Full course description





Course Overview
Starting a practice marks a major career shift requiring strong financial management. This course covers key strategies including startup funding, tax structure, financial controls, and cash flow management. To build a solid financial foundation for long-term success, professionals will learn to support sustainable operations while focusing on delivering high-quality services.

Who Should Enroll
Ideal for healthcare professionals, educators, counselors, business leaders, attorneys, dentists, physicians, and nonprofit managers in private practice.

Course Instructor

Deyna C. Rouse MSTax, MAC, CPA
Associate Professor of Practice, Heider College of Business
Creighton University
Deyna Rouse, CPA, is an Assistant Professor at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business, specializing in U.S. federal taxation. With over 20 years in public accounting, her expertise spans tax strategy for businesses, nonprofits and high-net-worth individuals. She holds advanced degrees in taxation and her research centers on tax policy and economic incentives.

What You’ll Learn
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Analyze the implications of different types of initial funding.
- Review tax entity selection options to align with financial goals.
- Identify strategies for establishing and maintaining strong financial management processes.
- Assess cash flow and billing management strategies to optimize revenue.

Course Outcomes
Financial Management provides participants with the financial tools and strategies necessary to successfully launch and manage a practice. Upon completion of this course, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about startup funding, tax structures, and financial controls, ensuring long-term sustainability for your practice. By mastering cash flow management and revenue optimization, professionals will be prepared to navigate the financial complexities of practice ownership with confidence and efficiency. This course is also stackable and can count toward completion of the Certificate in Practice Management.

FAQ
What are the benefits of completing this course?
By completing Financial Management, you’ll gain practical financial knowledge to confidently start and manage your own practice. You’ll be able to choose the right funding source, select an optimal tax structure, implement strong financial systems, and manage cash flow effectively—ensuring your practice stays financially healthy, compliant, and positioned for long-term success.
Does this course count toward the Certificate of Practice Management?
Yes, this foundational course is part of the Practice Management Certificate program. Completing this course brings you closer to earning the certificate. To earn the full certificate, you’ll need to complete a total of five courses.
How long does it take to complete?
This course is self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own convenience. Most professionals complete the course in under 60 minutes, but you can take as much time as needed to fit your schedule.
How is the course structured?
This course is taught online and asynchronously. This flexible structure allows you to complete lessons at your own pace, making it ideal for busy professionals. This course includes video lessons, downloadable tools and interactive activities to guide your decision-making process.
Can I earn Continuing Education Credits?
Check with your state’s credentialing body to determine if this course is eligible for continuing education credits for your profession.
