University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme covers core administrative and clinical support topics that enable graduates to manage people, processes and information within healthcare settings. Students study foundations of healthcare systems and policy, medical terminology, healthcare ethics and law, and principles of public health. Business and management modules include healthcare finance, organisational behaviour, human resources, operations management and strategic planning for health services.

Technical and information‑focused units address health information management, electronic health records, medical coding and billing, data analytics for healthcare, quality improvement, and population health informatics. The curriculum typically culminates in a capstone practicum or internship where students apply skills in a clinical or administrative placement.

• Medical terminology and anatomy for administrators
• Healthcare systems, policy and regulation
• Health information systems and electronic records
• Medical coding, reimbursement and revenue cycle management
• Healthcare finance and budgeting
• Organisational behaviour, leadership and human resources
• Quality improvement, patient safety and risk management
• Ethics, law and compliance in health services
• Capstone practicum or field internship

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic requirements include strong performance in English, mathematics and science courses; specific prerequisites may vary by intake and prior curriculum. The University of Cincinnati considers total academic record, coursework relevance and any preparatory college credits for transfer applicants.

Other admissions considerations often include a personal statement or short essay explaining interest in health administration, and in some cases references or evidence of healthcare‑related volunteer or work experience. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may be required to meet programme GPA thresholds. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry‑ to mid‑level administrative positions across healthcare organisations. Common roles include medical office manager, practice administrator, patient services manager, clinic operations coordinator, billing and coding specialist, and health information or records coordinator. With experience, graduates can progress to departmental management, practice management, revenue cycle leadership, or consultancy roles in healthcare operations.

Alumni also find opportunities with hospitals and health systems, physician practices, ambulatory care centres, long‑term care facilities, health insurers, public health agencies and healthcare technology vendors. For those seeking credentialing, the degree provides a foundation for pursuing professional certifications in health information management, coding, practice management or healthcare administration.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati emphasises experiential learning and strong employer connections, giving students opportunities to apply classroom learning in real healthcare settings. The university's cooperative education culture and extensive network of clinical partners in the Cincinnati region provide access to internships, practicum placements and workplace experience that strengthen employability.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that integrates business, information technology and clinical perspectives, taught by faculty with practical experience in healthcare administration. Facilities and support services include career counselling, placement assistance and links to local hospitals and health systems, helping graduates transition quickly into administrative roles in the health sector.