The healthcare industry is booming, with employment in healthcare occupations projected to grow by thirteen percent by 2031. Nearly two million new healthcare jobs are expected to be added to the workforce, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
With this high level of growth, individuals have a variety of degrees and career options available to them, such as a bachelor of science degree in Health Science (BSHS) or a bachelor of science degree in Health Administration (BSHA).
And though these degrees both lead to rewarding, fulfilling, and lucrative careers, they are distinctly different.
This article will showcase the differences between a degree in Health Science and a degree in Health Administration.
What is a Health Science degree?
Health Science degrees focus on hard sciences and open the door to a career in medical technology, research, or education. This degree path is excellent for public and community health, health and wellness, health policy, or health education students.
Health Science programs offer a combination of coursework, labs, and experiential learning to prepare graduates for many health-related careers and settings.
Programs also help students develop leadership techniques, problem-solving skills, and practical communication skills to ensure they can interact with patients, families, and fellow healthcare professionals.
While coursework varies depending on the college or university, core coursework typically includes fundamental biology, chemistry, and social science classes. Other courses may include:
- Introduction to Healthcare
- Medical Terminology
- Ethics in Public Health
- Research Methods
- US Healthcare Delivery Systems
Want to explore Goodwin University’s career-focused Health Science program? Check out our curriculum and learn more today!
What Job Can I Get With a Health Science Degree?
By combining scientific coursework in the natural and social sciences and hands-on training, graduates of Health Science programs are prepared for various clinical and non-clinical careers and work settings.
Health science professionals find work in medical laboratories, federal government agencies, consulting firms, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, clinics, physicians’ offices, and insurance companies.
Here are some popular career paths for Health Science graduates and their median annual wage according to the BLS.
- Health education specialists – $60,600 per year
- Medical and health services managers – $101,340 per year
- Sales representative – $94,840 per year
Health Science majors are prepared for many graduate-level degree programs in medicine, dentistry, physical or occupational therapy, veterinary medicine, and public health.
What is a Health Administration Degree?
Individuals desiring a leadership role in management and administration in hospitals or other healthcare facilities often choose a degree in Health Administration.
Bachelor’s in Health Administration degrees prepare students for leadership roles within healthcare institutions. Upon graduating, candidates can help manage the daily operations in a medical facility and perform other administrative tasks, such as implementing changes to improve patient care or the efficiency of day-to-day operations.
Like Health Science programs, coursework in Health Administration programs will vary from school to school. However, students can expect to take courses such as:
- Communication and Technologies
- Healthcare Administration
- Healthcare Quality Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Public Health and Safety
- Managing and Leading
What Job Can I Get With a Health Administration Degree?
Graduates of Health Administration programs are qualified to work in a number of leadership roles and settings, including hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and nursing homes.
Here are some popular careers and their median annual salaries for candidates with Health Administration degrees:
- Social and community service managers – $74,000 per year
- Medical records specialists – $46,660 per year
- Natural sciences managers – $137,900 per year
As you can see, there are many departments within a healthcare institution to make a positive impact and difference in the lives of patients, caregivers, and communities.
Health Science and Health Administration at Goodwin University
Goodwin University offers students the opportunity to pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree in Health Science with either a Healthcare Administration or Epidemiology concentration in the bachelor’s degree program.
Our associate degree in Health Science program is ideal for students who have yet to determine their healthcare career path. We offer concentrations in healthcare career exploration, associate degree completion, and transfer concentration to meet you where you are in your life and career.
Similarly, our bachelor’s degree in Health Science program allows students to choose from two concentrations: healthcare administration or epidemiology.
1. Healthcare Administration
This track is best suited for candidates interested in healthcare policy, leadership, and management. After completing the core curriculum of the Health Science degree, students will explore the ins and outs of the healthcare system and learn how to impact their patients’ lives positively.
2. Epidemiology
Epidemiologists study infectious diseases and how they impact our population. Students in this concentration study global health, human diseases, and more to gain the skills to become a trusted community health professional.
While each program is a unique pathway to different career goals, both curriculums give students an in-depth understanding of healthcare laws, ethics, and standard and alternative medicine.
Enrollment is hassle-free, it’s easy to get started, and financial aid is available. Plus, with comprehensive support services, students complete college and enter the workforce with a solid career plan.
Contact us for more information and start your journey into an exciting healthcare career today. We’re ready when you are!