The Health Services Management Associates in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree provides its students with a broad, solid foundation for attaining entry level management positions in a variety of health settings. Students will be prepared to use critical thinking in making relevant management decisions in today’s dynamic and expanding health services environment.
This educational option is an: Associates of Applied Science
This educational option can be completed: In four terms
This educational option is designed for:The Health Services Management Associates in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree provides students a broad, solid foundation for attaining entry level management positions in a variety of health settings. Students will be prepared to use critical thinking in making relevant management decisions in today’s dynamic and expanding health services environment.
Health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services in both the public and private sectors. They may manage an entire facility, a specific clinical area or department, or a medical practice for a group of physicians. Health services managers must adapt to changes in healthcare laws, regulations and technology.
This educational option can be started: Any Term
Primary course location: Main Campus and online
Special Requirements
Physical Requirements
Students must be in good physical and psychological health. Students may be asked to provide documentation of a recent physical examination. Many health programs require the student to be able to safely lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are made for students with disabilities.
Felony Conviction
Most of the health programs in HWPS require students undergo the New Mexico Department of Health caregivers criminal history screening program. This involves state and federal felony criminal background checks with fingerprints. This must be completed prior to starting their program or prior to beginning their clinical experiences. Students with a disqualifying conviction can appeal some of those convictions through the New Mexico Department of Health. Depending on the program, students may or may not be allowed to remain in the program pending appeal. Students who do not successfully appeal a disqualifying conviction will not be allowed to start or remain in the program. A successful appeal does not guarantee eligibility for licensure after graduation in professions that require licensure.
Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.
Educational Opportunities
This program provides the basic foundation needed to become a health services manager. After completion, students may transfer to a bachelor’s degree program for advancement in health care disciplines such as Healthcare Administration.
Career Opportunities
US Department of Labor O’Net data lists Health Services managers with a Bright Outlook and a 17% growth rate (much faster than average) nationally. DACUM research locally with industry partners also supports the need for this degree program to help funnel students into this career pathway.
Graduates may find employment in the day-to-day operations of hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, specialized clinics and physicians’ offices. CNM students are encouraged to continue their education toward a bachelor degree in order to pursue more advanced leadership positions in healthcare and/or to obtain specialty credentials.