Overview
Like all businesses, health care organizations need strong leadership to run smoothly. As an experienced health care administrator, your career could span the operation of a single department to executive leadership and management positions in which you’re responsible for millions of dollars of facilities and equipment as well as hundreds of employees.
With the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) BS Health Care Administration Program you will master the basic business principles and tools that you’ll need for effective decision-making when you enter this field: finance, information systems, strategic planning, human resource management and marketing. You’ll also develop strong leadership abilities — such as problem-solving, communication, relationship management, diplomacy, collaboration, teamwork, adaptability, change management and mentoring — that will be essential to your success.
Why choose us?
- We are the only health care administration program in Wisconsin that is certified by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA), and are among only 44 AUPHA-certified undergraduate programs in the nation.
- Our undergraduate program integrates a minor in business administration to reinforce the strong management skills for which our graduates are known.
- All of our students complete a semester-long internship which provides an integrative educational and fieldwork experience. Thanks to our urban location and strong community partnerships, you’ll have access to internships at leading local and national health care organizations.
- As participants in the American College of Healthcare Executives Higher Education Network, our program and the Future Healthcare Executives student organization connect you with leaders and professionals in the field through educational and networking opportunities.
Apply
To apply to the BS Health Care Administration Program you must first apply to UWM. On your application select “Health Care Administration” as your intended area of study. You will be classified as “Health Care Administration-Intended” upon admission to the University.
After you have completed the prerequisite courses during your first two years of study, you will be eligible to apply for admission to the major and professional core courses.
Cost
Tuition
For the most up-to-date information, visit the UWM Enrollment & Financial Services website . Be sure you are viewing the Undergraduate Fee Schedule for the appropriate semester.
UWM offers the following Tuition Reduction Programs for out-of-state residents:
- Minnesota–Wisconsin Tuition Reciprocity agreement
(Minnesota residents) - Midwest Student Exchange Program
(Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and Ohio residents) - Milwaukee Advantage Program
(Illinois residents)
Mandatory/Segregated Fees
These funds are earmarked for the support of certain student services. See the Mandatory/Segregated Fees document for the appropriate semester on the UWM Enrollment & Financial Services website .
Additional Course Fees
There may be additional course fees (in addition to regular tuition) that could include differential tuition, distance education fees, or special course fees. To see if your courses have additional fees, go to web.uwm.edu/registrar/tools/fee .
Aid
UWM & CHS Scholarships
Complete the FAFSA then go to the UWM Panther Scholarship Portal . Sign in using your PAWS credentials and complete the General Application and the CHS application. You may save your work and return to the portal at a later time. Additional information can be found at uwm.edu/scholarships .
State & National Scholarships/Awards
UWM Emergency Grant
The UWM Emergency Grant is funded by several private contributions and is available to students when they have unforeseen circumstances that may negatively influence their academic success. You can be awarded up to $1,000 for non-academic expenses (e.g., car repairs, medical bills, rent, utilities, child care, food, etc.). Learn more at uwm.edu/emergencygrant .
Contact
Angela Kowalski, MS
Academic Advisor
414-229-2758 • angelak@uwm.edu
Kathleen M. Olewinski, MS, RHIA, NHA, FACHE, PhD Dissertator
Program Coordinator/Educational Coordinator
414-229-7110 • kmo@uwm.edu
Accreditation/Certification
Accreditation/CertificationThe Health Care Administration (HCA) Program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a full certified undergraduate program member of the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA). We are proud to be one of only 45 AUPHA-certified undergraduate programs in the U.S., out of hundreds of programs nationally. Full certified undergraduate program membership in AUPHA represents programmatic accreditation for undergraduate health administration programs.
Mission, Vision & Values
Mission, Vision & ValuesMission
The Health Care Administration (HCA) Program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee provides a comprehensive curriculum in health services administration to a diverse, highly-qualified student population. Faculty and active practitioners bring a breadth and depth of expertise to the delivery of courses in medical science, informatics, and management. The HCA Program enhances the quality of life of the residents of Wisconsin, in the advancement of the knowledge and the ability of healthcare professionals to lead their organizations, to serve their communities, and to improve the health status of their communities.
Vision
The HCA Program delivers state-of-the-art education to traditional and nontraditional students, preparing them for entry or mid-level management positions in group practice, ambulatory care, long-term care, hospitals, managed care, and other health-related organizations. We use innovative instructional methods to deliver excellent and consistent educational outcomes based on the needs of our industry and our constituency.
