There’s probably no faster growing industry in the U.S. these days than healthcare. The rapid growth of healthcare services is a result of a “perfect storm” of the Affordable Care Act and the aging of Baby Boomers, the country’s largest generational group.
With the advent of more health related services, in hospitals, out patient clinics, long-term care facilities and physician groups, the need for qualified healthcare managers or administrators (the title is interchangeable) is growing at a steady pace. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, has projected a 23% growth prediction for this field for 2012-2022. National salary ranges for healthcare administrators is at $53,990 for the lower 10% and topping to $150,000 for the upper 10% of administrators. The median salary range is around $88,580.
While the main focus of healthcare is, rightfully, on direct patient care and treatment, the role of the administrator is a pivotal point in assuring that quality, compliance and appropriate services are increased, or at the very least, maintained. The administrator is a “Jack/Jill of all trades” needing to be well-versed in strategic planning, law and ethics, health information systems, reimbursement regulations, healthcare technological advances and a myriad of other subjects.
There are some healthcare manager/administrator positions that may be available for bachelor prepared students, but the majority of the higher paying positions in health related facilities require a Master of Science in Health Administration (MSHA), MBA (Master of Business Administration) with a healthcare concentration, master’s degrees in health services, long-term care administration, public health or public administration also are common.
Most advanced degrees in healthcare management/administration can take up to two years to complete and some universities may require prior administrative experience. As with most degrees, accreditation assures that programs meet specific standards developed by independent commissions. The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) is the gold standard for healthcare administration while the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) may serve as credentialing bodies for business programs.
We’ve compiled a ranking of universities and colleges offering advanced degrees in both healthcare management/administration or MBAs with a healthcare concentration. The ranking looks first at overall tuition cost and then, accreditation, representative course offerings and length of program.
Many hospitals and health systems offer tuition assistance for employees wishing to advance their education in an accredited degree program, so you should check with your human resources department to see if you qualify.
#1. LSU Shreveport
This 10-course Master of Health Administration (MHA) program is 100% online and allows for students to participate full-or-part time. LSU-Shreveport offers a full-time or part-time curriculum to meet the working professional’s needs. LSU-Shreveport is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Length of program: 12 months
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $10,054
Coursework Snapshot: Healthcare Organizational Behavior; Healthcare Human Resource Management; Healthcare Systems; Healthcare Law and Ethics; Healthcare Marketing; Healthcare Informatics.
Program Website: Louisiana State University-Shreveport
#2. University of Maryland University College
The Master of Science in Health Care Administration (MSHCA) program is designed for mid-career professionals who seek focused on graduate studies in health care administration. The University of Maryland University College also offers a dual degree program of a MSHCS/MBA option. The MSHCA requires a capstone course. University of Maryland University College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $16,488 (in-state, military/spouses); $23,724 (out-of-state); $17,793 (out-of-state federal employees, spouses and dependents)
Curriculum Snapshot: Introduction to Health Care Administration, Information Technology for Health Care Administration, The U.S. Health Care System, Public Health Administration, Long-Term Care Administration, Financial Management for Health Care Organizations, Research Methods for Health Care Managers, Legal Aspects of Health Care Administration, Health Care Institutional Organization and Management
Program Website: University of Maryland University College
#3. Colorado State University Global Campus
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and ranked #16 in U.S. News & World Report‘s 2014 list of Best Online Graduate Business Programs. The school also is ranked in U.S. News and World Report’s 2015 review as one of the “Nation’s Best Universities”. Princeton Review also named Colorado State University in its Best 378 Colleges (2014) edition. The program allows students to add specialization courses in a variety of areas such as applied business management, strategic management and information technology.
Length of Program: 36-39 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $18,000
Curriculum Snapshot: Organizational Behavior and Human Resources in Healthcare, Health Law and Ethics, Quality and Performance Improvement in Healthcare, Healthcare Policy Analysis and Development, Healthcare Finance, Healthcare Information Systems, Strategic Management in Healthcare
Program Website: Colorado State University Global Campus
#4. Trident University International
Trident University International provides students with two options: a Masters of Health Services Administration (MHSA) or a dual degree in Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and the MSHA (the latter requires 60 credit hours for completion). There is also a generous tuition break for retired military and immediate families, as well as for active military/partnerships/immediate family.
