Why ODU for Clinical Leadership and Administration?

Effective leadership in today’s complex healthcare environments requires a strategic understanding of systems, regulation, and clinical improvement. ODU’s Clinical Leadership and Administration Graduate Certificate is designed for practicing healthcare professionals who want to strengthen their ability to lead quality initiatives, implement change, and advance within clinical organizations.

In this one-year program, you will:

  • Explore quality improvement strategies applicable to diverse healthcare settings
  • Work with a preceptor or administrator to implement change and refine clinical leadership skills
  • Gain exposure to healthcare system operations, team management, and regulatory considerations

When you complete this certificate, you will be prepared to lead improvement initiatives and drive change in clinical or administrative healthcare roles.

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Program Information

Total
9 Credit Hours

You will take three required courses to complete the Clinical Leadership and Administration certificate:

  • Quality Improvement in Healthcare
  • Advanced Clinical Practicum I
  • Advanced Clinical Practicum II

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Clinical Leadership and Administration graduate certificate is ideal for licensed healthcare professionals motivated to implement change within clinical systems or advance within healthcare leadership. Professionals from diverse backgrounds such as pathology, athletic training, dietetics, and dental hygiene are encouraged to apply.

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C
Assistant Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
paluchlk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA‑C, DFAAPA
Associate Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
dempsekk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Amanda F. Quillin, DHSc, CHES®
Assistant Professor
Health Sciences, DHSc
quilliaf@odu.edu
757-446-7257

Dan T. Thibodeau, DHSc, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA
Professor, Health Professions
Physician Assistant, MPA
thiboddt@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Total
9 Credit Hours

You will take three required courses to complete the Clinical Leadership and Administration certificate:

  • Quality Improvement in Healthcare
  • Advanced Clinical Practicum I
  • Advanced Clinical Practicum II

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

This online Clinical Leadership and Administration graduate certificate is ideal for licensed healthcare professionals motivated to implement change within clinical systems or advance within healthcare leadership. Professionals from diverse backgrounds such as pathology, athletic training, dietetics, and dental hygiene are encouraged to apply.

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Lauren K. Paluch, DMSc, MPA, PA-C
Assistant Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
paluchlk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Kimberly K. Dempsey, EdD, MPA, PA‑C, DFAAPA
Associate Professor
Physician Assistant, MPA
dempsekk@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Amanda F. Quillin, DHSc, CHES®
Assistant Professor
Health Sciences, DHSc
quilliaf@odu.edu
757-446-7257

Dan T. Thibodeau, DHSc, MHP, PA-C, DFAAPA
Professor, Health Professions
Physician Assistant, MPA
thiboddt@odu.edu
757.446.7158

Bridge to the Doctoral Program

The Clinical Leadership and Administration Graduate Certificate offers a direct, flexible pathway to the Doctor of Medical Science (D.M.Sc.) program.

Students who earn a grade of B or higher in each course may apply the nine certificate credits toward the doctoral degree, where they will count toward the transcript and cumulative GPA if admitted. This option supports healthcare professionals looking to advance their clinical leadership and continue their academic journey.

Medical educator leading a presentation

Cost & Aid

Woman conducting research in a lab setting
Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-State Students
$926 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore evms Tuition & Fees

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Careers in Clinical Leadership and Administration

Professionals with clinical leadership training are well-positioned to influence healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes.

Career paths for certificate holders include:

  • Clinical team leader or department supervisor
  • Quality improvement coordinator
  • Healthcare administrator or program director
  • Clinical educator or compliance officer
  • Policy advisor or operational strategist in healthcare systems

This certificate also supports advancement for those pursuing a Doctor of Medical Science degree.

Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Growth
11.5%
Median Salary
$100,890
Clinical Data Managers
Growth
36.0%
Median Salary
$108,020

Ready to Apply?

All non-physician assistant applicants are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure their graduate training meets program standards.

Applicants must have:

  • A master's degree (minimum 60 credits) from a regionally accredited institution with a healthcare focus
  • Certification to practice from an accredited regulatory body (e.g., NCCPA, BOC, NASM, ACSM)
  • A graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher

Explore all admission requirements in the Graduate Catalog.