Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
Updated August 23, 2023
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Master in Healthcare Administration Online
An online master of healthcare administration (MHA) requires 30-60 credits. Learners complete business and healthcare organization classes. Curricula varies by school, program, and specialization.
Students pursuing a degree in healthcare administration may specialize in fields like healthcare finance or healthcare information management. Some MHA programs only accept applicants with a strong GPA and an accredited bachelor's degree. Others require relevant professional experience.
Learners who graduate from healthcare administration master's programs may work as directors of quality care or hospital operations managers.
This page lists some of the best online master of healthcare administration programs. Read on to learn about costs and common classes. The final section covers how to pursue healthcare administrator careers.
Featured Online MHA Programs
Best Online Master of Healthcare Administration Degrees
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students can earn an MSN in nursing and healthcare administration from the University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates often advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on healthcare administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can usually complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on or near campus. Graduate students can also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: MSN in nursing and healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $37,678
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,678
#2 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University offers an online master of science in healthcare management. Learners train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a healthcare administration background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Students living near campus benefit from the library and gym facilities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 43
Program Name: Master of science in healthcare management
Graduate Tuition In State: $57,010
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $57,010
#3 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a flexible online master of healthcare administration. Graduate students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the healthcare field. Learners prepare for the job market by pursuing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a degree in healthcare or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living near campus. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 25%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
#4 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California enrolls master's students in its online executive master of health administration program. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing students for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores healthcare administration research and methodologies. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Those who live near campus can enjoy amenities and facilities, such as the library and gym. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 16%
Total Online Master's Programs: 36
Program Name: Executive master of health administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $47,880
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $47,880
#5 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, located in Miami, enrolls master's students in its online MBA in healthcare program. The program helps enrollees increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in healthcare administration. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a healthcare background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the master's program.
Online enrollees work with the MBA program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. The facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: MBA in healthcare
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393
#6 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
St. Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton
Fenton, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Missouri, St. Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton offers an online master of science in healthcare administration. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing students for leadership roles with higher earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of 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 coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
St. Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of science in healthcare administration
#7 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master of health administration can earn their degree from Rutgers University-New Brunswick. The master of health administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for positions in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the healthcare administration field. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on prior experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, like the library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of health administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,736
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,144
#8 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Monroe College
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in the Bronx, New York, Monroe College enrolls students in its top-ranked online master of science in healthcare administration program. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new professional path entirely.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Monroe College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 49%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of science in healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,070
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,070
#9 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Clarkson College
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clarkson College, located in Omaha, Nebraska, offers a flexible online master's in healthcare administration. Learners prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous healthcare administration program. Earning a master's degree often helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in healthcare administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with a background in healthcare administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. Internships and practicum activities provide professional networking opportunities.
Clarkson College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master's in healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,178
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,178
#10 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University offers an online master's in healthcare administration. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree often allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives in healthcare. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a degree in healthcare administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Students who live near campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Purdue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master's in healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,208
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,010
#11 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in earning an MBA in healthcare administration can pursue their degree from Southeastern University, located in Lakeland, Florida. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for positions in new industries.
The MBA curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of healthcare administration. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on field-specific experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their area. Students who live near campus can access the library and gymnasium as well as other equipment and facilities. Graduate students can expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Southeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 43%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: MBA in healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,365
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,365
#12 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Graduate students seeking an online MBA in healthcare management can earn their degree at Western Governors University, located in Salt Lake City. The MBA program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores healthcare administration research and methodologies. Learners can choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in healthcare administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships in their local area. The facilities and services offered at most universities, such as a library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. The program encourages students to participate in professional development activities, including networking events.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program Name: MBA in healthcare management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,500
#13 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
Lancaster, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of healthcare administration program at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences, located in Lancaster, offers a flexible online format. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates qualify for new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in healthcare administration. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in the competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,128
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,128
#14 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