Length of Program: 40-60 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $19,000 (MSHA); $28,500 (MBA/MSHA)
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Systems Organization, Health Care Delivery Systems, Health Care Finance, Introduction to Quality Assurance, Health Information Systems,Legal Aspects of Health Administration, Marketing in Health Care, Integrative Capstone Course in Health Administration and Business Administration
Program Website: Trident Univesity
#5. Rivier University
Rivier University is named in honor of Blessed Anne Marie Rivier, foundress of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. Established in 1933 in Hudson, New Hampshire. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, this is a MBA program with a healthcare concentration and courses are offered in 7-week terms. Rivier University ranked in the 2015 edition of Best Colleges is Regional Universities (North) of U.S. News and World Report.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $19,440
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Finance, Organizational Dynamics, Healthcare Administration, Public Relations and Decision Making, Healthcare Information Systems, Healthcare Policy: Development and Implications, Compliance and Risk Management in Healthcare Settings, Human Resources Management, Healthcare Law and Ethics, Facilities Planning
Program Website: Rivier University
#6. Ashford University
Conferring a Master of Arts in Healthcare Administration (MAHA), Ashford University focuses on healthcare leadership training for potential healthcare administrators. Regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Ashford does not have GRE or GMAT requirements for enrollment. Founded in 1913, Ashford University is located in Clinton, Iowa.
Length of program: 36 Credit Hours
Tuition and Fees: $20,060
Coursework Snapshot: Principles of Health Care Administration, Introduction to BioStatistics, Financial & Managerial Accounting, Health Care Management Information Systems, Health Economics, Health Policy Analyses, Health Care Ethics & Law, Continuous Quality Improvements & Risk Management
Program Website: Ashford University
#7. Saint Joseph College of Maine
This particular MHA program may be completed in as little as two years and is targeted to working healthcare professionals. The program is one of the few accredited by the National Association of Board of Examiners of Long-Term Care Administrators (NAB) and the only NAB accredited program online.
Length of Program: 42 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $20,118
Curriculum Snapshot: United States Healthcare Systems Leadership in Healthcare Administration, Quality Management and Performance Improvement, Health Services Administration, Healthcare Financial Management, Research Methods, Healthcare Informatics, Ethical and Legal Perspectives, Strategic Human Resources Management
Program Website: Saint Joseph College-Maine
#8. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
The Jetter School of Business at Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and offers an MBA with a Healthcare Administration concentration. The school offers a tuition “lock-in”, meaning tuition will not change as long as you maintain a continuous enrollment status. Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a 4-year, private, nonprofit, evangelical Christian university that was founded in 1964.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $20,952
Curriculum Snapshot: Ethical Leadership, Managerial Economics, Organizational Behavior, Marketing Management, Legal Issues in Management, Global Business, Ethical Leadership in Health Care Administration, Legal Aspects of Health Care Administration, Health Services Strategy, Management of Health Care Human Resources, Quality Management in Health Care Organizations, Current Trends in Health Care
Program Website: Mount Vernon Nazarene University
#9. Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a private, independent Lutheran institution in Valparaiso, Indiana. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, this is a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in leadership. Valpo regularly appears in Forbes Magazine’s “America’s Top Colleges” list and has been consistently recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top Midwestern universities.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $21,420
Curriculum Snapshot: Understanding Health Care Organizations, Project Management, Financial Management, Managing People and Human Resources, Quality Health Care Management, Health in the Community, Ethics in Health Care
Program Website: Valparaiso University
#10. Regis University
A Masters in Health Services Administration (MSHA) degree, Regis University offers a bridge course for those without healthcare experience who wish to move into the profession, which provides background on the: history, policy, and current contemporary issues in health services in the United States. Regis University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. The program may be completed in approximately 18-24 months.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $21,780
Curriculum Snapshot: Organizational Ethics and Health Care Compliance. Leadership and Organization Development in Health Care Settings, Strategic Planning and Development in Health Services, Foundations of Health Care Economics, Accounting and Financial Management Systems, Methods of Inquiry, Quality Improvement in Health Care Settings, Health Care Information Research, Advanced Concepts of Health Care Finance, Contemporary Issues in Health Services Delivery Systems
Program Website: Regis University
#11. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and offers both a MSHA and Master of Science Health Management (MSM). For those students whose employers offer employee tuition assistance, no upfront tuition is required. SNHU is Ranked as a Tier 1 university by U.S. News and World Report.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $22,572
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Informatics, Healthcare Policy and Financing, Leadership in Clinical Microsystems,
Error Science, Risk Assess & Disclosures, Health Policy and Law, Global Health and Diversity, Biostatistics, Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare, Marketing Strategies for Not-For-Profit Organizations, Corporate Communications, Management of Service Operations
Program Website: Southern New Hampshire University
#12. Oklahoma State University
The OSU online business program was featured by U.S. News & World Report in the top 100 of their Best Online Graduate Business Programs edition. Accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCASC), the OSU program offers a MS in Health Care Administration with concentrations either in health care health care leadership and entrepreneurship or administration. A creative component or thesis is required.
