Best Online Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration
Updated September 28, 2023
Top Healthcare Administration Degrees
Learn skills to manage healthcare organizations like hospitals, residential care facilities, outpatient care centers, and doctors' offices and contribute to individual and community health.
Graduates can work as medical and health services managers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for these professionals to grow 32% between 2019-2029. Hospitals offer the highest employment rate for these managers (33%), while government positions provide the highest median pay ($111,520). A healthcare administration degree also prepares students for management careers in fields like community service, business, and public relations.
This guide ranks the top online bachelor of healthcare administration degrees in the country. We also cover important information for prospective students, such as common courses, potential careers, and salaries for graduates.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of Penn State World Campus's 207 online degree programs. Undergraduate students from across the globe can connect with Penn State World Campus through one of its 67 fully online bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees seeking competitive study in healthcare administration in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor of science in health policy and administration program. The healthcare administration program offers flexible study options, allowing learners to pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $43,600 six years after completing their degree. Prospective students can contact the healthcare Administration program to learn more about admission requirements, financial aid opportunities, electives, minors, and concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $43,600 six years after completing their degree. Prospective students can contact the healthcare administration program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Penns State World Campus at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 207
Online Bachelor's Programs: 67
Admission Rate: 76%
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in healthcare administration should consider the University of Central Florida's online BS in online health services administration in Orlando. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's 19 fully online bachelor's degree programs to be attractive options. The BS in health services administration is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the healthcare administration field.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduates pay about $19,810 in tuition at the school. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution. The college averages financial aid award packages of $9,728 per degree-seeker.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, located in Miami, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The program is one of 36 online bachelor's degree programs available through the institution. Distance learners hoping to advance in the healthcare administration field will benefit from the college's bachelor of health services administration program.
The bachelor's program prepares healthcare administration students for the demands of the healthcare field. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can also choose elective classes, or pursue a minor, to further their learning.
At present, undergraduates pay $16,529 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Degree-seekers receive a financial aid award package amounting to $8,958 on average.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health, a private, nonprofit, four-year college located in Omaha, offers premier education bachelor's degree opportunities. The private school delivers six online bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Omaha. The BS in healthcare management is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the healthcare administration field.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Learners work with academic advisors to create a course schedule meeting their career and academic goals. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet their career goals.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay about $15,422 in tuition. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 696
Total Online Programs: 23
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 97%
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 62 bachelor's degree programs. Located in Manchester, the private institution boasts 35 online bachelor's degree programs. The online bachelor of science in healthcare administration program is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in the field.
The online healthcare administration degree prioritizes flexibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework to meet academic and career goals. Students also have the option to choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
At present, undergraduates pay $30,756 in tuition. Healthcare administration learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while at the school.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Trine University
Angola, IN - 4 years
- Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's program should consider Trine University. A leader in online education, the private institution also offers fully online bachelor's degrees. Distance learners interested in the healthcare administration field can enroll in the school's bachelor of science in healthcare administration program.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet career goals.
Undergraduates pay about $32,330 in tuition at the school. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies.
Trine University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 875
Admission Rate: 82%
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Maryville University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Maryville University facilitates distance learning across 52 online degree programs. The college delivers 23 online bachelor's programs, reaching 7,651 distance learners worldwide. From its main campus in Saint Louis, Missouri, the school offers an online bachelor's in healthcare management program. The healthcare administration program supports learners from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Enrollees also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. While enrolled, degree-seekers can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $44,100 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Individuals interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the healthcare administration department.
Maryville University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,651
Total Online Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 83%
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Mercy College of Ohio
Toledo, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's degree program should consider Mercy College of Ohio. Located in Toledo, the private institution boasts three online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners interested in the healthcare administration field can enroll in the school's bachelor of science in healthcare administration.
The online healthcare administration program prioritizes flexibility. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Learners can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
Undergraduate healthcare administration students can expect to pay about $13,350 in tuition. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies.
Mercy College of Ohio at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 798
Total Online Programs: 6
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 60%
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
Ottawa University is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 23 bachelor's degree programs. Located in Kansas, the institution boasts 23 online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's in healthcare management is one of 23 programs providing a premier education.
The online healthcare administration degree prioritizes flexibility. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $11,976 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 30
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Middle Georgia State University
Macon, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Middle Georgia State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 19 online degree programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from nine online bachelor's programs. The BS in health services administration is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the healthcare administration field. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the healthcare administration field. Students complete classes relevant to the field, as well as general education requirements. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often greatly increases one's earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $29,400 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Though educational costs vary, healthcare administration students can expect to pay an average of $9,781 in tuition and fees. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Middle Georgia State University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the healthcare administration department.
