Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational liberal‑arts coursework with specialised classes in healthcare administration, medical office systems and health information management. Core subjects typically include healthcare delivery systems, medical terminology, healthcare law and ethics, healthcare finance and budgeting, medical billing and coding, electronic health records, quality improvement, and human resources for healthcare.

Instruction emphasizes practical skills: students work with practice management software, learn insurance and reimbursement processes, and develop communication skills for patient-facing and interprofessional settings. The curriculum usually includes a practicum or internship placement in a hospital, clinic, physician office or other healthcare setting and a capstone or applied project that integrates operational, regulatory and financial aspects of healthcare organisations.

Entry requirements

Entry is through Eastern Michigan University’s standard undergraduate admissions process. Applicants should hold a high‑school diploma or equivalent and have completed college‑preparatory coursework, including English and mathematics; prior study in biology or health sciences is beneficial but not required. Admissions decisions are based on a combination of academic record, personal statement and any materials EMU requests from applicants.

Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and transfer credit; students transferring from allied health or business programmes may be able to apply relevant credits toward degree requirements. International applicants must meet EMU’s general English proficiency and credential evaluation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of administrative and support roles across healthcare settings. Common entry and mid‑level positions include medical office manager, health services administrator, patient services coordinator, medical billing and coding specialist, medical records or health information technician, clinic or practice manager, and healthcare compliance support roles.

With experience and additional certifications or postgraduate study, graduates may progress to roles such as department manager, revenue cycle manager, healthcare operations manager or pursue specialisations in health information management, healthcare quality improvement, or practice leadership. The programme’s practicum and applied project components help build employer connections and practical experience valued by local hospitals, physician groups, long‑term care providers and managed care organisations.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a career‑oriented programme that blends classroom learning with real‑world practicum placements through partnerships with regional healthcare providers. The university provides access to on‑campus resources such as career services, advising within the College of Health and Human Services, and workshops on certification pathways relevant to administrative professionals.

Students benefit from small class sizes that support personalised instruction, opportunities to gain hands‑on experience with industry software and local clinical placements, and a campus located within reach of diverse healthcare employers—advantages that help bridge academic study and employment in the healthcare sector.