Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration Programs of 2022
Choosing to complete a master's in healthcare administration online can give you the flexibility to continue working while gaining skills to help advance your career. Read on to learn more about your options.
Published on December 22, 2021 · Updated on April 25, 2022
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If you're thinking about earning an online master's in healthcare administration, there's never been a better time. As our society continues to place greater importance on physical and mental health, the healthcare sector is seeing immense growth. Professionals who earn a master of healthcare administration (MHA) degree can position themselves for rewarding and lucrative careers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical and health services managers earned a median annual salary of $104,280 in 2020. Between 2020 and 2030, the BLS projects 32% job growth for these professionals, eight times the projected growth rate for all occupations during that period.
Read on to learn more about MHA programs.
2022 Best Accredited Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Programs
Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team
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#1 Online College in North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chapel Hill, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 23% |
| Graduation Rate | 91% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
12%
|
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $586
Out of State | $1,602
Credits to Graduate
49
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
Designed for students who work full time, UNC at Chapel Hill's executive master of health administration program emphasizes leadership skills and career advancement. Students can complete their degrees in two years through evening online courses and three on-campus sessions per year. The program culminates with a capstone course.
Admission criteria include three years of managerial experience in healthcare or a related field, plus a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA.
#2 Online College in California
Northcentral University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Jolla, California |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $610
Out of State | $610
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students can complete NCU's master of health administration program in 29 months. Graduates can pursue early- to mid-career healthcare leadership roles. A one-to-one learning model pairs each remote learner with a faculty member who advises them individually.
The curriculum focuses on innovative management and strategic action plans for healthcare organizations, concluding with a capstone course.
To apply, candidates must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA or a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited institution.
#3 Online College in Colorado
Colorado State University-Global Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Aurora, Colorado |
| Admission Rate | 99% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
CSU Global offers an online master's in healthcare administration program designed for healthcare managers who want more advanced leadership roles.
Specializations include organizational leadership and change management, project management, strategic innovation and change management, human resources management, finance, and organizational learning and performance.
Competitive applicants hold bachelor's degrees from a regionally accredited school with 3.0 GPAs. Conditional and provisional admission may be offered after case-by-case review.
#4 Online College in District of Columbia
George Washington University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Washington, District of Columbia |
| Admission Rate | 41% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
22%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,215
Out of State | $2,215
Credits to Graduate
46.5
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
GW's business and medical schools joined forces to design a healthcare master of business administration for professionals interested in the business and leadership aspects of healthcare.
Enrollees can add one of seven graduate certificates to their program, in areas such as healthcare quality, integrative medicine, and regulatory affairs.
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and three years of work experience. GMAT scores may be waived for qualified applicants.
#5 Online College in Texas
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lubbock, Texas |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
53%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $265
Out of State | $579
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Texas Tech's accelerated master of science in healthcare administration program prepares healthcare administrators to advance their skills and careers. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a 2.7 GPA, along with professional healthcare experience.
Learners can opt to pursue an additional graduate certificate in health informatics and data analytics, health systems policy and management, healthcare finance and economics, health systems engineering and management, or long-term care administration. The program also offers these topics as courses and culminates with a capstone.
#6 Online College in District of Columbia
American University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Washington, District of Columbia |
| Admission Rate | 36% |
| Graduation Rate | 79% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
20%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,345
Out of State | $1,345
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
American University offers a multidisciplinary, project-based online master's in healthcare management. The curriculum consists of core, elective, and field/professional courses, followed by a capstone project working with a client and faculty advisor. Students graduate with skills in strategic decision-making, data analysis, and communication and presentation.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree but does not mandate test scores or healthcare experience; however, the program is geared for students with professional experience.
#7 Online College in Florida
Florida International University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Miami, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 58% |
| Graduation Rate | 63% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
68%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,426
Out of State | $1,426
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
FIU distance learners can earn an MBA in healthcare online in 18 months. Students conclude their studies with a health policy analysis for a real-life healthcare institution.
Online, asynchronous coursework combines with synchronous remote program residencies. These residencies include industry certifications and cover topics in health economics, oral communication, and leadership.
Admission requires two years of professional work experience, a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, and a 3.0 GPA. GMAT/GRE scores are not required, but may be requested.
#8 Online College in Florida
The University of West Florida
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Pensacola, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 31% |
| Graduation Rate | 46% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
66%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $384.60
Out of State | $1,044.24 ($478.83 with out-of-state tuition waiver)
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
UWF's master of healthcare administration online curriculum focuses on essential healthcare career qualities, including ethical conduct, professionalism, team-based learning, along with practical administrative and operational skills. Students complete an internship or a capstone project to conclude the program.
