Bachelor of Science in Health Administration

Health Admin Image

Looking for a way to make a difference in healthcare without scrubs or stethoscopes? Health administration at WMU gives you the chance to turn your leadership, organization and problem-solving skills into a rewarding career. 

You'll take courses in both health and business, and you'll complete a semester-long internship that connects you with the healthcare industry before you graduate. You can also earn a general business minor with no extra courses or choose another minor to fit your interests and career goals. 

Ready to take the next step? Join WMU's health administration program and start building your future today!

Job outlook

98%

of College of Health and Human Services graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

98%

of College of Health and Human Services undergraduate students had instructors who made them excited about learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

95%

of College of Health and Human Services graduates participated in experience-driven learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

Pursue a B.S. in Health Administration

Pursue a B.S. in Health Administration

The Bachelor of Science in Health Administration at Western Michigan University prepares students to lead and manage healthcare organizations through coursework in health systems, policy, finance and operations. Students build skills in problem-solving, communication and ethical decision-making, with a focus on improving quality, efficiency and patient outcomes. The program includes applied learning opportunities, such as internships and project-based experiences with healthcare partners. Graduates are prepared to analyze organizational challenges, support teams and improve processes across a range of healthcare settings. With this degree, students are ready for entry-level roles in hospitals, clinics, public health agencies and nonprofit organizations, or for continued graduate study.

What you'll learn

What you'll learn

Students in the Bachelor of Science in Health Administration at Western Michigan University engage in applied coursework that includes a supervised internship and a senior-level capstone experience. These opportunities allow students to work with healthcare organizations and apply classroom knowledge to real operational challenges. Throughout the program, students develop skills in data analysis, healthcare operations, leadership, communication and regulatory compliance. Graduates leave with practical experience and a strong understanding of how to improve organizational effectiveness and patient-centered care.

Block Quote

One of the most valuable connections I made between my coursework and my internship was through my biostatistics class. Being able to interpret patterns, identify gaps, and translate numbers into meaningful insights helped me see how data-driven approaches can directly impact patient engagement and healthcare outcomes.

Jobs after graduation

Jobs after graduation

A bachelor's degree in health administration opens doors to many career opportunities in hospitals, medical practices and community health programs. Graduates help support the day-to-day operations that keep healthcare organizations running smoothly. This degree provides a strong foundation for those interested in contributing to the business and administrative side of healthcare. 

Recent graduates from the health administration program have these titles:

  • Office coordinator
  • Clinic operations assistant
  • Administrative assistant 

What others have achieved


What others have achieved

Every student in our health administration program completes a real-world internship in a healthcare setting. After building a strong foundation through hands-on coursework, you'll step into your internship ready to put your knowledge to work in hospitals, clinics and health organizations. It's the kind of experience that boosts your confidence, sharpens your skills and helps you stand out as you launch your career. 

Clay and Olivia from Health Administration.

Clay Linson and Olivia Naas

Clay Linson and Olivia Naas, both graduates of health administration program in the College of Health and Human Services at Western Michigan University, completed their internships at WMU’s Sindecuse Health Center.

Making the most of your learning experience


Making the most of your learning experience

Students complete an internship within a healthcare organization, gaining insight into daily operations while contributing to active projects and initiatives. These experiences build skills in critical thinking, systems analysis and professional communication in complex care environments. Students can also connect their learning through participation in health-focused registered student organizations that support professional development and networking. In addition, structured academic advising, faculty support and career services provide consistent guidance throughout the program.
 
Health Admin students presenting research posters.

Scholarships


What scholarships are available for the Bachelor of Science in Health Administration?

Western Michigan University offers a range of institutional scholarships and grants to help make a high-quality education affordable, including merit-based awards, need-based grants and departmental scholarships. Many students receive financial support—99% of full-time undergraduates with financial need receive aid—and scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid. The University’s financial aid team works closely with students and families to navigate options, from admissions scholarships like the Medallion program to funding identified through Scholarship Universe, WMU’s scholarship-matching tool. With personalized support, financial resources and a commitment to access, WMU helps students identify funding opportunities and manage the cost of their education.

Admission requirements

 

Admission requirements

Admission to the program occurs when students who have previously been admitted to WMU, have a minimum of a 2.00 GPA and are not on academic probation select Health Administration as their major. Students must raise their GPAs to 2.50 or higher before taking the required internship course.

Students must obtain at least a “C” in all HA core major courses. In accordance with University policy, students may repeat courses to obtain the required grade of “C”.

Students must have a minimum of a 2.50 cumulative GPA when applying for the required internship course. Those who do not have a 2.50 cumulative GPA in the semester before their internship course may take one additional semester to raise their cumulative GPA to a 2.50 or higher. If after this additional semester they do not meet the 2.50 cumulative GPA requirement, they will be dismissed from the program.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

You will be prepared for roles such as healthcare administrator, clinic manager, patient services coordinator or operations analyst in hospitals, outpatient centers, public health agencies and nonprofit organizations.
You will study healthcare systems, policy, finance and operations while building skills in problem-solving, communication and ethical decision-making.
Yes. Students are required to complete the internship course that focuses on real healthcare challenges.

Students can participate in health-focused registered student organizations that support networking, leadership development and career exploration.

No prior healthcare experience is required; the program is designed to build foundational knowledge from the start.

Other degrees of interest