Length of Program: 32 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $22,835 (in-state); $44,966 (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Survey of Healthcare Administration, Leadership Methods and Styles in Healthcare, Research and Evaluation Methods in Healthcare, Legal Issues in Healthcare, Healthcare Accounting and Auditing, Entrepreneurship and the Health Sciences, Organizational Leadership in Healthcare
Program Website: Oklahoma State University
#13. Kaplan University
Kaplan University is a for-profit university accredited by HLN and offers a Master of Health Care Administration (MSHA). The school offers multiple start dates for its online program and has significantly reduced many of its tuition rates and fees for active service members, their spouses, and veterans.
Length of Program: 52 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $22,932
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Financial Management, Health Law, Human Resources for Health Care Managers, HUMAN Health Care Statistics, Health Care Operations and Quality Assessment, Health Policy, Community Health Assessment, Health Policy, Community Health Assessment, Health Information Management and Assessment, Health Care Ethics, Health Care Marketing
Program Website: Kaplan University
#14. Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University is an evangelical Christian, 4-year university that has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as “one of the best Master’s universities in the Midwest.” The online MBA in Healthcare Administration is designed for career professionals and has a rolling enrollment calendar.
Length of Program: 42 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $23,100
Curriculum Snapshot: Applied Management Theory, Decision Making and Essential Business Communication, Accounting and Finance for Managers, Healthcare Governance and Organizational Structure, Healthcare Principles and Policies, Healthcare Issues, Healthcare Strategic Development
Program Website: Indiana Wesleyan University
#15. Walden University
Walden University offers a MHA degree that may be completed in as little as 18 months. The program is geared toward a diverse student body including CEOs, CFOs, nurses, clinical professionals, and mid-level managers. Established in 1970, Walden University is a private, four-year university accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and its College of Business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Length of Program: 53 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $23,585
Curriculum Snapshot: Foundations of Healthcare Administration, The United States Healthcare Delivery System, Principles of Population Health in Healthcare Administration, Law, Ethics, and Policy in Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Financial Management and Economics, Human Resource Management and Organizational Development and Leadership for Healthcare Administrators, Healthcare Informatics and Technology Management, Healthcare Operations Management, Marketing Management and Business Communication for Healthcare Administrators
Program Website: Walden University
#16. Capella University
Capella University provides a MHA online which is designed to be completed in 18 months. The curriculum is aligned with the National Center for Healthcare Leadership (NCHL) Competency Model and Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This particular degree also offers a program concentration, allowing students further study into your specific knowledge area.
Length of Program: 48 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $23,616
Curriculum Snapshot: Collaboration, Communication, and Case Analysis for Health Care Master’s Learners, Health Care Policy and Law, Health Care Finance and Reimbursement, Health Care Economics and Decision Making, Strategic Health Care Planning, Organizational Leadership and Governance, Project Management and Team Leadership, Health Administration Capstone
Program Website: Capella University
#17. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a 100%, online Master of Science (MS) in Healthcare Administration degree program. The school is accredited by The North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCASC). GCU was founded in 1949 and is Arizona’s premier private Christian university. U.S. News and World Report bestowed a ranking of Grand Canyon University, in the 2015 edition as one of the Best Colleges Regional Universities (West).