UWF offers admission on a rolling basis. Candidates submit transcripts showing a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and GMAT or GRE scores. The program is designed for health administrators ready to advance their careers.
#9 Online College in Texas
Trinity University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 29% |
| Graduation Rate | 76% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
1%
|
Hybrid | In-person and Online Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost (Total Tuition)
In State | $73,000
Out of State | $73,000
Credits to Graduate
41
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Trinity's master's in healthcare administration includes a part-time executive track for healthcare professionals that emphasizes leadership development. Enrollees begin the program with their cohort and can finish in 23 months. The curriculum blends academic research with real-world experience.
Admission criteria include a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, current employment in healthcare with prior supervisory experience, and the ability to attend three-day on-campus intensives each semester.
#10 Online College in Pennsylvania
Saint Joseph's University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Admission Rate | 75% |
| Graduation Rate | 81% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
33%
|
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $923
Out of State | $923
Credits to Graduate
36-42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Remote learners can pursue a master of health administration at SJU tailored for healthcare professionals wanting to move into management roles.
Core coursework includes health policy, legal principles, operations and information systems, and population and status assessment. Students can choose between concentrations in health informatics or organization development and leadership.
At least two years of work experience is recommended for applicants. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and official transcripts.
Related Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Program?
An online master's in healthcare administration prepares students for high-level leadership positions within healthcare organizations. Students gain foundational skills in finance, information technology, communications, and management.
Most programs require 36 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Degree-seekers develop communication and leadership skills while learning to make ethical and business-minded decisions. Although these programs are broad, learners can often focus their studies by choosing a concentration in an area like health informatics, gerontology, health education, health policy, or operations.
Graduates can apply to doctoral programs in healthcare administration or seek managerial positions in the field.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Courses in an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Program
While the type of coursework you encounter can change depending on your chosen concentration, below we've outlined some of the most common courses students will take as part of their online master's in healthcare administration.
Organizational Behavior
This course focuses on understanding human behavior and social constructs in the workplace. By gaining insight into human motivation and attitudes, students learn to tailor their management styles to yield the greatest business results. Covered topics can include stress, power and politics, organizational structure, and decision-making.
Healthcare Financial Management
In this course, students learn to identify and analyze the financial viability of business decisions for healthcare organizations. Students gain insight into basic financial theory and financial and accounting terminology.
Health Economics
This course provides an overview of microeconomics and industrial organization in the healthcare sector. Students learn to understand the economic drivers of the healthcare system, the factors that influence consumer demand, and the nature of competition within healthcare organizations.
Law and Ethics
Ethical standards are at the forefront of healthcare education, and this course helps students understand the complex intricacies of law and ethics in healthcare management. Students learn to analyze moral issues surrounding topics like biomedical research while gaining insight into laws and patient rights.
Strategic Management
Strategic management courses help students tackle problems that can arise when running a healthcare organization. Learners devise and implement plans for hypothetical scenarios and work with groups to develop management strategies that can evolve along with the healthcare system.
Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Program
When it comes to online master's in healthcare administration programs, the admission requirements are similar to on-campus graduate programs. However, you will need a stable internet connection and the ability to log on virtually during class times if you enroll in a synchronous program.
The list below explains some of the more common expectations for master's in healthcare administration programs. You may need to fulfill some additional requirements as well, like participating in a virtual interview.
Application
The first step involves filling out an online application. Schools may stick with a common type of application used across colleges, or they may require candidates to fill out an application unique to the college or program. With this form, you typically fill out basic biographical, educational, and employment information.
Test Scores
Master's in healthcare administration programs sometimes require applicants to submit standardized test scores. You may need to take the GRE or GMAT, which evaluate test-taker's verbal, quantitative, and writing skills. The GMAT also includes an integrated reasoning section. You can find several free online resources to help you prepare for these exams.
Letters of Recommendation
Often master's programs ask candidates to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. Some programs look for academic recommendation letters, while others ask for professional recommendations. Sometimes schools require both. Make sure to give your letter writers plenty of time before the deadline.
Resume and Work Experience
Many master's in healthcare administration programs require previous work experience within a healthcare setting, although this isn't the case for every school. Regardless, previous work experience can help you boost your admission chances. Make sure you update your resume with any relevant professional experiences before applying.
Essays
Graduate school requires a fair bit of academic writing. Master's programs often require application essays to evaluate whether students possess the writing skills to succeed in the program. Essays also provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate your passion or interest in the field.
Official Transcripts
Make sure to send an official copy of your undergraduate transcripts instead of an unofficial report card that you have saved in your files. Also, check to see whether your prospective master's programs accept transfer credits from previous graduate coursework.
What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Degree?
