Online Healthcare MBA
An MBA in healthcare management is a graduate degree for students with interests in the healthcare industry, particularly at the executive level. Students take a standard business core curriculum, which gives them a foundation of basic skills in accounting, economics, leadership, and strategy. They also learn about health policy, health law, and leadership. An MBA in healthcare management serves as an additional credential to an already existing degree or specialty within healthcare.
Graduates can enter some of the fastest-growing careers in the country. Jobs for medical and health services managers are expected to grow by 18% between 2018 and 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Most of these jobs pay a median annual wage of $100,000, but the highest-paid CEOs at health-related corporations can make twice that.
MBA Healthcare Management Online
This guide ranks the best online MBA programs in healthcare management, including the kinds of courses offered and the types of careers and salaries graduates can expect.
Top MBA Healthcare Management Online
1. Southern New Hampshire University
ACBSP-accredited Southern New Hampshire University offers an online MBA in healthcare management.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$18,810/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
22:1
Points
4
The program takes about a year to complete, and students earn credentials while completing their degree. These courses include classes such as:
- Healthcare Informatics
- Topics in Health Administration
- Social and Organizational Issues in Healthcare
Students gain practical experience through scenario-based learning. This approach helps students prepare for real-life situations by allowing them to solve problems and make decisions. Graduates are ready for leadership roles in a variety of settings including hospitals and medical offices.
Location: Manchester, New Hampshire
2. Clarkson University
The Clarkson University Healthcare Management MBA is one of only 18 programs in the United States accredited by the AACSB and CAHME.
Accreditations
CAHME, AACSB
Tuition
$33,312/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
14:1
Points
6
Full-time and part-time degree programs are available, allowing working students the flexibility to complete their degree on their own schedule. The 48-credit curriculum includes courses like:
- Structural Dynamics in Healthcare
- Health Policy and Managerial Epidemiology
- Health Informatics
Those with minimal experience in the field can complete an internship between their first and second year of study to gain real-world experience. Online students attend three three-day residency sessions for professional development and networking.
Location: Schenectady, New York
3. The George Washington University
The School of Business at George Washington University offers an online Healthcare MBA program for experienced and aspiring healthcare professionals alike.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$31,770/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
6
It can be tailored according to a student’s career aspirations. Additional graduate certificates can be received in seven different fields to compliment the MBA program. Certificates are available in areas such as:
- Integrative Medicine
- Clinical Research Administration
- Clinical Research Practice
You don’t have to live on campus and all courses can be completed online. Students who want to gain a unique global perspective can study abroad.
Location: Washington, D.C.
4. Hofstra University
The online MBA program in strategic healthcare management at Hofstra University gives students the competitive edge needed to succeed in healthcare leadership roles.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$26,172/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
6
The curriculum is derived from five cross-disciplinary areas, including:
- Health law and ethics
- Health systems finance
- Health information systems
- Marketing of healthcare services
- Health services human resources
During the two-year program, students participate in two, four-day residencies that facilitate networking and professional development. Within the first and second years of the program, students complete a Global Practicum on Strategy. They visit global companies and gain a unique cross-cultural healthcare business experience.
Location: Hempstead, New York
5. Northeastern University
An online healthcare management MBA concentration at Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business offers students the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact within the healthcare industry.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$25,264/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
14:1
Points
6
A cutting-edge curriculum focusing on business, technology, and critical skills is available to students. Courses cover topics such as:
- healthcare finance
- healthcare industry
- strategic decision making
An online student can participate in an optional campus residency to network with other online students. Most students can complete their degree in just two years.
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
6. Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Penn State World Campus offers a top-ranked MBA in health care business accredited by AACSB International with a curriculum designed for real world application.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$22,464/year in-state and $38,198/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
Points
6
Students will learn how to work effectively in high-performing teams while integrating knowledge across multiple functional areas. Starting in any semester, new students can enroll in this program. Students attend a three-day residency focusing on professional development (currently offered virtually) and online technology. General business courses include:
- Introduction to Health Economics
- Financial Management in Health Institutions
- Introduction to Health Services Organizations and Delivery
Students benefit from the strong partnership between Penn State and the Smeal College of Business. During the program, students can take advantage of career coaching, advising, networking, and opportunities to participate in global immersion trips.
Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
7. DeSales University
Healthcare Management MBA offered by DeSales University focuses on leadership, management, and administration in healthcare.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$20,520/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
6
Students may start the program at any time of the year, and they are not required to have a business degree to apply. There are 12 courses that cover topics like:
- Legal aspects of healthcare management
- Community health assessment and planning
- Fiscal issues in health systems management
Every student completes a capstone integrating course in policy and strategy. The advisors in the program ensure the students’ progress and success throughout the program.
Location: Center Valley, Pennsylvania
8. Florida Institute of Technology
Florida Tech Online’s Online MBA in Healthcare Management is a 36-credit hour program for students seeking to advance their careers in management and leadership in healthcare.
Accreditations
IACBE
Tuition
$16,128/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
17:1
Points
6
Specialized courses include:
- Healthcare Policy
- Information Management in Healthcare
- Legal Aspects of Healthcare
- Healthcare Planning and Marketing
Each student completes a capstone course in healthcare management focused on strategic management. The hands-on learning experience through management simulation and case analysis gives students experience making top management level decisions. No GMAT or GRE is required for admission, and applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any field.
Location: Melbourne, Florida
9. Marist College
Getting an MBA in healthcare administration from Marist University gives students a comprehensive view of the healthcare industry.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$15,300/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
Points
6
Online courses are offered in eight-week segments. Course offerings include:
- Ethical/Legal Issues in Healthcare
- Critical Issues in Healthcare
- US Health Care Policies and Systems
The Healthcare Administration course will provide students with a solid understanding of business operations while deep diving into the specifics of healthcare administration. There are no on-campus residency requirements for this healthcare MBA, so it is a great option for working professionals looking to advance their career. Healthcare organizations today face ethical, social, and political challenges. Graduates are prepared to handle those challenges successfully.
Location: Poughkeepsie, New York
10. Capella University
Capella University offers a top healthcare management MBA in two flexible online learning formats.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$14,767/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
27:1
Points
6
The program will prepare students for the business side of health care while giving them advanced skills in areas such as marketing, data analytics, and finance. The program is offered both in GuidedPath and FlexPath formats, so students can choose the format best suited to their learning style. Flexpath is a self-paced learning format for students who prefer to learn at their own speed. GuidedPath has a more structured learning format for students seeking a more traditional path to their healthcare MBA. The both formats help students develop the professional leadership skills necessary for success in the industry. Graduating students are prepared for roles such as health director, clinical manager, and account manager.
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
11. Portland State University
A top healthcare MBA from Portland State University is a comprehensive program for busy working professionals.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$14,652/year in-state and $22,143/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
21:1
Points
6
Courses are presented in a hybrid format with 80% of the program offered online and 20% in person. The program focuses on key areas such as leadership, quality management, and strategy. During capstone and application projects, students gain hands-on experience. Course content has direct applications in the student’s current work environment, which adds value to their organization. Students complete their degree in 33 months, moving through the program as a cohort. Students are instructed by instructors with real-world experience who are here to help them advance their career.
Location: Portland, Oregon
12. The University of Texas at Dallas
The Naveen Jindal School of Management at the University of Texas Dallas offers an excellent healthcare MBA.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$14,560 /year in-state and $28,610/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Points
6
Students are prepared for leadership positions within a variety of healthcare organizations. Courses include:
- Healthcare Financial Accounting
- Strategic Leadership of Healthcare Organizations
- Healthcare Cost Management and Control
The hands-on curriculum incorporates real-world cases, assignments, and projects that easily translate to the workplace. While pursuing their MBA, students can earn a certificate to add value to their degree. Certificate options include:
- Project Management
- Organizational Consulting
- Transformational Leadership
Location: Richardson, Texas
13. American InterContinental University
There is an MBA degree at American InterContinental University with a concentration in health care management.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$12,321 /year
Student to Faculty Ratio
45:1
Points
6
In one year, students can complete this 48-credit hour program. The 24/7 accessible learning platform and mobile-friendly coursework make this an excellent choice for busy professionals. Healthcare management courses include:
- Healthcare Leadership and Management
- Legal and Ethical Implications in Healthcare
- Healthcare Strategies
Tuition at AIU is extremely affordable, and students can save even more through scholarships and grants offered by AIU. Do you already have some graduate credits under your belt? Credits of up to 12 quarter hours can be transferred toward a degree, saving students even more money!
