Online MHA – Master’s in
Healthcare Administration

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/mha-programs/">Online MHA</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599	$10,552	91%
#2 Marist College 3399 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601	$15,300	84%
#3 University of Scranton 800 Linden Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510	$11,580	83%
#4 University of Minnesota, Twin Cities 100 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455	$17,580	83%
#5 Saint Joseph’s University 5600 City Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131	$17,334	81%
#6 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052	$31,770	82%
#7 University of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089	$46,272	92%
#8 Appalachian State University 287 Rivers St, Boone, North Carolina 28608	$4,839	73%
#9 University of Central Florida 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32816	$6,916	72%
#10 George Mason University 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$12,144	71%
#11 Valparaiso University US Highway 30 and Sturdy Road, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383	$11,700	71%
#12 University of Cincinnati 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221	$12,790	71%
#13 American University 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20016	$30,351	79%
#14 University of Denver 2199 S. University Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80208	$51,336	77%
#15 Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 278 Whites Bridge Rd, Standish, Maine 04084	$9,470	67%
#16 Ohio University 020 Chubb Hall, Athens, Ohio 45701	$9,444	65%
#17 Virginia Commonwealth University 910 W Franklin St, Richmond, Virginia 23284	$12,701	67%
#18 Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences 850 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601	$15,660	63%
#19 Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104	$35,181	69%
#20 William Woods University One University Avenue, Fulton, Missouri 65251	$6,480	58%
#21 University of Southern Indiana 8600 University Blvd, Evansville, Indiana 47712	$9,486	50%
#22 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 4505 S Maryland Pky, Las Vegas, Nevada 89154	$5,459	45%
#23 University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 2200 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211	$10,543	44%
#24 Peirce College 1420 Pine Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102	$13,896	42%
#25 University of Providence 1301 Twentieth St S, Great Falls, Montana 59405	$14,000	38%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/mha-programs/">Online MHA</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Appalachian State University 287 Rivers St, Boone, North Carolina 28608	$4,839	73%
#2 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 4505 S Maryland Pky, Las Vegas, Nevada 89154	$5,459	45%
#3 Oklahoma State University, Tulsa 1111 W 17th St, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107	$5,530	NA
#4 Louisiana State University, Shreveport One University Place, Shreveport, Louisiana 71115	$6,196	31%
#5 William Woods University One University Avenue, Fulton, Missouri 65251	$6,480	56%
#6 University of Central Florida 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32816	$6,916	72%
#7 California State University, East Bay 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward, California 94542	$7,176	50%
#8 University of Maryland, Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783	$8,640	15%
#9 Colorado State University, Global Campus 585 Salida Way, Aurora, Colorado 80011	$9,000	NA
#10 Ohio University 020 Chubb Hall, Athens, Ohio 45701	$9,444	65%
#11 Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 278 Whites Bridge Rd, Standish, Maine 04084	$9,470	67%
#12 University of Southern Indiana 8600 University Blvd, Evansville, Indiana 47712	$9,486	50%
#13 University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 2200 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53211	$10,543	44%
#14 University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599	$10,552	91%
#15 University of Scranton 800 Linden Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510	$11,580	83%
#16 Valparaiso University US Highway 30 and Sturdy Road, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383	$11,700	71%
#17 George Mason University 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$12,144	71%
#18 Virginia Commonwealth University 910 W Franklin St, Richmond, Virginia 23284	$12,701	67%
#19 University of Cincinnati 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221	$12,790	71%
#20 Peirce College 1420 Pine Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102	$13,896	42%
#21 University of Providence 1301 Twentieth St S, Great Falls, Montana 59405	$14,000	38%
#22 Marist College 3399 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601	$15,300	84%
#23 Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences 850 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601	$15,660	63%
#24 Saint Joseph’s University 5600 City Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131	$17,334	81%
#25 University of Minnesota, Twin Cities 100 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455	$17,580	83%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration programs provide advanced healthcare management and administration knowledge. Typically requiring 36-48 credit hours, these programs offer flexible online, on-campus, or hybrid formats, taking 1.5 to 2 years to complete. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, preparing for roles like hospital CEO or healthcare consultant. Graduates are qualified for diverse healthcare settings, contributing to hospitals, health practices, insurance companies, and government agencies.