Values
In pursuit of this vision, the HCA Program is guided by a commitment to the following values established by the College of Health Sciences:
- Integrity in all that we do
- Collaboration to achieve Excellence
- Diversity of thought, perspective and culture
- Accessibility to promote optimal engagement
In addition, the HCA Program recognizes the importance of the following values:
- Continuous improvement in the quality of work performed, and commitment to service
- Respect for the dignity of each individual
- Accountability of individual faculty, staff, and students to each other and our constituencies
- Fairness in matters involving students, faculty and staff
- Teamwork among students, faculty, staff, and alumni and openness to innovation and change
Admission to UWM
Admission to UWMNew College Students
To apply to the BS Health Care Administration Program you must first apply to UWM. On your application select “Health Care Administration” as your intended area of study. You will be classified as “Health Care Administration-Intended” upon admission to the University.
Transfer Students
You can be guaranteed admission to UWM by participating in the Guaranteed Transfer Program . After fulfilling certain credit and grade point average requirements, you will transfer with the same rights and privileges as those who begin their education at UWM.
Go to uwm.edu/undergrad-admission/student-type/transfer for the most up-to-date information about the application process, including deadlines, sending transcripts and test scores, and more.
To see how your credits will transfer to UWM, go to Transfer Wisconsin . For transfer credit evaluation questions, contact the UWM Registrar’s Office at 414-229-3800 or uwm.edu/registrar/contact-us .
For admissions related questions contact the UWM Office of Undergraduate Admissions at 414-229-2222.
If you meet UWM standard admission requirements, you will be admitted directly into the College of Health Sciences as a “Health Care Administration Intended” major.
Transfer from UW Colleges
UWM General Education Requirements (GER)
UW Colleges Equivalent | UWM Equivalent | Required Credits |
---|---|---|
Arts | 3 | |
English: Must earn 'C' or better in ENG 102 | English 102 | X |
Foreign Language* | X | |
Humanities | 3 | |
Math: Must earn 'C' or better in MAT 110 | Math 105 | 3 |
Natural Sciences** | X | |
Social Sciences** | X |
*Can be satisfied with 2 years of a single foreign language in high school.
**Satisfied through coursework below.
Foundation Courses
Requires ‘C’ or better
UW Colleges Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
ECO 203: Economics - Macro | ECON 104 |
ECO 204: Economics - Micro | ECON 103 |
CTA 103: Introduction to Public Speaking | COMMUN 103 |
Additional Required Courses
UW Colleges Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
BIO 280: Human Anatomy* AND BIO 281: Human Physiology* | BIO SCI 202 AND BIO SCI 203 |
MAT 211: Calculus | MATH 211 |
MAT 117: Elementary Statistics | MTHSTAT 215/KIN 270 |
PSY 201: Intro to Psychology | PSYCH 101 |
BUS 201: Intro to Accounting | BUS 201 |
BUS 230: Intro to Management Info Systems (requires a 'C+') | BUS 230/HS 224 |
ENG 210/BUS 210: Business Communication | ENG 205 |
*The combination of BIO 280 (formerly PHS 235) and BIO 281 (formerly ZOO 234) at any UW College is equivalent to the combination of BIO SCI 202 (4 credits, GE:NS+) and BIO SCI 203 (4 credits, GE:NS+) at UWM. If you have credit for ONLY BIO 280 OR 281, those courses are NOT individually equivalent to BIO SCI 202 and/or 203.
Other Requirements for Entry into the Major
In addition to the application for admission to UWM, you are required to earn a grade of C+ or higher in all HCA and HS courses, with the exception of BMS 301-305. A grade of C or higher is required in all other major courses. If you twice earn a grade lower than these requirements in any course required in the major, you will not be admitted to the major, and if previously admitted, will be dismissed from the major. A third attempt to take any of the required courses will not be allowed. You can submit an appeal to remain in the major.
Transfer from Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)
Course Requirements for Entry into the Major
Direct admission to the major is not possible upon transfer; you transfer in as “Intended” and are required to apply to the major. Only students admitted to the major are eligible to apply for internship placement, subject to approval.
MATC Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
ENG 202: English Composition II* | ENGLISH 102 |
MATH 200: Intermediate Algebra* | MATH 105 |
ENG 198: Speech OR Speech 201: Elements of Speech I | COMMUN 103 |
SOCSCI 201: Principles of Microeconomics | ECON 103 |
SOCSCI 202: Principles of Macroeconomics | ECON 104 |
* Minimum grades of “C” are required in all these courses for the Health Care Administration major.
