Best masters in healthcare administration
Did you know that the demand for medical and health services managers is projected to grow by 20% through 2026? With the healthcare industry undergoing constant transformation, organizations are seeking professionals with the expertise to navigate these changes. A Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) can equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic field.
Whether you aspire to lead in a hospital, clinic, or healthcare system, choosing the right MHA program is crucial to your success. In this article, we have compiled a ranking of the top online MHA programs in the United States. Our assessment considered factors such as student-to-faculty ratio, average graduate tuition, and program curriculum to help you make an informed decision about your future.
Discover the best masters in healthcare administration, explore healthcare administration programs, and find the top healthcare administration schools that can shape your career in healthcare management. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right MHA program is vital for a successful career in healthcare administration.
- The demand for medical and health services managers is projected to grow by 20% through 2026.
- Factors like student-to-faculty ratio, average graduate tuition, and program curriculum should be considered when selecting an MHA program.
- This article provides a ranking of the top online MHA programs in the United States.
- By pursuing a master’s in healthcare administration, you can unlock rewarding job opportunities and competitive salaries in the healthcare industry.
25. Pennsylvania State University – University Park, Pennsylvania
The master of health administration program at Pennsylvania State University offers a part-time option for working professionals. With an average graduate tuition of $21,540/year for in-state students and $36,974/year for out-of-state students, this program prepares students for careers in health administration. Courses cover essential areas such as health systems organization, health financial management, and organizational behavior. A supervised research project is required for completion.
| Program Features | Average Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|
| Part-time option for working professionals | $21,540/year (in-state) $36,974/year (out-of-state) |
| Comprehensive curriculum covering health administration essentials | – |
| Supervised research project | – |
Part-time Option for Working Professionals
The master of health administration program at Pennsylvania State University understands the needs of working professionals who are looking to enhance their skills in healthcare management. The part-time option allows students to balance their education with other commitments, making it ideal for those already working in the healthcare industry.
Comprehensive Curriculum Covering Health Administration Essentials
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential areas of health administration, ensuring students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the field. Courses include health systems organization, health financial management, and organizational behavior, among others.
Supervised Research Project
As part of the program requirements, students are required to complete a supervised research project. This project allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world healthcare scenarios, further enhancing their understanding of the field.
24. University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota
The University of Minnesota offers a highly reputable master of healthcare administration program. Ranked 2nd in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, this program combines business principles with an understanding of healthcare complexities. Graduates from the University of Minnesota’s program enjoy a supportive alumni association and an outstanding job placement rate.
With an innovative curriculum, students gain knowledge and skills that prepare them for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. The program’s emphasis on practical experience ensures graduates are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the field.
Here are some key features of the University of Minnesota’s master of healthcare administration program:
Innovative Curriculum
The program integrates business principles with an in-depth understanding of healthcare. Students learn how to effectively address the complex issues facing today’s healthcare organizations.
High Job Placement Rate
Graduates of the program have an impressive job placement rate, with 100% securing employment or fellowships by July following graduation. This demonstrates the program’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in healthcare administration.
Additionally, the University of Minnesota offers competitive tuition rates, making it an excellent choice for both in-state and out-of-state students. The average graduate tuition is $17,064/year for in-state students and $26,412/year for out-of-state students.
| Program Features | University of Minnesota |
|---|---|
| Ranking | 2nd in the nation |
| Curriculum | Innovative |
| Job Placement Rate | High (100% employment or fellowships by July following graduation) |
| Graduate Tuition (in-state) | $17,064/year |
| Graduate Tuition (out-of-state) | $26,412/year |
23. University of Washington – Seattle, Washington
The University of Washington’s Master of Health Administration program is highly regarded and recognized as one of the best in the country. It offers a full-time, two-year format that provides students with comprehensive training in health administration.
One of the standout features of the program is the inclusion of a summer internship component. This allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings, further enhancing their practical skills and industry knowledge.
The program is led by top researchers and healthcare executives who serve as esteemed faculty members. This ensures that students receive a high-quality education and benefit from the expertise and insights of experienced professionals in the field.
For in-state students, the average graduate tuition for the University of Washington’s program is $15,510 per year. Out-of-state students can expect an average graduate tuition of $27,801 per year.
