What is the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Program?
The Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Program (HPM) is the intellectual hub at Columbia Business School for education and discourse in the latest concepts, models and tools relevant to the fast-evolving policies and practices impacting healthcare.
HPM oversees the healthcare curriculum, supports and mentors students interested in working in the industry, connects alumni working in the field to the school, and builds strong and sustainable relationships with leading healthcare organizations.
How do I apply?
HPM is not a degree-bearing program and does not require a formal application process. Once you are admitted to Columbia Business School, you can select the electives offered by HPM that match your interests and goals.
Where can I learn more about HPM?
Listen to the Spotlight On Healthcare Webinar (Broadcast Oct. 2019)
What part of the industry does HPM focus on?
HPM offers courses that span the healthcare ecosystem covering critical areas such as: healthcare delivery, health IT, services, biopharma, medical devices, public policy, entrepreneurship, venture investing and global health.
Can I take HPM classes if I’m an EMBA student?
Absolutely! EMBA students are encouraged to take healthcare classes that fit into their schedule. EMBAs should also join the Healthcare Industry Association and participate in HPM’s programming and activities.
Can you touch on the experiential learning opportunities offered through courses in the HPM track?
Most courses are classroom-based, but many bring in speakers from a wide variety of healthcare professions. There is also a project-based course, Healthcare Management, Design, and Strategy that is co-offered with Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. In this class, interdisciplinary student teams work directly with a company on a project.
Are there opportunities for CBS students to take healthcare-related classes within the broader Columbia campus (e.g. Mailman School of Public Health, Engineering)?
Yes, CBS students may count a combined maximum of 6 credits of graduate-level courses from other Columbia schools, Independent Study, and Cross-Cultural Seminar toward the MBA degree. For details, please review the MBA degree requirements. This is not organized through HPM – students are expected to register for these courses on their own, or with the help of academic advisors. Here is the link for the cross registration process.
How many CBS students are interested in healthcare?
The Healthcare Industry Association (HCIA) is one of the largest and most active student organizations at CBS. Membership continues to expand (currently 200+) which reflects growing student interest in pursuing a career in healthcare.
Can prospective students get access to the HCIA newsletters?
No, these are sent to current students only. However, you can join HPM's newsletter to find out the latest news, upcoming events and more.
What kind of careers do students pursue?
CBS students pursue opportunities in all parts of the industry. For a sample list of companies by sector, visit the Careers page.
Can students participate in in-semester internships at healthcare companies in NYC? If so, is this usually done in conjunction with a healthcare course?
Yes, students may participate in in-semester internships, and many of our students do so. This is not associated with a specific course, but can sometimes be done for class credit, depending on the situation. We recommend waiting until the Spring semester to begin an in-semester internship as the first semester core course load is quite rigorous.
Does HPM provide opportunities to network/interact with healthcare executives and companies?
Yes, through various networking events, speakers, and panels, HPM provides many opportunities for students to connect with professionals across the industry. We often work with HCIA on these events.
Can I speak to a current student?
Yes! To connect with a current student, you can reach out to members of the Hermes Society, a student-run organization that works closely with the admissions office and provides perspective on student life at Columbia Business School. Reach out to the Hermes society.
Can I schedule time to speak to the Director during the application process?
The Director allots time to speak to prospective students. Submit your request by email to [email protected] and include specific questions. We will reach out to schedule time to speak.
Are international students able to gain experience through in-semester internships?
Yes, international students are able to secure work authorization for paid in-semester internships of no more than 20 hours per week during their time at Columbia Business School. How soon you are legally able to do so depends upon your student visa type (F-1 or J-1). Please refer to the Employment section of the ISSO website for further details.