Health care administrators keep hospitals, clinics, medical practices and medical labs running well so that patients receive the best care possible. When you think of a hospital or other medical facility as more of a small city with its own set of rules, regulations, and communities you can understand the role they play. If this is something that excites you, if you believe you have what it takes to lead, inspire and implement policies, here are three ways to make it happen.

Education

For an entry level position as a health care administrator, a bachelor’s degree is required. However, you can work your way up from a clerical position. Many employers will even pay for you to get your BA while working for them full-time. For high level positions, experience and an MBA or other type of master’s or doctorate is required.

Internships/Training

Many college programs that focus on health care administration have internships where you can get real life on-the-job experience. When it is time to take a job after graduation, you can typically expect to receive training from your employer.

Certification/Licensing

As an administrator, you most likely will not need a license or certification. There is one exception and that is as the administrator of a long-term nursing facility or assisted living facility. The requirements vary by state but you can typically expect the state to issue a license that requires proof of education and completion of a training program.