Location: Chandler, Arizona
14. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University’s Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Healthcare Systems Management prepares students for healthcare leadership in the 21st century.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$10,528/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
21:1
Points
6
Specialized courses include:
- Applied Business Probability and Statistics
- Legal and Ethical Principles in Health Care
- Health Care Policies and Economics
Small classes allow students to become as involved and as engaged in the program as possible while being taught by experienced faculty and adjunct instructors. Graduates are well prepared for a wide range of exciting jobs in consulting, administration, and executive leadership.
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
15. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins Carey Business School offers a flexible MBA with a specialized concentration in health care management, innovation, and technology.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$57,010/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
6:1
Points
8
The program can be completed completely online through short, eight-week courses. Required courses include:
- Frameworks for Analyzing Health Care Markets
- Health Innovation and Evaluation
- Emerging Frontiers in Health Technologies and Strategies
Experiential learning opportunities are available throughout the program. In a strategy consulting practicum, students will partner with a client organization to analyze their problems and offer solutions. More than 60% of students received a salary increase while participating in the program. Graduates earn an average salary of $109,000, making a good return on their investment.
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
16. Quinnipiac University
Quinnipiac University’s online professional MBA is specifically designed for working professionals.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$19,350/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
Points
8
In two years, students can earn a degree while taking part-time courses. This 33 credit-hour program can be completed entirely online without any on-campus residency requirements. Healthcare management elective course offerings include:
- Foundations of Health Care Management
- Quality Management in Health Care Facilities
- Health Care Compliance Law
New students start the program in January, May, or August. Online students receive a variety of support services, including academic advising, technical and administrative support, and financial aid assistance.
Location: Hamden, Connecticut
17. Dallas Baptist University
An online healthcare management MBA from Dallas Baptist University is a 36-credit-hour program with in-depth hands-on experience.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$18,954/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
8
Located in Dallas, Texas, Dallas Baptist University is a Christian university of small size. Their health care MBA curriculum emphasizes areas such as marketing, managed care, and health care policy. Courses are taught by experienced faculty dedicated to helping students develop themselves professionally. Students are able to form mentoring relationships with faculty members in small classes. This course allows students to concentrate on a specific area of healthcare, such as administration, education, or clinical practice.
Location: Dallas, Texas
18. Our Lady of the Lake University
Our Lady of the Lake University provides an online MBA in healthcare management in response to the demand for healthcare leaders with advanced business skills.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$16,650/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
Points
8
Online specialization courses include:
- Management of Healthcare Institutions
- Managed Care for Commercial, Medicare and Medicaid Populations
- Healthcare Planning and Policy
Students have access to coursework anytime and have access to advisors and 24/7 technical support. Courses are taught by knowledgeable and diverse faculty with industry experience. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as outpatient clinics and group medical practices.
Location: San Antonio, Texas
19. Saint Leo University
You can take your career to the next level with the affordable MBA in healthcare management at Saint Leo University.
Accreditations
IACBE
Tuition
$14,568/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Points
8
This program is led by world-renowned experts in the field who know what it takes to be successful. Full-time students can complete the program in one year or part-time students can take as long as five years to complete the program. New students can start the program at one of six start times throughout the year. Course offerings include:
- Health Care Organization/Managed Care
- Health Policy and Evaluation
- Critical Issues in Healthcare
For professional work experience, students can complete an optional internship. Healthcare graduates are capable of proposing and implementing policy recommendations, developing an organizational action plan, and working effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Location: Saint Leo, Florida
20. University of Massachusetts
The Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an MBA with a specialization in healthcare administration.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$14,041/year in-state and $30,120/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
17:1
Points
8
This unique program combines business and public health courses with a current focus on healthcare. Course options include:
- Healthcare Quality and Performance Improvement
- Health Economics and Reimbursement
- Financial Management of Health Institutions
There are no required campus visits, and all courses are offered via a flexible online platform. The online curriculum is just as rigorous as the traditional campus-based program. Not sure if you’re ready to pursue your MBA? While you decide, you can take up to two courses!
