Mega Doctor News
By Selene Rodriguez
South Texas College’s Bachelor of Applied Technology in Medical and Health Services Management program has earned national recognition after being ranked No. 6 among online healthcare management degree programs in the nation and named the second most affordable in the United States by OnlineU.
The rankings recognized STC for helping prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare through a mix of foundational courses and specialized management training.
“This recognition reflects the high quality and impact of our Medical and Health Services Management bachelor’s degree program and the dedication of the faculty who support our students’ success,” said Anahid Petrosian, Ph.D., STC vice president and provost of Academic Affairs and Economic Development. “We are incredibly proud to offer an affordable pathway that helps students advance their careers, expand professional opportunities and meet the growing workforce needs of the healthcare industry.”
OnlineU is a national education resource that evaluates online degree programs based on factors such as affordability, program quality and student support, helping prospective students compare academic options. According to the rankings, the program reports an annual tuition of $7,620 and a 100% student recommendation rate.
“We are proud and honored to receive this recognition,” said STC Medical and Health Services Management Department Chair Hillaire Saint Pierre, Ph.D. “It reflects our commitment to student success and the support we provide to help students grow into leadership roles in healthcare.”
Launched in 2011, STC’s Medical and Health Services Management bachelor’s program was created to support healthcare professionals seeking leadership and administrative opportunities while balancing work and personal responsibilities.
Since its inception, the program has graduated more than 600 students and continued to grow alongside the needs of working professionals, transitioning from face-to-face instruction to a fully online format designed to better support students balancing school, work and personal responsibilities.
“As the years went by, we noticed students needed more flexibility, so we eventually transitioned to a fully online program,” Saint Pierre said. “It allows healthcare professionals to continue their education on a schedule that better fits their lives.”
In spring 2019, the program added Competency-Based Education (CBE) courses, giving students another option to complete their degree. Today, students can choose between competency-based learning or traditional seven-week online courses, both designed to provide flexibility.
The program serves a wide range of students, including working healthcare professionals looking to advance in their careers. For many, the degree also serves as a stepping stone toward graduate programs and expanded opportunities in healthcare.
“We receive students who are already serving their communities and want to continue growing,” Saint Pierre said. “Our role is to provide the skills, flexibility and support they need to take that next step and make an even greater impact.”
For more information on STC’s Medical and Health Services Management program, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/medical-management/index.html or call 956-872-7272.
