How to become a health service manager
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
A common way into this job is through a degree in a health or management-related subject.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You can get into this job through a chartered manager degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You can get into health service management by working your way up from an administrative or clinical role within the NHS.
You're likely to need 4 to 5 GCSE grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and possibly A levels or equivalent for an administrator role.
With experience, you can move up to supervisory or management level. You can find useful courses to help you do this through the Institute of Administrative Management.
The MSc in Healthcare Leadership is suitable for doctors, pharmacists, allied health professionals, nurses, midwives and non-clinical staff who want to advance into a senior management position.
Direct Application
The most direct route into health service management is through the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme. To apply, you'll need a degree, or an equivalent qualification, in healthcare or management.
You can apply directly if you already have management experience from the private, public or voluntary sector.
There are some management roles, like those in finance, purchasing or human resources, where you may not need previous experience of the NHS.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could apply to become a member of the Institute of Healthcare Management. This would give you access to professional development opportunities and professional recognition.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a health service manager from Health Careers.