Western Governors University

What you'll study

This programme focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to run and improve non-clinical operations in healthcare settings. Coursework covers core areas such as medical terminology; healthcare delivery systems; medical billing, coding and reimbursement (including commonly used coding systems); healthcare law, ethics and compliance; quality improvement and patient safety; healthcare finance and budgeting; health information systems and records management; and leadership and human resource practices in healthcare.

Study is delivered in a competency-based format: you demonstrate mastery through assessments, projects and a final capstone that integrates administrative, financial and regulatory considerations. Typical learning activities include case-based assignments, policy analysis, process-mapping exercises, data interpretation for performance improvement, and development of administrative plans or policy documents relevant to clinic, hospital or community health settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. Additional considerations include submission of official transcripts for any prior post-secondary study and demonstration of basic computer and information literacy. Mature applicants without recent formal qualifications may be assessed on prior learning and work experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where required. As an online, competency-based programme, students should be prepared for self-directed study and have reliable access to a computer and the internet.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of administrative and management roles across healthcare organisations, including general practice, outpatient clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities, insurance and payer organisations, and public health agencies. Common job titles include medical office manager, practice manager, patient access supervisor, billing and coding specialist, revenue cycle analyst, compliance officer, health services administrator and care coordinator.

Career progression often moves from front-line administrative and billing roles into supervisory or departmental leadership positions. The programme also provides a foundation for credentialing in areas such as medical coding and for further study in health administration, health information management or management degrees.

Why study at Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers a competency-based, online approach that lets students progress by demonstrating skills and knowledge rather than by seat time. This model supports accelerated completion for students with prior learning or relevant work experience and provides flexibility for working adults. Students are supported by course mentors and access resources aligned to industry practices.

The curriculum is designed to reflect workplace competencies employers seek in healthcare administration, with emphasis on practical tasks, portfolio development and an integrative capstone. As a regionally accredited university with experience in career-focused online education, WGU emphasises affordability, transfer-friendly policies and employer relevance in preparing graduates for non-clinical careers in health services.