FAQs for BPHM

The Bachelor of Professional Studies in Health Sciences Management (BPHM) is an online program for working adults who want to advance into leadership roles in healthcare settings. The program serves students with a wide range of backgrounds including those who may have an allied healthcare associates degree in emergency medical services, medical laboratory technology, occupational and physical therapy assisting, radiography, respiratory therapy, or sonography.

The online program helps students develop foundational knowledge and strengthen skills that are essential in today's competitive and ever-evolving health care environment. These include analytical reasoning, critical thinking, effective communication, leadership, effective resource management, problem solving, and teamwork.

Students generally enroll in 6 - 8 credits (2-3 courses) per semester and complete their degree requirements in 3-4 years. However, students may take longer, depending on their work-life balance, schedule, and credits needed to complete degree requirements. A maximum of 7 years (21 terms) is permitted.

No, the entire degree can be completed online. Many courses are delivered in a synchronous format (evenings). Select asynchronous and face-to-face classes are also available. 

There are two pathways for admissions including one for those without an allied healthcare background. 

The BPHM degree, awarded by the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, is one of several undergraduate degrees awarded by UVA at Final Exercises each year. 

The BPHM degree positions graduates for career advancement or career transition in the area of healthcare management. Graduates might also pursue graduate or professional degrees in healthcare management, business, or education.

The School of Continuing and Professional Studies offers two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies and a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Health Sciences Management.

These degrees are awarded by the University of Virginia, and graduates of these programs are entitled to the same privileges and opportunities available to all students who have earned degrees from the University of Virginia.

There is no "typical" degree student. They come in all ages and live throughout Virginia, the region, and the nation. They are just as likely to be married with children, as to be single. A large number of our students are working professionals. Our students find support from their faculty and peers as they meet the challenges of balancing the demands of family, work, and school. The one thing they have in common: to earn a UVA degree.

The School of Continuing and Professional Studies is committed to maintaining classes small enough for students to consult with faculty about class work on an individual basis and to participate fully in class discussions and presentations. Many classes have fewer than 20 students.

Our degree programs are designed to meet the needs of the adult learner. Each student is assigned a program or faculty advisor who meets with the student before spring, summer, and fall registration to discuss course selection for the upcoming terms. Students also are encouraged to contact their advisors at any other time for assistance with their academic program. In addition to supportive staff and faculty, our students have access to many of the resources at UVA including extensive audio-visual library collections, career counseling, and job search support, as well as technical support.