Length of Program: 48 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $23,760
Curriculum Snapshot: Introduction to Graduate Studies in the College of Business, Analysis of Contemporary Health Care Delivery Models, Health Care Policies and Economics, Legal and Ethical Principles in Health Care, Organizational Structure, Dynamics and Effectiveness, Human Resource Management and Marketing Communication Strategies, Leadership Styles and Development
Program Website: Grand Canyon University
#18. Tiffin University
Tiffin University in Tiffin, Ohio, provides an online MBA with a healthcare specialization. The MBA Healthcare Administration is a program designed for working professionals employed in the areas of education, child care, social services, health care and business. Tiffin University holds accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The business program has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the Top Online business programs in the U.S.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $25,200
Curriculum Snapshot: Individual and Teamwork, Information and Decision Support, Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, Managerial Accounting, Management of Human Resources, Statistical Methods for Managers,Managerial Economics,Business Research Analysis, Managerial Finance, Managing Healthcare Systems,Legal and Ethical Issues
Program Website: Tiffin University
#19. Saint Leo University
The online programs of Saint Leo University have been highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report’s 2015 rankings. This MBA degree with a healthcare management concentration is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) and offers a one year accelerated option.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $25,020
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Organization/Managed Care, Community Health Evaluation/Epidemiology, Critical Issues in Health Care, Health Care Management, Health Policy Evaluation, Professional Development, Human Resource Management, Managerial Economics, Financial and Managerial Accounting, Marketing
Program Website:Saint Leo University
#20. New England College
Offering a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration, New England College has a two-year, 100% online program. The college offers a rolling enrollment and does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission. In existence since 1946, New England College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Length of Program: 2 years or less
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $25,520
Curriculum Snapshot: Not Provided
Program Website: New England College
#21. SUNY Osewego
This MBA program has a concentration in healthcare administration and is offered 100% online and provides a rolling enrollment schedule. Osewego is affiliated with the State University of New York and is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of College and Schools and the business college is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $26,448 (in-state); $44,340 (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Systems in the U.S., Issues in Health Law credit, Managerial Epidemiology, Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations, Health Policy, Economics of Healthcare, Introduction to Health Information Systems
Program Website: SUNY Osewego
#22. A.T. Still University
This Master of Health Administration program integrates web-based instruction, directed readings, email and chat room interactions between students and faculty. A. T. Still University, with campuses in Missouri and Arizona, was highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of “America’s Best Graduate Schools” and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Length of program: 24 months
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $27,000
Coursework Snapshot: Administration of Healthcare Organizations; Healthcare Information Systems; Ethics and Leadership; Health Administration Law and Ethics; MHA Practicum.
Program Website: A.T. Still University
#23. Rutgers School of Health Related Professions
Rutgers University provides a Master of Science in Health Care Management (MSHM) primarily intended for those students in established healthcare careers. The MSHM track combines foundational course requirements related to management, leadership, finance and strategic planning, as well as an extensive choice of track courses and electives. The program is ideal for those wishing to further their education on a part time basis.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $27,570
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Services, Issues and Trends, Management and Leadership in Health Care, Health Care Finance Systems, Ethical Issues in Health Care Practice, Legal Aspects of Health Care, Human Resources Management
Program Website: Rutgers University
#24. Liberty University
Liberty University is now the nation’s largest private, nonprofit online university. Liberty’s School of Business has achieved voluntary accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and offers a MBA with a healthcare concentration for working professionals. Liberty is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the Top 100 regional universities.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $27,675
Curriculum Snapshot: Strategic Marketing Management, Managerial Finance, Legal Issues in Business, Business Research Methods, Accounting for Decision Making, International Business, Organizational Design & Structure Global Economic, Christian Ethics & Health Behavior, Grant Acquisition & Management, Politics & Health Policy
Program Website: Liberty University
#25. Brenau University
Founded in 1878, this Georgia university offers an online Healthcare Management MBA program. Students are required to take preparatory courses (6 credit hours), core MBA courses (24 credit hours) and program concentration courses (15 credit hours). Brenau University has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top regional universities in the nation, as well as one of the top universities for military members. Brenau University provides a generous reduction in tuition fees for military students.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $27,945
Curriculum Snapshot: Cross-Cultural Business Challenges, Integrated Business Operations,
Budgeting for Managers, Global Economics, Management & Organizational Behavior, Financial Management, Ethics and Leadership in Healthcare, Law and Policy Development in Healthcare, Organizational Systems in Healthcare, Financial Management in Healthcare, Advanced Topics in Healthcare
Program Website: Brenau University
#26.University of Cincinnati
This MHA program can be completed in two years and employs a best practices approach drawing upon education in business and finance, quality improvement, epidemiology, health economics, and health policy. The University of Cincinnati, founded in 1819, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and United States Department of Education (USDE).