Required Courses for Entry into the Major that are NOT in the MATC Curriculum
UW-MILWAUKEE | Course Title |
---|---|
HCA 220 | Leading Health Care Professionals |
HS 102 | Health Care Delivery in the United States |
* Minimum grades of “C+” are required in both courses above for the Health Care Administration major.
Suggested Courses in the MATC Curriculum that are NOT Required for Admission
MATC Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
NATSCI 201: Anatomy and Physiology I | BIO SCI 202 |
NATSCI 202: Anatomy and Physiology II | BIO SCI 203 |
MATH 260: Basic Statistics | MTHSTAT 215** |
SOCSCI 134: Human Growth & Development OR SOCSCI 188: Developmental Psychology OR SOCSCI 237: Child Psychology OR SOCSCI 238: Life-Span Psychology | PSYCH 260*** |
ACCTG 111: Accounting 1 AND ACCTG 112: Accounting 2 | BUS ADM 201 |
IT 109: Computer Information Systems OR ITSUP 101: Computer Information Systems Fundamentals | BUS ADM 230* |
MATH 198: Calculus | Math 231 |
* Will serve as a substitute for HS 224 in the HCA curriculum.
** Will serve as a substitute for KIN 270 in the HCA curriculum.
*** Will serve as a substitute for HCA 203 in the HCA curriculum.
Other Requirements for Entry into the Major
You are required to earn a grade of C+ or higher in all HCA and HS courses. A grade of C or higher is required in all other major courses. If you twice earn a grade lower than these requirements in any course required in the major, you will not be admitted to the major, and if previously admitted, will be dismissed from the major. A third attempt to take any of the required courses will not be allowed. You can submit an appeal to remain in the major. You are also required to earn a 2.500 CUM GPA prior to admission.
Recommended Course Plan
If you are interested in obtaining a BS Health Care Administration from UWM, the following recommendations have been established to help you plan your MATC course work.
Semester I
MATC Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
ENG 102: English Composition II | ENGLISH 102 |
Nat Sci 201: Anatomy and Physiology I | BIO SCI 202 |
Soc Sci 231: General Psychology | PSYCH 101 |
MATH 200: Intermediate Algebra | MATH 105 |
12-13 Total Credits |
Semester II
MATC Equivalent | UWM Equivalent |
---|---|
NATSCI 202: Anatomy and Physiology II | BIO SCI 203 |
ENG 198: Speech OR SPEECH 201: Elements of Speech | COMMUN 103 |
SOCSCI 201: Principles of Microeconomics | ECON 103 |
SOCSCI 134: Human Growth & Development OR SOCSCI 188: Developmental Psychology OR SOCSCI 237: Child Psychology OR SOCSCI 238: Life-Span Psychology | PSYCH 260* |
13-16 Total Credits |
* You may take a 3 credit course in Humanities, Fine Arts, Natural Science, or Social Science that will satisfy the Ethnic Studies/Cultural Diversity and/or the Interdisciplinary Studies requirement.
Admission to Major
Admission to MajorThe BS Health Care Administration Program will consider applications to the major at the end of each semester, as long as your cumulative UWM GPA is 2.5 or above, you have completed the admission prerequisite courses, and you have met the grade requirements for required courses. You are encouraged to apply to the major as soon as you meet these requirements and have achieved sophomore status.
The following courses are prerequisites for admission to the major:
- COMMUN 103: Public Speaking
- ENGLISH 102: College Writing and Research or completion of the UWM English competency requirement
- ECON 103: Principles of Microeconomics or ECON 104: Principles of Macroeconomics
- MATH 105: Intermediate Algebra or a Math placement level C on the proficiency test
- HS/HCA 102: Healthcare Delivery in the United States
- HCA 220: Leading Healthcare Professionals
Advising
AdvisingTo schedule an advising appointment, call 414-229-2758 or visit Northwest Quadrant Building B, Room 6425.
If you are entering UWM with credits from another institution you must schedule an advising appointment to plan your course of study. If you are unable to meet in person with your advisor, your non-UWM credits can be tentatively reviewed by sending a faxed or mailed copy of your transcript along with an explanatory cover letter to:
College of Health SciencesOffice of Student Affairs
P.O. Box 413
Milwaukee, WI 53201
FAX: 414-229-3373
I’m a new student. How do I start?
You are assigned an academic advisor upon admission to UWM. New Student Orientation (NSO) helps those who are new to campus to learn and understand the enrollment process and enroll in classes for their first semester at UWM.