Location: Amherst, Massachusetts
21. University of Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium offers a 36-credit-hour online MBA to health care providers who want to advance their careers.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$10,728/year in-state and $24,054/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
17:1
Points
8
This program consists of four credits of business essentials, 22 credits of core courses and 10 credits of electives, so students can tailor the program to meet their professional needs. Health care courses include:
- Fundamentals of Health Information Technology Management
- Health Care Finance and Economics
- Health Care Organization and Delivery
No campus visits are required, and 100% of the coursework can be completed online. The tuition is cost-effective and priced less than many other leading programs. Many students are able to earn a degree within three years.
Location: Madison, Wisconsin
22. Florida International University
An 18-month healthcare MBA from Florida International University is a comprehensive program that encompasses three on-campus residencies.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$8,912/year in-state and $21,393/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
27:1
Points
8
Students will also develop complex business and leadership skills needed to advance their careers. Students will earn their Lean Six Sigma yellow and green belts during the program. Students with a passion for international health issues may participate in an optional global travel program. The courses are taught by world class faculty and cover areas like:
- strategic management
- organizational information systems
- operations management
Each student will complete a master’s project in management, working on a specific problem that is relevant to his or her career objectives.
Location: Miami, Florida
23. Maryville University
Maryville University’s health administration MBA can provide you with the professional training you need to secure a top administrative position in health care.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$14,346/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
14:1
Points
10
Students will explore areas like:
- Healthcare practice operations
- Medical law
- Ethics
The program is 100% online and there are no residency requirements on-campus. Students do not need to take entrance exams and can choose from multiple start dates with no need to wait on an annual admission. With 24/7 technical support, there is never any downtime for online students.
Location: Saint Louis, Missouri
24. University of Saint Francis
The University of St. Francis is a Catholic university located outside of Chicago, Illinois.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$13,464/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
10
They offer an ACBSP accredited MBA in health administration curriculum that is relevant to current trends in health care. Students can earn their MBA in just one year of full-time study. Courses include:
- Health Information and Analytics
- Health Care Finance
- Health Care Law and Compliance
There is no GMAT requirement for admission and students can transfer in up to nine credit hours, saving time and money. Along with specialized training and education in healthcare management, students receive advanced leadership and communication training.
Location: Joliet, Illinois
25. University of Scranton
The University of Scranton is a Jesuit university that offers an affordable online MBA in Healthcare Management.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$11,580/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Points
10
It can be accessed anytime from anywhere and is designed for working professionals. The curriculum stresses social responsibility and ethics. Healthcare management courses include:
- Global Health Management
- Health Services and Systems
- Health Informatics
Applicants can hold a bachelor’s degree in any field but must have a minimum of three years of professional or supervisory work experience in order to be considered for admission. Most students can finish their degree in two to three years of study.
Location: Scranton, Pennsylvania
26. Minnesota State University
Minnesota State University Moorhead offers an affordable Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management that will give students the tools they need to succeed in this fast-paced industry.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$8,910/year in-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
19:1
Points
10
The Healthcare MBA is offered online and students can begin taking courses in the fall or spring semesters. Admission to MSUM is not based solely on an undergraduate degree, as most of its participants come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Core requirements include:
- Strategic Management
- Healthcare Economics
- Healthcare Law and Ethical Decision Making
The curriculum includes courses from a variety of departments including the Paseka School of Business and the Department of Economics. There is no face-to-face requirement, making this a good option for students unable to travel to complete a residency.
Location: Moorhead, Minnesota
27. University of Colorado
The University of Colorado Denver offers the oldest CAHME accredited health administration MBA in the Rocky Mountain region.
Accreditations
AACSB, CAHME
Tuition
$6,786/year in-state and $22,590/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
17:1
Points
10
This online program is part of the BAHM (Business School Alliance for Health Management). Degrees can be completed in as little as two years or as long as five years. Three specializations are available including:
- Financial Health Management
- Health Information Technology Management
- International Health Management and Policy
This program includes a field study to give students hands-on training and experience in the field. Students can earn their degree while taking online classes while working full-time. A new student is admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Location: Denver, Colorado
28. Lamar University
Lamar University, a member of the Texas State University System, offers an MBA in Healthcare Administration, which can be completed in just one year.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$6,397/year in-state and $13,759/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Points
10
This AACSB accredited program prepares students with the general leadership skills and healthcare business knowledge needed to be effective change agents. This online 30-credit hour program consists of eight-week courses. Health care administration courses include:
- Healthcare Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare Strategy
- Healthcare Policy and Finance
Faculty members teach the courses in the same way they do on campus. Working professionals can choose from multiple start dates.