If you are looking for a full-time master’s program that provides a well-rounded education in health administration, coupled with a valuable summer internship experience, the University of Washington’s program may be an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Full-time, two-year format
- Summer internship for practical experience
- Top researchers and healthcare executives as faculty
- Average graduate tuition of $15,510/year for in-state students and $27,801/year for out-of-state students
“The University of Washington’s Master of Health Administration program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. The inclusion of a summer internship provides valuable hands-on experience and enhances practical skills. With top faculty members and a strong reputation, the program is a great choice for those seeking a full-time master’s program in health administration.”
22. University of Denver – Denver, Colorado
The University of Denver’s MS in Health Administration program is the oldest CAHME-accredited program in the region. Designed for working professionals like you, the program offers evening courses to accommodate your busy schedule. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or transition into the healthcare industry, this program provides the knowledge and skills you need.
With a curriculum focusing on healthcare marketing, strategy, law and ethics, and economics, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s complexities. The program can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study, allowing you to fast-track your career. Additionally, all students are required to complete a field study, providing you with practical experience and the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
Investing in your education is essential, and the University of Denver offers a valuable program with an average graduate tuition of $49,392 per year. The return on investment is significant, as a master’s degree in health administration can lead to exciting opportunities and higher earning potential in the healthcare field.
Enroll in the University of Denver’s MS in Health Administration program and take the next step towards a rewarding career in healthcare management. With its prestigious accreditation, flexible evening classes, and hands-on field study requirement, this program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic industry.
21. Columbia University – New York, New York
Columbia University offers a unique Master of Health Administration program through its Department of Health Policy and Management. This esteemed program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the healthcare industry.
The program follows a cohort format, which means that you will progress through the program with a group of peers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. This format allows for meaningful connections and networking opportunities with classmates who share your passion for healthcare administration.
One of the standout features of Columbia University’s program is the extensive alumni networking opportunities. As a graduate, you will have access to a vast network of alumni, faculty, and top healthcare organizations. This opens doors to mentorship, career guidance, and potential job opportunities in the industry.
The curriculum of the Master of Health Administration program encompasses a wide range of essential areas, including finance, strategy, leadership, and analytics. This comprehensive approach ensures that you develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in healthcare administration.
| Average Graduate Tuition | Program Format |
|---|---|
| $46,216/year | Cohort format |
Investing in your education at Columbia University will equip you with the tools to thrive in the challenging and ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Whether you choose to pursue the program on a full-time or part-time basis, you can be confident that you will receive a top-tier education from one of the most prestigious institutions in the country.
20. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
The University of Michigan’s master’s of health services administration program is a highly respected program that prepares students for leadership positions in healthcare organizations. With a curriculum focused on developing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry, graduates of this program are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complex challenges of the healthcare system.
One of the standout features of the University of Michigan’s program is the required internship component. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, gaining valuable practical skills and building a network of industry contacts.
Additionally, the program offers a tailored approach that allows students to customize their education based on their specific interests and career goals. By selecting additional elective courses, students can delve deeper into areas such as biostatistics, health policy, healthcare accounting, and health services systems.
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|
| $23,128/year | $46,678/year |
Internationally renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant campus community make the University of Michigan an ideal choice for aspiring healthcare leaders. Graduates of the master’s of health services administration program are well-prepared to make a significant impact in the field, leading healthcare organizations towards improved patient outcomes and organizational success.
Don’t just take our word for it:
“The University of Michigan’s master’s of health services administration program provided me with a comprehensive education that prepared me for the challenges of the healthcare industry. The internship experience allowed me to apply what I learned in the classroom and gain valuable practical skills. I highly recommend this program for anyone looking to advance their career in healthcare administration.”
– John Murray, MHA Graduate
19. University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The University of Pittsburgh’s master’s in health administration program features a competency-based curriculum that prepares graduates for success in various healthcare systems. Students gain knowledge in areas such as health policy and management, public health foundations, and organizational studies. An on-site management residency at a healthcare organization is a requirement of the program. The average graduate tuition is $22,846/year for in-state students and $38,736/year for out-of-state students.
