Most Affordable Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
If you are interested in a healthcare leadership role with high-income potential and employment growth, this guide to affordable online master’s in healthcare administration (MHA) programs can put you on the right path. This page lists the most affordable online MHA programs, explains the benefits of earning an MHA, and includes suggestions for cutting educational costs.
Read on for information about coursework you can expect, career options for MHA graduates, and post-graduate earning potential.
The Most Affordable Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration Programs
Peirce College
Philadelphia, PA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Peirce College hosts a top-ranked master's in healthcare administration program. The master of science in healthcare administration helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Peirce College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,896
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,896
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- In-State$13,896
- Out-of-state$13,896
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,178
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University Global
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
From its campus in Aurora, Colorado State University Global offers an online master's in healthcare administration. The master of healthcare administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in healthcare administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Colorado State University Global at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 99%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,000
- In-State$8,400
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled12,670
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Texas Woman's University
- Denton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Texas Woman's University, located in Denton, offers a flexible online master's in healthcare administration. The master of healthcare administration program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on healthcare administration. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a degree in healthcare administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Texas Woman's University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 93%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,973
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,569
- In-State$5,430
- Out-of-state$15,559
- In-State$4,973
- Out-of-state$12,569
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled15,886
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Louisiana State University Shreveport
- Shreveport, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Louisiana State University Shreveport hosts a top-rated online master's in healthcare administration. The master of health administration program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores healthcare administration research and methodologies. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a background in healthcare administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Louisiana State University Shreveport at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,196
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,196
- In-State$5,656
- Out-of-state$5,656
- In-State$6,196
- Out-of-state$6,196
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled8,579
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment86%
- AccreditationYes
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in healthcare administration , offered by Florida Atlantic University from its Boca Raton campus, ranks as a top program. The executive master of health administration builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the field and related industries. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in healthcare administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Executive Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,467
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,695
- In-State$2,522
- Out-of-state$14,374
- In-State$5,467
- Out-of-state$16,695
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled30,061
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Excelsior University
- Albany, NY
- 4 year
- Online
A private institution in Albany, New York, Excelsior University offers an online master's in healthcare administration as one of its 27 options for master's degrees. The master of science in health care administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in healthcare administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in healthcare administration.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events. To learn more, contact the school or healthcare administration department directly.
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled25,245
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Midwestern State University
- Wichita Falls, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Wichita Falls, Texas, Midwestern State University offers an online master's in healthcare administration. The master of health administration program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in healthcare administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in healthcare administration or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Midwestern State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,060
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $5,230
- In-State$5,567
- Out-of-state$7,516
- In-State$4,060
- Out-of-state$5,230
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled5,969
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Youngstown State University
- Youngstown, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Youngstown, Ohio, Youngstown State University hosts a top-rated online master's in healthcare administration. The master of health and human services program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Youngstown State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of Health and Human Services
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,058
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,058
- In-State$8,705
- Out-of-state$9,065
- In-State$6,058
- Out-of-state$9,058
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled12,110
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Weber State University
- Ogden, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Weber State University, located in Ogden, Utah, enrolls master's students in its online healthcare administration program. The executive master of health administration builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with a background in healthcare administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Weber State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Executive Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,476
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,656
- In-State$4,990
- Out-of-state$14,973
- In-State$7,476
- Out-of-state$16,656
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled29,644
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in healthcare administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers high academic quality. The executive master of health care administration program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a degree in healthcare administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 23%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Executive Master of Health Care Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
- In-State$7,019
- Out-of-state$34,198
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,278
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate23%
- Students Enrolled29,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in healthcare administration at Bellevue University, located in Bellevue, Nebraska, offers high academic quality. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of healthcare administration program. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in healthcare administration. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a healthcare administration background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Program Name: Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,530
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,530
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$7,176
- In-State$10,530
- Out-of-state$10,530
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,637