Curriculum and Coursework and Skills Gained in a Master’s In Healthcare Administration

A Master’s in Health Administration program features core courses and electives focusing on healthcare management, informatics, and policy. Students complete a capstone project, fieldwork, internship, or thesis as part of their degree requirements. Core courses cover financial management, policy, informatics, operations, leadership, and ethics. Electives may explore quality, safety, marketing, and analytics. The capstone project allows the practical application, while research enthusiasts may opt for a thesis involving original healthcare administration research. Here are some common courses one can expect in a master’s in healthcare administration online program:

Healthcare Delivery Systems
The Healthcare Delivery System course explores the American healthcare system, covering its evolution, current models, and services, focusing on the continuum of care, health professionals, and accreditation. It addresses leadership challenges related to access, quality, and cost, investigating the delivery of quality care across the consumer continuum.

Healthcare Leadership
This course introduces classical and contemporary leadership views. Students explore leadership theories, assess their own styles, and analyze traits of historical and current leaders. Special emphasis is placed on leadership within healthcare administration, enhancing skills for effective leadership in the healthcare industry.

Healthcare Strategic Management
This program concentrates on methods for identifying, collecting, analyzing, evaluating, and reporting strategic data. Effective strategic management can contribute to the organization’s long-term success. The course introduces key concepts, tools, and principles of strategy formulation and execution, along with competitive analysis. It also evaluates leadership decisions impacting performance and organizational survival.

Financial Management in Healthcare
This program allows students to grasp the significance of financial management in healthcare operations. It covers the creation and analysis of operational and capital budgets, teaching budget development, and evaluation of departmental financial status. Additionally, it emphasizes measuring financial performance through methods like volume-adjusted variance analysis and breakeven analysis.

Healthcare Quality and Risk Management
The Healthcare Quality and Risk Management course in a Master’s in Healthcare Administration program equips students with insights into healthcare quality improvement. It explores methods and tools to enhance patient safety, improve health outcomes, and mitigate risks. The course emphasizes developing processes for in-depth investigation of internal operations.

Upon graduation, students can expect to have gained the following skills:

• Strategic Thinking: Developing the ability to think strategically in healthcare management.
• Leadership: Acquiring leadership skills for effective decision-making and team management.
• Financial Management: Understanding budget development, financial evaluation, and corrective actions.
• Quality Improvement: Gaining expertise in healthcare quality improvement methods and tools.
• Risk Management: Assessing and mitigating clinical and organizational risks within healthcare settings.
• Data Analysis: Using techniques for identifying, collecting, and analyzing strategic data.
• Communication: Enhancing communication skills is crucial for effective healthcare administration.
• Policy Analysis: Analyzing and understanding healthcare policies and their impact.
• Ethical Decision-Making: Developing the ability to make ethical decisions in healthcare settings.

Degree Types

There are two types of degrees in healthcare administration: the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and the Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MS). The MHA program focuses on healthcare management and administration, while the MS program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to advance as successful healthcare leaders.

Specializations for Healthcare Administration Students

The healthcare industry is expanding, and specialization provides students with focused knowledge and skills, improving their career prospects. Through in-depth exploration of specific areas, students cultivate expertise that distinguishes them in the job market. Specialized education ensures they are well-prepared to address industry demands, becoming valuable assets to employers and enhancing their ability to navigate and contribute effectively to their chosen career paths. Here is a list of the main specializations most students pursue: 