Location: Beaumont, Texas
29. West Texas A&M University
AACSB accredited program, the Healthcare Management MBA from West Texas A&M University offers 100% online, asynchronous courses.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$4,968/year in-state and $5,832/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Points
10
Most students finish their degree within two years. Among the courses in the healthcare management specialization are:
- Legal Aspects of Health Care
- Health Care Marketing and Public Relations
- Economics of Health and Medical Care
Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field or at least two years of experience providing patient care. Students are able to schedule classes around other obligations since five semesters are offered each year.
Location: Canyon, Texas
30. Brenau University
Brenau University offers a top-value MBA in health care management that prepares students to excel in a competitive healthcare environment.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$13,356/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Points
12
This program comprises 15 courses totaling 45 credits. Health care providers including RNs and other clinical professionals can benefit greatly from this program. Concentration courses include:
- Ethics and Leadership in Healthcare
- Organizational Systems in Healthcare
- Financial Management in Healthcare
For students who want a global perspective, an elective course focused on international business can be taken. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and have a 3.0 GPA on all college transcripts.
Location: Gainesville, Georgia
31. Ball State University
It is an affordable online MBA in healthcare administration from Ball State University that is AACSB-accredited and convenient and personalized.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$9,328/year in-state and $25,542/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
14:1
Points
12
Courses can be taken entirely online or in a hybrid format. Both full-time and part-time options are available. In the fall, spring, or summer semesters, new students can begin the program. Required courses include:
- Financial Management and Performance Evaluation in Healthcare Organizations
- Strategic Management in Health Administration
- Introduction to Healthcare Administration
The majority of courses are delivered via webcast in a synchronous format with live discussion. A student takes two courses a semester and earns his or her degree in about two years. Also available is a concentration in Health Economics Policy and Administration.
Location: Muncie, Indiana
32. Indiana University–Purdue University
At Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, there’s a unique opportunity for physician leaders to earn an MBA.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$9,090/year in-state and $24,864/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
Points
12
Physicians from around the country get a different perspective from a group of peers with a variety of specialties. A business curriculum of high quality is delivered through a weekend class session and online learning. The following courses are included in this two-year program:
- Business Process Improvement for Healthcare Executives
- Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
- Managing Legal Risk
The courses are taught by expert faculty that understand business issues related to healthcare. Before they graduate, physicians engage in hands-on activities to make a positive impact within their own organization.
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
33. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s online MBA in Healthcare Administration is specifically designed for adult learners.
Accreditations
ACBSP
Tuition
$8,964/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
14:1
Points
12
These programs prepare working health professionals for leadership roles in hospitals, assisted living facilities, and clinics. There are 36 credit hours in the curriculum, including courses in:
- Quality Management in Health Care Organizations
- Corporate Finance
- Ethical Leadership in Healthcare Administration
Courses are taught in six-week sessions, and most students can complete their degree in just 19 months. The graduates are prepared for leadership roles in health care such as policy analysts, researchers, and health services administrators
Location: Mount Vernon, Ohio
34. Wilmington University
The MBA in healthcare administration from Wilmington University will help you jump start your career and kick it into high gear.
Accreditations
IACBE
Tuition
$8,784/year
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
Points
12
Classes typically last 7 weeks, so they fit into the schedules of working professionals. Healthcare concentration courses include:
- Marketing in the Health Care Sector
- Health Insurance and Reimbursement
- Health Policy and Economics
Faculty members have insight and experience in the field to teach courses. The faculty mentors their students to help them grow their careers. In one year, students can prepare for a promotion while earning their degree.
Location: New Castle, Delaware
35. University of South Dakota
Our top online MBA program in healthcare management is offered by the University of South Dakota.
Accreditations
AACSB
Tuition
$6,062/year in-state and $11,656/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
Points
12
This well-balanced health services administration MBA focuses on general management and health services education. Depending on their professional goals, students can choose between a thesis program or a non-thesis program. Specialized coursework includes:
- Managing Health Services Resources
- Contemporary Issues in Health Services Administration
- Strategic Management
You can choose electives in unique areas such as long-term care administration and health services informatics. USD students pursuing their BBA can apply to the BBA/MBA fast track program and save time and money by working on both degrees concurrently.