Length of Program: 39 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $28,236 (in-state); $28,821 (out-of-state)
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Systems Management 1: Organization & Delivery
Health Systems Management 2: Principles of Leadership, Health Care Finance 1: Analysis, Health Care Finance 2: Decision Making, Health Care Marketplace 1: Health Economics, Health Care Marketplace 2: Strategic Success, Health Policy 1: Health Policy & Regulation, Health Policy 2: Legal & Ethical Issues, Health Quality 1: Evidence-Based Decision Making for Managers
Program Website: University of Cincinnati
#27. University of Denver
The University of Denver boasts being named one of U.S. News and World Report’s “Top 100 Universities” for the past decade. Through its College of Professional and Continuing Studies, students may customize the Healthcare Leadership master’s degree through their Professional Options Curriculum, allowing students to select courses that cater to specific career needs.
Length of Program: 48 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $28,752
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Systems and Regulatory Environments, HC Communication and Leadership,Ethical Considerations in Healthcare, Healthcare Macroeconomics,Management Principles in Healthcare Systems, Healthcare: Innovative Strategies and Change Management, Organizational Behavior in Healthcare
Program Website: University of Denver
#28. New England College of Business
Founded in 1908, New England College of Business is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). The college offers both a MBA with a healthcare concentration and a Master of Health Administration (MHA). The information below is based on the MHA program.
Length of Program: 30 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $28,900
Curriculum Snapshot: Evolving Healthcare systems, Quantitative Methods and Metrics, Healthcare Policy and Law, Healthcare Finance and Reimbursement, Healthcare Operations Management & Quality Assurance, Capstone: Strategic Planning in Healthcare, Risk and Regulatory Compliance, Strategic Leadership and Management, Managerial Accounting for Healthcare Professionals
Program Website: New England College of Business
#29. DeSales University
This is a MBA degree with a concentration in Health Care Systems Management, that requires 7 core business courses, 4 health administration courses and 1 Capstone course for a total of 12 credit hours. The schools offers three 12-week terms in the fall, winter, and spring, and one 6-week term in the summer. You can start the program at the beginning of any of four sessions. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Length of Program: 2-3 years
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $29,340
Curriculum Snapshot: Financial and Managerial Accounting, Quantitative Methods for Business, Business Computing, Business and Society, Marketing Management, Foundations of Healthcare Systems, Fiscal Issues in Health Systems Management, Legal Aspects of Health Systems Management, Issues in Quality Management for Healthcare Systems, Principles and Strategies for Managed Healthcare, Community Health Assessment and Planning
Program Website: DeSales University
#30. East Tennessee State University
This well known East Tennessee university provides a 100% online degree in Masters of Public Health with a concentration in Public Health Administration. The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health and is specifically designed for those currently working in healthcare who wish to obtain a management or executive position.
Length of Program: 43 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $29,584
Curriculum Snapshot: Managing Health Care Organizations, Health Services Organization and Delivery, Health Policy, Politics, and Analysis, Human Resource Management in Health Organizations Public Health Program Field Experience – Health Services Management and Policy
Program Website: East Tennessee State University
#31. Utica College
Utica College, in upstate New York, has an online MS in Health Care Administration and offers program specializations in Acute Care, Service Organization, Long Term Care, Health Care Advocacy & Navigation and Community Health and Wellness. The degree requires a final project based on a real-world issue or a challenge in students’ current work environments. The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools provides accreditation.
Length of Program: 41 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $30,545
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Systems: A Continuum of Care, Health Care Ethical and Legal Issues, Leadership in Marketing and Strategic Planning, Advanced Seminar, Quality Management and Performance: Improvement in Evidence Based Healthcare, Human Resources Management, Health Care Accounting Processes, The Economics of Health and Health Care Policy
Program Website: Utica College
#32. Drexel University
The Drexel University Master of Health Administration (MHA) curriculum is based on the National Center for Healthcare Leadership competency model and the school is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Drexel University has been ranked as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report and awarded the USDLA 21st Century Distance Learning Award. This program requires a 5-day on-campus residency.
