CANTON -- SUNY Canton's online bachelor's degree program in health care management earned high marks for affordability, flexibility and earning potential in Best Degree Programs.org's 2016 guide.

The website praised the degree, saying "SUNY Canton rivals even the most accommodating online colleges with its B.S. in Health Care Management, which allows students to select any combination of online, hybrid and face-to-face courses."

The guide's purpose is two-fold: to determine the 10 most in-demand degree types that offer the greatest salary outlook, as well as identify the five most cost-effective online programs within those categories.

According to the site, those who pursue a career in health care management can look forward to entering a healthy job market filled with opportunity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 17 percent growth in positions until 2024, which equates to 56,000 new jobs.

"To us, the data indicate that a degree in this discipline could be a ticket to a reliable future with a high return on investment and room to grow," the website said.

SUNY Canton Instructor and Health Care Management Curriculum Coordinator Marela Fiacco agreed with the organization's job outlook assessment. "While medical personnel such a doctors, nurses and other frontline staff continue to be in demand, health care administrators are also needed to offer behind-the-scenes support that will improve the quality and efficiency of health care," she said. "Our graduates possess a broad knowledge of health sciences, business law, healthcare ethics, communications and management, as well as practical skills necessary for a fulfilling career in the health care field."