Middle Georgia State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,774
Total Online Programs: 19
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 94%
#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a private, nonprofit, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports 25 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Indiana. The bachelor's in healthcare administration is one of 25 programs providing premier education.
The online healthcare administration degree prioritizes flexibility. Enrollees can modify their coursework with assistance from their academic advisor. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework, choose electives, and pursue other educational opportunities relevant to their career goals.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $29,950 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows learners to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 347
Total Online Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 25
Admission Rate: 67%
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, while offering five online bachelor's degree programs. Learners seeking to advance in the healthcare administration field will benefit from the BS in health services administration.
Students in the healthcare administration program complete coursework pertinent to the field. Students can choose electives and modify the curriculum. Enrollees can also pursue interdisciplinary studies to fit their career goals.
Healthcare administration students can expect to pay about $19,135 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies. At the college, students receive an average of $9,519 in financial aid.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,584
Total Online Programs: 14
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 68%
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's degree program should consider the University of Virginia. Distance learners can choose from two fully online bachelor's degree programs. Online students interested in the healthcare administration field can enroll in the school's bachelor's in healthcare management program.
The online healthcare administration degree prioritizes flexibility. Enrollees can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other modifications.
Typically, undergraduate students pay $47,833 tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies. The average financial aid award per student at this college is $15,914.
University of Virginia at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,601
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 24%
#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Davenport University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 71 online degree programs. Of these online programs, 24 offer an undergraduate-level education. Learners seeking competitive study in healthcare administration in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in health services administration program. The healthcare administration program allows for full- or part-time study, making it a flexible choice for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. Graduates who have completed their degree earn on average a median salary of $35,100 after six years. Prospective students can contact the healthcare administration program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Davenport University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,707
Total Online Programs: 71
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 82%
#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Concordia University, St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Concordia University, St. Paul, a private, nonprofit, four-year college, enables study across 57 online degree programs. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from 18 online bachelor's programs. From its campus in Minnesota, the school offers an online BA in healthcare administration. The healthcare administration program supports degree-seekers from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Learners complete classes relevant to the healthcare administration field, as well as general education requirements. Students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Many graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the institution, enrollees earn a median salary of $46,000 six years after finishing their degree. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Concordia University, St. Paul at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,036
Total Online Programs: 57
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 98%
#16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Missouri Baptist University facilitates distance learning across 25 online degree programs. The online bachelor's in healthcare management program is one of 11 online bachelor's programs available through the college. The healthcare management program is a wise choice for individuals seeking competitive, flexible study applicable to a career in healthcare administration. The healthcare management program accommodates full- or part-time study.
Enrollees complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the healthcare administration field. Learners also attend general education classes, to gain a well-rounded education. Students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates often increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $31,500. Prospective students should contact the healthcare administration department directly before applying, to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
Missouri Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,826
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 61%
#17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Riverside, California Baptist University provides competitive bachelor's degree programs to learners from all walks of life. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 24 online bachelor's degree programs. The online bachelor of science in healthcare administration and management is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in healthcare administration.
The online healthcare administration program places flexibility at the forefront. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule.
Healthcare administration students can expect to pay $32,942 in tuition. Students can receive financial aid to offset the cost of their degree.
California Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,112
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 78%
#18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Minnesota Crookston offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The healthcare administration program is one of 15 online bachelor's programs available through the institution. Distance learners interested in the healthcare administration field can enroll in the school's bachelor of science in health management.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Learners complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Students can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary studies to fit their career goals.
Typically, undergraduate students pay about $10,438 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college. At the institution, students receive an average of $11,781 in financial aid.
University of Minnesota Crookston at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,266
Total Online Programs: 19
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 68%
#19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Midway University
Midway, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Midway University, a private, nonprofit, four-year college, enables study across 21 online degree programs. Of these online programs, 16 offer an undergraduate-level education. Students looking to advance in the healthcare administration field will find the school's bachelor's degree in healthcare administration to be an attractive option. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the healthcare administration field. The program curriculum prepares students for the demands of healthcare administration careers. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. At the college, individuals earn a median salary of $34,600 six years after graduation. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements, application materials, and financial aid opportunities should directly contact the healthcare administration department.
Midway University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 995
Total Online Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 60%
#20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
Santa Fe College
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
Santa Fe College is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study. The public college supports distance learners through nine online bachelor's programs. The online BAS in health services administration supports distance learners in their studies.