Competency-Based Curriculum
The master’s in health administration program at the University of Pittsburgh adopts a competency-based curriculum, ensuring that graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge required to excel in healthcare management. This innovative approach focuses on specific competencies, allowing students to demonstrate their expertise in essential areas such as health policy, public health management, and organizational studies.
On-Site Management Residency
To provide students with practical experience and a deeper understanding of healthcare operations, the program requires an on-site management residency at a healthcare organization. This residency allows students to apply their classroom learnings in a real-world setting, gaining valuable insights and developing their managerial skills under the guidance of industry professionals.
Average Graduate Tuition
The University of Pittsburgh offers a competitive tuition rate for its master’s in health administration program. In-state students can expect to pay an average of $22,846 per year, while out-of-state students will pay an average of $38,736 per year. This investment in education opens doors to rewarding career opportunities in the healthcare industry.
| Attributes | In-State Students | Out-of-State Students |
|---|---|---|
| Average Graduate Tuition | $22,846/year | $38,736/year |
18. Seton Hall University – South Orange, New Jersey
Seton Hall University, located in South Orange, New Jersey, offers a highly regarded master of healthcare administration program. As the only CAHME-accredited program in New Jersey, Seton Hall University stands out as a reputable institution for aspiring healthcare leaders.
The program’s comprehensive curriculum covers various essential areas, including health policy, data analytics, and population health management. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, students gain a strong foundation in healthcare administration, preparing them for leadership roles in the industry.
Here is a brief overview of Seton Hall University’s master of healthcare administration program:
Accreditation: CAHME accredited
Location: South Orange, New Jersey
Curriculum: Health policy, data analytics, population health management
Credit Hours: 42
Average Graduate Tuition: $22,662/year
Seton Hall University’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education is evident through its CAHME accreditation. This recognition ensures that the program meets the highest standards of quality and prepares students for the challenges and opportunities in the healthcare industry.
If you are passionate about health policy, data analytics, and population health management, Seton Hall University’s master of healthcare administration program offers the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic field. With its strong curriculum, experienced faculty, and prestigious accreditation, Seton Hall University is an excellent choice for individuals seeking to advance their careers in healthcare administration.
Conclusion
Pursuing a master’s in healthcare administration can lead to fulfilling careers in various healthcare settings. Graduates can expect plentiful job opportunities with competitive salaries, as the median annual wage for healthcare administrators was $100,980 in 2019. With the demand for healthcare administrators projected to grow by 32% over the next decade, the job market in this field remains strong. By enrolling in one of the top online MHA programs, individuals can acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this dynamic industry.
Healthcare administration jobs span a wide range of roles, including healthcare executives, hospital administrators, and medical practice managers. These professionals play a vital role in managing healthcare facilities, developing strategies, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality care. The salary potential in healthcare administration is attractive, with opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
To embark on a successful career in healthcare administration, it is crucial to acquire the appropriate education and training. Healthcare administration courses offered in MHA programs cover areas such as healthcare systems, leadership, finance, and policy. These programs provide the necessary foundation and specialized knowledge to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of healthcare administration principles, graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities they may encounter in their careers.
FAQ
What are the best masters in healthcare administration?
The best masters in healthcare administration include programs at Pennsylvania State University, University of Minnesota, University of Washington, University of Denver, Columbia University, University of Michigan, University of Pittsburgh, and Seton Hall University.
What do healthcare administration programs entail?
Healthcare administration programs equip students with the necessary competencies, including communication and relationship management, leadership, professionalism, knowledge of the healthcare environment, and business skills.
How much is the average graduate tuition for these programs?
The average graduate tuition varies across the programs, with costs ranging from $15,510/year to $49,392/year, depending on whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident.
Are these programs available online?
Some of the programs, such as the one at Pennsylvania State University, offer part-time options for working professionals. However, the format and availability of online programs may vary across universities.
Do these programs offer practical experience?
Yes, many of these programs offer practical experience components, such as internships or field studies, to provide students with hands-on training in the healthcare field.
Source Links
- https://www.besthealthdegrees.com/best-mha-programs/
- https://www.healthcare-management-degree.net/best/top-graduate-healthcare-management-degrees/
- https://www.intelligent.com/best-masters-in-healthcare-administration/
