Certificate in Health Policy and Administration

Coordinator: Kim Hannon
604 Ford Building
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 863-1523
E-mail: kmh42@psu.edu

Program Description

The certificate in Health Policy and Administration is designed to meet the educational needs of those currently working full-time or part-time in health care who desire further information and professional development in health policy or health administration. The certificate is most appropriate for persons trained in professional or technical health care fields who have been promoted, or desire promotion, into positions that require knowledge and skills in health policy or health administration or persons switching into health care from another industry. The certificate program is designed to allow students in either situation to continue their education, if they desire, through a major in Health Policy and Administration or a baccalaureate degree in one of several fields at the university combined with a minor in Health Policy and Administration.

The required courses provide a basic overview of the health care system and management in health care. The 9 credits in electives allow students to gain a deeper understanding of health care issues involving managed care, financing, strategic planning and marketing, or human resources. Students taking H P A 447 should note that they must complete INS 301 or FIN 100 as a prerequisite.

Course Requirements

Required courses: H P A 101, H P A 332

Elective courses: 9 credits from H P A 420, 447, 455, 460

Program Requirements

  1. All course prerequisites must be met.

  2. Based on evidence earned credits or approved academic experiences at other higher education institutions, certain course requirements can be waived or substituted. All waivers or substitutions must be approved by the Department of Health Policy and Administration.

  3. No more than two courses taken at other institutions may be applied toward the certificate.

  4. A grade of "C" or better is required in each course for completion of the certificate.