Health services administration blends policy, business, and science to manage the resources needed for effective public health services. Careers may involve managing public health programs, leading health promotion and disease prevention efforts, or researching and evaluating health policies and their community impact. Professionals work across diverse settings and specializations, including health economics, finance, marketing, leadership, program management, and policy analysis. They may also consult for nonprofit or international organizations. Skills gained in health services administration are transferable and applicable beyond traditional clinical or administrative health care environments.

Education, Training and Experience

• Health services administration is a rapidly evolving field influenced by advances in technology and clinical practice.
• Public health practitioners may take coursework during their degree or through continuing education.
• Common courses include health care accessibility and delivery, financing and costs, quality assurance, organizational structure, human resources, and database management.
• Schools and programs can be searched through the Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health (ASPPH).
• SOPHAS serves as the centralized application system for CEPH-accredited public health programs.
• A full list of accredited schools and programs is available through the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Detailed Work Activities

• There is high demand for public health professionals specializing in health services administration.
• Health services administrators serve in leadership roles at regional, state, national, and international levels.
• Professionals may work in clinical settings as well as nonprofit or public organizations.
• Opportunities exist both domestically and internationally.