The program prepares healthcare administration students for the demands of careers in the field. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Students can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
Currently, undergraduate healthcare administration students pay $7,418 in tuition. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The institution offers an average financial aid package of $2,357 per enrollee.
Santa Fe College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,704
Total Online Programs: 88
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Healthcare Administration Programs
The Advantages of a Healthcare Administration Education
Most individuals interested in a healthcare administration career pursue either a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, though some go on to doctoral programs. Both options can lead to a long, successful career in healthcare administration, but a master’s degree usually means more opportunities long term.
Most entry-level positions in healthcare administration require at least a bachelor’s degree, as do some of the higher-level positions. However, healthcare administration job prospects can also depend on previous experience in the field or in a related position. While less common, some online healthcare administration bachelor degree programs offer students the chance to earn this experience while completing their degree. Without any experience, a master’s degree goes a long way toward building your qualifications.
Average Salary by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration | $58,000 |
| Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration | $75,000 |
Source: PayScale
Return to the topHealthcare Administration Degree Salary Information
A healthcare administration degree online can lead to a vital and fulfilling role in the healthcare industry. This can mean working within hospitals, with insurance companies, or in human resources. In general, working in administration means working closely with people. You may be in charge of managing a large workplace, or you might train and onboard new employees. Below are a few example careers related to healthcare administration.
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Also known as healthcare executives, these managers take charge of directing health services. They usually run a specific department or facility, where they ensure that the environment complies with healthcare laws and regulations. Most executives hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $61,000
- Mid-Career: $59,600
- Experienced: $63,000
- Late Career: $71,600
- Nursing Home Administrator
- Nursing home administrators ensure that the needs of nursing home residents are met. They can work in every level of the organization, from facility management to managing individual departments. A nursing home administrator must hold licensure as a nursing home administrator.
- Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $71,500
- Mid-Career: $81,000
- Experienced: $94,000
- Late Career: $97,000
- Training and Development Manager
- As the title implies, training and development managers help develop the skills of new and current employees to improve performance. This role typically requires years of experience and a bachelor’s degree, making it a potential long-term career option for healthcare administration majors.
- Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $55,000
- Mid-Career: $63,000
- Experienced: $74,000
- Late Career: $84,000
- Human Resources Managers
- A human resources manager takes charge of planning and directing the administrative facets of a business or organization. Human resources managers typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and they can be found in any industry that deals with recruiting, hiring, and training employees.
- Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $49,500
- Mid-Career: $57,500
- Experienced: $66,000
- Late Career: $71,500
- Medical Billing Specialist
- A medical billing specialist requires expertise with the healthcare industry, insurance, people, and computers. These specialists manage the financial side of health insurance for patients, including processing insurance claims and keeping records. Computer coding is an increasingly important skill for this role.
- Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $34,500
- Mid-Career: $35,500
- Experienced: $37,500
- Late Career: $40,000
Source: PayScale
Return to the topChoosing an Online Healthcare Administration Degree Program
Determining which degree is best for you can prove challenging. Every student has different needs that they need to take into consideration. For example, many online schools offer in-state tuition, so home campus location is an important factor.
Prospective students should consider multiple factors before settling on a school, including the examples below:
- Program Cost
- College costs a lot of money. However, a smart shopper can find affordable options. Some schools offer a reduced rate or in-state tuition for online courses or program-specific scholarships. Make sure to look at the total cost before committing to a school.
- Transfer Policies
- You can greatly reduce the time and cost of earning an online degree through transfer credits. Some schools let you transfer credits from your previous associate degree or schooling while others accept work or volunteer experience as credit. Check with an admissions counselor before you apply.
- School Size and Type
- A school’s size determines how many students you share resources with — and how many you can network with. Larger schools may also have more students per teacher, making it harder to get one-on-one time with faculty. Picking between private and public proves important, too, since only public schools offer in-state tuition.
- Program Length
- How long are you willing to work on your degree? Accelerated online programs can take as little as 18 months, or an online program can take years of part-time study. Schools usually charge a flat rate per credit, semester, or year.
- On-Campus Requirements
- An online program may require an internship or an on-campus intensive, which could mean traveling to complete your degree. Some schools even use a hybrid model, requiring some on-campus classes. If you cannot make the commute, you probably should not apply to that school.
Accreditation for Online Healthcare Administration Degrees
When searching for a school, accreditation serves as one of the most important factors you should consider. Accreditation can impact your chances of finding federal financial aid, and most graduate schools and some employers may turn you away if your degree does not come from an accredited university.
