Are you passionate about making a difference in the healthcare industry but prefer a leadership role outside of direct patient care? The UAB Health Care Management (HCM) program, offered by the esteemed University of Alabama at Birmingham, provides a robust Bachelor of Science degree designed to cultivate future healthcare leaders and administrators. Established in 1982, UAB’s HCM program has a long-standing tradition of preparing graduates for impactful careers in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
This comprehensive program is meticulously structured to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in mid-level management positions across diverse healthcare settings. Whether your ambition lies in hospitals, ambulatory care centers, physician practices, long-term care facilities, or home health agencies, the UAB HCM program serves as your launchpad. Furthermore, the program’s rigorous curriculum lays a solid groundwork for advanced studies in graduate-level programs, including Masters in Health Administration (MHA), Health Informatics, and clinical professional programs like Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Medicine, and Dentistry.
Understanding that each student’s aspirations are unique, the Uab Care Guidance Program is woven into the fabric of the HCM curriculum. This personalized approach ensures that your course of study can be tailored to your specific interests and strengths within the dynamic healthcare sector. From concentration tracks to accelerated fast-track options, UAB HCM provides the flexibility and support to guide you towards your desired career trajectory.
Tailoring Your HCM Journey: Concentration Tracks
For students with focused career objectives, the UAB HCM program offers specialized concentration tracks. These tracks allow you to delve deeper into specific areas of healthcare management, refining your expertise and enhancing your career readiness. Concentration tracks are particularly beneficial if you have a clear vision for your future, such as executive leadership, clinical management, or specialized areas within healthcare administration. It’s important to note that some concentration tracks may have specific admission criteria.
General Manager Track: Leading Healthcare Operations
The General Manager track is designed for aspiring leaders who aim to oversee health operations and drive organizational success. This track focuses on developing your abilities to create strategic visions, implement growth strategies, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, efficient patient care. The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of management principles applicable to various healthcare organizations. Moreover, the General Manager track offers flexibility with specialty and fast track options tailored to your academic background, professional experience, personal interests, and future career goals.
Clinical Manager Track: Bridging Clinical Expertise with Management Skills
The Clinical Manager track is specifically tailored for healthcare professionals already working in clinical roles who are seeking to advance into management. This track is ideal for early-career and experienced professionals holding certifications or licenses in a health profession who are motivated to manage clinical units and services. Admission to this track is exclusive to graduates of certificate and associate degree programs in health disciplines. Recognizing the existing clinical expertise of students in this track, the required internship is strategically abbreviated. This allows you to leverage your existing familiarity with healthcare environments while focusing on demonstrating newly acquired management and leadership competencies. Graduates of the Clinical Manager track are well-positioned to apply their management skills within facilities or departments aligned with their clinical specialties.
Fast Track Programs: Accelerate Your Path to Advanced Degrees
UAB HCM distinguishes itself by offering Fast Track programs, providing an exceptional advantage in higher education: accelerated degree completion and significant cost savings. These thoughtfully integrated curricula enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in a compressed timeframe. UAB currently offers fast track options that propel your career advancement in high-demand fields such as Occupational Therapy, Health Informatics, and Healthcare Quality and Safety. Similar to concentration tracks, fast track programs may have specific and potentially higher admission requirements.
HCM/Health Informatics (HI) Fast Track: Data-Driven Healthcare Leadership
The HCM/Health Informatics (HI) Fast Track is a streamlined pathway for qualified students to achieve both a BS in Health Care Management and an MS in Health Informatics in just 12 semesters – a remarkable four years, including summer terms. This accelerated timeline is significantly shorter than the typical duration for completing a BS degree alone. This fast track is perfect for students who are interested in the growing field of health informatics and want to leverage data and technology to improve healthcare delivery and management.
HCM/Healthcare Quality and Safety (HQS) Fast Track: Championing Excellence in Patient Care
The HCM/Healthcare Quality and Safety (HQS) Fast Track prepares highly motivated students to earn a BS in Health Care Management and a Master of Science in Healthcare Quality and Safety in 13 semesters, just over four years with summer coursework. UAB is a leader in this critical field, being one of the few universities offering a dedicated graduate program in Healthcare Quality and Safety. This fast track is ideal for students who are committed to enhancing patient safety and improving the quality of healthcare services through systematic processes and data-driven strategies.
