Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme blends core public health and health-services subjects with applied skills in management, research and quality improvement. Students typically study topics such as organisational behaviour in health care, health policy and law, epidemiology and biostatistics, health economics, and healthcare quality and patient safety. Research methods and applied data analysis are emphasised to support evidence-based decision-making.

• Health services administration and leadership
• Epidemiology and biostatistics for health professionals
• Health policy, ethics and law
• Health systems, finance and economics
• Quality improvement, patient safety and outcomes measurement
• Research methods and programme evaluation
• Capstone project or practicum experience with an applied employer partner

The programme is structured to accommodate full- and part-time study and often offers a choice between a practicum/capstone route and a research thesis option, allowing students to focus on applied practice or academic research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree, preferably in health sciences, nursing, allied health, public health, biology, or a related field. Professional experience in a healthcare or public-health setting strengthens an application.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé outlining relevant work experience
• A statement of purpose describing academic and career objectives
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a writing sample; standardised tests may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s background

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of roles across healthcare, public health and related sectors. Typical career paths include health services manager, programme coordinator, clinical operations supervisor, quality improvement analyst, public-health analyst, policy advisor, and health data or research positions. The degree also provides a foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral study or advanced professional qualifications.

• Hospital and clinic administration
• Public-health departments and community health organisations
• Non-governmental and non-profit health programmes
• Health insurance and managed-care organisations
• Health policy research and consultancy

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who bring applied experience from clinical, administrative and public-health settings. The programme emphasises hands-on learning through practicum placements and community partnerships across the region, giving students practical experience and professional networking opportunities. Flexible delivery options and personalised academic advising help accommodate working professionals seeking career advancement.