Brief Overview of Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs
Embarking on a career in healthcare administration can be both fulfilling and strategic, as the demand for skilled professionals in this sector continues to grow. Pursuing an online associate degree in healthcare administration is a great way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge without the need to attend on-campus classes. This level of education typically takes about two years to complete and serves as a stepping stone for those looking to enter the healthcare field or advance to higher levels of education later on.
Online healthcare administration associate degree programs cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Medical terminology and healthcare systems
- Basics of health information systems
- Principles of management and leadership within healthcare settings
- Health services organization and delivery
- Legal and ethical issues in healthcare
- Basics of billing, coding, and record keeping
When searching for the best program for your needs, consider the following factors that our proprietary algorithm takes into account:
- Affordability: How does the program's tuition compare to others, and what types of financial aid or payment plans are available?
- Program Outcomes: What success rate do graduates have in securing employment, and how well does the program prepare students for relevant certifications?
- Accessibility: Are courses and materials accessible for students with different learning styles and schedules?
- Student Support Services: Does the program offer academic advising, career services, tutoring, or technical support?
- Accreditation: Is the program accredited by a recognized accrediting body, ensuring that it meets certain standards of quality?
- Flexibility: Can students complete coursework on their own time, and how accommodating is the program for working students?
- Program Reputation: What is the program's standing in the academic community and healthcare industry?
Online programs often use a variety of teaching methods, including discussion boards, video lectures, interactive assignments, and simulations. Moreover, they may require some form of practical experience or externship, which can usually be completed at a healthcare facility local to the student.
If you're ready to take the next step towards a career in healthcare administration, an online associate degree might be the perfect fit. With careful consideration of the factors listed above, you can find a program that not only fits your lifestyle but also sets you up for success in this dynamic field.
Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
#1 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Tyler Junior College
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$134
Contact: admissions@tjc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$30,239
Why We Picked It:
High affordability with a cost per credit of $134 and a practical requirement of one year's healthcare work experience. The program offers a comprehensive healthcare management curriculum, making it highly accessible to those already in the healthcare field seeking advancement.
#2 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Bossier Parish Community College
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$138
Contact: admissions@bpcc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Extremely affordable with a wide range of online degree and certificate programs, including Healthcare Management. This high accessibility and breadth of options provide great flexibility for students.
#3 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$207
Contact: admissions@mnwest.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$36,055
Why We Picked It:
Offers a solid program in Healthcare Administrative Assistant with a cost per credit of $207 and a median earning of $36055. The program is available online and across multiple locations, enhancing accessibility.
#4 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Iowa Central Community College
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $192
Out of State: $284
Contact: 8weekonline@iowacentral.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
The program offering a comprehensive curriculum in Healthcare Administration with scholarships available and a strong focus on preparing students for a variety of roles in the healthcare administration field.
#5 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Terra State Community College
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $189
Out of State: $378
Contact: admissions@terra.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$29,394
Why We Picked It:
With a detailed summary showcasing its comprehensive foundation in the healthcare industry and high median earnings of $29394, this program is tailored for effective management within the health sector.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Healthcare Administration in 2024
Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
---|---|---|
Healthcare Supply Chain Manager | $128,620 | $61.84 |
Risk Management Director | $128,620 | $61.84 |
Ambulatory Care Center Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Assisted Living Administrator | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Clinic Administrator | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Clinical Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Compliance Officer | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Health Information Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Health Services Administrator | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Healthcare Consultant | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Healthcare Human Resources Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Healthcare Marketing Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
#6 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Wake Technical Community College
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $76
Out of State: $268
Contact: advising@waketech.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$31,626
Why We Picked It:
Offers a detailed program in Medical Office Administration with a new concentration in Healthcare Administration, available online and on several campuses, providing flexibility and accessibility.
#7 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $76
Out of State: $268
Contact: admissions@faytechcc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$26,362
Why We Picked It:
Provides an inclusive overview of the General Healthcare Management Technology Program with additional certificates offered, making it a comprehensive choice for individuals looking to advance in healthcare management.
#8 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Montgomery County Community College
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $156
Contact: admissions@mc3.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Offers a solid Healthcare Administration Associate of Science degree aiming at leadership roles within the healthcare sector, with a clear emphasis on law, ethics, cultural competency, and technology.
#9 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Broward College
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $122
Out of State: $243
Contact: verify@broward.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Detailed Health Services Management Associate of Science program with flexibility in class scheduling, built-in certificates, and a pathway to further education, highlighting its comprehensive offering and support system.
#10 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Community Care College
Program Accredited By: Accrediting Commission of Careers Schools and Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$660
Contact: admissions@communitycarecollege.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$32,880
Why We Picked It:
High cost per credit of $660 but offers flexible Diploma or Associate Degree paths in Healthcare Administration, preparing students for various organizational and administrative roles within healthcare.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Healthcare Administration
Administer medications intravenously, by injection, orally, through gastric tubes, or by other methods.
Administer medications to patients and monitor patients for reactions or side effects.
Administer systems and programs to reduce loss, maintain inventory control, or increase safety.
Advise clients or community groups on issues related to improving general health, such as diet or exercise.
Analyze data gathered and develop solutions or alternative methods of proceeding.
Analyze information gathered by investigation and report findings and recommendations.