Career Outlook
An online master's in healthcare administration opens the doors to rewarding and lucrative careers. Because most students are working professionals with years of experience, these programs prepare graduates for leadership roles within healthcare organizations.
Healthcare administrators earn high salaries and are in high demand right now. According to the BLS, medical and health service managers earned a median annual salary of $104,280 in 2020. The BLS projects 32% job growth in this field between 2020 and 2030, which is much higher than average.
Find out what else an online master's in healthcare administration can do for you. Learn more about healthcare administration careers.
Career Paths
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators supervise the day-to-day operations of a healthcare facility or organization. They manage budgets, ensure that the organization meets financial goals, update technology, and organize health and business records. They may also manage human capital by hiring, training, and giving performance reviews.
Nursing Home Administrator
Working at long-term care facilities, nursing home administrators manage hiring and training processes, design budgets, monitor payroll, and coordinate patient care. They also make sure that their facility meets all state and federal regulatory standards and set policies and procedures that keep facilities safe for patients.
Hospital Administrator
Hospital administrators act as liaisons for governing boards and medical staff, coordinate medical services, recruit and hire doctors and nurses, and develop quality assurance procedures. They may also participate in hospital fundraising and community health planning.
Hospital CEO
Hospital CEOs plan, direct, and coordinate daily hospital operations with the help of administrators and assistant executives. These professionals balance managing the day-to-day operations of hospital activities while developing and implementing strategic initiatives to improve hospital efficiency and maximize profit.
Health Services Manager
Health services managers coordinate and supervise the healthcare services of a given facility or department. These professionals ensure the quality of patient care by managing personnel, developing infrastructure, handling public relations, and communicating internally.
Healthcare Administration Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
For many, a master's in healthcare administration alone can help them kickstart or advance in their careers. However, some students choose to continue their education and earn a doctorate in healthcare administration as well.
Since a doctorate is the highest degree in the field, doctoral graduates often go on to land top roles in healthcare administration. Those positions include directors of hospitals or entire healthcare systems. Students also enroll in doctorate programs to become experts in specific areas, like healthcare policy or education, and to work as faculty members at colleges and universities.
How Do I Choose an Online Master's Program in Healthcare Administration?
Cost
Program costs range considerably based on many factors, like whether you attend a private or public university, or whether you enroll as an in-state or out-of-state student. On the less expensive end, some schools charge $400-500 per credit. Pricier programs can cost anywhere from $1,000-$4,000 per credit. Most programs require around 36 credits, though some require closer to 50.
Whether you enroll in an online or on-campus school doesn't always make a difference in terms of cost. Whichever format you choose, make sure you take into account the true program cost, including things like fees along with tuition.
Program Format
Online master's in healthcare administration programs offer several different formats. Some follow a synchronous format, which means that distance learners need to meet at certain times. Others follow an asynchronous format. Plus, you can find full-time and part-time programs, in addition to accelerated degrees that allow you to graduate more quickly.
Location
Even if you enroll in an online program, location can still make a difference. You might need to attend campus for some in-person requirements. Or your program may require students to participate in an internship at a local healthcare facility. Check with your prospective programs to make sure you can access any on-location components.
Accreditation
When researching online master's in healthcare administration programs, make sure they possess accreditation. The accreditation process evaluates schools to ensure they offer students a quality education. Because of this, employers and doctoral programs often look for candidates with accredited degrees.
Student Support
Student support services can make a huge difference when earning your degree. Look for programs that offer services like mentorship programs and alumni networking, which can help you succeed in your career later on. Some colleges also offer tutoring. All of these student resources can prove especially helpful for online students, who may otherwise feel disconnected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's Programs in Healthcare Administration
What can you do with a master's in healthcare administration?
An online master's degree in healthcare administration can open the doors to high-level positions within healthcare organizations. Graduates of these programs can pursue careers as hospital administrators, nursing home administrators, hospital CEOs, and health services managers.
What is a typical salary for an MHA degree-holder?
The salary for MHA degree-holders varies by title, location, and experience. According to the BLS, health services managers earned a median annual salary of $104,280 in 2020, while top executives made a median salary of $107,680 that year.
How long is a master's in healthcare administration program?
Most online MHA programs take two years of full-time study to complete. However, completion times depend on course load, transfer credits, and the individual program.
Is an MHA or MBA in healthcare administration better?
An MHA and an MBA are both solid degrees for students who aspire to high-level administration and management positions. Students who want more of a business foundation are likely better suited for an MBA in healthcare administration, whereas an MHA is a better fit for students who seek specific healthcare knowledge.
What will I learn in a master's in healthcare administration program?
Students in an online master's in healthcare administration program learn how to effectively manage a healthcare organization. Covered topics often include law and ethics, strategic management, human behavior, finances, accounting, and communication.
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