Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Healthcare administrators steer all operations at medical organizations. Kickstart your executive career with the best HBCU for healthcare administration programs.
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Updated on August 24, 2023
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Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a long-standing history of educating health professionals; HBCUs graduates comprise 50% of Black doctors. However, healthcare leadership does not represent our diverse society.

According to data from the American Hospital Association and ACHE, 89% of hospital CEOs in 2019 were white. U.S. Census data from around that time period showed that nearly 60% of the U.S. population was white (non-Hispanic or Latino/a).

The U.S. is getting more diverse, but upper-level hospital management lags behind. Getting an HBCU's healthcare administration degree can help you qualify to change that.

What exactly can you do with a healthcare administration degree, and what HBCUs offer the best programs? Discover the top ten HBCUs shaping the next generations of leaders in this essential field.

2023 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

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What Is a Healthcare Administration Degree?

Earning a healthcare administration degree equips you to manage all operations in a medical setting. You learn every aspect of making a medical organization run smoothly, from healthcare finance, to risk management and informatics.

Many healthcare recruiters turn to HBCUs to seek out talent for high-paying careers. This degree prepares for various healthcare administration careers, such as:

  • Outpatient clinic director
  • Healthcare administrator
  • Hospital administrator
  • Nursing home administrator
  • Clinical program manager

Popular Online Programs

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

Why Attend an HBCU for Healthcare Administration?

In 2015, minorities filled only 9% of CEO and 14% of chief medical officers positions. Due to a lack of opportunity and financial reasons, roughly 38% of Black healthcare executives said they took lesser positions.

Diversity and inclusiveness are not empty buzzwords. Recent research from NEJM Catalyst shows that diversifying senior and executive healthcare leadership teams can help promote higher performance and increase patient equity.

HBCUs are known for creating leaders in all career sectors. By fostering supportive environments and diverse ecosystems, they offer one of the best environments for future health administrators to start their careers in healthcare.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and 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.

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 HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Texas Southern University

  • Houston, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Texas Southern University is recognized as one of the most affordable colleges in the Lone Star State. It holds the distinction of being the first and only college in Houston to offer an M.S. in Healthcare Administration degree.

Their bachelor's in healthcare administration program is a 121-credit program that equips students for the field through courses in business, professional communication, accounting, health policy, human resource management, and marketing for healthcare organizations. To graduate from the program, students must complete an approved internship during their senior year, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience before entering the workforce.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,941
Out-of-state
$19,707
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,767
Out-of-state
$11,824
Retention Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
7,015
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

  • Tallahassee, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

FAMU, established in 1887, offers students the opportunity to pursue both a bachelor's and a master's degree in healthcare management. The undergraduate program, which consists of 120 credits and includes a 12-credit administrative internship, prepares students for entry-level management roles in the healthcare field.

Although the bachelor's program falls under the category of "Healthcare Management," it holds accreditation from the Association of University Programs in Health Administration. The curriculum encompasses various subjects such as managerial accounting, medical terminology, healthcare management theory and practice, strategy and marketing, and healthcare research.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,152
Out-of-state
$14,524
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,019
Out-of-state
$22,108
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Students Enrolled
9,184
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Oakwood University

  • Huntsville, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oakwood University, a Seventh-Day Adventist private institution established in 1896 in Huntsville, Alabama, offers a Christian-centered bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in healthcare administration. This program provides an extensive education in business and management principles while integrating the teachings of Jesus. 

Within the Healthcare Administration concentration, students can take courses specifically tailored to this field, including medical terminology, management information systems, business communications, finance, marketing, and insurance and risk management. These courses provide a strong foundation for students aspiring to excel in healthcare administration roles and positively impact the industry. Students apply their knowledge through a senior-year practicum, gaining hands-on experience and practical skills to succeed in healthcare administration.

In 2018, Oakwood University was recognized by the United States Senate as the fifth leading producer of African American applicants to medical schools. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,974
Out-of-state
$18,974
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,680
Out-of-state
$13,680
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
1,374
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
81% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Langston University

  • Langston, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Langston University, established in 1897, is Oklahoma's only HBCU. It offers a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, focusing on diversity, engagement, and competence. 

The program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum that covers key subjects such as accounting principles, case management, marketing, human behavior in organizations, and issues in minority healthcare. Additionally, students must complete an internship at a community health organization, allowing them to gain real-world experience in the field.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,342
Out-of-state
$11,722
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,355
Out-of-state
$8,421
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,038
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Fayetteville State University

  • Fayetteville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fayetteville State, founded in 1851, in North Carolina, offers a thorough 120-credit healthcare administration degree under The Division of Business and Economics. The program at FSU entails the completion of 38-40 core credits, covering essential topics such as healthcare organization and systems, policy and law, and quality management. 