#11 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
New England College
Program Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$375
Contact: admission@nec.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Affordable program at $375 per credit with a 100% online flexible approach and a solid liberal arts foundation alongside core healthcare topics, making it an ideal choice for those with busy schedules.
#12 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Elizabethtown College
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$565
Contact: admissions@etown.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
With a cost per credit of $565 and a focus on managing health care facilities. It offers a full scholarship through the ACHIEVE program and a significant undergraduate job performance improvement.
#13 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Colorado Christian University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$494
Contact: ccuadmissions@ccu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
With a focus on ethical leadership and management from a Christian perspective, costing $494 per credit. The program is designed especially for adult learners, balancing work and family commitments.
#14 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Hodges University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $595
Out of State: $595
Contact: admit@hodges.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Highly priced at $595 per credit but offers flexibility and fast-paced learning with TEC classes and rolling monthly classes for MBA programs, targeting working adults for career acceleration.
#15 in Best Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs in 2024
Manor College
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$769
Contact: admissions@manor.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Priced the highest at $769 per credit, offers a wide range of adult & continuing education programs and academic support. Despite its cost, it provides comprehensive resources and a robust Business Administration program gearing towards healthcare administration.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Healthcare Administration
Accounting software
Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree?
Earning an associate degree in healthcare administration through an online program can open the doors to a variety of entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. These roles typically involve the business side of healthcare, including managing patient records, handling administrative tasks, and supporting the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. Here are some of the jobs you can secure with your online associate degree:
Medical Office Assistant: As a medical office assistant, you'll be responsible for administrative tasks in a medical office setting, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling billing and coding procedures.
Health Information Technician: Health information technicians play a critical role in managing patient health information and medical records. They ensure that the data is accurate, accessible, and secure in both paper and electronic systems.
Patient Services Representative: In this role, you will interact directly with patients, providing assistance with paperwork, explaining policies, and helping with payment processing and insurance claims.
Medical Secretary: Medical secretaries are specialized administrative workers who manage the flow of a medical office by scheduling appointments, transcribing dictations, and maintaining medical records.
Billing Coordinator: As a billing coordinator, you'll oversee the billing process for medical services rendered, ensuring that charges are properly recorded and that patients and insurance companies are billed accurately.
Healthcare Administrative Assistant: Working closely with healthcare executives, administrative assistants handle clerical duties, assist in project management, and provide comprehensive support to ensure efficient operations.
Community Health Worker: While often more focused on public health and outreach, community health workers with a background in healthcare administration can help bridge the gap between communities and healthcare systems by providing education and resources.
The job market for these positions is generally strong due to the expanding healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade due to an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services.
Additionally, while starting positions for those with an associate degree are often entry-level, they can provide valuable experience and a stepping stone for further career advancement or education. Many professionals choose to continue their education by pursuing a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or a related field to qualify for higher-level administrative roles within healthcare organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Healthcare Administration Associate Degree Programs
What is an online healthcare administration associate degree?
An online healthcare administration associate degree is a two-year program designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills needed to manage healthcare facilities, such as clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes. The coursework is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for students who may be working or have other commitments.
What topics are covered in this degree program?
Typically, an online healthcare administration associate degree will cover topics such as:
- Medical terminology
- Healthcare law and ethics
- Health services management
- Basic accounting and budgeting for healthcare
- Human resources in healthcare settings
- Health information systems
What are the technical requirements for online learning?
To participate in an online program, you will generally need:
- A reliable computer or laptop
- High-speed internet access
- Basic software like Microsoft Office or equivalent
- Capability to use learning management systems (LMS) such as Blackboard or Canvas
- Webcam and microphone for interactive sessions
How do I choose the best online healthcare administration associate degree program?
Consider these factors when choosing a program:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body like the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
- Affordability: Compare tuition costs and available financial aid options.
- Program Outcomes: Look at graduation rates and employment outcomes for graduates.
- Flexibility: Check if the program offers asynchronous courses or requires set login times.
- Student Support Services: Evaluate the availability of academic advising, career services, and technical support.
- Reputation: Research the program's reputation through student reviews and rankings.
Can I work while completing this program?
Yes, one of the main advantages of an online associate degree in healthcare administration is the flexibility it offers. Many programs are designed for working professionals, allowing you to balance your studies with employment.
What careers can I pursue with this degree?
Graduates with an associate degree in healthcare administration can pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Medical office administrator
- Health services manager
- Medical records coordinator
- Patient services representative
- Administrative assistant in a healthcare setting
Is an online degree respected by employers?
Yes, online degrees from accredited institutions are generally respected by employers. Accreditation is key in ensuring that the program meets industry standards.
What is the difference between healthcare administration and healthcare management?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there can be distinctions:
- Healthcare Administration typically focuses on the operational side of healthcare organizations, including staffing, budgeting, and policy implementation.
- Healthcare Management may have a broader scope, potentially involving strategic planning and leadership across entire healthcare systems.
How long does it take to complete an online associate degree in healthcare administration?
Most online healthcare administration associate degree programs take about two years to complete if you are attending full-time. Part-time options may extend the duration.
Are there opportunities for advancement after obtaining an associate degree?
Yes, many individuals use their associate degree as a stepping stone and later pursue further education such as a bachelor's or master's degree in healthcare administration or related fields.
Remember to research each program thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Choosing the right program is an important step toward a successful career in healthcare administration.