Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Healthcare administrators collaborate with staff to keep medical organizations efficient. Learn what it takes to become one.
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Updated on January 19, 2024
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  • A healthcare administration degree can prepare you for many in-demand, well-paying jobs.
  • Healthcare administrators work with other hospital staff to keep medical organizations running smoothly.
  • Job growth in this field is projected to climb dramatically over the next 10 years.
  • An online program in healthcare administration can help you capitalize on growing demand.
Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Healthcare Administration

As a healthcare administrator, you probably won't be cast as a main character in "Grey's Anatomy." But you will be a behind-the-scenes superstar keeping the whole healthcare machine running. And you'll build valuable leadership skills while doing so.

So if you want to be a decision-maker with the power to impact patients and providers, consider getting a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration. There's probably more to it than you think.

Popular Online Healthcare Administration Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online Healthcare Administration Programs Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Florida International University
Miami, FL
$4,721 $16,529 64%
#2 Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
$54,766 $54,766 83%
#3 University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
$4,478 $19,810 36%
#4 St. Joseph's University-New York
Brooklyn, NY
$29,976 $29,976 80%
#5 University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL
$3,996 $16,799 77%
#6 Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA
$32,954 $32,954 78%
#7 George Fox University
Newberg, OR
$37,840 $37,840 83%
#8 Winona State University
Winona, MN
$8,100 $14,600 77%
#9 East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
$4,452 $20,729 94%
#10 Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA
$32,736 $32,736 Not provided

Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $649

Credits to Graduate: 120

Florida International University's fully online bachelor's in health services administration program is one of the largest in the U.S. As a student, you'll learn about economics, health systems research, legal issues regarding health systems, policies and regulations, program planning and evaluation, and systems engineering.

This degree can prepare you for an entry-level managerial position in healthcare. It can also put you on a path toward graduate education in the healthcare field.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $459
Out-of-State | N/A

Credits to Graduate: 180-184

The online BS in health services administration at Drexel University exposes students to the business of healthcare. As part of the College of Nursing and Health Professions, this part-time interdisciplinary program helps students find their place in the ever-changing healthcare industry.

Students in this program receive training in:

  • Economics and policy
  • Ethics
  • Healthcare administration
  • Marketing and information systems

This bachelor's in healthcare administration can provide the flexibility working professionals need to complete their studies while balancing professional and other obligations.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $179
Out-of-State | $716

Credits to Graduate: 120

University of Central Florida's online BS in health services administration can set graduates on the path to a meaningful leadership position in the healthcare industry. Graduates of this program can pursue positions such as:

  • Health information manager
  • Social or community service manager
  • Human resources administrator

Online classes include healthcare economics, epidemiology, and U.S. healthcare systems. Coursework teaches students to improve the quality of patient care and create more positive working environments for individual employees and teams.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

St. Joseph's University-New York

  • Brooklyn, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,028
Out-of-State | $1,028

Credits to Graduate: 120

The BS in health administration from St. Joseph's University New York offers a curriculum for students wanting a well-rounded education. Students can choose a concentration in health administration or human services or take courses toward a management certificate.

Online students receive academic advising, 24/7 tech support, library services, tutoring, reasonable accommodations, access to a virtual applications lab, and wellness and crisis support.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,976
Out-of-state
$29,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,250
Out-of-state
$20,250
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
4,687
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

University of North Florida

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $175-$213
Out-of-State | $213-$693

Credits to Graduate: 120

The University of North Florida has an online bachelor of health administration program offering a mix of traditional and online courses. All students take their upper-level classes online, regardless of whether they enrolled in-person or online.

This online healthcare administration degree allows students to choose a general concentration or specialize in aging services. In the internship course, students gain experience in a hospital, insurance company, long-term care facility, or other healthcare setting. The UNF+ Pathway can help students prepare to earn a master’s in health administration.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$16,799
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,570
Out-of-state
$19,585
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
16,594
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Fresno Pacific University

  • Fresno, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $550
Out-of-State | N/A

Units to Graduate: 51

Fresno Pacific University offers a bachelor of arts in healthcare administration through the School of Business. Students can earn their degrees in the classroom or completely online.

Students study healthcare laws and regulations, management, policy-making, and resource allocation. They work toward their degrees with a cohort of up to 22 students, allowing them to benefit from peer support and gain a lifelong professional network.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,954
Out-of-state
$32,954
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,524
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

George Fox University

  • Newberg, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $499
Out-of-State | N/A

Credits to Graduate: 120

George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon, is a faith-based private school offering a 16-month healthcare administration BA that's 100% online. Students who prefer focusing on one subject at a time might like the sequential, accelerated format of asynchronous courses.

