University of California

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core management disciplines with specialised healthcare content. Core topics typically include healthcare systems and policy, organisational behaviour and leadership, healthcare finance and accounting, and health law and ethics. Specialist modules often cover quality improvement and patient safety, healthcare operations and supply chain, clinical service delivery models, and health information systems or informatics.

Most programmes include practical elements such as case-based learning, simulation, project work and a practicum or capstone project with an external healthcare provider. Elective options allow you to focus on areas such as population health management, revenue cycle management, health analytics, telehealth operations or innovation and entrepreneurship in healthcare.

The programme is normally offered with flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, including full-time and part-time study, and may include evening or hybrid course formats.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically in a related discipline such as health sciences, business, public health, nursing or a science subject; applicants from other backgrounds who demonstrate relevant experience may also be considered.
• A competitive academic record; selection is based on the whole application rather than a single score, and professional experience in healthcare or management strengthens an application.
• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant work experience, particularly roles involving supervision, administration, quality improvement or clinical coordination.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose explaining career goals and fit with the programme, and how prior experience prepares the applicant for graduate study.
• References, usually two professional or academic referees able to comment on suitability for graduate-level professional training.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, where required by the campus; standard tests or equivalent evidence of academic/workplace English may be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for managerial and leadership roles across the healthcare sector. Typical job titles include hospital or clinic manager, health services manager, practice manager, clinical operations manager, quality improvement coordinator, patient safety officer and revenue cycle manager. The programme also supports transitions into roles with health insurers, government health agencies, health IT companies and consultancy firms that advise healthcare providers on strategy, operations and compliance.

Alumni commonly move into positions that blend clinical understanding with administrative responsibilities, lead cross-functional teams, manage budgets and performance metrics, and drive service improvement projects. The combination of practical experience and sector-focused management training can also be a foundation for further study or professional qualifications in healthcare administration, public health or business.

Why study at University of California

• Access to extensive clinical networks and nearby teaching hospitals and health systems for practicum placements, projects and employer engagement.
• Interdisciplinary teaching that draws on business, public health, nursing and informatics expertise available across the University of California campuses.
• Opportunities to work with faculty engaged in applied research on healthcare delivery, policy and innovation, informing coursework with current practice and evidence.
• Strong links with regional healthcare employers and a large alumni network that supports recruitment and career development across public, private and non-profit sectors.
• Flexible study modes and professional development resources aimed at working healthcare professionals seeking to advance into leadership roles.