Who is my advisor?
Angela Kowalski, MS
414-229-2758 • angelak@uwm.edu
You can also contact your advisor in your student center in PAWS .
When should I meet with my advisor?
You are encouraged to meet with your advisor at least once per semester to ensure timely progress to graduation.
- Enrolling for spring semester?
Schedule an appointment with your advisor in October or November. - Enrolling for fall semester?
Schedule an appointment with your advisor in March or April.
You are also welcome to schedule an appointment with your advisor at any time to discuss academic challenges, career opportunities, or any other questions.
How can my advisor help me?
The College of Health Sciences boasts professional academic advisors who understand the challenges of balancing academics, work, family, and the social aspects of college life. Advisors partner with you to:
- Explore your academic and career interests
- Plan the sequence of your courses
- Prepare for course enrollment
- Access tutoring and other academic support
- Identify opportunities for campus involvement
- Connect you to campus resources
- Plan for graduation
Curriculum
CurriculumPrior to Fall 2016
This curriculum is for students beginning the program prior to Fall 2016.
*Courses that must be completed prior to admission to the major.
F, S, SU = fall, spring, summer
General Education Requirements (GERs)
COURSE | GER | Credits |
---|---|---|
English: Must earn "C" or better in ENGLISH 102* Prerequisite: placement test | OWCA | 3 |
Math: Must earn "C" or better in Math 105* Prerequisite: placement test | QLA | 3 |
Foreign Language Satisfied with 2 years of a single language in high school | FL | 0 |
Natural Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERN | 0 |
Social Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERS | 0 |
Cultural Diversity Select course from approved GER list | GERC | 3 |
Arts Select course from the approved GER Arts list | GERA | 3 |
Humanities Select course from the approved GER Humanities list | GERH | 6 |
Total Credits: | 18 |
Freshman Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO SCI 202: Anatomy and Physiology I | F/S/SU | 4 |
HS 101: Introduction to Health and Disease | F/S | 2 |
HS 105: Survey of the Health Professions | F | 3 |
PSYCH 101: Introduction to Psychology | F/S/SU | 3 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Freshman Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*COMMUN 103: Public Speaking | F/S/SU | 3 |
HS (HCA) 222: Language of Medicine | F/S | 3 |
HS (HCA) 224: Introduction to Microcomputers for Allied Health Professions | F/S | 3 |
BIO SCI 203: Anatomy and Physiology II | F/S/SU | 4 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 16 |
Sophomore Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 103: Principles of Microeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HS (HCA) 102: Healthcare Delivery in the United States | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HCA 220: Leading Healthcare Professionals | F/S/SU | 3 |
BMS 301: Human Pathophysiology: Fundamentals | F/S/SU | 1 |
BMS 302: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems I | F/SU | 1 |
BMS 303: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems II | F/SU | 1 |
KIN 270: Statistics in the Health Professions: Theory and Practice | F/S | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Sophomore Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 104: Principles of Macroeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
BMS 304: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems III | S/SU | 1 |
BMS 305: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems IV | S/SU | 1 |
HCA 203: Human Life Cycle | S/F | 3 |
HCA 307: Epidemiology for the Health Sciences | S | 3 |
MATH 211: Survey in Calculus and Analytic Geometry | F/S/SU | 4 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 18 |
Junior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 201: Introduction to Financial Accounting | F/S/SU | 4 |
BUS ADM 330: Organizations | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 450: Healthcare Quality Management | F | 3 |
HCA 537: Introduction to Healthcare Databases and Technologies | F | 3 |
HS 250: Allied Health Information Methods OR ENG 205 | F/S F/S/SU | 2 |
Electives | 2 | |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Junior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 350: Principles of Finance | F/S/SU | 3 |
HS 311: Law for Healthcare Consumers and Professionals | S | 3 |
HCA 333: Health Organizations Professional Practice Standards | S | 2 |
HCA 340: Healthcare Process Measurement | S | 3 |
HCA 541: Healthcare Information Systems Analysis and Design | S | 3 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Senior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 370: Introduction to Supply Chain Management | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 421: Operations Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 422: Human Resource Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 521: Advanced Systems Thinking for Healthcare Leaders | F | 3 |
HCA 542: Healthcare Database Design and Management | F | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Senior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 360: Principles of Marketing | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 460: Healthcare Reimbursement Systems and Policies | S | 3 |
HCA 502: Healthcare Delivery Systems: National & International Perspectives | S | 3 |
HCA 580: Health Care Administration Internship | F/S/SU | 4 |
Electives | 2 | |
Total Credits: | 15 |
You are required to earn a grade of “C+” or higher in all HCA and HS courses, with the exception of BMS (HS) 301-305.
