Step 3. Get Into a Graduate Degree Program
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Most healthcare administration jobs require an advanced degree in a field like public health, healthcare administration, or business administration. For clinical department heads, a degree in the appropriate field and work experience may be sufficient for entry. However, a master’s degree in health services administration or a related field may be required to advance.
Find a School
Master’s and doctoral degree programs in health administration are offered by colleges, universities and schools of public health, medicine, allied health, public administration and business administration. In 2003, 67 schools had accredited programs leading to the master’s degree in health services administration, according to the Accrediting Commission on Education for Health Services Administration.
How to Choose a Graduate School
Are You Ready for Graduate School?
Prepare Your Application and Recommendations
Graduate programs are even more selective than undergraduate programs, so it is imperative that your application and recommendations are in order in advance. Have peers, advisors, and parents read over your application and admissions essays to be sure there are no grammatical errors and to help clarify your ideas. As for letters of recommendation months in advance, and be sure to include an addressed, stamped envelope so your recommender can easily send in their letter.
The Dos and Don’ts of Requesting College Recommendations
Common College Application Mistakes
Mastering The Graduate School Interview
Pass the Required Standardized Test
Most graduate degree programs require the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) in order to be admitted. Although there are other standardized tests a college may ask for, the GRE is the most popular. Studying for the GRE is similar to studying for other standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.