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Health and Medical Administrative Services at Montana State University Billings

Credential: Certificate | State: MT

Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): $34,171 | Annual Completions: 24

MSUB Health Admin Certificate: Solid Entry to Growing Healthcare Field with Moderate Initial Earnings

Program Analysis

The Health and Medical Administrative Services certificate program at Montana State University Billings (MSUB) equips students with essential skills to manage the operational and administrative aspects of healthcare facilities. This program, classified under CIP code 5107, focuses on developing proficiency in areas such as healthcare systems, medical terminology, patient registration and scheduling, billing and coding, health information management, and healthcare law and ethics. Graduates will understand the complex regulatory environment of healthcare and learn to apply administrative principles to ensure efficient and effective patient care delivery.

Upon completion, graduates are prepared for a variety of entry-level positions within hospitals, clinics, physician offices, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare organizations. Common career paths include Medical Secretary, Health Information Technician, Medical Records Clerk, Patient Registrar, Billing and Coding Specialist, and Healthcare Administrator Assistant. With experience, individuals can advance to roles such as Office Manager, Health Information Manager, or even Clinic Director.

Median earnings one year post-graduation are reported at $34,171. While this figure represents early-career earnings, salary expectations can grow significantly with experience and further specialization. Entry-level positions might start in the $30,000-$38,000 range. Mid-career professionals, typically with 5-10 years of experience, can expect to earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually. Senior roles, such as Health Information Managers or Clinic Administrators, could command salaries upwards of $65,000-$80,000 or more, depending on the size and type of healthcare facility.

The return on investment (ROI) for a certificate program is generally favorable due to lower tuition costs and shorter completion times compared to associate or bachelor's degrees. While the initial median earnings are modest, the focused skill set provided by this certificate can lead to quicker employment and a solid foundation for career advancement in a growing industry. The healthcare sector is consistently expanding, driven by an aging population and advancements in medical technology, ensuring sustained demand for skilled administrative professionals.

Industry demand for health and medical administrative services professionals remains strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects robust growth for related occupations. For prospective students, it is advisable to leverage MSUB's career services for internships and job placement assistance. Networking within the local healthcare community and pursuing relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Professional Coder - CPC) can further enhance career prospects and earning potential.

Career Paths

Graduates of Health and Medical Administrative Services at Montana State University Billings can pursue the following career paths:

  • Medical Secretary. Median salary: $38,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Health Information Technician. Median salary: $45,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Patient Registrar. Median salary: $35,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Billing and Coding Specialist. Median salary: $48,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Healthcare Administrator Assistant. Median salary: $42,000, Strong growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Healthcare Systems Management
  • Medical Terminology
  • Patient Scheduling and Registration
  • Medical Billing and Coding
  • Health Information Management

Frequently Asked Questions about Health and Medical Administrative Services at Montana State University Billings

Is Health and Medical Administrative Services. at Montana State University Billings worth it?

The Health and Medical Administrative Services certificate at MSUB offers a focused pathway into the stable and growing healthcare industry. With median first-year earnings around $34,171, it provides a foundational income. The value lies in its ability to quickly equip students with in-demand administrative skills, leading to employment opportunities in roles like Medical Secretary or Billing and Coding Specialist. While initial salaries are moderate, the healthcare sector's consistent demand and opportunities for advancement mean this certificate can be a worthwhile investment for those seeking a career in healthcare administration, especially when considering the typically lower cost and shorter duration compared to longer degree programs.

What jobs can I get with a Health and Medical Administrative Services. degree?

Graduates from the Health and Medical Administrative Services certificate program at MSUB can pursue various administrative roles within the healthcare sector. Potential job titles include Medical Secretary, responsible for front-desk operations and patient communication; Health Information Technician, managing patient records and ensuring data accuracy; Patient Registrar, handling patient admissions and demographic information; and Billing and Coding Specialist, translating medical services into billable codes. Other roles like Healthcare Administrator Assistant or Medical Office Assistant are also common, supporting the daily operations of clinics and hospitals. These positions are crucial for the efficient functioning of healthcare facilities.

How much do Health and Medical Administrative Services. graduates earn?

Graduates of the Health and Medical Administrative Services certificate program at MSUB report median earnings of $34,171 one year after completing their studies. This figure represents an entry-level salary. As graduates gain experience and potentially pursue further certifications or specialized roles, their earning potential increases significantly. Mid-career professionals (5-10 years of experience) in roles like Medical Office Manager or Health Information Supervisor can typically earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually. Senior administrative positions within larger healthcare systems may command salaries exceeding $65,000 to $80,000 or more, reflecting increased responsibility and expertise.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.