Careers

At Valparaiso University, our online healthcare programs prepare you for diverse and rewarding careers. Our graduates are sought after by employers for their strong work ethic, critical-thinking abilities, and hands-on experience. You’ll be equipped to enter the workforce confidently and competently, ready to make meaningful contributions in your field. A Valparaiso University education empowers you to reach your highest potential and turn your career aspirations into reality.

Explore your future with our specialized online degrees:

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH)

Our master of public health equips you with the skills to make a meaningful impact on community health. You can find opportunities in government agencies, nonprofits, healthcare institutions, and private companies. Graduates can pursue careers in epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and health education.

Getting your MPH opens the door to many opportunities, such as:

• Community Health Worker: Serve as liaisons between healthcare providers and communities, providing health education, resources, and support to improve the well-being of underserved populations.

• Environmental Health Specialist: Examine environmental factors that affect public health, such as air and water quality, and work to mitigate environmental risks that could harm communities.

• Epidemiologist: Investigate patterns of disease, analyze data, and identify factors that contribute to the spread of illnesses. They play a critical role in disease surveillance, outbreak response, and public health research.

• Health Educator: Design and implement programs that promote healthy behaviors and educate communities on topics like nutrition, substance abuse prevention, and disease prevention.

• Public Health Policy Analyst: Assess the impact of existing policies, develop recommendations for policy changes, and advocate for evidence-based policies that address public health issues.

MASTER OF HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION (MHCA)

Prepare for leadership roles in healthcare organizations with our master of healthcare administration. Learn to bridge healthcare and business management, opening doors to positions in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. With a deep understanding of healthcare laws and trends, you’ll be ready to meet the industry’s growing demand for skilled administrators.

Earning your MHCA prepares you for many opportunities in the healthcare field, including:

• Clinical Director: Ensure quality patient care, oversee the administrative and legal aspects of their facilities, and monitor patients’ progress while also overseeing and managing nurses and other staff members.

• Director of Rehabilitation: Develop, coordinate, and direct rehabilitation goals and duties set in a hospital, private clinic, nursing home, or specific type of focused rehabilitation facility.

• Healthcare Manager: Manage staff, budgets, and resources to optimize healthcare delivery in various settings, such as clinics, nursing homes, and outpatient centers.

• Hospital Administrator: Oversee the daily operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring they run efficiently, meet regulatory requirements, and provide quality care to patients.

• Medical Practice Manager: Manage the day-to-day operations of medical practices, ensuring that healthcare providers can focus on patient care while the practice runs smoothly.

POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (DrOT)

Advance your expertise with our post-professional doctor of occupational therapy. This program enhances your skills in evidence-based practice, leadership, and specialized therapeutic techniques. Careers in academia, research, or healthcare leadership are within reach, offering opportunities to influence policy, implement innovative programs, and educate the next generation of therapists.

Advancing your career with our DrOT could allow you to leverage your additional experience in countless opportunities, such as:

• Clinical Occupational Therapist: Practice occupational therapy in a clinical setting, providing direct patient care in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or outpatient clinics. They may specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or orthopedics.

• Clinical Supervisor or Manager: Oversee the delivery of occupational therapy services, manage teams of therapists, and ensure the quality of care provided.

• Occupational Therapy Educator: Teach future occupational therapists in academic settings like universities or colleges. Shape the next generation of occupational therapy professionals by sharing expertise and knowledge.

• Policy Advocate and Healthcare Administrator: Influence healthcare policies, promote the importance of occupational therapy, and advocate for improved services and access to care.

• Researcher or Research Coordinator: Engage in research activities in occupational therapy. Conduct studies, contribute to evidence-based practice, or work as research coordinators, helping design and manage research projects.

Discover how Valparaiso University can help you achieve your career goals in healthcare. Join our community committed to leadership, diversity, and making a difference. Book a call to learn more.