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, East Bay
- Hayward, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in healthcare administration can earn their degree from California State University, East Bay, located in Hayward. The master of science in health care administration program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in healthcare administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
California State University, East Bay at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Science in Health Care Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled16,064
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in healthcare administration degree at the University of West Florida, located in Pensacola, prioritizes flexibility. The master of healthcare administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in healthcare administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 31%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,088
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,166
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate31%
- Students Enrolled12,557
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Las Vegas, NV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers an online master's in healthcare administration. The executive master of healthcare administration program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Executive Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,459
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,510
- In-State$7,454
- Out-of-state$22,505
- In-State$5,459
- Out-of-state$20,510
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled31,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in healthcare administration program at Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, offers a flexible online format. The executive master of health administration program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in healthcare administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Western Kentucky University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Executive Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,140
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,340
- In-State$10,802
- Out-of-state$26,496
- In-State$12,140
- Out-of-state$18,340
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled18,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in healthcare administration , offered by University of Louisiana at Lafayette ranks as a top program. The master of business administration in health care administration draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Health Care Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,511
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,239
- In-State$5,407
- Out-of-state$19,135
- In-State$5,511
- Out-of-state$19,239
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled16,933
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Montana State University Billings
- Billings, MT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in healthcare administration at Montana State University Billings offers high academic quality. The master of health administration program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in healthcare administration before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Montana State University Billings at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Health Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,598
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,611
- In-State$4,485
- Out-of-state$17,678
- In-State$5,598
- Out-of-state$18,611
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled4,416
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Southern Mississippi
- Hattiesburg, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in healthcare administration program at The University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg, offers a flexible online format. The master of public health in health policy and administration program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on prior healthcare administration experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
The University of Southern Mississippi at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,786
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,786
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled14,133
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
- Corpus Christi, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in healthcare administration, offered by Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, ranks as a top program. The master of business administration in healthcare administration emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores healthcare administration research and methodologies. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants without a background in healthcare administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,568
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,661
- In-State$4,719
- Out-of-state$14,695
- In-State$3,568
- Out-of-state$11,661
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled11,452
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Ferris State University
- Big Rapids, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Big Rapids, Michigan, Ferris State University hosts a top-rated online master's in healthcare administration. The master of healthcare administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Ferris State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 87%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Healthcare Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,608
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,608
- In-State$12,376
- Out-of-state$12,376
- In-State$7,608
- Out-of-state$7,608
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled12,472
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Why Get an Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration?
Now is a great time to pursue an online MHA. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a strong, 10-year employment growth rate for medical and health services managers, with approximately 61,400 openings per year. These professionals earn median annual salaries that exceed $100,000, with the highest 10% of earners making more than $216,000.
Other benefits of an MHA include opportunities to lead healthcare departments and organizations, improve the quality of healthcare, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. MHAs can choose career paths managing a healthcare facility, a clinical area, or a group medical practice of physicians. Other employment options include nursing and residential care facilities, government agencies, and outpatient care centers.
Affordable online MHA programs offer cost savings and flexibility to continue working while earning your degree. MHA programs typically require 2-3 years to complete.
How Much Does a Healthcare Administration Degree Cost?
According to data from the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, the median annual cost of tuition and fees for online master’s degrees in any health-related field is $9,310. By comparison, the median cost of traditional, on-campus master’s in health degrees is $14,245 per year.
In general, public universities offer lower tuition than private institutions, and distance learners can save money on commuting, relocation, and housing costs. Affordable online MHA programs may offer in-state tuition rates regardless of residency.
Additional Online Student Fees
Master’s students should consider the total cost of earning a degree. In addition to tuition, many online programs charge a distance learning fee or technology fee. Students may also need to upgrade their laptop or internet service. Books and supplies can cost several hundred dollars per term, and some programs charge a graduation fee.
Online students should budget for any in-person components, such as campus visits. Learners should contact their prospective program for details about the total cost of earning a healthcare administration degree online.
What to Look for in an Affordable Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration Program
Accredited online MHA programs offer the same level of high-quality academics as their on-campus counterparts. Look for schools that hold regional accreditation from Council for Higher Education Accreditation-approved organizations and for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education. You can also check institutional graduation and retention rates and programmatic post-graduation hiring statistics.
