Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The curriculum blends core management and public-health topics with applied skills training. Typical modules include health systems and policy, healthcare finance and accounting, organisational behaviour and leadership, health information systems and data analytics, quality improvement and patient safety, epidemiology and population health, and ethics in healthcare. Courses commonly incorporate case studies, simulation exercises and project-based learning.

Most programmes require a practicum or internship in a healthcare organisation and a capstone project that addresses a real operational or policy challenge. Elective options often allow specialisation in areas such as ambulatory care management, long-term care administration, managed care, or healthcare consulting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals, a current CV or resume, and letters of recommendation. Relevant professional experience in healthcare or a related field strengthens an application, though some students enter directly from undergraduate study.

Applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English proficiency. Depending on the specific track, there may be prerequisite coursework (for example in statistics or basic health sciences) or recommended preparatory reading for students without prior healthcare study.

Career prospects

Graduates move into operational and leadership roles across the health sector. Common roles include hospital or clinic manager, programme manager for community health initiatives, quality improvement coordinator, healthcare consultant, policy analyst, and roles in population health management or managed care organisations. Alumni also find opportunities in public health departments, non-profit health organisations, long-term care facilities and health information companies.

The programme’s practicum and capstone components help build workplace experience and professional networks, supporting career transition and progression into mid-level management and administrative positions.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola is a Jesuit university that emphasises service, ethics and social justice, which is reflected in the health services curriculum and community-engaged learning opportunities. Located in Chicago, the university offers close proximity to a wide range of healthcare providers, hospitals and public-health agencies for practicum placements and employer connections.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across health sciences, public health and business faculties, faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience, and support services such as career advising and practicum coordination. The programme’s focus on applied projects and community partnerships makes it well suited to students seeking both practical skills and a values-driven approach to health leadership.