HCM/Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Fast Track: Leadership in Occupational Therapy Practice
For students aspiring to become leaders in occupational therapy, the HCM/Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Fast Track offers an exceptional opportunity. This program allows students entering UAB as freshmen to complete a BS in Health Care Management and a Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in less time than pursuing these degrees separately. This accelerated path is perfect for those who envision a leadership role within occupational therapy, combining clinical expertise with strong management acumen.
Admission to the UAB Health Care Management Program
Applying to the HCM Program at UAB is a straightforward process. The UAB Office of Undergraduate Admissions accepts applications year-round, allowing you to begin the program at the start of any academic term. Detailed information and the online application portal for freshman, transfer, returning, and non-traditional admissions can be found at https://www.uab.edu/students/admissions/apply.
To be eligible for the Health Care Management program, you must meet all general undergraduate admission and academic requirements set by UAB and the School of Health Professions.
Direct entry into the HCM program is available for incoming freshmen through the UAB Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Concentration and fast track selections are made with the guidance of dedicated academic advisors within the program. For high school graduates, admission requires graduation from an accredited high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Transfer students and current UAB students changing their major to HCM must also have a minimum overall GPA of 2.5 and an institutional GPA of 2.5 if applicable.
Eligibility for HCM Tracks: Specific Requirements
In addition to general HCM program admission, specific eligibility criteria apply for concentration and fast track options:
-
Clinical Manager Track:
- Restricted to graduates of certificate and/or associate degree programs credentialed or licensed in a health profession. Proof of credentials is required.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Minimum UAB institutional GPA of 2.5 if applicable.
-
General Manager Track:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for freshmen and transfer students.
- Minimum UAB institutional GPA of 2.5 if applicable.
-
HCM/Health Informatics Fast Track:
- Completion of 60 hours of coursework.
- Minimum overall and UAB GPA of 3.0.
-
HCM/Healthcare Quality and Safety Fast Track:
- Completion of 60 hours of coursework.
- Minimum overall and UAB GPA of 3.0.
-
HCM/Occupational Therapy Doctorate Fast Track:
- Completion of less than 30 hours of coursework.
- Minimum high school, overall, and institutional (if applicable) GPA of 3.0.
- Eligibility for placement in EH 101 and MA 105 or higher.
- ACT score of 24 or higher.
Maintaining Fast Track Eligibility:
- A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and UAB GPA of 3.0 must be maintained to remain in a Fast Track program.
- Students must meet the academic and grade requirements of the corresponding graduate program.
- Due to the structured nature of the fast track curriculum, course retakes may not be possible, and dismissal from the track may occur if academic standards are not met.
- Students who are unable to continue in a Fast Track may transition to an alternative track if they meet the admission requirements.
- Applications for Fast Tracks are submitted through the Health Care Management program.
Pre-Internship Requirements: Drug Screen and Background Check
Prior to commencing their internship, all HCM students are required to complete a background check and drug screening. Instructions and consent forms for this process are provided upon admission to the program. It’s important to note that a positive drug screen or unfavorable background check may impact program completion and will be evaluated according to university and school policies.
Academic Standards for Program Progression
Maintaining a strong academic record is crucial throughout the HCM program. The minimum GPA required for admission to the program and chosen track must be consistently maintained for continued enrollment. Students whose GPA falls below the minimum will be given one semester to improve their academic standing. Failure to raise the GPA to the minimum requirement may result in dismissal from the major. Students dismissed due to GPA may reapply once they have raised their overall and institutional GPA to meet program or track minimums. Furthermore, a letter grade of C or higher is required in all program courses. The Bachelor of Science degree requires a minimum of 120 semester hours, with at least 40 hours at the 300-level or above. A minor is not mandatory, allowing flexibility in elective course selection to reach the required credit hours. A maximum of 14 semester hours of clinical education can be applied towards the degree. A management internship is a required capstone experience in the final semester. The internship is 3 credit hours (120 contact hours) for the Clinical Manager Track and 6 credit hours (240 contact hours) for all other tracks.
