Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2023
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- A master's in healthcare administration prepares you for leadership positions within the healthcare industry.
- MHA grads receive a targeted business education with a healthcare focus.
- People with this degree may benefit from a rapidly growing job market and strong salaries.
- These professionals are in high demand because of an aging population and a growing emphasis on preventative care.
Not everyone who wants to get into healthcare is destined to work directly with patients. Some people would rather build the operational infrastructure that makes patient care possible. And those are the people who should get a master's degree in healthcare administration (MHA).
If that sounds like something you're interested in, here's what you should do next:
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Ready to Start Your Journey?
- Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online master's in healthcare administration programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for you.
Is a Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration Worth It?
Yes. An MHA is a smart way to capitalize on the growing demand for healthcare workers without needing to provide direct patient care. The degree qualifies you for many high-paying careers where you'll help improve patient outcomes, increase operational efficiency, and provide high-quality services that impact people's lives.
Benefits of Getting a Master's in Healthcare Administration
- The job outlook is strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28% from 2021-2031. That's over 56,000 openings a year on average!
- The pay is good. The BLS reports that medical and health services managers earned over $100,000 a year in May 2021, with the highest-paid 10% earning more than $200,000 a year.
- The degree is versatile. An MHA equips you with the business knowledge and specialized healthcare expertise you need to address organizational challenges at every level. You can use your training to pursue healthcare roles in marketing, project management, human resources, information technology, or whatever else you're interested in.
- The work is rewarding. Healthcare administrators make strategic decisions about how healthcare organizations run, resulting in better patient outcomes and improved employee well-being.
Reasons for Getting Your Master's in Healthcare Administration Online
- Online degrees are more flexible. An online MHA program gives you the freedom to set your pace, study from anywhere, and hold down a job or family while pursuing a degree.
- Online degrees can save you money. Aside from potential savings when it comes to on-campus fees, you won't need to pay a budget for moving or commuting. If you can keep working, you won't lose any wages either. In some cases, online programs may even cost less than traditional programs.
- Online degrees are great for career advancement. Increasingly, desirable healthcare positions require advanced degrees. Getting your MHA online allows you to acquire the skills and training you need to grow your career.
Read More: What Is Healthcare Administration? What Does a Healthcare Administrator Do?
Featured Master's in Healthcare Administration
Best Master's in Healthcare Administration Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $670
Out of State | $670
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Franklin University offers a master of healthcare administration program entirely online. The healthcare administration at Franklin University includes education in ethics, finance, healthcare law, and strategy. While the program is 36 credits long, up to four credits can be transferred based on certification by a professional healthcare organization.
You must have a GPA of at least 2.75 and demonstrate English language proficiency. Additionally, you must submit official transcripts and a resume.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $565
Out of State | $565
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Liberty University's master of science in healthcare administration prepares you for the strategic management challenges necessary to excel in healthcare administration. The healthcare administration program at Liberty allows you to choose a specialization in areas such as accounting, finance, human resources, and leadership.
The program takes a minimum of two years to complete. And you complete the program with a capstone course summarizing all content.
In addition to the application and associated fee, you must submit college transcripts.
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,450
Out of State | $1,450
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Seton Hall University offers their master of healthcare administration degree in both hybrid and in-person formats This healthcare administration program focuses on leadership in healthcare, management, critical thinking, and professionalism and ethics. The program includes real-life learning activities, including simulations, and you conclude the program with a capstone project.
You should have a minimum GPA of 3.0, but this requirement is flexible for those with prior healthcare experience. You must also submit three letters of recommendation, a CV, and a personal statement.
AdventHealth University
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $670
Out of State | $670
Credits to Graduate
39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
AdventHealth University offers a master's in healthcare administration in strategy and innovation. Course offerings at AdventHealth's healthcare administration program include healthcare finance, population health management, and ethical issues and public policy.
You must submit an application, resume, and personal essay, as well as two letters of recommendation. You must also have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $470
Out of State | $1,174
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
SIU Carbondale's master's in healthcare administration is designed for distance learning students and those who are employed full time. In addition to coursework, SIU requires you to complete either an individual research project, a graduate residency, or an internship.
You must have a minimum of a 2.7 GPA in order to enroll in the program. And international students must meet additional criteria.
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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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,020
Out of State | $2,000
Credits to Graduate
49
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
UNC Chapel Hill designed their online MHA program exclusively for students currently working full-time. Their two-year master's in health program is primarily online with three on-campus sessions per year. Additionally, you must complete a capstone course and a business plan or technical paper during your final year.
You must have at least three years prior experience in healthcare and currently be employed in the field with some managerial or supervisory experience.
Pfeiffer University
Misenheimer, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $680
Out of State | $680
Credits to Graduate
39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Pfeiffer University offers a master of health administration program for busy professionals looking to advance their career. Core curriculum focuses on areas such as leadership, law and ethics, and health economics. Pfeiffer's program supplements classroom learning with activities such as applied field experience, and an optional study abroad session.
You can choose to pair your degree with an MBA. Applications must include official transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Utica College
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $690
Out of State | $690
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Utica University provides a flexible, customizable MHA for those looking to pursue a career in healthcare administration. Utica University's curriculum allows for multiple elective courses to tailor the degree to your interests. All degrees culminate in a resume building capstone project.
You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher to apply. Along with your application, you must submit transcripts, a personal statement, resume, and two letters of recommendation.
Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $615
Out of State | $615
Credits to Graduate
40
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
Concordia University Irvine's MHA is tailored to prepare students for leadership positions across healthcare settings. The curriculum offers a broad survey of applicable business and management fundamentals. In Concordia's MHA program, you complete a capstone project integrating coursework and prior experience in the setting of a larger healthcare organization.
To apply, you must have a GPA of at least 3.0. You must submit transcripts, a statement of intent, at least one professional reference, and a resume.
