Explore UA Grantham’s Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration
The University of Arkansas Grantham offers a 100% online Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration program designed to prepare students for entry-level administrative roles within healthcare facilities. The program emphasizes industry-specific expertise in areas such as quality customer service, personnel management, healthcare management, finance, leadership, legal and regulatory requirements, medical coding and terminology, and health informatics.
Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration Program Structure and Curriculum
The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours, divided into 41 core program credits and 19 general education credits. The curriculum is structured to be completed in approximately 24 months, offering flexibility for students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
Key courses in the 2025 program include:
- Computer Software Applications in Healthcare (HP205): This course provides an overview of commonly available software tools used in healthcare, focusing on their functions and applications in medical offices.
- Medical Terminology (HP114): Students learn the foundation of medical language, including pronunciation and communication of medical information to health professionals and patients.
- Introduction to Health Information Management (HP112): This course introduces health information management in U.S. healthcare delivery settings, covering topics like electronic health records (EHR), patient confidentiality, and the impact of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
- Principles of Healthcare Leadership (HP232): Designed for those considering a career in healthcare leadership, this course covers personal leadership styles, theories of effective leadership, and the influence of power and politics in healthcare settings.
Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration Program Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Explore challenges characteristic of the fast-changing healthcare industry.
- Relate management techniques and performance models to optimize organizational outcomes.
- Investigate legal, regulatory, and ethical healthcare requirements.
- Demonstrate professional interdisciplinary communication.
- Apply a basic understanding of technology and its impact on healthcare organizations.
- Articulate managerial concepts and leadership models in a healthcare setting.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration program are equipped to pursue various entry-level administrative positions within healthcare facilities. Potential career paths include:
- Medical Office Administrator: Overseeing the daily operations of medical offices, including scheduling, billing, and patient relations.
- Health Services Manager: Managing specific departments or entire facilities, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and improving service delivery.
- Medical Records Coordinator: Maintaining and securing patient records, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with legal standards.
Advancement Opportunities
This associate degree also serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced degrees in healthcare, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Healthcare Administration, for those seeking to further enhance their qualifications and career prospects.
Accreditation and Support
The University of Arkansas Grantham is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), ensuring that the program meets high standards of quality and rigor. Students have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, career services, and technical support, to assist them throughout their educational journey.
Enrollment and Tuition
The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year. Tuition is competitively priced at $305 per credit hour, and there is no application fee, making it an accessible option for many students.