A grade of “C” or higher is required in all other courses included in the HCA major.
If you twice earn a grade lower than these requirements in any course required in the major, you will not be admitted to the major, and if previously admitted, will be dismissed from the major. A third attempt to take any of the required courses will not be allowed. You can submit an appeal to remain in the major.
Fall 2016 to Spring 2019
This curriculum is for students beginning the program on or after September 6, 2016 thru Spring 2019.
*Courses that must be completed prior to admission to the major.
F, S, SU = fall, spring, summer
General Education Requirements (GERs)
COURSE | GER | Credits |
---|---|---|
English: Must earn "C" or better in ENGLISH 102* Prerequisite: placement test | OWCA | 3 |
Math: Must earn "C" or better in Math 105 or 108* Prerequisite: placement test | QLA | 3 |
Foreign Language Satisfied with 2 years of a single language in high school | FL | 0 |
Natural Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERN | 0 |
Social Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERS | 0 |
Cultural Diversity Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERC | 3 |
Arts Select course from the approved GER Arts list | GERA | 3 |
Humanities Select course from the approved GER Humanities list | GERH | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Freshman Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO SCI 202: Anatomy and Physiology I | F/S/SU | 4 |
HS 101: Introduction to Health and Disease | F/S | 2 |
HS 105: Survey of the Health Professions | F | 3 |
PSYCH 101: Introduction to Psychology | F/S/SU | 3 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Freshman Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO SCI 203: Anatomy and Physiology II | F/S/SU | 4 |
*COMMUN 103: Public Speaking | F/S/SU | 3 |
HS (HCA) 222: Language of Medicine | F/S | 3 |
HS (HCA) 224: Computational Tools for Healthcare Professionals | F/S | 3 |
Elective | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 16 |
Sophomore Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 103: Principles of Microeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HS 102: Healthcare Delivery in the United States | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HCA 220: Leading Healthcare Professionals | F/S/SU | 3 |
BMS 301: Human Pathophysiology: Fundamentals | F/S/SU | 1 |
BMS 302: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems I | F/SU | 1 |
BMS 303: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems II | F/SU | 1 |
KIN 270: Statistics in the Health Professions: Theory and Practice | F/S | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Sophomore Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 104: Principles of Macroeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
BMS 304: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems III | S/SU | 1 |
BMS 305: Human Pathophysiology: Organ Systems IV | S/SU | 1 |
HCA 203: Human Life Cycle | F/S | 3 |
HCA 245: Client Diversity in Health Sciences | S | 3 |
HCA 307: Epidemiology for the Health Sciences | S | 3 |
MATH 211: Survey in Calculus and Analytic Geometry | F/S/SU | 4 |
Total Credits: | 18 |
Junior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 201: Introduction to Financial Accounting | F/S/SU | 4 |
BUS ADM 330: Organizations | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 450: Healthcare Quality Management | F | 3 |
HCA 537: Introduction to Healthcare Databases and Technologies | F | 3 |
HS 250: Allied Health Information Methods OR ENG 205 | F/S F/S/SU | 2 |
Electives | 2 | |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Junior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 350: Principles of Finance | F/S/SU | 3 |
HS 311: Law for Healthcare Consumers and Professionals | S | 3 |
HCA 333: Health Organizations Professional Practice Standards | S | 2 |
HCA 340: Healthcare Process Measurement | S | 3 |
HCA 541: Healthcare Information Systems Analysis and Design | S | 3 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Senior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 370: Introduction to Supply Chain Management | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 421: Operations Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 422: Human Resource Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 521: Advanced Systems Thinking for Healthcare Leaders | F | 3 |
HCA 542: Healthcare Database Design and Management | F | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Senior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 360: Principles of Marketing | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 460: Healthcare Reimbursement Systems and Policies | S | 3 |
HCA 502: Healthcare Delivery Systems: National & International Perspectives | S | 3 |
HCA 580: Health Care Administration Internship | F/S/SU | 4 |
Electives | 2 | |
Total Credits: | 15 |
You are required to earn a grade of “C+” or higher in all HCA and HS courses.
A grade of “C” or higher is required in all other courses included in the HCA major.