Length of Program: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $35,235
Curriculum Snapshot: Historical Influences on the US Healthcare System, Introduction to Descriptive Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ethical and Legal Issues in Healthcare Management and Policy, Resources, Recruitment and Retention in Healthcare, Introduction to Biostatistics, Practice issues in Healthcare Management, Applied Management Project, Politics and Policy of Healthcare Resources, National Health Expenditures
Program Website: Drexel University
#33. Post University
The Healthcare MBA at Post University can be completed online in about 18 months. Located in Waterbury, CT, Post University was founded in 1890 and is ACSBP accredited. The school is part of the United States Department of Defense’s Yellow Ribbon Program providing tuition assistance for active military and their families.
Length of Program: 48 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $35,040
Curriculum Snapshot: Compliance and Ethics in Healthcare Reform, Health Systems Financial Management, Healthcare Leadership and Human Dynamics, Organizational Innovation, Creativity and Change Management in Healthcare, Healthcare Decisions, Analytics and Systems Performance, Human Resource Management in Healthcare, Organizational Behavior and Culture Management in Healthcare Healthcare Business Communication
Program Website: Post University
#34. University of Phoenix
This well known online school, provides a Master of Health Administration (MHA) that is completely online and tailored for perspective students currently working in healthcare. The school offers three tracks for their MHA program in Education, Informatics or Gerontology. The University of Phoenix has been offering online degrees since 1976 and holds regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission North Central Association.
Length of Program: 43 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Costs: $38,915
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Organizations and Delivery Systems, Managing in Today’s Health Care Organizations, Health Law and Ethics, Financial Management in Health Care, Health Information Systems, Health Care Economics
Program Website: University of Phoenix
#35. Benedictine University
A Jesuit school founded in 1887, was recognized by The Chronicle of Higher Education as the No.1 fastest-growing campus in the country among private nonprofit research universities between 2001-2012. U.S. News and World Report consistently lists Benedictine among the top colleges and universities in the nation and named Benedictine to its list of “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.” This is a MBA degree with a concentration in healthcare administration. The school is accredited by North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCASC).
Length of Program: 64 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $39,680
Curriculum Snapshot: Public Health System, Environmental Health, Marketing of Public Health, The Business of Healthcare, Leadership & Ethics in a Global Environment, Organizational Behavior, Analytical Tools for Management Decisions, Economics, Financial Accounting, International Business, Managerial Accounting
Program Website: Benedictine University
#36. University of Scranton
The University of Scranton has been ranked by US News & World Report’s as one of “America’s Best Colleges” in their 2015 edition and ranked the report also listed the University of Scranton among the 10 top master’s universities in the northern region. The university offers both MHA and MBA degrees and is accredited by CAHME and The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $44,180
Length of Program: 47 Credit Hours
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Care Organization and Administration, Health Care Financial Management, Health Care Statistics and Research Methods, Health Services and Systems, Health Care Law, Human Resources Management, Health Care Economics and Policy, Leadership in Health Care Organizations, Administrative Issues
Program Website: University of Scranton
#37. Penn State World Campus
The MHA degree at Penn State World Campus is a collaboration between Penn State World Campus and the Penn State Department of Health Policy and Administration and the School of Public Affairs. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). Penn State has been involved in distance education since 1892 and has the distinction of being one of the first schools to begin providing online education beginning in 1998.
Length of Program: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Costs: $45,570
Curriculum Snapshot: Introduction to Health Services Organizations and Delivery, Financing Health Care, Financial Management in Health Services Organizations, Clinical Issues for Health Services Management, Health Care Operations Management, Management of Health Services Organizations, Change Leadership in Health Services Organizations
Program Website: Penn State World Campus
#38. Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth offers both a Master of Science in Health Administration (MSHA) and a Master of Health (MHA), which the university terms an “industry specific MBA”. It is a blended curriculum of online and on-campus study designed to minimize the amount of time away from the student’s employment and travel expenses. Holding accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) Virginia Commonwealth University is consistently a top tier school in the U.S. News and World Report college rankings.
Length of program: 41-59 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $54,608
Coursework Snapshot: Health System Organization, Financing and Performance; Health Economics; Health Care Managerial Accounting; Health Care Law and Bioethics; Strategic Management in Health Care Organizations
Program Website: Virginia Commonwealth University
#39. Seton Hall University
This online MHA program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) which is considered to be one of the gold standards of healthcare administration. Seton Hall ranks as a U.S. News and World Report America’s Best Colleges (National Universities) and Forbes’ Top Colleges. There is a $365 online fee assessed each semester.
