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Are you exploring the best healthcare administration programs in Durham, NC?
This article highlights top-rated options tailored to elevate your career in healthcare management.
Discover what makes each program unique and how they fit your professional goals.
You’ll find essential details on well-regarded institutions such as Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, and Durham Tech, ensuring you make an informed choice for your future.
Duke University Health System – Administrative Fellowship Program
The Duke University Health System (DUHS) Administrative Fellowship Program offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging healthcare leaders. This two-year program exposes you to various aspects of healthcare administration within one of the nation’s top health systems.
Program Highlights
- Diverse Set of Tracks: The fellowship offers five distinct tracks: Duke University Hospital, Duke Primary Care, Duke Revenue Cycle & Financial Management, Duke Regional Hospital, and Duke Health Integrated Practice.
- Mentorship and Leadership: Gain invaluable insights from experienced leaders like Mary Martin (COO of DUH), Simon Curtis (VP of DHIP), and other top executives.
- Comprehensive Training: Spanning departments and specialties, the program equips you with skills essential for healthcare administration.
- Employee Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and full benefits, treating you as a full-time employee.
Fellowship Tracks
- Duke University Hospital: Managed by Mary Martin, this track selects two fellows annually.
- Duke Primary Care: Led by Elizabeth Long, it offers one fellowship each year.
- Duke Revenue Cycle & Financial Management: Keith Stover oversees this track, selecting up to three fellows yearly.
- Duke Regional Hospital: Dev Sangvai, MD, and Dexter Nolley jointly lead, selecting one fellow biennially.
- Duke Health Integrated Practice: Managed by Simon Curtis, it offers two annual fellowships.
Application Insights
The fellowship begins in July, offering a structured start to your administrative journey. Note that DUHS does not sponsor international visas for these fellowships, ensuring a focused cohort of participants.
Whether you’re seeking mentorship, skill development, or a gateway to leadership roles, the DUHS Administrative Fellowship provides an outstanding platform for your career in healthcare administration.
Durham VA Health Care System – Graduate Healthcare Administration Training Program (GHATP) Fellowship
The Graduate Healthcare Administration Training Program (GHATP) Fellowship at the Durham VA Health Care System offers a 12-month transformative experience designed to prepare you for management roles within VA healthcare facilities.
Key Features
- Mentorship from Leaders: Direct guidance from VHA administrators and support professionals.
- Hands-On Training: Practical experience within a VAMC Director’s office.
- Career Development: Prepare for non-competitive GS-11 positions within the VA system upon completion.
- Professional Networking: Build connections with organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).
Program Structure
- Eligibility: Recent graduates of accredited programs in hospital administration, public health administration, business administration, or related fields.
- Training Focus: Enhance skills in data analytics, public speaking, and leadership through rotations and supervisory roles.
- Professional Conferences and Networking: Opportunities to attend leadership and healthcare administration conferences, fostering broader professional connections.
Application Process
Open to recent graduates and veterans within six years of graduation, this fellowship emphasizes hands-on learning and professional development. It’s an excellent pathway for those aiming to climb the ranks within the VA healthcare system.
Durham Tech – Medical Administrative Assistant Course
The Medical Administrative Assistant course at Durham Tech offers you a pathway into the healthcare administration field through practical training.
Course Highlights
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers electronic medical records, health insurance processes, basic EKG and phlebotomy skills, medical terminology, and telephone etiquette.
- Professional Skills: Learn to manage appointments, customer service interactions, financial records, and medical report preparation.
- Certification Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the National Healthcareer Association certification exams for medical administrative assistants (CMAA) and EKG Technician (CET).
Format and Requirements
- Duration: Complete the course in about 12 months.
- Class Format: Hybrid classes combining online learning with in-person sessions at the Main Campus Tech building.
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; specific attire required (scrubs and puncture-resistant shoes).
Financial Considerations
Durham Tech provides financial assistance to eligible students, making this an accessible option for many aspiring medical administrative assistants.
By completing this course, you gain essential skills and certifications that pave the way for a rewarding career in medical administration.
The aforementioned programs in Durham, NC, offer excellent opportunities for those looking to advance their careers in healthcare administration. Each program is designed to provide you with the knowledge, training, and credentials needed to succeed in various administrative roles within the healthcare sector. Choose the one that aligns best with your professional goals and start your journey toward a fulfilling career in healthcare administration.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) Program
The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill enhances your decision-making and leadership abilities in the dynamic healthcare environment. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking advancement, the MHA program offers two pathways to suit your needs:
- Residential MHA: A full-time, on-campus experience that provides immersive learning and networking opportunities.
