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Health Systems Management, B.S.

Program Overview

The UNC Charlotte Health Systems Management Program develops future entry-level health services leaders to advance health equity and well-being in an urbanizing world. We pursue our mission through education, research, and service that develops the knowledge, skills, and values that contribute to dynamic health services environments; models the ethical application of management principles; and increases the diversity of health services leaders, with a special emphasis on historically underrepresented individuals and groups.

The carefully sequenced Health Systems Management curriculum is informed by the skills desired in all health system managers outlined by the American College of Healthcare Executives. Students complete courses in the critical domains of communication and relationship management, leadership, professionalism, knowledge of the health system care environment, and business skills and knowledge.

The program in Health Systems Management will require students to complete general education requirements, a number of credit hours of study within the major, and electives or minor courses to reach the complete amount of credits required for a baccalaureate degree.

Apply for Public Health and Health Systems Management, Honors Program

Students in the BS in Public Health (BSPH) and BS in Health Systems Management (HSMT) programs are eligible to participate in the Honors Program during their upper division years of study. Consideration for admission to the Honors Program may be initiated by the student or by any faculty member in the Departments of Epidemiology and Community Health or Health Management and Policy.

Health Systems Management, B.S. at a Glance

Health systems management consists of any and all administrative/management functions of the overall health system that support the delivery of products and services to improve population health. Health systems managers plan, direct, or coordinate business activities in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, health departments, pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, non-profit agencies, or similar organizations.

Delivery
Online, On-Campus
Duration
It takes 4 years to complete BS-HSMT. The HSMT core courses (36 credits) can be completed in 3 to 6 semesters.
Credit Hours
BS-HSMT – 120 credits (36 HSMT core credits; General education, electives, minor(s) and other major(s) to help meet 120 credits requirement.

Core Competencies Covered (ACHE)

  • Communication and Relationship Management: Master the art of effective communication and develop strong management relationships within health care settings.
  • Leadership: Gain insights into transformative leadership practices that drive health care organizations forward.
  • Professionalism: Embrace the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and personal responsibility.
  • Health System Care Environment Knowledge: Understand the complex workings of the health care system to navigate and lead effectively.
  • Business Skills and Knowledge: Acquire essential business acumen tailored to the unique needs of the health care sector.

Prepare for a Future in Health Care Management

By exploring these core subjects, you’ll not only deepen your knowledge of the health care industry but also develop the practical skills you need to lead and manage with confidence.

I know what to say and what not to say. I know how to let others guide me to be the best I can be, but also how to be a leader as well.

Mariah Manley ’24
Public Health Disease Intervention Specialist
CDC Foundation
Admissions & Requirements
Application

Returning Student to UNC Charlotte

Application Deadlines

Students returning to UNC Charlotte after a 12 month absence can apply for readmission.

How will your courses transfer to UNC Charlotte?

What can you do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Systems Management?

Medical and health systems managers are the backbone of efficient health care delivery. Our B.S. in Health Systems Management (HSMT) program trains you for these crucial roles, providing you with the expertise to plan, direct, and coordinate services across hospitals, clinics, and more. You’ll learn to navigate evolving health care laws, regulations, and technology, making you a highly sought-after professional in a rapidly growing field.

Our graduates go on to work at health care related companies or providers like Atrium Health, Novant Health, PMMC, OrthoCarolina, and Duke Health.

HSMT alumni hold job titles such as:

Enhance your earning power and career growth

UNC Charlotte alumni with a B.S. in Health Systems Management earn an average salary of $45,700 according to Lightcast, which sampled 546 alumni who graduated from 2019 through 2022 (Source: Lightcast, 2023). The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also projects that employment in medical and health management occupations will grow 28% from 2022 through 2032 (much faster than average).

Why UNC Charlotte?

Why earn your Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management (HSMT) at UNC Charlotte?

What Do Health Care Managers Do?

Want to improve health care? A career in health systems management can help. We share information on health care careers, why it is a smart choice and how you can get started.

Mariah Manley

Health Systems Management connects an interest in health with a desire to lead. Read Mariah’s story and how the Health Systems Management program helped her to secure a job even before her graduation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the B.S. in Health Systems Management program at UNC Charlotte?


The B.S. in Health Systems Management (HSMT) is a 120-credit, main campus degree designed to prepare students for leadership roles in health care organizations by focusing on operations, policy, finance, and data-driven decision-making.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Completion time depends on how many credits you transfer. The bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours, including general education, major courses (36 credit hours), and electives/ other major, minor, undergraduate certificate or Early Entry Graduate Program. Our team can help you evaluate your transfer credits to estimate your timeline.

Do I need prior health care experience to enroll?


No prior health care experience is required. The program is ideal for both new students and those looking to advance into health care management roles.

Is the program fully online?

No, HSMT Main Campus Program students have some flexibility and can take up to 30% of their classes online. The majority of your courses will be in person on campus.

Register for an In-Person Campus Visit

Experience the heart of UNC Charlotte with our in-person campus visits. Register for a First-Year Student Info Session and Tour offered daily — an unmissable opportunity to live the Niner life.

Explore Official University Catalog

Check out the official catalog for information on specific degree requirements, course progressions, curriculum and more.

Explore Official University Catalog

Check out the official catalog for information on specific degree requirements, course progressions, curriculum and more.