Students who have worked in healthcare may earn life experience credits toward their degrees. Some graduates of this program have obtained employment as admissions administrators, compliance directors, hospital services administrators, and insurance contract negotiators.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,840
Out-of-state
$37,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,158
Out-of-state
$14,158
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
4,285
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#8 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Winona State University

  • Winona, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $277
Out-of-State | $296-$504

Credits to Graduate: 120

At Winona State University, you can earn a bachelor of applied science in healthcare leadership and administration. Although this completely online program welcomes all qualified applicants, it's especially suited for students over 25 who work full-time. About 95% of former students report that the program prepared them for graduate studies and career advancement.

This program offers a streamlined path to a bachelor's for students with an associate degree. Completing your BAS here may help you earn a master's in healthcare leadership and administration relatively quickly.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$14,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,000
Out-of-state
$12,080
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
6,545
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $170-$205
Out-of-State | $883

Credits to Graduate: 120

A BS in health services management from East Carolina University can prepare students for leadership positions in healthcare settings like hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, nursing homes, and insurance companies. After entering the program as juniors, students learn subjects like ethics and health law, human diseases, health data management, and healthcare operations management.

Students choose a concentration in allied health management or health services management. An internship during their final semester gives students the experience to seek meaningful employment or to graduate school after graduation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
28,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs of 2024

Loma Linda University

  • Loma Linda, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $380
Out-of-State | $380

Quarter Units to Graduate: 180

A BS in healthcare administration from Loma Linda University can equip you with an entry-level or mid-level position. This fully online program enables you to take courses at your own pace. If you already work in the healthcare industry, you may be able to apply some of your previous clinical credits toward your degree.

Earning this healthcare administration degree online takes about two years or six quarters if you enroll full-time and have already earned 90 units. Over 90% of students find jobs after graduation as clinical support services managers, healthcare initiative project managers, long-term care coordinators, or nursing home administrators.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,736
Out-of-state
$32,736
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,382
Out-of-state
$27,382
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,390
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

Why Should I Get an Online Degree in Healthcare Administration?

There are three main reasons to consider getting an online healthcare administration degree.

First: The best healthcare administration programs prepare you for rewarding leadership positions in healthcare with strong projected job growth.

Second: Healthcare administrators make great money. If you want a degree that will pay off in job prospects and income potential, this is a good choice.

Third: Your work will matter. Not everyone gets the satisfaction of having a positive impact on others. But healthcare administrators do — they're the driving force behind a system that saves lives.

Benefits of Getting a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration

  • Learn the ins and outs of the U.S. healthcare system
  • Acquire a marketable skill set that translates into a variety of business organizations
  • Qualify for coveted healthcare positions across the country
  • Prepare for leadership roles with upward mobility
  • Boost your earning potential in a growing field
  • Lay the groundwork for an advanced degree

Benefits of Getting an Online Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration

  • Save money: Many online degrees cost less than traditional on-campus programs. At the very least, you won't have to pay for gas, on-campus fees, or limp salads in the dining hall.
  • Save time: The flexible scheduling of online programs — many of which offer asynchronous classes and accelerated courses — allows you to complete coursework as quickly or as slowly as you want.
  • Do it all: It's also much easier to fit online coursework around family, hobbies, volunteer work, or other commitments.

What to Expect from an Online Healthcare Administration Degree

As a student in an online healthcare administration program, you can expect to learn important skills in planning, directing, and coordinating the delivery of healthcare services.Healthcare administration programs are accredited by either the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). In your new career as a healthcare administrator, you might work for acute care hospitals, independent physician practices, university health centers, or long term care, rehab, or ambulatory care facilities.

An online healthcare administration program gives you a flexible and convenient educational experience. If you have a lot of personal responsibilities, you can do your online learning at your pace and in your own time.

How Long Does an Online Healthcare Administration Degree Take?

If you pursue an online healthcare administration degree full-time, it may take you 2- 3 years. A part-time MHA program might take you 3-4 years or more.Online programs are offered in synchronous or asynchronous formats. For synchronous programs you have to be in front of your computer for classes at specific times, while in asynchronous programs you can complete classes on your own schedule.

Average Time to Complete a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration

2-3 years (Full Time)
3-4 years (Part Time)

Required Course Credits*

120 credits

*Varies depending on your school/program

What Classes Will I Take While Earning a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?