Affordable online MHA programs also offer financial aid to enrollees. Students can apply for federal loans and grants and public and private scholarships. Schools and departments also offer scholarship opportunities and list those specific to the institution or program on their financial aid pages.
How Much Do Healthcare Administration Majors Make?
Graduates of online master’s in healthcare administration programs often earn above-average salaries. According to the BLS, medical and health services managers earn a median salary of $110,680 per year. The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 29% from 2023-2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Earning potential varies by location, job title, and work setting. The top 10% of medical and health services managers earn around $216,750 per year. Hospitals and government facilities pay the highest median salaries. Additionally, more experienced professionals often qualify for the highest-paying healthcare administration careers.
Courses in Healthcare Administration
Online master’s in healthcare administration programs emphasize analytical and leadership skills. Students earning a master’s in healthcare administration often take courses in finance and accounting, information systems management, and human resources management.
Some programs require elective courses, such as healthcare marketing, healthcare policy, and healthcare economics. Master’s students may complete a capstone or practicum demonstrating administration skills.
Course availability varies by program. However, students earning their healthcare administration degree online often take the following classes.
Healthcare Operations Management
Students examine operations principles for the U.S. healthcare system. They explore healthcare policy, operations management, and the interconnected parts of the healthcare system. Learners focusing on healthcare organizations and management prepare for advanced coursework and careers in healthcare administration.Healthcare Financial Management
Learners examine financial planning, risk management, and payment systems. Coursework emphasizes healthcare organizations and covers topics such as budgeting, risk analysis, forecasting, and insurance systems. Degree-seekers build financial management skills, including budgeting and investment management. Learners prepare for decision-making roles within healthcare organizations.Strategic Planning for Healthcare
Master’s students develop strategic decision-making and planning abilities. Learners prepare to make organizational assessments, develop strategic plans, and evaluate plans’ effectiveness. Learners also explore the business environment for healthcare organizations. Students prepare for leadership roles in the field.
How to Become a Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators need at least a bachelor’s degree, but many employers prefer to hire master’s degree-holders. Graduate-level training in business, healthcare management, and health information systems can benefit healthcare administrators.
Most medical and health services managers work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, or nursing and residential care facilities. Other common work settings include government medical facilities and outpatient care centers. These professionals review budget proposals, analyze health services delivery data, and supervise nonclinical staff members. Healthcare administrators typically work full-time hours, and those in hospital settings may work evenings and weekends.
What Can You Do with an Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration?
Many graduates of master’s in healthcare administration programs pursue careers in medical and health services management. According to the BLS, these professionals earn a median salary well above the median for all occupations. The BLS projects strong growth from 2023-2033, meaning recent graduates will likely find many opportunities for healthcare administration careers.
Master’s degree-holders can become community health advocates and administrative services managers. Healthcare administration programs feature management and leadership training, which can lead to a variety of career opportunities.
Administrative Service Managers
These managers oversee organizations’ administrative tasks, such as facility upkeep, record-keeping, and support services. Also known as business office managers, these professionals make sure organizations run efficiently. Most administrative services managers have experience or training in administration or business operations.
Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers
These professionals educate the public about wellness and health. Community health workers serve as intermediaries between clients and healthcare systems or social services organizations. They must understand the healthcare system and individual and community welfare. These specialists may analyze data and recommend policies to improve community health.
Medical and Health Services Managers
Medical and health services managers oversee the nonclinical side of healthcare organizations. Also called healthcare administrators or healthcare executives, these professionals manage staff and create long-term plans. Medical and health services managers also ensure their facility complies with laws and regulations. They manage budgets and implement plans to improve service quality.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Service Managers | $104,900 | 6% |
| Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers | $62,860 | 7% |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $110,680 | 29% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Administration
A healthcare administration degree qualifies graduates for careers as medical and health services managers. Many employers in the healthcare field prefer candidates with a master’s degree.
Healthcare administrators need at least a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree can lead to advanced roles. Most students earn their master’s in healthcare administration in two years.
Healthcare administrators typically manage day-to-day tasks, while healthcare managers focus on long-term strategic planning. However, these professionals’ responsibilities may overlap.