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Healthcare Operations	This specialization involves an in-depth study of optimizing healthcare delivery systems. Students focus on efficient management, resource allocation, and organizational strategies, preparing them to lead and enhance operational processes within healthcare institutions, ensuring effective and quality patient care.	• Hospital Administrators • Healthcare Operations Managers • Clinical Operations Directors
Healthcare Informatics	This specialization centers on the intersection of information technology and healthcare. Students delve into managing health information systems, data analytics, and electronic health records. This expertise equips professionals to drive innovation, enhance patient care, and navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare technology and information management.	• Health Informatics Specialists • Clinical Informatics Analysts • Health Information Managers
Financial Management	In this specialization, students explore budgeting, financial analysis, and strategic financial planning within the healthcare sector. This specialization equips professionals with the skills to ensure the financial health and sustainability of healthcare institutions, contributing to effective resource allocation and organizational success.	• Healthcare Finance Managers • Financial Analyst in Healthcare • Revenue Cycle Managers
Health Policy	This specialization focuses on the analysis, development, and implementation of policies that shape the healthcare landscape. Students explore the intricacies of healthcare regulations, ethical considerations, and public health strategies. This specialization prepares professionals to navigate complex policy environments, advocate for effective healthcare practices, and contribute to advancing public health.	• Healthcare Policy Analysts • Health Policy Advisors • Health Policy Researchers
Quality Care	This specialization optimizes healthcare delivery for improved patient outcomes. Students explore quality improvement methodologies, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. This specialization equips professionals to lead initiatives that enhance the quality of care, ensuring patient satisfaction, safety, and adherence to industry standards.	• Patient Safety Officers • Quality Assurance Managers in Healthcare • Healthcare Accreditation Coordinators

Graduation Timeline

The Master’s in Healthcare Administration provides a flexible timeline for both part-time and full-time students. The standard program usually takes two years, while an accelerated option shortens the curriculum for quicker completion. Timelines vary among universities. Part-time programs may take longer than full-time ones. Additionally, some universities offer accelerated programs to finish in a shorter time frame.

Accelerated Master’s in Healthcare Administration Online Programs

Accelerated programs condense traditional coursework, enabling students to complete their degrees in a shorter duration. This option appeals to those seeking quicker entry into the workforce. However, students must diligently research accelerated programs to ensure quality. Factors like faculty expertise, accreditation, and student success are crucial in determining the program’s value and impact on career prospects. Here are a few universities that offer accelerated Master’s in Healthcare Administration programs:

• Louisiana State University¹
• Western Governors University²
• California State University³

When pursuing a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, aspiring students face specific admission requirements. Generally, universities seek candidates with a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or related fields, ensuring a foundational understanding of advanced coursework in the master’s program. Here are a few of the most common healthcare administration degree requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or related field
• Completed form and application fee
• Official transcripts from previous academic institutions
• Letters of recommendation
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
• GRE/GMAT Scores
• Interview (sometimes part of the admission process)
• Relevant work experience (may be preferred but not always required)

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test often required for graduate school admission. Some universities, aiming to attract diverse applicants, offer waivers based on a high GPA or significant work experience. This practice acknowledges alternative indicators of a candidate’s academic and professional capabilities, promoting broader access in the admissions process. Here are some institutions that provide healthcare administration master’s online with no GRE:

• University of Cincinnati⁴
• University of New Haven⁵
• Suffolk University⁶

In selecting an online healthcare administration master’s program, verifying accreditation by a recognized body is crucial. Accreditation guarantees the program adheres to top-quality standards in curriculum, faculty, student support, and learning outcomes, assuring a reputable and valuable educational experience.

The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)⁷ is the main accrediting body for Healthcare Administration Master’s programs in the United States. CAHME, recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)⁸, assesses programs using stringent criteria, evaluating curriculum, faculty, student support, and learning outcomes. Completing a Healthcare Administration Masters program accredited by CAHME can boost career prospects, affirming to employers that students have undergone a high-quality education.

Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Free online courses provide accessible learning opportunities, enabling individuals to acquire new skills or enhance existing ones without financial constraints. However, it’s crucial to note that while these courses offer valuable knowledge, they often lack formal accreditation. Nonetheless, they remain an invaluable resource for personal and professional development. Here are some examples of free healthcare administration courses:

Course	Medical and Clinical Administration9
Provided by	Alison
Description	This free course explores overseeing medical facilities, a crucial aspect of healthcare management. Covering areas like budgeting, regulatory compliance, and collaboration with healthcare providers, the program equips learners with essential skills. From patient confidentiality to financial management, it addresses key aspects, preparing individuals for roles in healthcare management amid rising demand.