Location: Vermillion, South Dakota
Curriculum of Online Healthcare MBA Programs
The healthcare management MBA is a great option for recent college graduates seeking career advancement in a healthcare setting. Healthcare managers help care providers deliver effective patient care, coordinate services and oversee the work of other staff members. If you’re interested in healthcare policy, health care economics or business administration, an online MBA in healthcare management may be a good fit for you. Different programs offer different classes, but most of them include ones like those below.
1. Healthcare Finance
This MBA course in healthcare management covers financial concepts and accounting skills used to assess and manage healthcare systems. You will learn to use financial metrics and ratios to understand the business environment of a healthcare system, analyze the profitability of healthcare systems, and interpret figures that healthcare organizations sometimes provide in their financial statements.
2. Healthcare Law
This course examines the legal and regulatory environment in which healthcare exists today. Students learn about physician and facility liability, malpractice, negligence, licensure, patient rights, confidentiality in healthcare, institutional ethics, and more.
3. Health Informatics
Students explore the management of health records and how this information can be used to improve the delivery of healthcare. They study ways to store, protect, and share data while maintaining patient privacy. Learning to interpret data and trends in health records, students gain an understanding of billing and insurance plans. Health informatics programs often employ an experiential approach, in which students enter and read data.
Cost of Online Healthcare MBA Programs
The healthcare management MBA is a relatively fast way to receive advanced training for an already established career. The cost of such a degree is much less than many other options, but the costs will vary based on the program and length chosen by each student.
For many students , an online MBA in Healthcare Management is significantly less expensive than studying at a brick-and-mortar college. Many colleges and universities extend their in-state tuition rates to online students who live outside of their state, which can make these programs much cheaper than their on-campus alternatives. Students who study from home also save on commuting and housing costs. Check out a guide on cost of a masters degree online.
Studying full time for two years is typical of most master’s programs. However, many online programs offer accelerated terms, allowing students to graduate within a year.
Careers in Online Healthcare MBA Programs
An online healthcare administration MBA can be a viable path toward an in-demand career in the growing healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the broad category of medical and health services managers is expected to grow 18% from 2018 to 2028, with more than 71,000 new jobs created.
A lot of these jobs pay well and have a lot of growth potential. The following list outlines examples of careers and salaries for online members of the healthcare management field after earning an MBA in healthcare management. Also, check out our resource to learn more about salary of a MBA graduates in healthcare management.
Comparison of Online Healthcare MBA Programs
| Degree Type | Description | Potential Career Paths |
|---|---|---|
| MBA in Healthcare Management | An MBA in healthcare management focuses on the business side of the industry. Students learn to apply fundamental business principles, such as marketing and finance, to specific healthcare components, like patient services, insurance billing, and hospital operations. | Medical Manager |
| Master of Healthcare Administration | An MHA degree prepares students to run healthcare facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, and community health centers. Depending on the size of the medical facility they manage and the services offered therein, healthcare administrators often handle budgeting issues and funding concerns, hire and train medical professionals, and support staff and building operations. | Healthcare Facilities Administrator |
| Master of Public Health | An MPH program examines topics like healthcare equity and accessibility, public health safety, disease prevention, and effective community health programs. Public health programs also acquaint students with policy-setting principles and practice so they can take on leadership roles after graduation. Graduates may work as epidemiologists who study infectious diseases and their implications for public health. | Epidemiologist |
How to Choose a Program in Healthcare Management
Several factors should be considered when assessing potential online MBA programs in healthcare management, such as price, concentrations, internship opportunities, and accreditation. Here is a list of important factors prospective students need to consider.
Get details on what support is available to students
If you decide to pursue a healthcare management bachelor degree, know that your school options are vast. Some schools provide special student services, such as free tutoring and dedicated advising. Other resources include clubs and honors programs that can have a positive impact on your resume. Additionally, many schools offer career services, along with networking opportunities that can help make connections on the job search trail. Choose wisely to help build your future healthcare management career.
Ensure the school’s admission requirements align with your expectations
Applying to MBA programs can be a long and challenging process, but it does not have to be as complicated as it seems! The first step is to read the program’s admission criteria . You should also set a target in terms of GPA scores , relevant work experience , and other factors . Speak with the MBA Programs Office if you have any questions about admission requirements.