George Washington University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of health administration at George Washington University offers high academic quality. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new professional path entirely.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners can choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a degree in healthcare administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The facilities and services offered at most universities, like a library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. Internships and practicum activities also serve as professional networking opportunities.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 43%
Total Online Master's Programs: 50
Program Name: Master of health administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,770
#15 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Based in Aurora, Colorado State University-Global Campus enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online healthcare administration program. The master's in healthcare administration program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to healthcare administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in healthcare administration or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. The university encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Colorado State University-Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 98%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master's in healthcare administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,000
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,000
#16 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
American University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
American University, located in Washington, DC, offers a flexible online master of science in health promotion management. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. After earning a master's degree, graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with a background in healthcare administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities help learners build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
American University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 39%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of science in health promotion management
Graduate Tuition In State: $34,533
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $34,533
#17 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Phoenix-Arizona offers an online master of health administration program. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing enrollees for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on healthcare administration. Learners can individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program builds on prior health administration experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living near campus. Graduate students can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of health administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,096
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,096
#18 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Atlantis University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online
The master of science in healthcare management program at Atlantis University, located in Miami, offers a flexible online format. The program helps enrollees increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue careers in new fields.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in healthcare administration. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in healthcare administration or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Facilities and services offered at most universities, like the library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Atlantis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of science in healthcare management
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,764
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,764
#19 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online master's in healthcare administration and leadership. The rigorous curriculum prepares learners for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in healthcare administration. Learners can focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants who majored in healthcare administration or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their community. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living near campus. Graduate students can also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 68
Program Name: Master's in healthcare administration and leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,935
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,935
#20 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Omaha, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health enrolls master's students in its online healthcare MBA program. The master's program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to healthcare administration. Learners can individualize the MBA program to prepare for focused careers in the field. Applicants with prior experience in healthcare administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Facilities and services offered at most universities, like a library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. Graduate students can participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Online healthcare MBA
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,038
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,038
Why Get a Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration?
Online master of healthcare administration programs provide flexibility. Many online programs run asynchronously, letting enrollees continue their careers.
Earning a master's degree in healthcare administration can help graduates advance their careers in a growing field. The BLS projects jobs for healthcare professionals to grow 16% from 2020-2030.
How Much Does a Healthcare Administration Degree Cost?
Master's degrees cost an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, learners' residency status, and program length. Master's programs usually take two years to finish. Learners can complete accelerated programs faster.
Online programs may cost less because enrollees do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. Public schools usually offer the most affordable online master's in healthcare administration programs.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners can save money on commuting costs. However, they should plan for other costs, including internet, software, and a reliable computer. Schools that provide tech support or special online learning services may charge an online student fee.
Many online master's programs require at least one trip to campus. Learners may need to budget for lodging and travel costs. Just like on-campus students, online learners must also buy books and materials.
How Much Do Healthcare Administration Majors Make?
MHA graduates average $79,000 annually, according to March 2022 Payscale data. However, salaries vary depending on graduates' role, employer, and geographic location. Many degree-holders work as healthcare operations managers or hospital chief financial officers. Others work as directors of patient safety or healthcare consultants.
Master's in Healthcare Administration Classes
Master's in healthcare administration programs cover topics like healthcare services administration, healthcare information systems, and healthcare finance. Enrollees build skills in leadership, information management, and budgeting. Students also develop skills in risk management and marketing.
Many MHA programs let students choose a specialization. Common options include healthcare improvement and healthcare analytics. See below for three common classes in online healthcare administration programs. Keep in mind offerings vary by school.
Healthcare administrators need strong skills in financial analysis and planning. Enrollees explore cost-and-profit analysis and time-value analysis. They also learn how to create and present financial reports, manage accounts, and create budgets.Healthcare Finance
This required class introduces healthcare organization and delivery systems. Learners study the structure and performance of healthcare organizations. They learn how to plan healthcare services and problem-solve related issues. Enrollees also build leadership and communication skills.Healthcare Services Administration
Students learn how to select and use healthcare information systems to store and analyze healthcare data. They develop skills in healthcare information management (HIM) systems evaluation and management. This class may appear as a core requirement or an elective within a HIM concentration.Healthcare Information Management
How to Become a Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators spend their days supervising personnel and overseeing operations. Duties may include scheduling, budgeting, and ensuring compliance. These professionals need at least a bachelor's degree in a healthcare-related field.
Healthcare administrators also need administrative or clinical work experience in healthcare facilities. Nurses, health information technicians, and financial clerks may use their experience and education to qualify for promotion to health administrator roles. Nursing home administrators need licensure. This involves completing a state-approved training program and a national licensing exam.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Administration
Medical and health services managers earn a median annual salary of $104,280, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure surpasses the median $41,950 annual salary for all occupations.
An MHA meets or exceeds education requirements for careers such as health information manager, nursing home administrator, and health services manager.
Many schools offer specializations in healthcare operations and healthcare informatics. Other options may include financial management, health policy, and quality care.
Featured Image Credit: Reza Estakhrian | The Image Bank | Getty Images
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