Radford University
Radford, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition
In State | $4,590
Out of State | $8,980
Credits to Graduate
N/A
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Radford University offers an MHA for students seeking careers in higher management of healthcare organizations. The Radford University MHA program emphasizes strategic thinking, data and analysis, and interprofessionalism. You'll work with the Carilion Clinic to earn real-life health management experience.
You must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and meet prerequisite course requirements. Applications must include two letters of recommendation and a resume.
How Much Does a Master's in Healthcare Administration Cost?
Average Annual Cost of a Master's Degree
Public Institution | 2019-2020
$12,394
Private Institution | 2019-2020
$26,621
You can keep your graduate school costs as low as possible in a few ways.
- Pick a public, in-state school.
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid.
- Prioritize schools that offer grant-based aid over loans.
- Select a school that accepts transfer credits or offers course credit for work and volunteer experience.
Read More: How Much Does an Online College Cost?
How Much Money Will You Make With a Master's in Healthcare Administration?
Median Annual Pay for Medical and Health Services Managers in 2021
$101,340
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Source: BLS
How Long Does an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Take?
Typically, MHA students complete their degrees in 2-3 years. Accelerated programs can be as short as 18 months long. Part-time programs can take between 3-6 years.
Average Length of Time*
2 years
Required Course Credits*
30-60 credits
*Varies depending on your school/program
What Jobs Can You Get With a Master's in Healthcare Administration Degree?
An MHA provides you with the expertise and skills required for a variety of leadership roles within healthcare. Plus, leadership roles tend to pay higher salaries.
Want to work in a hospital? An outpatient clinic? A nursing home? Or how about a pharmaceutical company or a rehab center? Maybe you're more interested in working for a mental health nonprofit or government agency.
Great: You can do it all with an MHA.
Healthcare Administrator Nursing Home Administrator Health Services Manager Biopharmaceutical Manager Quality and Safety Manager Risk and Compliance Manager |
Hospital Administrator Hospital CEO Healthcare Consultant Clinical Director or Supervisor Clinical Trials Manager Operations Manager |
Note that some of the above healthcare administration jobs may require extra or specialized training.
Read More: 7 High-Paying Careers in Healthcare Administration
Master's in Healthcare Administration Curriculum
Coursework often focuses on specific challenges in healthcare. You may analyze case studies or healthcare policy statements as part of your assignments.
Before graduating, you'll typically complete a capstone project to address a real-world problem. Requirements vary by program, but you may complete a healthcare marketing plan or analyze hospital policies and procedures. Another option could involve developing a training program for healthcare administrators.
Common courses include:
- Healthcare information systems
- Healthcare financial management
- Healthcare law and compliance
- Leadership in healthcare administration
- Budgeting and management
- Health policy
Specializations
Along with core coursework, you may be able to pursue a specialization or concentration to further develop your skills in a focus area.
Common specializations include:
Health Policy: Health policy covers issues related to healthcare access, medical insurance, and safety regulations. You may also use your knowledge to evaluate and analyze current health policy debates.
Health Informatics: This concentration combines the study of data science, information security, and business as they apply within healthcare organizations. You may deal with electronic medical records, telemedicine delivery, or strategic data analysis.
Healthcare Marketing: A marketing plan is essential for successful business ventures. And medical organizations must carefully consider how they market their brands and services. This concentration teaches you how to balance marketing strategies with hospital regulations.
Project Management: This concentration enables you to pursue professional project management credentials. You'll learn about processes and tools that can help you define a project's scope, develop budgets, track task completion, and ensure quality control.
MHA Certifications
Some MHA students choose to pursue a certification in addition to their master's degree. A certification shows proficiency in a focus area. These credentials can set you apart from the competition when seeking a job in the healthcare field.
Common certifications related to healthcare administration include:
- Certified medical manager (CMM)
- Fellow of the American college of healthcare executives (FACHE)
- Certified professional in healthcare risk management (CPHRM)
- Certified healthcare administrative professional (cHAP)
- Certified revenue cycle executive (CRCE)
- Certified revenue cycle professional (CRCP)
- Certified healthcare financial professional (CHFP)
- Certified professional in healthcare information and management systems (CPHIMS)
- Certified healthcare access manager (CHAM)
- Certified professional in healthcare quality (CPHQ)
Is a Master's in Healthcare Administration Degree Right for Me?
Do you want to make the way we deliver healthcare better for everybody while also pulling a serious salary? Do you want to be the person calling the shots and finding better ways to do things? Are you patient, strategic, a problem-solver, and a leader?
Then a master's in healthcare administration is probably a great fit for you.
Still Looking for the Right Fit in Healthcare? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About a Master's in Healthcare Administration Degree
What is the difference between an MHA and an MBA in healthcare administration?
An MBA in healthcare administration provides a broad business focus. It includes generalist courses on finance, strategy, economics, marketing, and accounting in addition to healthcare management courses. Students with an MBA in healthcare administration may find it easier to transition into roles in other industries.
Coursework for an MHA is more specialized. You'll study many of the same business fundamentals as an MBA student but will do so specifically through a healthcare lens. An MHA may be a better choice for people who want to become healthcare experts.
What can you do with an MHA?
With an online MHA degree, you can pursue leadership and management positions across various functions and healthcare organizations. Places of employment may include hospitals, assisted living facilities, and doctor's offices. You could also work at outpatient care centers, pharmaceutical companies, and nonprofit or government agencies.
What are the admission requirements for a master's in healthcare administration?
Common requirements for applying to a master's in healthcare administration include:
- Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Minimum GPA (often 2.5-3.0)
- Professional resume
- Personal statement/essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Demonstrated commitment to or experience in healthcare (usually one year of work experience in the field)
- GRE test scores