If you twice earn a grade lower than these requirements in any course required in the major, you will not be admitted to the major, and if previously admitted, will be dismissed from the major. A third attempt to take any of the required courses will not be allowed. You can submit an appeal to remain in the major.
Fall 2019 to Present
This curriculum is for students beginning the program on or after September 3, 2019.
*Courses that must be completed prior to admission to the major.
F, S, SU = fall, spring, summer
General Education Requirements (GERs)
COURSE | GER | Credits |
---|---|---|
English: Must earn "C" or better in ENGLISH 102* Prerequisite: placement test | OWCA | 3 |
Math: Must earn "C" or better in Math 105 or 108* Prerequisite: placement test | QLA | 3 |
Foreign Language Satisfied with 2 years of a single language in high school | FL | 0 |
Natural Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERN | 0 |
Social Science Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERS | 0 |
Cultural Diversity Satisfied through HCA coursework in the major | GERC | 3 |
Arts Select course from the approved GER Arts list | GERA | 3 |
Humanities Select course from the approved GER Humanities list | GERH | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Freshman Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO SCI 202: Anatomy and Physiology I | F/S/SU | 4 |
HS 101: Introduction to Health and Disease | F/S | 2 |
HS 105: Survey of the Health Professions | F | 3 |
PSYCH 101: Introduction to Psychology | F/S/SU | 3 |
Electives | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Freshman Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO SCI 203: Anatomy and Physiology II | F/S/SU | 4 |
*COMMUN 103: Public Speaking | F/S/SU | 3 |
HS (HCA) 222: Language of Medicine | F/S | 3 |
HS (HCA) 224: Computational Tools for Healthcare Professionals | F/S | 3 |
Elective | 3 | |
Total Credits: | 16 |
Sophomore Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 103: Principles of Microeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HS 102: Healthcare Delivery in the United States | F/S/SU | 3 |
*HCA 220: Leading Healthcare Professionals | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 249: Writing for Professional Development in Health Administration | F/S | 3 |
KIN 270: Statistics in the Health Professions: Theory and Practice | F/S | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Sophomore Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
*ECON 104: Principles of Macroeconomics | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 203: Human Life Cycle | F/S | 3 |
HCA 245: Client Diversity in Health Sciences: An Interdisciplinary Perspective | S | 3 |
HCA 307: Epidemiology for the Health Sciences | S | 3 |
MATH 211: Survey in Calculus and Analytic Geometry | F/S/SU | 4 |
Total Credits: | 16 |
Junior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 201: Introduction to Financial Accounting | F/S/SU | 4 |
BUS ADM 330: Organizations | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 300: Professional Development Seminar for Health Administration Students | F | 1 |
HCA 450: Healthcare Quality Management | F | 3 |
HCA 361: Post-Acute Care and Management | F/S | 3 |
HCA 537: Health Information Technology and Management | F | 3 |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Junior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 350: Principles of Finance | F/S/SU | 3 |
ECON 450: Healthcare Economics | S | 3 |
HCA 333: Health Organizations Professional Practice Standards | S | 2 |
HCA 340: Healthcare Process Measurement | S | 3 |
HCA 541: Healthcare Information Systems Analysis and Design | S | 3 |
HS 311: Law for Healthcare Consumers and Professionals | S | 3 |
Total Credits: | 17 |
Senior Year: Fall Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
BUS ADM 360: Principles of Marketing | F/S/SU | 3 |
BUS ADM 370: Introduction to Supply Chain Management | F/S/SU | 3 |
HCA 421: Operations Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 422: Human Resource Management in Healthcare Organizations | F | 3 |
HCA 521: Advanced Systems Thinking and Strategy for Healthcare Leaders | F | 3 |
Total Credits: | 15 |
Senior Year: Spring Semester
Course | Offered | Credits |
---|---|---|
HCA 400: Healthcare Marketing | F | 3 |
HCA 460: Healthcare Reimbursement Systems and Policies | S | 3 |
HCA 502: Healthcare Delivery Systems: National & International Perspectives | S | 3 |
HCA 580: Health Care Administration Internship | F/S/SU | 4 |
Total Credits: | 13 |
You are required to earn a grade of “C+” or higher in all HCA and HS courses.
A grade of “C” or higher is required in all other courses included in the HCA major.
If you twice earn a grade lower than these requirements in any course required in the major, you will not be admitted to the major, and if previously admitted, will be dismissed from the major. A third attempt to take any of the required courses will not be allowed. You can submit an appeal to remain in the major.