Seniors can gain practical experience through a healthcare administration internship, and students can broaden their horizons by participating in a study abroad program in London. To gain admission into the program, you need to pass the "entering freshman and rising junior assessment." First-year students need to submit their ACT or SAT scores, while transfer applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,982
Out-of-state
$14,590
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,438
Out-of-state
$14,503
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
6,726
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Howard University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Howard University, a prestigious private institution founded in 1867 in Washington D.C., offers a bachelor's degree in health management. This program is certified by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) and prepares students for leadership roles in the healthcare industry, such as executive practice manager, clinical director, or health service manager.

At Howard, students can choose from 20 program concentrations, including cultural competence and diversity, health policy, leadership, and healthcare marketing. These concentrations allow students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. To apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, students must complete a 120-hour internship in the program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,464
Out-of-state
$26,464
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$32,248
Out-of-state
$32,248
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
39%
Students Enrolled
10,859
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Wilberforce University

  • Wilberforce, OH
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Established in 1856, Wilberforce University in Ohio offers a healthcare administration program as part of its 20 undergraduate programs. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful healthcare management career or further field studies. 

Students engage in a core curriculum covering medical terminology, legal aspects, environmental health, long-term care management, and health planning methods. They learn to apply best practices and business theories to effectively manage healthcare organizations. Wilberforce University is a test-optional school, and first-year applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,020
Out-of-state
$12,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,830
Out-of-state
$12,830
Retention Rate
35%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
453
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Winston-Salem State University

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

WSSU, founded in 1892, is part of the University of North Carolina system. It offers an exceptional healthcare administration program that cultivates your communication and problem-solving skills, preparing you to make informed business decisions. 

The curriculum integrates fundamental business and healthcare management principles, covering areas like medical terminology, health law and ethics, marketing, and healthcare policy. Students can also pursue minors in public health and applied data science. A healthcare administration internship is a mandatory component of the program. WSSU's dedicated academic success counselors guide course selection, and tutoring services are readily available.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,401
Out-of-state
$13,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,872
Out-of-state
$13,987
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
5,169
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Jackson State University

  • Jackson, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Established in 1877 in Mississippi, JSU offers a comprehensive healthcare administration program of 121 credits. This program prepares students for various management roles by providing supervised internships and a well-rounded curriculum. 

The courses cover various topics, including financial accounting, human resource management, marketing, law and ethics, financial management, and professional writing. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,270
Out-of-state
$8,270
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,270
Out-of-state
$8,270
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
6,921
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best HBCUs for Healthcare Administration Programs

Tennessee State University

  • Nashville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

By pursuing TSU's bachelor's in healthcare administration, you'll acquire essential management and decision-making skills while learning effective health planning techniques. To graduate, you must complete 120 credits and a 12-week field placement during the summer semesters. TSU offers two campuses: North Nashville and downtown Nashville.

As a sophomore applicant, you can apply to this program with a minimum GPA of 2.5. TSU's rolling admissions policy allows you to apply anytime, providing flexibility and convenience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,854
Out-of-state
$20,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,276
Out-of-state
$19,752
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Additional Resources for Students in HBCU Healthcare Administration Programs

HCAA is dedicated to members from multiple disciplines that work in healthcare administration. This organization regularly posts job and sponsorship opportunities. Members can also pursue certification if they wish to work with self-funded healthcare plans.

ACHE provides over 48,000 healthcare executive members with resources and learning opportunities to improve their leadership skills and healthcare systems overall.

AAHAM provides multiple professional certifications for leaders in healthcare administration. Members also gain access to management training, periodicals, seminars, and conferences.

AUPHA serves as a resource for prospective students, current scholars, faculty members, and departmental leaders. The association maintains extensive online databases of healthcare administration programs and career opportunities. Members can also take professional certification exams in order to gain AUPHA certification.

For 50 years, the NAHSE has worked to uplift healthcare administrators. For those in the early stages of their career, NAHSE offers a Young Professionals Committee with quarterly webinars and networking sessions.

Sources

Chevron Down

A racial/ethnic comparison of career attainments in healthcare management. (2015). American college of Healthcare Executives

Diversity and disparities. (2015). Institute for Diversity in Health Management | Health Research & Educational Trust

Increasing and sustaining racial/ethnic diversity in healthcare leadership. (2020). American College of Healthcare Executives

Lee, Thomas H., et al. (2021). Diversity and inclusiveness in health care leadership: Three key steps. NEJM Catalyst

Quick Facts. (2022). United States Census Bureau

The significant value or historically Black colleges and universities. (2022). Center For Education Consumer Insights


Page last reviewed August 7, 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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