration. For more details, visit Mercy College of Health Sciences – Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration.

Des Moines University – Master of Health Care Administration (MHA) Program

Des Moines University offers another high-caliber program: the Master of Health Care Administration (MHA) Program. It is tailored for those looking to ascend to leadership positions in healthcare.

Key Features:

• Credit Hours: Consists of 47 credit hours focused on health system and business literacy, leadership, and professional development.
• Competency Model: Adopts the NCHL’s Healthcare Leadership Competency Model.
• Transfer Credits: Accepts credits from accredited institutions.
• GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.5 for graduation.
• Advising and Experience: Students benefit from academic advising and practical learning experiences, facilitating potential licensure as Nursing Home Administrators.
• Application Process: Applications can be submitted via various centralized services or directly through DMU’s website.

This program offers the rigorous training and practical experience required for high-impact leadership roles. For more details, visit Des Moines University – Master of Health Care Administration.

Drake University – Health Care Administration Program

Drake University’s Health Care Administration Program blends a comprehensive curriculum with essential experiential learning opportunities.

Key Features:

• Curriculum: Covers important topics such as healthcare policy, management principles, and healthcare ethics.
• Dual Degree Option: Offers a dual degree with Des Moines University to bolster leadership skills.
• Practical Components: Includes internships and research projects for hands-on experience.
• Faculty Mentorship: Provides strong mentorship from experienced faculty members.
• Alumni Network: Access to a robust alumni network for career support.

This program equips you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling a smooth transition into healthcare management roles. For more details, visit Drake University – Health Care Administration Program.

University of Iowa – Executive Master of Health Administration

The Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA) at the University of Iowa is designed for working professionals seeking advanced training.

Key Features:

• Credit Hours: A 45-credit hour program completed in about 2 years.
• Focus Areas: Emphasizes finances, operations, strategic planning, and leadership.
• Course Delivery: Offers courses on-campus in a case- and team-focused format, taught by experienced faculty.
• Location: Courses are delivered in Iowa City and Des Moines.
• Alumni Network: Benefit from the University’s extensive alumni network for career advancement.

With a focus on strategic leadership, this program is ideal for those looking to impact healthcare administration significantly. For more details, visit University of Iowa – Executive Master of Health Administration.

By carefully considering each program’s features and how they align with your goals, you can make an informed choice that sets you on the path to success in healthcare administration.

Iowa Central Community College – Associate in Professional Studies in Health Care Administration

For those new to the field or seeking career advancement, Iowa Central Community College’s Associate in Professional Studies degree in Health Care Administration offers a solid foundation.

Key Features:

• Duration: The program can be completed in approximately two years.
• Curriculum: Prepares students for various roles such as health administrator and medical coder.
• Scholarships: Offers scholarship opportunities to support educational expenses.
• Advising: Dedicated advising ensures student success.
• Professional Licensure: Note that this program does not lead to professional licensure.

With a practical, career-oriented curriculum, this program serves as a stepping stone into healthcare administration. For more details, visit Iowa Central Community College – Associate in Professional Studies in Health Care Administration.

Mercy College of Health Sciences – Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration

The Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration offered by Mercy College of Health Sciences provides an online program aimed at preparing students for management roles within healthcare.

Key Features:

• Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
• Curriculum: Focuses on management careers with courses on healthcare economics and strategy.
• Flexibility: Delivered online to fit your schedule.
• Location: Mercy College’s downtown Des Moines campus serves as a hub for student activities.
• Career Support: The MercyPLUS program offers ongoing career assistance.

This program is an excellent option for those looking to enhance their career with a strong educational foundation. For more details, visit Mercy College of Health Sciences – Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration.

University of Iowa – Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA)

The Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA) at the University of Iowa focuses on creating strategic leaders in healthcare administration.

Key Features:

• Credit Hours: 45 credit hours completed in less than two years.
• Key Topics: Includes finance, quality management, and Lean Six Sigma.
• Cost: Tuition is $55,000, inclusive of books and a professional development stipend.
• Alumni Network: Graduates join a network of over 1,000 alumni.
• Location: Delivered on campuses in Iowa City and Des Moines.

This program emphasizes strategic leadership skills vital for navigating healthcare reform. For more details, visit University of Iowa – Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA).

Choosing the Right Healthcare Administration Program in Des Moines

When selecting a healthcare administration program in Des Moines, consider several factors to ensure the best fit for your career goals and personal circumstances.

1. Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by reputable bodies such as CAHME or Higher Learning Commission.
2. Curriculum: Review the comprehensiveness of the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics like financial management, leadership, and healthcare policy.
3. Flexibility: Check if the program offers online or on-campus options that suit your schedule. Flexibility can be crucial if you are balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
4. Cost: Evaluate the program’s affordability, including tuition rates and the availability of financial aid such as scholarships and grants.
5. Career Support: Look for programs that provide career services, including internships, practical experiences, and networking opportunities.
6. Faculty Expertise: Consider the expertise and industry experience of the faculty members.
7. Certifications and Licensures: Determine if the program provides pathways to certifications or licensures relevant to healthcare administration.

By evaluating these aspects, you can choose a program that aligns with your needs and career aspirations.

Final Thoughts on Healthcare Administration Programs in Des Moines IA

Selecting the right Healthcare Administration Program in Des Moines IA can significantly impact your career trajectory. The programs highlighted here offer various strengths, from flexible online formats to extensive practical experiences and strong career support networks. Explore these options in detail and select the one that best aligns with your professional goals, personal circumstances, and long-term aspirations. With the right education and training, you can influence and lead in the dynamic field of healthcare administration.