Length of Program: 42 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Costs: $47,670
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Systems (Orientation Intensive), Research Methods and Statistical Analysis, Healthcare Management, Financial Management and Control, Financial Management and Accounting, Community Healthcare, Healthcare Economics, Quality and Performance Management, Healthcare Policy, Managing Emergency Preparedness
Program Website: Seton Hall University
#40. University of California San Francisco
Unlike some online graduate programs in healthcare administration, UCSF offers a blended approach, with eight online courses, two on-campus courses and two workplace adminstrative practicum courses. UCSF is ranked in the top 10% of National Universities by U. S. News and World Report. The university is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Length of program: 24 months
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $48,200
Coursework Snapshot: Health Systems Management, Leadership and Change, Health Systems Research, Interpersonal Practice, Leadership: Environmental Systems, Leadership: Healthcare Policy, Healthcare Finance and Economics, Healthcare Quality, Safety and Innovation, Healthcare Systems Management
Program Website: University of California-San Francisco
#41. University of Alabama Birmingham School of Health Professions
Currently, UAB is ranked #2 by U.S. News Report for it’s graduate programs and is accredited by CAHME for it’s Executive Master of Science Health Administration (EMSHA). The School of Health Services Administration at UAB was founded in 1966.
Length of Program: 2 Years
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $54,000
Curriculum Snapshot: Introduction to Health Care Systems, Organization Theory and Behavior, Health Economics,
Health Care Marketing, Introduction to Health Informatics, Health Care Financial Management I, Essentials of Health and Human Disease, Quantitative Methods, Human Resources Management in Health Services Administration, Health Policy, Leadership,Health Care Financial Management, Process Improvement
Program Website: University of Alabama Birmingham School of Health Professions
#42. University of Southern California
Through the Sol Price School of Public Policy, USC offers an Executive Masters of Healthcare Administration. The University of Southern California has received high marks from U.S. News and World Report as one of the “Best Graduate Schools” and “Best Colleges in National Universities”. USC has also been recognized by Princeton Review as a “Best Western College”. The degree has recently been accredited by CAHME.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $57,672
Curriculum Snapshot: Leading People and Health Care Organizations, Health Economics, Financing and Reimbursement, Managing the Organization’s Financial Health, Strategic Management, Managing and Improving Health, Managing Risk in Contracting to Meet Performance Objectives, Operations Management for Accountability, Operational Efficiency Processes in Health Care Organizations, Development and Monitoring of Quality and Patient Safety Outcomes
Program Website: University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy
#43. Florida International University
Florida International University’s Alvah H. Chapman Graduate School of Business offers a MBA with a healthcare administration concentration. The program is targeted to the working professional with a minimum of four years of relevant professional/managerial work experience. The program requires completion of two online modules prior to beginning courses. FIU holds accreditations through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Length of Program: 42 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $59,892
Curriculum Snapshot: Accounting for Managers, Corporate Finance, Economic and Decision Analysis in Health Services, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Financing and Reimbursement of Health Systems, Health Policy and Economics, Legal Environment of Business, Management of Healthcare Organizations in the 21st Century, Marketing Management in Global Environment
Program Website: Florida International University
#44. George Washington University
The Online Executive Master of Healthcare Administration through George Washington University’s The Milken Institute School of Public Health, is accredited by the CAHME. Students must attend four immersive campus visits over the course of the two-year program. The program includes eight 10-week learning modules, offered four times per year.
Length of Program: 50 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $79,250
Curriculum Snapshot: Healthcare Management and Strategy, Medical Informatics and Decision Management, Community and Public Health, Health Economics and Quantitative Methods, Law and Policy, Capstone: Systems Thinking and Learning
Program Website: George Washington University
#45. The University of St. Francis
Long known in healthcare circles for providing advanced, off campus education for healthcare professionals since 1972, The University of St. Francis has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of “Best Colleges”. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this MBA degree with a healthcare administrator concentration is offered on-line and is estimated to be able to be completed in about 15 months.
Length of Program: 36 Credit Hours
Estimated Total Tuition Cost: $79,343
Curriculum Snapshot: Medical Sociology, Health Information and Analytics, Health Care Finance, Health Care Law and Compliance, Health Care Ethics and Decision Making, Managerial Economics, Managerial Finance, Managerial Accounting, Experiential Learning Project, Marketing Management, Applied Business Research Models, Strategic Business Management, Human Resource Management
Program Website: The University of St. Francis