Get Involved
Get InvolvedFuture Healthcare Executives (FHE)
Future Healthcare Executives (FHE) is a very active student organization within the Health Care Administration (HCA) program, and are recognized participants in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Higher Education Network. FHE offers you the opportunity to meet leaders in the field, attend professional education and networking events sponsored by the ACHE Wisconsin Chapter , and attend other conferences at the local, state, and national level.
You will also develop leadership and management skills by participating in workshops, community service and volunteer activities, speaker events, and job shadowing opportunities with executives from the Milwaukee area and beyond. FHE members regularly attend local ACHE education and networking events, serve on committees and volunteer at local meetings, and participate in the national ACHE Congress on Healthcare Leadership.
Membership in FHE is open to all UWM students, both undergraduate and graduate, who have an interest in health care administration, regardless of major.
Contact
Kathleen Olewinski, Faculty Advisor
Director, Health Care Administration Studies
414-229-7110
kmo@uwm.edu
For more information or to join FHE during the academic year, connect with the student organization president directly at fhexecs@uwm.edu.
UWM Office of Undergraduate Research
The UWM Office of Undergraduate Research is a centralized location for undergraduates seeking on-campus research opportunities and faculty seeking enthusiastic, motivated undergraduate students with whom to collaborate.
Volunteer Service
The UWM Center for Community-Based Learning, Leadership, and Research provides the campus with different opportunities to volunteer throughout the city and beyond. There are opportunities to make a real difference by working to improve the environment, mentoring local kids, stocking shelves at a food pantry, serving breakfast to Milwaukee’s homeless community, engaging in an alternative spring break, and helping older adults. Learn more at uwm.edu/community/students .
Internship
InternshipThe faculty-supervised internship (minimum of 120 hours) is an integral component of the Health Care Administration major. Students, under the direction of a preceptor, are given opportunities for management-related experience in local, national, and international health care organizations.
You must complete a faculty-supervised internship prior to graduation; you may enroll in up to 3 HCA internships for academic credit before graduation. The HCA Internship and capstone course is HCA 580.
To be eligible to complete the required senior internship, you must:
- Submit a completed internship application by:
- October 1 for the following Spring semester
- March 1 for the following Fall semester
Summer internships may also be approved by the internship coordinator if required to graduate on time, if eligibility criteria are met and a completed application is submitted by March 1.
Internship application materials are available from:
Kathleen Olewinski, MS, RHIA, NHA, FACHE, PhD Dissertator
Health Care Administration Internship Coordinator
College of Health Sciences
Northwest Quadrant Building B, Room 6432
kmo@uwm.edu - Have senior status in the HCA Program.
- Adhere to all professional behavior standards.
- Submit required paperwork from mandatory orientation which includes completion of a background check.
The internship application is required, and must be completed online and submitted by the October 1 deadline for the following Spring semester, and by the March 1 deadline for the following Fall semester (or summer semester when pre-approved to graduate on time). By the same deadline, forward your unofficial transcript and draft resume with skills and relevant courses included to Kathleen Olewinski at kmo@uwm.edu
The Internship Application is separate from the application to the HCA major . Please refer to the UWM HCA Program Flow Chart (PDF).
If you have been asked to have a criminal background check done in preparation for your internship, you will get instructions during the mandatory HCA Program Orientation upon your admission to the major.
Health screening requirements must also be met for specific sites prior to placement consideration. Physical and health screening forms are provided during the mandatory HCA Program Orientation, and available from:
Kathleen Olewinski, MS, RHIA, NHA, FACHE, PhD Dissertator
Health Care Administration Internship Coordinator
College of Health Sciences
Northwest Quadrant Building B, Room 6432
kmo@uwm.edu
UWM Career Planning & Resource Center (CPRC)
- Non-credit and experiential internships may be available
- Walk-in career advising, as well as information regarding jobs, career fairs, and resources for students and alumni.
- Handshake to search for jobs and internships in all fields
Partial Listing of Current and Past Internship Placement Sites
- AseraCare Hospice
- Aurora At Home
- Aurora Credentials Verification Service
- Aurora Health Care
- Aurora Health Care Medical Group
- Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center
- Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center
- Aurora Sinai Medical Center
- Aurora West Allis Memorial Medical Center
- Bellin Health
- BloodCenter of Wisconsin
- Children’s Hospital and Health System
- Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
- Children’s Medical Group
- City of Milwaukee Health Department
- Columbia St. Mary’s, Inc.