Estimate your expected program costs
Leveraging an online Master’s in healthcare management can allow working professionals to earn their credentials while still maintaining their current employment status. Students should also look into the availability of scholarships and other financial aid sources, as many programs offer tuition discounts. In addition to tuition rates, you should consider added costs, such as technology and residency fee.
Ask for information on how lessons are delivered in the program
A few schools offer a hybrid program that combines an on-campus and online curriculum. Some may have fully online formats and asynchronous or synchronous delivery of courses. Before you commit to a school, make sure you understand what the schools that interest you offer.
Look for partnerships with local businesses and communities
There are several colleges and universities that offer MBA programs in healthcare management. Many of them develop partnerships with local businesses, such as hospitals, to ensure their curricula is up-to-date and employers have opportunities to discover the strengths of their graduates.
Compare student outcomes data
When comparing schools, look to see if they publish the same kinds of student outcome data, and what those figures are. Regardless of the type of school and program you’re interested in, it’s important to take a look at student outcome reports. A good school will make this information available so that you can compare it to other schools. Alumni numbers can also be included in programs, helping students connect after they graduate.
Speak with current students and alumni
The ability to speak with current students and alumni in person is possibly the most important aspect of obtaining a master’s degree in healthcare management. Many schools will set this up for prospective students. The purpose of these meetings is to explain some of the pros and cons of a school’s program, and to answer any questions that may be on a student’s mind when speaking with an admission representative. Some of the topics covered may include class sizes, chances of finding a job after graduation, costs, and more.
Make sure the program is accredited
The right kind of accreditation is important when considering a college or university. The most recognizable type of accreditation is regional accreditation, which indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to academic rigor, faculty qualification, and student learning outcome. This is the most important form of accreditation for student success. In addition to regional accreditation, some programs may hold additional specialized or professional accreditations.” Programs with accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs meet the highest possible standards.
Healthcare Management Scholarship
1. Foster G. McGaw Scholarship
Students enrolled in a graduate health management program receive $5,000 scholarships from the American College of Healthcare Executives. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and enroll full-time at an accredited institution to be eligible for scholarships from the college.
2. Haynes Rice Scholarship
These scholarships are administered by the National Association of Health Executives and provide $5,000 to African American students enrolled in graduate health management programs. Students must hold a grade point average of 3.0 or better while at an accredited institution and demonstrate financial need.
3. Alfred W. Dent Graduate Scholarship
Funds are available for minority students to pursue master’s-level education in healthcare management. Each scholarship amounts to $5,000 and is administered by the American College of Healthcare Executives. The applicant must be a full-time student and demonstrate financial need.
4. David A. Winston Health Policy Fellowship
During a health administration program at a graduate level, ten scholarships worth $10,000 will be awarded to U.S. citizens. Students must attend full-time and apply during their second semester of their program.
5. Bachrach Family Scholarship
The $5,000 scholarship will be available to students enrolled ‘full-time’ in a CAHME accredited residential graduate program in healthcare administration during their second year of the program of study. This award is extended to applicants from full-time, graduate-level healthcare administration programs. It gives preference to females whose families do not have a master’s-level education. Students must attend institutions accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education.
FAQs About Healthcare Management
1. What is the difference between Health Administration and Healthcare Management?
A master’s in healthcare management can give you the skills and training you need to help manage hospitals, clinics, or other types of healthcare facilities. Studying business principles and healthcare law will give you a solid foundation for creating effective policies, leading a healthcare practice, and making decisions on how to improve your clinic’s bottom line.
2. What can I do with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
The Healthcare Management master’s degree prepares you for a wide variety of healthcare management roles. As a Healthcare Management graduate, you’ll develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to make difficult decisions about the delivery or organization of healthcare services. You’ll also be trained in real-world business and management tactics, such as strategic planning, marketing and pricing, and finance.
3. Which is better, an MBA or MHA?
The healthcare management MBA and master’s in health administration programs are similar degrees, but they have their differences. Both are designed to produce professionals with broad business knowledge and specific industry expertise. The MHA program is geared more toward hospital experience, while an MBA program may include elective courses in areas such as healthcare information systems, finances and statistics.