Courses offered in healthcare administration programs prepare you for the complex nature of leadership in the 21st century:

  • Organizational Behavior: Understanding group dynamics and organizational structure.
  • Healthcare Finance: Guiding a facility to financial stability is informed by understanding healthcare economics.
  • Medical Terminology: If your previous career wasn’t in healthcare, you must understand medical terminology.
  • Healthcare Ethics: Savvy leaders approach difficult ethical decisions with sensitivity and critical thinking.
  • Healthcare Policy: Governmental healthcare policies have a direct impact on how you steer your organization.
  • Healthcare Quality Management: Measuring outcomes and quality of care can improve the patient and staff experience and a facility’s financial bottom line.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Administration Cost?

Weighing the cost of an online degree? There are a few things that will affect your bottom line.

  • Tuition: Online programs can save you money. But they aren't always your cheapest option. You can keep your tuition costs down by picking in-state, public schools.
  • Financial aid: Remember, you'll have to pay loans back at some point (usually with interest). But if a school offers grant-based assistance, that can reduce your net cost and raise your return on investment (ROI). Scholarships and work/study options can also make a big dent in the final ticket price.
  • Unexpected costs: Some schools charge additional online learning or technology fees for distance learners — be sure to ask about costs you may not be aware of.

Average Annual Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Administration

On average, the annual cost of tuition and fees for an online bachelor's degree in healthcare administration is $7,784. This is based on the average annual tuition cost of all online bachelor's degrees in health.

Average annual tuition and fees at public universities was $5,940 and $18,110 for public nonprofit universities.

Public Institution | 2021-2022

$5,940

Private Institution | 2021-2022

$18,110

Source: NCES, National Postsecondary Student Aid Study: 2020 Undergraduate Students

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What Jobs Can I Get With a Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Administration?

Once you graduate with your bachelor’s in healthcare administration, you’ll have choices of what administrative jobs you might apply for. Note that high-paying leadership roles in healthcare admHealthcare Administration may require a master’s in healthcare administration (MHA).

Several positions you might consider include:

5 Popular Jobs for a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration
Job Average Salary
Healthcare Administrator $70,360 according to Payscale, Oct 2023
Medical Marketing Manager $71,650 according to Payscale, Jan 2024
Medical and Health Services Manager $127,980 according to the BLS, May 2022
Nursing Home Administrator $97,720 according to Payscale, Dec 2023
Health Policy Analyst $66,100 according to Payscale, Dec 2023
Clinic Administrator $62,090, according to Payscale, Dec 2023
Sources: Payscale and the BLS

How Much Can I Make With a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?

Your earning potential with a bachelor’s in healthcare administration will be influenced by many factors, including the city, state, or region where you work. Bear in mind that higher wages in some popular cities might be offset by a much higher cost of living. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 28% job growth (much faster than average) is expected for medical and health services managers between 2022 and 2032, so you can rely on jobs being available in many regions of the country.

With an average salary of $69,000 per year — or $21.32 per hour — there’s definitely room for growth and opportunity if you decide to further your education.

Average Salary with a Bachelor's in Healthcare in Administration

Average Annual Salary

$69,000

Average Hourly Salary

$21.32

Source: Payscale, December 2023

Many students also choose to go on to pursue their master's in healthcare administration — which can considerably increase your earning potential. According to the BLS, the highest 10% of earners in this field make more than $209,990 a year. Woah.

A flexible online master's program can help you gain that additional expertise while still working in the field, earning money, and racking up years of experience.

Projected Growth for Medical and Health Services Managers, 2022-2032

28%

Everything Else You Need to Know About a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration

What are the admission requirements for a bachelor's in healthcare administration?

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While requirements may vary slightly, undergraduate healthcare administration programs typically look for the following:

  • Application
  • Test scores
  • Recommendation letters
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Transcripts
  • High school diploma or GED certificate

Some schools may also require a personal interview.

What can I do with a bachelor's in healthcare administration?

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With a BA or BS in healthcare administration, you can land entry-level roles in various healthcare organizations, including doctor's offices, hospitals, health maintenance organizations, health insurance companies, and standalone clinics.

Some healthcare administrators specialize in human resources, marketing, or safety and risk management. Others become policy analysts, working with government agencies to develop new healthcare policy initiatives.

What's the difference between healthcare management vs. healthcare administration?

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The main difference between healthcare management and healthcare administration centers around their main objectives. Healthcare management tends to focus on the long term goals of an organization, while healthcare administration focuses on the day-to-day duties.

Healthcare management oversees long-term business goals.That can mean taking on HR responsibilities, setting operational budgets, managing patient care, tracking and supporting business goals, and overseeing operational and structural functions.

Healthcare administration is fairly "big picture," too, but it has a narrower focus, usually on day-to-day departmental and individual needs. Administrators may be responsible for staffing, scheduling, training, departmental finances, medical records, or directing specific areas of care.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 22, 2023.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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