This is a two (2) part assignment.  Please read ALL of the instructions before final submission. 

Part 1: Competency Self Assessment

The goal for this part of your final project is to determine the level of competency attainment you have realized throughout your program of study in each of the critical domains of the program's competency model.    

The first part of your final project requires that you:

1. Review , the competency model the Master of Science in Healthcare Administration is built upon, and the competency self-assessment that you submitted in HCAD500 at the start of your graduate studies.  

2. Download, complete, and submit the Competency Self Assessment attached to this assignment area. 

This assessment will be used to identify areas of strength and areas where you might need some professional skill development as well as help you in formulating a career development plan.

Please note that there are no right or wrong answers to this assessment.  For EACH development area of the Competency Self Assessment, provide a robust explanation of how you have progressed and have demonstrated competence in the five (5) critical domains and associated competencies. Additionally, identify domains and associated competencies where improvement is needed.  Explain how you will demonstrate and develop your level of competence in those domains and associated competencies where improvement is needed. 

Rate yourself as novice, competent, or expert in each area:

• Novice (1) – An individual's primary focus is understanding and gaining information in order to comprehend the skills needed. You have the level of experience gained in a classroom setting or on-the-job training. You are expected to need help when performing this skill.

• Competent (3) – People with considerable experience develop competence in solving problems within the learned guidelines and rules. You are able to successfully complete the competency as requested. Help from experts may be required from time to time, but you can usually perform the skill independently.

• Expert (5) – Experts work intuitively analyzing, recognizing patterns, critiquing, and solving problems with ideas and expertise. You are known as the expert in this area. You can provide guidance, troubleshoot, and answer questions related to this competency.

If you feel you fall somewhere between each category, then you select either a "2" or "4."

Part 2: Professional Development Plan (PDP)

Create a PDP based on a culmination of competencies, skills, and knowledge you have obtained throughout the program.  The following will guide you in developing your PDP.  There is no required template for this assignment. 

1. Begin by taking assessments of your , and , and . Think about your current position and responsibilities and what you have done to further your professional development.  Are you where you thought you would be at this stage of your career? If you are new in the healthcare industry, how do you feel about your current capability and position? There are no right or wrong answers at this stage, only honest ones.  BE SURE TO SAVE THE RESULTS OF YOUR ASSESSMENTS. 

2. Where do you want to be in the future?  How do YOU define "success?" The purpose here is to identify your motivations, not someone else's expectations. This step may take time to complete, but it should be as thorough as possible. You can identify both short- and long-term ambitions. Since these ambitions may change over time, you should revisit this step periodically and revise your plan if necessary.

3. Conduct research to gather information about how to meet your ambitions. If you desire to promote into another position, determine what qualifications might be necessary for that position. If you are new to healthcare, what other education, certifications, or experience is required in order for you to qualify for the position you want.  Consider constructing personal SWOT and PEST Analyses to complete this portion. 

4. Establish clear and actional goals that are required for you to meet your short- and long-term ambitions. When setting goals, use the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely) methodology to track your progress over time.

5. Evaluate the skills and talents you already possess. Do you have any of the skills you will need to accomplish your goals? What skills and talents might you need to obtain to accomplish your goals? 

6. What resources are available to you to enhance your skills and talents?  For example, perhaps on-the-job training is available or you have a relationship with a mentor or coach who can guide you through the process. Identify any resources that you can leverage to your advantage.

7. Develop an action plan and timeline.  Map out how you will bridge the gaps between where you are now and where you want to be in the future. Identify obstacles, fears, or concerns that you might need to address as you work towards your ambitions and goals.  Adapted from University of Wisconsin-Madison

8. Think about your personal beliefs and values to create a personal vision. Your vision should be short, yet inspiring. What would you want to create for yourself and those around you, as a leader? What type of leader would you like to be in the future? What goals would you like to accomplish as a leader? Based on the management skills and leadership style assessments you took earlier, summarize the results and assess managerial strengths. Describe the connection between your vision and leadership style.