- Executive MHA: Designed for working professionals, this online format lets you balance your studies with your job.
Core Competencies
UNC’s MHA program adheres to a competency model that ensures well-rounded knowledge and essential skills:
- Communication and Relationship Management
- Leadership & Professionalism
- Knowledge of the Healthcare Environment
- Management, Finance & Analytics
Accreditation and Affiliations
The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). It’s also affiliated with reputable organizations like the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) and the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Benefits
- Expert Faculty: Learn from leading professionals in healthcare administration.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers vital topics including finance, policy, and leadership.
- Hands-On Training: Offers practical experiences through internships and real-world projects.
- Career Support Services: Enjoy robust guidance and networking opportunities to help advance your career in healthcare administration.
UNC’s MHA program is a prime choice for those looking to make a significant impact in health management.
Duke University Medical Center – Certificate in Health Care Transformation
The Certificate in Health Care Transformation at Duke University Medical Center is a year-long program tailored for healthcare professionals aiming to drive change within their organizations and communities.
Core Components
This program focuses on the following key areas:
- Leadership and Management
- Quality Improvement
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Population Health Improvement
- Addressing Social Determinants of Health
Program Structure
You’ll work closely with faculty and industry leaders on projects addressing:
- Health Care to Well-Care Shift: Learn strategies for transitioning from a focus on healthcare to overall well-being.
- Incentive Alignment: Understand methods to align incentives for providers and patients.
- Connectivity: Enhance relationships among caregivers and patients to improve outcomes.
- Provider and Patient Experience: Develop strategies to enrich both provider and patient experiences.
Application Process
Applicants need a project proposal, personal essay, CV, and a recommendation letter addressing leadership potential. The program starts in July and culminates the following August.
The Duke Certificate in Health Care Transformation equips you with the expertise to lead impactful changes in healthcare delivery.
What to Consider When Choosing a Healthcare Administration Program
Selecting the right healthcare administration program is pivotal for your career advancement. Consider the following factors to ensure you make an informed decision:
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited by relevant bodies like the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). Accreditation signifies adherence to high educational standards.
- Faculty Expertise: Choose programs with experienced and reputable faculty. Professors with a strong track record in the field can provide invaluable knowledge and networking opportunities.
- Curriculum Content: Look for a curriculum that covers vital areas such as healthcare management, policy, finance, and ethics. A well-rounded curriculum prepares you for diverse challenges in the industry.
- Hands-On Training: Programs offering internships, fellowships, or practical experiences allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. This experience is crucial for developing practical skills.
- Career Support Services: Evaluate the availability of career guidance, job placement services, and networking opportunities. Strong career support can significantly impact your employment prospects and career trajectory.
Choosing the Right Fit
- Assess Accreditation: Ensure the program’s accreditation status to confirm quality education.
- Research Faculty: Investigate the expertise and background of the faculty members.
- Review Curriculum: Analyze if the course content aligns with your professional goals.
- Evaluate Training Opportunities: Prioritize programs offering substantial hands-on experiences.
- Check Career Services: Look for robust career support and networking opportunities.
By carefully considering these aspects, you can select a program that aligns with your career aspirations and sets you on the path to success in healthcare administration.
Choosing the Best Fit for Your Career Goals
Summarizing the key features of the programs discussed:
- Duke University Health System – Administrative Fellowship Program: Ideal for those who seek leadership roles in various healthcare administration domains within a prestigious health system. Learn more
- Durham VA Healthcare System – GHATP Fellowship: Perfect for recent graduates aiming for hands-on training and a structured career path within the VA system. Learn more
- Durham Tech – Medical Administrative Assistant Course: Great for starting your career quickly with practical, short-term training in medical office administration. Learn more
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – MHA Program: Best suited for those aiming for comprehensive education with robust career support in healthcare administration. Learn more
- Duke University Medical Center – Certificate in Health Care Transformation: Perfect for professionals looking to lead healthcare transformation projects and initiatives. Learn more
Consider your specific career goals, learning preferences, and professional aspirations. Visit each program’s website for detailed information and make the choice that best aligns with your future ambitions in healthcare administration.