Contact the Health Care Management Department
For further information about the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management program and to explore how the UAB care guidance program can support your healthcare career aspirations, please contact:
Health Care Management Department of Health Services Administration
Telephone: (205) 934-5173
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.uab.edu/hcm
Image alt text: UAB Health Care Management faculty group photo, showcasing the program’s experienced and dedicated educators.
General Manager Track Curriculum Breakdown
The General Manager Track provides a solid foundation for mid-level management roles and prepares students for graduate studies in health administration and related fields.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Required Blazer Core Curriculum Coursework 1 | 32 |
| Required Prerequisite Coursework | |
| HRP 101 Experience the University Transition | 3 |
| MA 105 or MA 110 Pre-Calculus Algebra or Finite Mathematics | 3 |
| CMST 101 Public Speaking | 3 |
| Accounting (Choose one) | 3-6 |
| AC 200 & AC 201 Financial Accounting Foundations and Intro to Decision-Driven Accounting | |
| BUS 310 Accounting and Finance for Nonbusiness Majors | |
| HCM 316 Accounting and Finance for Health Care | |
| Required Major Courses | |
| HCM 320 Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 350 Medical Terminology for Health Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 360 Statistics for Managers | 3 |
| HCM 375 Managerial Epidemiology | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 402 Economics for Healthcare Managers | 3 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 416 Financial Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 421 Introduction to Long Term Care Administration | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 435 Clinical and Administrative Information Systems | 3 |
| HCM 450 Quality Management in Health Care | 3 |
| HCM 460 Research Methods | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| HCM 481 Health Care Management Internship | 6 |
| Electives | 10-13 |
| Total Hours | 117-123 |
1 Blazer Core Curriculum consists of 41 credit hours (some core course requirements are reflected in the required prerequisite coursework)
*Students must graduate with at least 120 credit hours
Clinical Manager Track Curriculum Breakdown
Designed for clinical professionals seeking management roles, this track acknowledges prior education and offers an abbreviated internship.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Required Blazer Core Curriculum Coursework 1 | 32 |
| Required Prerequisite Coursework | |
| HRP 101 Experience the University Transition | 3 |
| MA 105 or MA 110 Pre-Calculus Algebra or Finite Mathematics | 3 |
| CMST 101 Public Speaking | 3 |
| Accounting (Choose one) | 3-6 |
| AC 200 & AC 201 Financial Accounting Foundations and Intro to Decision-Driven Accounting | |
| BUS 310 Accounting and Finance for Nonbusiness Majors | |
| HCM 316 Accounting and Finance for Health Care | |
| Required Major Courses | |
| HCM 320 Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 360 Statistics for Managers | 3 |
| HCM 375 Managerial Epidemiology | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 402 Economics for Healthcare Managers | 3 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 416 Financial Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 421 Introduction to Long Term Care Administration | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 435 Clinical and Administrative Information Systems | 3 |
| HCM 450 Quality Management in Health Care | 3 |
| HCM 460 Research Methods | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| HCM 481 Health Care Management Internship | 3 |
| Electives | 16-19 |
| Total Hours | 117-123 |
1 Blazer Core Curriculum consists of 41 credit hours (some core course requirements are reflected in the required prerequisite coursework)
*Students must graduate with at least 120 credit hours
HCM Occupational Therapy Doctorate Fast Track Curriculum
This accelerated path combines a BS in HCM with a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy for aspiring OT leaders.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| OT Prerequisite Courses (Completed within 8 years with a grade of “B” or better) | |
| Biology with Lab (UAB Equivalent BY 123+L) | 4 |
| Human Anatomy with lab (UAB Equivalent BY 115+L) | 4 |
| Human Physiology with lab (UAB Equivalent BY 116+L) | 4 |
| Kinesiology (UAB Equivalent KIN 307) | 4 |
| Abnormal Psychology (UAB Equivalent PY 218) | 3 |
| Developmental or Lifespan Psychology (UAB Equivalent PY 212) | 3 |
| Sociology or Anthropology Elective (UAB Equivalent SOC 101 or ANTH 101) | 3 |
| Statistics (UAB Equivalent HCM 360) | |
| HCM and OTD Required Coursework | |
| Required Blazer Core Curriculum Coursework 1 | 32 |
| Required Prerequisite Coursework | |
| HRP 101 Experience the University Transition | 3 |
| MA 106 Pre-Calculus Trigonometry | 3 |
| CMST 101 Public Speaking | 3 |
| Accounting (Choose one) | 3-6 |
| AC 200 & AC 201 Financial Accounting Foundations and Intro to Decision-Driven Accounting | |
| BUS 310 Accounting and Finance for Nonbusiness Majors | |
| HCM 316 Accounting and Finance for Health Care | |
| HCM Required Courses 2 | |
