Individuals currently working in the health care field who seek to fulfill their educational and career goals may want to consider the online Health Care Administration degree completion program offered by Charter Oak State College, a regionally accredited public college in the Connecticut system of higher education.

Developed jointly by the college and health care professionals, the 8-week, accelerated distance learning course format provides individuals working in the field the knowledge required to create, implement and administer programs and services delivered by health care organizations. The fact that the courses are accelerated allows participants to speed completion of their degrees while maintaining commitment to their jobs.

“The bachelor’s degree completion program is designed to instill a comprehensive understanding of the legal, ethical, economic and service aspects of the health care industry,” says Dr. Shirley Adams, Charter Oak Vice President of Academic Affairs. Noting that many health care workers move up to management positions without the benefit of management training, Dr. Adams points out that the Charter Oak program focuses on the development of sound management and leadership skills.

Among key areas addressed in the Health Care concentration are systems and services, finance and accounting, leadership practices, HR management, ethics and law, the claims environment, requirements of regulatory agencies, patient rights and risk management. The option also exists to complete a practicum wherein knowledge gained in the classroom is applied in the workplace setting. Charter Oak students are additionally able to earn credit through testing, independent study, portfolio assessment and transfer of previously-earned credits, regardless of age.

According to the observations of one program participant, the course material is professionally relevant. “It’s amazing what one can learn,” he notes, “even after being in the field for 20 years.” He further observes that without the flexibility provided by the Charter Oak program’s online format, his busy schedule would not have allowed him to complete his college degree.

Charter Oak’s 2006 Health Care Administration terms begin on May 31 and August 28. Participants may begin their programs on any of these dates. Detailed information can be obtained by calling 860.832.3855 or by visiting www.charteroak.edu/Prospective/Programs/Concentrations/HealthCareAdmin.cfm