Radford University

What you'll study

This programme combines core management and healthcare-specific topics to develop operational, financial and regulatory competence. Typical modules include:

• Healthcare Management and Leadership – organisational behaviour, strategic planning and team leadership tailored to health settings
• Health Policy and Healthcare Systems – structure of healthcare delivery, policy analysis and the impact of regulation
• Healthcare Finance and Accounting – budgeting, reimbursement systems, financial planning and cost analysis for providers
• Health Informatics and Data Analytics – electronic health records, data management, performance metrics and basic analytics
• Quality Improvement and Patient Safety – methods for process improvement, accreditation standards and measurement of clinical outcomes
• Healthcare Law and Ethics – regulatory compliance, privacy (HIPAA-like considerations), and ethical decision-making in clinical environments
• Human Resources and Workforce Management – staffing, labour issues, professional development and interprofessional collaboration
• Capstone Project or Practicum – applied project or supervised placement with a healthcare provider to integrate classroom learning with real-world administrative experience

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline, though degrees or experience in health-related fields are advantageous. Departments generally expect a satisfactory undergraduate GPA and will ask for supporting materials such as:

• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant work or volunteer experience
• A personal statement describing career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended

Some applicants with non‑traditional backgrounds may be considered on the basis of significant healthcare work experience. Standardised tests may be optional or required depending on the admissions track—check directly with Radford for current testing policies and any prerequisite course expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for managerial and administrative roles across healthcare settings. Common career paths include:

• Hospital or health system administrator
• Clinic or practice manager
• Health services coordinator or director
• Quality improvement and patient safety specialist
• Compliance and regulatory affairs officer
• Revenue cycle or financial manager in healthcare
• Health informatics analyst or project manager

Alumni find roles in acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, long‑term care facilities, public health organisations, insurance providers and health technology firms. The practicum or capstone frequently helps students build employer contacts and demonstrate applied skills.

Why study at Radford University

Radford emphasises applied learning and small class sizes, allowing personalised attention from faculty who combine academic credentials with practical healthcare experience. The College of Health and Human Services has established partnerships with regional hospitals and clinics, which supports practicum placements and local networking. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across health professions, access to community healthcare initiatives in the New River Valley region, and a curriculum designed to balance managerial skills with the regulatory and ethical realities of healthcare delivery.