| HCM 320 Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 350 Medical Terminology for Health Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 375 Managerial Epidemiology | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 402 Economics for Healthcare Managers | 3 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 416 Financial Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 421 Introduction to Long Term Care Administration | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 435 Clinical and Administrative Information Systems | 3 |
| HCM 450 Quality Management in Health Care | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| OT Required Courses | |
| OT 701 Theoretical Foundations for Occupational Therapy Practice | 3 |
| OT 704 Research Design for Occupational Therapy Practice | 3 |
| OT 716 Social, Economic and Political Factors that Influence Occupational Therapy | 2 |
| OT 730 Performance Skills for Occupation: Introduction | 2 |
| Total Hours | 105-108 |
1 Blazer Core Curriculum consists of 41 credit hours (some core course requirements are reflected in the required prerequisite coursework)
2 HCM coursework while in the fast track is insufficient to grant the BS degree without additional courses in the OTD program.
*Students must graduate with at least 120 credit hours
HCM Health Informatics Fast Track Curriculum
A fast-paced program combining HCM and Health Informatics for data-driven healthcare professionals.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Required Blazer Core Curriculum Coursework 1 | 32 |
| Required Prerequisite Coursework | |
| HRP 101 Experience the University Transition | 3 |
| MA 105 or MA 110 Pre-Calculus Algebra or Finite Mathematics | 3 |
| CMST 101 Public Speaking | 3 |
| Accounting (Choose one) | 3-6 |
| AC 200 & AC 201 Financial Accounting Foundations and Intro to Decision-Driven Accounting | |
| BUS 310 Accounting and Finance for Nonbusiness Majors | |
| HCM 316 Accounting and Finance for Health Care | |
| HCM Required Courses 2 | |
| HCM 320 Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 350 Medical Terminology for Health Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 360 Statistics for Managers | 3 |
| HCM 375 Managerial Epidemiology | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 402 Economics for Healthcare Managers | 3 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 416 Financial Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 421 Introduction to Long Term Care Administration | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 450 Quality Management in Health Care | 3 |
| HCM 460 Research Methods | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| HCM 481 Health Care Management Internship | 3,6 |
| HI Required Courses | |
| HI 599 Professional Development | 0 |
| HI 611 Introduction to Health Informatics and Healthcare Delivery | 4 |
| HI 613 Analysis and Design of Health Information Systems | 4 |
| HI 614 Clinical and Administrative Systems | 3 |
| HI 620 Security and Privacy in Health Care | 3 |
| Electives | 0-5 |
| Total Hours | 115-126 |
1 Blazer Core Curriculum consists of 41 credit hours (some core course requirements are reflected in the required prerequisite coursework)
2 HCM coursework while in the fast track is insufficient to grant the BS degree without additional courses in the OTD program.
*Students must graduate with at least 120 credit hours
HCM Health Quality and Safety Fast Track Curriculum
This program accelerates your path to becoming a leader in healthcare quality and safety.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| Required Blazer Core Curriculum Coursework 1 | 32 |
| Required Prerequisite Coursework | |
| HRP 101 Experience the University Transition | 3 |
| MA 105 or MA 110 Pre-Calculus Algebra or Finite Mathematics | 3 |
| CMST 101 Public Speaking | 3 |
| Accounting (Choose one) | 3-6 |
| AC 200 & AC 201 Financial Accounting Foundations and Intro to Decision-Driven Accounting | |
| BUS 310 Accounting and Finance for Nonbusiness Majors | |
| HCM 316 Accounting and Finance for Health Care | |
| HCM Required Courses 2 | |
| HCM 320 Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 350 Medical Terminology for Health Professionals | 3 |
| HCM 360 Statistics for Managers | 3 |
| HCM 375 Managerial Epidemiology | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 402 Economics for Healthcare Managers | 3 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 416 Financial Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 421 Introduction to Long Term Care Administration | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 435 Clinical and Administrative Information Systems | 3 |
| HCM 450 Quality Management in Health Care | 3 |
| HCM 460 Research Methods | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| HCM 481 Health Care Management Internship | 3,6 |
| HQS Required Courses | |
| HCM 550 Healthcare Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Seminar | 2 |
| HQS 600 Introduction to Clinical Quality Improvement | 4 |
| Electives | 4-10 |
| Total Hours | 114-126 |
1 Blazer Core Curriculum consists of 41 credit hours (some core course requirements are reflected in the required prerequisite coursework)
2 HCM coursework while in the fast track is insufficient to grant the BS degree without additional courses in the OTD program.
