Healthcare administrators are the operational leaders behind every great hospital, clinic, and long-term care facility. In Ohio, this role offers significant responsibility—and significant reward. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare administrators in Ohio earn an average of $124,740 per year ($59.97 per hour), with growth opportunities across hospitals, insurance companies, public health departments, and more.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to becoming a certified, qualified, and in-demand healthcare administrator in Ohio.

Step 2: Build Hands-on Experience

Secure internships, residencies, or entry-level administrative roles in hospitals, clinics, or health systems. Focus on roles where you manage operations, budgets, staffing, or process improvement.

Step 3: Pursue FACHE® Certification (Optional but Valuable)

Once you have sufficient experience, you may choose to earn the FACHE® (Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives) credential. It is highly respected among executive‑level healthcare professionals and signals advanced leadership and commitment.

To pursue FACHE®, you must:

• Be an ACHE member for at least one year (student associate status does not count)
• Hold a master’s or post-baccalaureate degree
• Be in an executive-level healthcare management role
• Have at least five years of healthcare management experience
• Provide two references (one via structured interview with a current Fellow, another from a senior leader or Fellow)
• Earn 36 continuing education credits in the three years before applying, of which at least 12 credits must be ACHE In‑Person Education, up to 24 can be ACHE Virtual Interactive, and up to 12 from qualifying education
• Complete four volunteer activities (two community/civic, two healthcare-related)
• Submit an application with a $250 non-refundable fee
• Once approved, pass the Board of Governors Exam in Healthcare Management to become a Fellow
• After passing, you may use the FACHE designation and attend the convocation ceremony

While FACHE® is not mandatory for most administrator roles in Ohio, it can significantly enhance your leadership profile and professional credibility.

Step 4: Apply for Licensure

If your role is in long-term care facility administration, you must meet Ohio BELTSS licensure requirements. Follow the state’s process for credentialing as a nursing home administrator.

Step 5: Apply for Healthcare Administrator Positions

With your credentials, experience, and optionally certification, search for roles at hospitals, health systems, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Tailor your resume to highlight:

• Leadership in operations and strategy
• Knowledge of healthcare regulations and compliance
• Budgeting, financial oversight, and efficiency achievements
• Any certifications or professional development (e.g. FACHE®)

Use platforms like MyNextMove or health system HR portals to find openings. Network with professionals via associations like ACHE or HIMSS to get insider referrals.

Step 6: Grow and Advance

Once in a role, continue learning, pursue leadership tasks, and seek promotions to C‑suite levels (e.g. COO, CEO). Consider consulting, academia, or entrepreneurial ventures later in your career.

Where to Find Healthcare Administrator Classes in Ohio

If you're interested in pursuing this career, Dreambound can help you find the right classes. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs.

By visiting Dreambound's website, you can easily explore these classes and find the one that suits your needs and preferences.

Remember, becoming a healthcare administrator in Ohio requires a combination of education, experience, and licensing. With the right qualifications and training, you can embark on a rewarding career in healthcare administration.

Career Paths After Becoming a Healthcare Administrator

After gaining experience and reputation, possible roles include:

• Hospital Administrator / Chief Operating Officer
• Nursing Home Administrator (with required licensure)
• Director of Patient Services or Clinical Operations
• Health Information or Systems Manager
• Healthcare Consultant or Strategy Lead
• Public Health Administrator
• Academia, Research, or Policy Leadership
• Entrepreneurial ventures in healthcare operations or tech

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a clinician to lead in healthcare. In Ohio, healthcare administrators earn strong salaries and have diverse paths to influence patient outcomes. Begin with the right degree, build experience, decide whether to pursue FACHE® certification, and work your way into leadership roles.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

• Medical Administrative Assistant Training in Ohio
• Medication Aide Training in Ohio
• Medical Billing and Coding Training in Ohio
• Psychiatric Technician Training in Ohio