Schools can hold either regional or national accreditation, with the former proving harder to achieve — rendering it the more reputable of the two. National accreditation typically applies to vocational schools, and students should note that national accreditation does not usually transfer to regionally accredited institutions. In general, students should prioritize schools with regional accreditation.
Accreditation is regulated through collaboration between the Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The ED sets standards for accreditation and CHEA oversees regulatory agencies. If a school does not boast accreditation from a CHEA-approved organization, it may not offer a legitimate degree.
Individual degree programs also hold programmatic accreditation in addition to the university’s accreditation. For healthcare administration, look for programmatic accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education.
Healthcare Administration Concentrations
With so many career choices for graduates with a degree in healthcare administration, some schools offer concentrations to help students specialize their educations. These concentrations can increase an individual’s chances of finding a job immediately after earning an online healthcare administration degree.
- Healthcare Informatics
- This concentration emphasizes computer science. Students learn to operate commonly used healthcare software and take courses in data analysis, digital security, and information management.
- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Informatics analyst, informatics manager
- Project Management
- Keeping projects on track and within budget is a skill that many employers seek. This concentration covers contract management, negotiation, budgeting, and scheduling. Students also learn to make decisions in complex situations.
- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Healthcare project manager, project coordinator
- Strategic Communications
- Healthcare professionals deal in complex topics and serve a variety of patients. Keeping messaging clear and in line with facility values proves vital. A strategic communications concentration covers how to communicate internally and externally, resolve conflicts, and develop and build brands.
- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Human resources, health communications
- Healthcare Law and Policy
- Law and policy surrounding healthcare are complex and constantly changing. With a healthcare law and policy concentration, students learn to keep facilities compliant with regulations. It also covers human resources and ethics policies.
- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Healthcare attorney, healthcare law executive
- Accounting
- Handling the finances for any healthcare facility can prove challenging. This concentration establishes a firm understanding of accounting principles as they relate to healthcare, including taxes, financial management, and auditing. Students in this specialty also learn about payroll and departmental accounting.
- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Healthcare accounting, accounts payable specialist
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Healthcare Administration?
The beauty of an online degree is its flexibility. Students can take as much or as little time as they need. A bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration online usually takes four years; however, length can vary depending on several factors. For example, students with transfer or experience credits take much less time, and some schools offer year-round courses, allowing students to forge ahead during the summer.
Most bachelor’s degree programs require at least 120 credits. Working students often enjoy the option to study part time, depending on their schedules. If you work and need to study part time, find an online school that offers an affordable, per-credit tuition rate.
Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration Program
While specific courses vary by program, a few topics come up in most healthcare administration programs online. The list below includes a few sample classes to give you a feel for what you might encounter during one of these programs.
- U.S. Healthcare Systems
- The United States healthcare system can be complicated, and healthcare administrators must know how to navigate it. This course covers the history of U.S. healthcare, the U.S. healthcare delivery system, and common U.S. healthcare facility styles. It also provides a brief overview of how health insurance billing works.
- Principles of Healthcare Management
- Related directly to a role you can find after graduating, principles of healthcare management teaches you how to plan and direct operations within your organization. This course is a blend of management and learning about the structure of healthcare facilities.
- Organizational Leadership
- Most healthcare administrators take on leadership roles in their facilities. This course covers different methods of leadership, including the best methods for individual workers and larger groups and the basics of psychology. This course sometimes emphasizes healthcare facilities.
- Strategic Management
- To get the most out of a facility, healthcare administrators must take a strategic approach to management and delegation. This course covers methods of planning and implementing strategies to achieve short- and long-term goals.
- Human Resources Management
- Healthcare administration is often about human resource management, such as processing new hires and ensuring a safe work environment. This course covers the process for evaluating, hiring, and training healthcare professionals while balancing against discrimination issues. It also covers how to structure and manage employee compensation.
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FAQ's About Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration Program?
Earning a bachelor's in health administration online typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. However, factors like credit requirements, term length, and enrollment status can impact graduation times.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?
Graduates can work as medical and health services managers at hospitals, doctors' offices, nursing homes, and outpatient care centers. They can also pursue roles in social and community service or administrative services management.
How Much Do You Make in Healthcare Administration?
Medical and health services managers earn a median annual salary of $100,980, according to the BLS.
What Is Healthcare Administration?
Healthcare administrators make business and managerial decisions that enhance patient experiences. These decisions often concern policy, finances, and technology at healthcare facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals.
What Is a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?
A bachelor's in healthcare administration is a four-year degree that typically comprises general education, major, and elective requirements. The curriculum may also include healthcare projects or fieldwork.
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