*Students must graduate with at least 120 credit hours
Image alt text: Group of diverse UAB Health Care Management students collaborating and learning together, highlighting the program’s inclusive environment.
Sample Program of Study: General Manager Track
This proposed schedule provides a term-by-term guide for students in the General Manager Track.
| Freshman | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | |
| EH 101 | 3 | EH 102 | 3 | |
| MA 105 or MA 110 | 3 | CMST 101 | 3 | |
| HRP 101 | 3 | Core Curriculum Area III: Natural Science | 4 | |
| Core Curriculum Area II: Fine Arts | 3 | Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | |
| Core Curriculum Area IV: History1 | 3 | |||
| 15 | 13 | |||
| Sophomore | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | Summer Term |
| HCM 316 | 3 | Elective | 3 | HCM 350 |
| Core Curriculum Area II: Literature | 3 | Core Area II Literature | 3 | HCM 360 |
| Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | |
| Core III Natural Science | 4 | HCM 320 | 3 | |
| HCM 330 | 3 | |||
| 13 | 15 | |||
| Junior | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | Summer Term |
| HCM 325 | 3 | HCM 401 | 4 | HCM 403 |
| HCM 402 | 3 | HCM 416 | 3 | HCM 450 |
| HCM 460 | 3 | HCM 435 | 3 | |
| HCM 480 | 3 | HCM 375 | 3 | |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 | |
| 15 | 16 | |||
| Senior | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | |
| HCM 405 | 4 | HCM 481 | 6 | |
| HCM 407 | 3 | |||
| HCM 421 | 3 | |||
| HCM 425 | 3 | |||
| Elective | 2 | |||
| 15 | 6 | |||
| Total credit hours: 121 |
1 A six semester hour sequence in literature or history is required.
Sample Program of Study: Clinical Manager Track
A proposed term-by-term schedule tailored for the Clinical Manager Track.
| Freshman | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | |
| EH 101 | 3 | EH 102 | 3 | |
| MA 105 or MA 110 | 3 | CMST 101 | 3 | |
| HRP 101 | 3 | Core Curriculum Area III: Natural Science | 4 | |
| Core Curriculum Area II: Fine Arts | 3 | Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | |
| Core Curriculum Area IV: History1 | 3 | |||
| 15 | 13 | |||
| Sophomore | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | Summer Term |
| HCM 316 | 3 | HCM 320 | 3 | HCM 325 |
| Core Curriculum Area II: Literature | 3 | HCM 330 | 3 | HCM 360 |
| Core Curriculum Area III: Natural Science | 4 | Core Area II Literature | 3 | |
| Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | Core Curriculum Area IV: Social and Behavioral Science | 3 | |
| *Elective | 3 | |||
| 13 | 15 | |||
| Junior | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | Summer Term |
| HCM 402 | 3 | HCM 375 | 3 | HCM 403 |
| HCM 421 | 3 | HCM 401 | 4 | HCM 450 |
| HCM 460 | 3 | HCM 416 | 3 | *Elective |
| HCM 480 | 3 | HCM 435 | 3 | |
| *Elective | 3 | *Elective | 3 | |
| 15 | 16 | |||
| Senior | ||||
| First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours | |
| HCM 405 | 4 | HCM 481 | 3 | |
| HCM 407 | 3 | |||
| HCM 425 | 3 | |||
| *Elective | 5 | |||
| 15 | 3 | |||
| Total credit hours: 121 |
- Clinical course credit completed at another institution may be applied for elective credit.