- Columbia St. Mary’s Foundation
- Columbia St. Mary’s Hospitals
- Community Care for the Elderly
- Community Health Internship Program (CHIP)
- Community Memorial Hospital
- Compassionate Care Hospice
- Curative Care Network
- Dynacare Laboratories
- Elmbrook Memorial Hospital
- Flagship SailsRx
- Froedtert Health
- Froedtert Hospital
- Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin
- Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Community Physicians
- GE Healthcare
- Gundersen Health System
- Lake Terrace Health and Rehabilitation
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Milwaukee Center for Independence
- Milwaukee VA Medical Center
- Molina Healthcare
- Norris Health Center
- Northwestern Mutual
- Orthopaedic Hospital of Wisconsin
- ProHealth Care
- ProHealth Home Care & Hospice
- Saint John’s On The Lake
- Sheboygan Progressive Care Center
- Therapy Plus of Wisconsin
- Watertown Regional Medical Center
- Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
- Wheaton Franciscan Medical Group
- Willows Nursing and Rehabilitation
- Wisconsin Heart Hospital
Graduation
GraduationThe following requirements must be met to graduate:
- Completion of the required 128 credits (124 credits for students entering the program on or after September 3, 2019)
- A cumulative UWM GPA of 2.5
- A grade of C+ or better in all HCA and HS courses and a C or better in all other required courses
- Completion of all University General Education Requirements
If your cumulative UWM GPA falls below 2.50 you will be placed on probationary status and will not be able to graduate with the degree in Health Care Administration until your cumulative UWM GPA is 2.50 or higher. If you remain on probation for more than two consecutive semesters you will be dismissed from the major.
You may choose to supplement your learning by integrating the Certificate in Health Care Informatics into your undergraduate studies. You need to meet with your advisor to declare your intention to complete the Certificate.
Use UWM’s Graduation website to review campus-wide graduation requirements, graduation application deadlines, applying for graduation, and ordering your cap and gown.
Employment Outlook
Employment OutlookSalaries of New Graduates
Local healthcare employers and new graduates of the BS Health Care Administration Program report average starting salaries between $32,000 and $45,000 per year, depending on the position and type of employer as well as years of experience and location. Most new graduates are employed within 3 to 6 months of graduation, many within 1 month, with an increasing number pursuing graduate studies.
Expected Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is expected to grow 32 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As the large baby-boom population ages and people remain active later in life, there should be increased demand for healthcare services. This means greater needs for physicians and other healthcare workers, medical procedures, and healthcare facilities, and therefore greater needs for managers who organize and manage medical information and healthcare staff. There should also be increased demand for nursing care facility administrators as the population grows older.
Employment is projected to grow in offices of health practitioners. Many services previously provided in hospitals will shift to these settings, especially as medical technologies improve. Demand in medical group practice management is expected to grow as medical group practices become larger and more complex.
Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that median salary for all medical and health services managers in 2019 was greater than $100,980 per year, earnings vary by type and size of the facility and level of responsibility. Salaries differ for non-managerial entry level positions, with higher pay typically associated with positions requiring a master’s degree.
Professional Organizations
Professional OrganizationsVisit these websites for current information and other resources regarding our profession. Look for special student membership incentives offered through some of these professional associations, and valuable career resources as well as education and networking events, scholarships, leadership development, and mentoring. Some professional associations also offer a pathway to credentialing for experienced health care executives and professionals, to distinguish yourself in your profession.
- American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE)
- American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA)
- American Health Care Association (AHCA)
- Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA)
- Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA)
- Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
- Medical Group Management Association (MGMA)
Faculty & Staff
Faculty & Staff- Ron A. Cisler, PhD
Professor Emeritus - Jennifer T. Fink, PhD, MS
Associate Professor, MHA Program Co-director - Bev Gehring
University Services Associate 2 - Jake Luo, PhD
Associate Professor, Informatics Graduate Program Director - John J. Lynch, PhD
Associate Professor Emeritus - Mary K. Madsen, PhD, RN, FAAIDD
Professor Emerita - Priya Nambisan, PhD
Associate Professor - Kathleen M. Olewinski, MS, RHIA, NHA, FACHE, PhD (ABD)
Clinical Associate Professor, Director of Health Care Administration Studies, Educational Coordinator - Gary H. Ross, PhD
Clinical Associate Professor - Hanh Trinh, PhD
Associate Professor - Min Wu, PhD
Associate Professor, Chair - Barbara J. Zabawa, JD, MPH
Clinical Assistant Professor, MHA Program Co-director