Course	Foundations of Healthcare Management10
Provided by	Alison
Description	This course explores healthcare systems, emphasizing ethical and legal aspects. Essential skills for health information management, healthcare marketing, and public relations are highlighted. The course underscores the importance of analytical and critical thinking skills in navigating complex care situations, illuminating their impact on patient and elder care.

Course	Healthcare Problem Solving11
Provided by	Udemy
Description	This course introduces common quality tools for addressing everyday healthcare challenges. Emphasizing problem definition as a crucial first step, it guides healthcare professionals through analysis and innovative solution-finding. The course provides practical exercises and tools to aid problem-solving and process improvement decision-making.

Considering the current state of student debt and the overall expense of education, it is important to thoughtfully examine the payment options available for an online Master’s in Healthcare Administration program. Funding involves exploring financial aid options, scholarships, and grants. Students can consider employer reimbursement programs, work-study arrangements, or federal student loans. Here is a brief on funding options for a master’s in healthcare administration:

Scholarships for Master’s in Healthcare Administration Students

The first step in applying for federal loans and grants is to complete the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ®). This one-stop application service analyzes financial need and reports finding to selected online MHA programs.  Federal assistance is offered in the form of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program.  Master’s students may borrow up to $20,500 in non-subsidized loans.  Direct PLUS Loans are for students with tuition that exceeds the maximum amount on non-subsidized loans.

Scholarships for Master’s in Healthcare Administration students ease financial strain, fostering academic excellence and professional development. These awards, often based on merit or need, empower students to pursue advanced degrees without undue financial burden, ultimately enhancing the workforce in healthcare management. Here are two online master’s of healthcare administration scholarships to explore: 

Scholarship	Foster G. McGaw Scholarship12
Description	The scholarship in honor of Foster G. McGaw, founder of the American Hospital Supply Corporation, was initiated by the American College of Healthcare Executives Foundation. It aims to financially assist students in healthcare management graduate programs, alleviating the burden of tuition costs, student loans, and related expenses.
Award/Amount	$5000
Application Deadline	March, annually

Scholarship	National Association of Health Services Executives Scholarship13
Description	The NAHSE Scholarship Program offers financial support for minority students pursuing healthcare management or related careers. Recognizing that financial constraints may hinder academic pursuits, the program encourages eligible students facing economic challenges to apply for these scholarships.
Award/Amount	Varies
Application Deadline	Varies

The online master’s in healthcare administration is designed to shape students into skilled professionals in healthcare administration and related fields. Graduate-level proficiency equips individuals with knowledge spanning various healthcare management disciplines, and taking up specializations will further demonstrate the skills acquired during the program. Some potential career options for master’s in healthcare administration graduates include:

Occupation	Medical and Health Services Managers14
Median Annual Salary	$104,830
Job Growth (up to 2032)	28% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Managers in medical and health services strategize, lead, and organize healthcare operations. Their responsibilities may include overseeing an entire facility, a specific clinical department, or managing a medical practice for a group of physicians. Adapting to shifts in healthcare laws, regulations, and technology is integral to their role.

Occupation	Epidemiologists15
Median Annual Salary	$78,520
Job Growth (up to 2032)	27% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Epidemiologists investigate patterns and causes of diseases and injuries. They aim to reduce the risk and occurrence of adverse health outcomes through research, community education, and health policy implementation.

Occupation	Nursing Home Administrator16
Median Annual Salary	$128,633
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Nursing Home Administrator oversees activities following set policies and federal/state guidelines. Responsible for strategic planning, profitability, and overall operations, they coordinate business functions, recommend improvements, and may necessitate an advanced degree. Typically reports to top management.

Occupation	Health Information Management Manager17
Median Annual Salary	$97,947
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	A Manager in Health Information Management oversees the health information department within healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their duties include maintaining the precision, confidentiality, and accessibility of patient health records, supervising staff, and ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory standards.