1 A six semester hour sequence in literature or history is required.
Minor Programs in Health Care Management
The HCM program also offers minor options for undergraduate students seeking to complement their major studies with healthcare management expertise. A minor can enhance your career prospects and provide valuable knowledge applicable to various industries.
Minor in Health Care Management Curriculum
This minor requires 21 semester hours and a minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 401 Organizational Studies in Health Care | 4 |
| HCM 403 Operations Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 405 Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations | 4 |
| HCM 407 Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations | 3 |
| HCM 480 Health Care Policy and Reform | 3 |
| Total Hours | 21 |
Minor in Health Information Management Curriculum
This minor requires 18 semester hours and a minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission.
| Requirements | Hours |
|---|---|
| HCM 325 Healthcare Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HCM 330 Health Care Systems | 3 |
| HCM 425 Healthcare Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| HCM 435 Clinical and Administrative Information Systems | 3 |
| HIM 418 Documentation Standards for Health Data | 3 |
| HIM 475 Electronic Health Records | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 |
Course Descriptions: HCM Program
HCM 302. Principles of Management in Health Care. 3 Hours.
Fundamentals of management in healthcare settings, covering communication, planning, decision-making, and personnel management.
HCM 305. Effective Communication and Professionalism in Health Care. 2 Hours.
Development of professional skills, ethics, and behaviors essential for the healthcare environment.
HCM 306. Introduction to Cultural Awareness and Competency. 2 Hours.
Exploration of cultural dimensions, stereotypes, and cross-cultural skills in healthcare and related fields.
HCM 316. Accounting and Finance for Health Care. 3 Hours.
Introduction to financial accounting principles and practices specific to healthcare organizations.
Prerequisites: MA 105 or higher.
HCM 318. Law for Health Care Professionals. 3 Hours.
Legal principles and the U.S. legal system as applied to healthcare, including privacy, liability, and consent.
HCM 320. Microcomputer Applications for Health Care Professionals. 3 Hours.
Application of software tools for word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations in healthcare management.
HCM 325. Healthcare Law and Ethics. 3 Hours.
Ethical and legal principles in healthcare, focusing on patient rights, confidentiality, and malpractice.
HCM 330. Health Care Systems. 3 Hours.
Overview of the U.S. healthcare system, policy impacts, and healthcare financing mechanisms.
HCM 350. Medical Terminology for Health Professionals. 3 Hours.
Systematic study of medical vocabulary, including diseases, procedures, and treatments.
HCM 360. Statistics for Managers. 3 Hours.
Basic statistical methods and software applications for managerial decision-making in healthcare.
Prerequisites: MA 105 or higher.
HCM 375. Managerial Epidemiology. 3 Hours.
Epidemiological methods and their application to healthcare management decisions.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 401. Organizational Studies in Health Care. 4 Hours.
Behavioral science concepts including leadership, change management, and organizational assessment in healthcare.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 402. Economics for Healthcare Managers. 3 Hours.
Economic principles applied to the healthcare system, including market dynamics and forecasting.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 403. Operations Management in Health Care Organizations. 4 Hours.
Operational functions in healthcare management, including work design, systems analysis, and quality improvement.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 405. Human Resource Management in Health Care Organizations. 4 Hours.
HR management practices in healthcare, covering job descriptions, recruitment, training, and employee relations.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 407. Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations. 3 Hours.
Strategic management processes in healthcare organizations, with an emphasis on operational implementation.
Prerequisites: AHS 403 or HCM 403.
HCM 409. Personnel Management in Long-Term Care. 1 Hour.
Staffing and staff development in long-term care facilities.
Prerequisites: AHS 405 or HCM 405.
HCM 410. Long Term Care Facilities Management. 3 Hours.
Administrative responsibilities for physical facilities, safety, and key resident services in long-term care.
HCM 411. Biological, Psychological, and Sociological Issues of Aging. 3 Hours.
Gerontology and geriatrics, focusing on the healthcare needs of the elderly.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 415. Ethics for Health Care Professionals. 3 Hours.
Ethical theories and decision-making models applied to healthcare dilemmas.
Prerequisites: (AHS 318 or HCM 318) and (AHS 330 or HCM 330).
HCM 416. Financial Management in Health Care Organizations. 3 Hours.
Department-level financial management, budgeting, and cost analysis in healthcare.
