Jul 11, 2014 04:38 AM EDT By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

The American InterContinental University has launched a new degree, Bachelor of Healthcare Management, to meet the increasing workforce demand in the industry.

The healthcare management industry is estimated to be one of the fastest growing career fields in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 23 percent through 2022.

"As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, there is an increasing need for management professionals with a new set of skills," said Dr. George Miller, president of AIU, in a statement. "AIU established the new Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree program because we are committed to providing our students with the skills they need to seek a successful career in healthcare management."

The Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree is applicable to students interested in healthcare administration, medical and health services management, health facility management and medical practice management among others

The 180-credit program covers a wide range of topics related to healthcare setting including financial management, risk management and quality assurance in healthcare

The program is designed to teach critical skills in healthcare management, administration, public policy and human resources to prepare students for modern-day workplace requirements. It also helps students understand the convergence of business principles and functions in the healthcare setting, the role of legislation and regulations in healthcare practice and management, and the influence of media on public opinion regarding health policy issues.

AIU offers two specializations within the Bachelor of Healthcare Management degree - Health Services Administration Management and Gerontology Management.

The new program will be available to AIU online students and at campuses in Houston and Atlanta. The classes are set to begin, both online and campus, on July 21, 2014.

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