Furthering your education with a master’s degree is a huge decision that proves to be deeply rewarding. The journey—along with any trials experienced throughout—imparts a great deal of wisdom to students. Accordingly, the reward of the degree itself serves as a solid affirmation of the dedication that came before it.
Students often find that the time and effort required to complete a master’s degree in Health Services Administration is worthwhile and, in many ways, serves to prepare students for the coming challenges found in many workplaces.
It is important for students already on the Health Services Administration track, and those who have yet to jump on board, to consider the possible advantages of furthering their education. Florida National University (FNU) has compiled a list of the five ways a master’s degree in Health Services Administration can prepare students for their careers:
- Professional Guidance
Throughout a student’s time as a student in the Health Services Administration program, they will learn the skills needed to confidently conduct business with seasoned experts in the health care industry. They will learn to work parallel to, and in support of doctors, surgeons, nurses and a myriad of other health care professionals who work diligently to administer care to those in need.
Students will learn the details about what it takes to work behind the scenes of organizations. This will help to ensure that they have a strong medical, operational, and financial foothold on practices to guarantee quality care is served to patients, their families, and others in the community.
- A Variety of Courses
The master’s program consists of a wide range of courses that will take students through the different aspects of the health services administration field. Critical courses, such as Applied Managerial Finance, Health Care Law & Legislation, Human Resources, and Planning & Marketing in Health Services Administration all work together to help students learn the fundamentals of what to expect in the professional world.
- The Ability to Make a Difference
Earning a master’s degree in Health Services Administration will put students in the unique position to enact positive and lasting change that impacts the efficiency of the organization, which in turn lends that organization the ability to assist more people. Knowing the different angles in which one can tackle a problem is key to coming up with an effective solution.
Opportunities for Employment
The healthcare industry is currently growing rapidly, and this is great news for those hoping to enter the field. Job seekers can expect to experience a job growth of 23% before the end of the decade which, according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), is well above the average. Another benefit of a degree in Health Services Administration is the amount of employment opportunities there are among a wide range of organizations. With this degree, one might be hired at doctor’s offices, hospitals, dental clinics, nursing homes, insurance companies and government health agencies.
Furthermore, a master’s degree expands options for upcoming professionals, giving them the freedom to choose an organization that resonates with them personally.
- Develop Your Skills
Whether assigning carefully planned schedules, maintaining budgets, or negotiating insurance claims, the responsibilities of Health Service Administrators require one to have a vast skill set. The skills that students bring into the master’s program are further developed and elaborated on, ensuring that they maintain the confidence needed to perform tasks quickly and intelligently.
The health care industry is continuously evolving as new equipment, techniques and polices are being developed on a daily basis. To stay ahead of the changes, individuals must develop an extensive range of knowledge and skills to help them adapt to an ever-changing professional landscape. FNU’s master’s program is constructed to allow students to achieve the level of professional flexibility that will aid them no matter what environment they choose.
- The Tools to Obtain a Better Paying Position
Simply having earned one’s master’s degree in Health Services Administration will garner the attention of potential employers. The degree alone might lead to a substantial increase in wages earned and the benefits available. Data from the BLS shows that the mean annual salary for a health services administrator in 2013 was $101,340, but pay rates vary substantially based on experience and responsibilities. Another contributing factor is based on the kind of organization graduates become a part of.
While there are some entry-level positions that do not require a master’s degree, most positions will require one, as well as an affiliation with a professional association. Having the skill set and knowledge associated with earning a master’s degree is a critical component. The capacity for increases in salary and advancement in the workplace easily makes earning the master’s degree worthwhile to improving one’s quality of life and assuring a successful future.
FNU: Turning Students into Professionals!
Whether you’re just beginning to pursue an education in Health Services Administration or are well on your way, FNU has you covered! FNU offers a comprehensive program that takes students from associate’s degree, all the way to a master’s degree with a level of aptitude that makes securing a successful and gratifying career easier than ever.
If health services administration isn’t for you, take a look through FNU’s complete program catalog and discover the opportunity that you’ve been waiting for. Apply now and get started on your future.
Works Cited
“ExploreHealthCareers.org.” Health Services Administration. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Feb. 2015.
“Health Services Administration Job Options, Salary and Requirements.” Education Portal. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2015.
“Summary.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2015.
