The booming healthcare sector continues to flex its economic muscle, commanding nearly one-fifth of America's gross domestic product in 2023. The industry's growth trajectory is reflected in employment projections, with federal labor officials expecting healthcare to generate 2.3 million new jobs by 2026.
The healthcare industry's rapid expansion has created a staffing challenge: healthcare facilities and organizations nationwide are struggling to find and hire skilled administrators. These leaders must manage large teams and complex operations and stay ahead of emerging technologies and shifting healthcare policies. The demand for qualified healthcare executives who can handle these multifaceted responsibilities continues to grow.
In response to this leadership gap, Willamette University is launching a new Healthcare Leadership Certificate Program designed to transform skilled healthcare professionals into effective leaders.
“We're seeing talented healthcare professionals promoted into management roles without the necessary leadership training, often leading to preventable setbacks and increased turnover,” says Kennedy Hawkins, JD/MBA’91, the program's director and former CEO of PT Northwest.
The 48-hour, 6-module program will welcome its inaugural cohort on April 25 and is designed to equip healthcare managers and leaders with essential skills to thrive in their roles. Participants will complete two modules per month for three months. Classes will be held at either Willamette’s Portland or Salem campus on Fridays and Saturdays to accommodate working professionals.
The curriculum covers essential areas including:
- Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
- Coaching & Mentoring Employees
- Leading Change Effectively
- Data Analysis, Revenue Cycle, & Financial Reports
- Lean Management
- Legal, Regulatory, & Ethical Issues
- The Healthcare Continuum & Industry Challenges
- Digital Health & Cybersecurity
- Healthcare Equity
What sets this program apart is its practical focus. Participants engage in real-world simulations and develop actionable strategies for current healthcare challenges. The program leverages expertise from Willamette's MBA and Law faculty, as well as industry veterans, creating a unique interdisciplinary approach.
The program is not just for current healthcare professionals but is also designed to support career changers entering the sector, reflecting the industry's growing need for diverse leadership talent.
“Today's healthcare leaders need more than just clinical expertise,” Hawkins explains. “They need to understand cybersecurity, navigate complex regulatory environments, and lead organizational change effectively. Our certification program addresses these critical skills gaps.”
To encourage organizational development, Willamette is offering a 10% discount for groups of four or more employees from the same organization. The same discount applies to Willamette University students and alumni.
For more information about the Healthcare Leadership Certificate Program, visit the program's website.
About Willamette University's Executive Development Center
Willamette University’s Executive Development Center specializes in providing continuing professional education programs designed to meet the evolving needs of various industries. The center is known for its practical, results-oriented approach to executive education and its strong connections with industry partners.
