Official Study Guide for Germany
Health management, health economics
In order to ensure and further develop standards in healthcare, healthcare stakeholders such as health insurance companies, outpatient and inpatient care facilities (e.g. hospitals, doctors' surgeries), pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers must operate efficiently. In order for this to succeed, this field of study prepares students for management tasks in the healthcare sector.
Overview of the academic discipline
The contents of the Health Economics and Health Management degree programmes deal with economic aspects in the healthcare sector. The degree programme therefore provides broad knowledge of the economic and structural conditions of this sector and qualifies students for management tasks in healthcare. Business management content is supplemented by health science, medical, pharmaceutical, social law and health policy content. In addition, questions of performance measurement in the healthcare sector, personnel development as well as quality and service management are addressed. The aim is to organise processes in the healthcare system in such a way that fewer costs are incurred while maintaining or even improving quality.
Which topics are included in the curriculum?
The Bachelor's degree programme teaches theoretical and practical basic knowledge in economics, health science and medical management. Possible modules include Fundamentals of Health Sciences, Corporate Health Management, Healthcare Structures, Management and Personnel Management in Healthcare Organisations or Entrepreneurial Thinking and Action in Healthcare Organisations.
What are the requirements?
A good basis for successful studies in this field is knowledge of the following school subjects: Economics/law, maths, politics/social studies, computer science and English. Depending on the university, an internal selection procedure may take place. Proof of a pre-study work placement or completed training in a healthcare profession may be required.
What study programmes are there to choose from?
Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes in this field of study are mainly available at universities of applied sciences, also as dual study programmes, but also at universities. Possible degree programme titles include ‘Health Management’, ‘Health Care Management’, ‘Health Economics and Health Policy’ or ‘Business Administration in Healthcare’.
What job opportunities are there after graduation?
Degree programmes in health management and economics qualify students for employment in the administration of medical practices, in hospitals, in health and long-term care insurance companies, in the field of health promotion and information as well as in the pharmaceutical industry and in the pharmaceutical trade.