The UAB School of Health Professions recently gained approval by the University of Alabama Board of Trustees to launch a new Master of Science in Healthcare Simulation program.

The degree program is designed to prepare students to lead within organizations using simulation to improve quality of care and impact patient outcomes. An entirely online program, students will have the flexibility to complete their degrees while working full time.

“My vision for this program is to develop leaders in the use of simulation to improve the care we provide to our patients,” said Michelle Brown, program director. “There is a growing number of simulation centers throughout the country and we want to help ensure leaders in those centers are prepared to serve a diverse group of students and healthcare professionals.”

Students will receive a strong foundation in simulation as an educational methodology as well as evidence-based quality and patient safety strategies.

“We are very excited to add this new program to the Department of Health Service Administration’s portfolio of graduate offerings because it further strengthens our ability to develop leaders to shape tomorrow’s health care,” said Christy Lemak, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Health Services Administration. “The intersection of disciplines in health care simulation, health care quality and safety, health informatics, and health care leadership provides endless opportunities for collaboration among students, faculty, staff and alumni. We are looking forward to seeing what improvements and innovations are possible.”   

The program, which can be completed in four semesters and a three-day residential visit, is taking applications through Aug. 1 for the fall 2018 cohort. For more information, please call Dawn Zink at (205) 934-3509.