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HAMMOND, La. (AP) — Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond will partner with McNeese State University in Lake Charles to offer a bachelor of science degree in health systems management.
The universities said the degree is intended to me increasing workforce needs.
The program recently received final approval from the Louisiana Board of Regents. Both institutions are expected to begin enrolling students in fall 2015.
The program will include three separate academic concentrations for health-related workforce occupations, said Southeastern provost Tammy Bourg.
"The health care field has become one of the strongest growing sectors in the economy with an increasing demand for qualified professionals with specialized training," Bourg said. "Increased regulations, the demand for accountability in medical outcomes and influences such as the Affordable Care Act are some of the factors that are spurring this need by hospitals, clinics and other health care-related industries."
The concentrations include health care management, health care quality improvement and care coordination.
"The three concentrations offered address many of the needs we heard expressed by hospital executives and human resource directors," said Ann Carruth, dean of the Southeastern College of Nursing and Health Sciences.
The program also will be offered in an accelerated option allowing students to complete academic requirements in three years, Carruth said.
The degree will integrate health care principles, management, as well as organization practices and information systems.
Southeastern and McNeese State have a long history of cooperating on academic programs.
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