Mercy College

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme blends business and public-health content to give you the knowledge and skills needed to lead health organisations. You will study the structure and financing of health systems, health law and ethics, quality improvement and patient safety, and the fundamentals of healthcare finance and human resources. Coursework typically includes modules such as:

• Introduction to Health Services Management – organisational theory and management principles applied to healthcare settings.
• Healthcare Systems and Policy – comparative health systems, policy formation and the regulatory environment.
• Healthcare Finance and Accounting – budgeting, reimbursement, cost analysis and financial decision-making in health organisations.
• Healthcare Law, Ethics and Compliance – legal responsibilities, patient rights and ethical issues in clinical and administrative contexts.
• Quality Improvement and Patient Safety – measurement, improvement methodologies (for example, PDSA, Lean) and risk management.
• Health Informatics and Data Analysis – health information systems, electronic records, basic statistics and use of data for decision-making.
• Human Resource Management in Healthcare – workforce planning, leadership, team dynamics and labour relations.
• Research Methods and Applied Projects – research design, evidence appraisal and a capstone or practicum project tied to a real-world placement.

Learning is delivered through lectures, case studies, group projects and an applied practicum or internship with local hospitals, clinics or health organisations. Students also develop transferable skills in communication, project management and quantitative analysis.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification or equivalent. Successful candidates typically demonstrate a combination of academic ability and interest in health or management. Typical evidence considered in the admissions process includes transcripts, personal statement and references; mature and transfer applicants are considered on an individual basis.

Admissions advice:

• Prior study in subjects such as biology, social sciences, mathematics or business is helpful but not mandatory.
• Relevant work, volunteer experience in healthcare or community services strengthens an application.
• Non-native English speakers will need to meet the college's English language requirement through an approved test or equivalent evidence of proficiency.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or assessment as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across healthcare and related sectors. Common career destinations include hospital administration, clinic or practice management, patient services coordination, quality improvement and compliance roles, health insurance and payer organisations, and positions with public-health agencies or non-profit health providers. With experience, graduates often progress to senior management, operational director roles or specialist functions in areas such as finance, informatics or policy. The degree also provides a platform for postgraduate study in health administration, public health or business.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a practise-oriented approach with opportunities for applied learning through internships and projects with regional health providers. The programme is delivered by faculty who combine academic backgrounds with practical experience in health services, and students benefit from career services and employer links that support placements and job search. Small class sizes promote personalised support, while campus resources such as simulation labs, student clubs and professional development workshops help you build the leadership and technical skills employers expect.