Prerequisites: (AHS 330 or HCM 330) and (AC 200 & AC 201) or BUS 310 or HCM 316.
HCM 417. Financial Management for Long Term Care Administrators. 2 Hours.
Financial management practices and reimbursement in long-term care facilities.
Prerequisites: (AHS 416 or HCM 416) and (AHS 421 or HCM 421).
HCM 418. Legal and Regulatory Issues in Long Term Care. 3 Hours.
Compliance with licensure laws and regulations in long-term care.
Prerequisites: HCM 325 and HCM 350.
HCM 420. Long Term Care Resident Care and Quality. 2 Hours.
Program planning and evaluation to enhance resident quality of life in long-term care.
HCM 421. Introduction to Long Term Care Administration. 3 Hours.
Introduction to the long-term care industry and nursing facility operations.
Prerequisites: HCM 330 or AHS 330.
HCM 425. Healthcare Reimbursement Methods. 3 Hours.
Financial systems and reimbursement methodologies in the U.S. healthcare system.
Prerequisites: (AHS 350 or HCM 350) and (HCM 330 or AHS 330).
HCM 430. Documentation Requirements in Long Term Care. 2 Hours.
Clinical documentation requirements in long-term care, including MDS and care plans.
Prerequisites: (HCM 330 or AHS 330) and (HCM 421 or AHS 330).
HCM 432. Continuum of Long-Term Care. 3 Hours.
Overview of long-term and elder care providers, services, and reimbursement.
Prerequisites: (HCM 330 or AHS 330) and (HCM 421 or AHS 421).
HCM 435. Clinical and Administrative Information Systems. 3 Hours.
Information systems and their applications in healthcare organizations.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 450. Quality Management in Health Care. 3 Hours.
Quality and appropriateness of care in healthcare organizations, regulatory guidelines, and industry standards.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 460. Research Methods. 3 Hours.
Introductory research methods for health services research, including study design and ethics.
Prerequisites: (AHS 360 or HCM 360) or MA 180 or QM 214 or PY 216.
HCM 474. Service Learning in Health Care Management. 2 Hours.
Experiential learning through community-based service in healthcare settings.
HCM 475. Special Topics in Health Care Management. 1-4 Hour.
Exploration of current issues in Health Care Management.
HCM 480. Health Care Policy and Reform. 3 Hours.
Health policy issues facing the U.S. and economic implications of healthcare reforms.
Prerequisites: AHS 330 or HCM 330.
HCM 481. Health Care Management Internship. 3,6 Hours.
Capstone internship in a healthcare setting, applying managerial functions and classroom learning.
HCM 482. Current Issues in Health Care. 3 Hours.
Analysis of current issues in the healthcare industry and their organizational impact.
Prerequisites: HCM 330 or AHS 330.
HCM 483. Long Term Care Health Care Management Internship. 6-10 Hours.
Supervised internship focused on managerial functions in long-term care organizations.
Faculty in Health Care Management
- Allgood, Ashleigh, Instructor, MPH, MBA (UAB)
- Cendoma, Phil, Assistant Professor, MSHA-MBA (UAB)
- Dawson, Susan Packa, Instructor and Director of Operations, MS (University of Alabama)
- Dorsey, Amanda D., Assistant Professor, MSHI (UAB)
- Griffith, Donna Herrin, Executive in Residence, MSN
- Grusenmeyer, Patrick A., Associate Professor, ScD Public Health (Tulane University)
- Hearld, Kristine Ria, Professor and Program Director, PhD (University of Pennsylvania)
- Houser, Shannon, Professor, Ph.D. (UAB)
- Lee, Heather J., Instructor, M.P.H. (UAB)
- Lee, Seung-Yup (Joshua), Assistant Professor, Ph.D. (Wayne State University)
- Niranjan, Soumya, Assistant Professor, PhD (UAB)
- Silvera, Geoffrey, Associate Professor, Ph.D. (The Pennsylvania State University)
- Weech-Maldonado, Robert, Professor and L. R. Jordan Endowed Chair, PhD (Temple University)
- Williams, Jessica Hillman, Associate Professor and Program Director, PhD (UAB)
- Zengul, Ferhat, Associate Professor, PhD (UAB)
