Online Healthcare Administration Degrees

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the healthcare administration industry is projected to grow 17% from 2014 to 2024, and the fields of private health practice, nursing home care, and electronic health records (EHRs) are expected to be in highest demand. As medical technologies advance, services that were once provided solely in hospitals will become available in the offices of health practitioners and medical groups. Nursing facilities will meanwhile see a rise in patients as baby boomers enter their golden years, requiring increased nursing staff and, in turn, a demand for healthcare administrators. The national demand for paperless records in the form of EHRs also means that administrators with knowledge of health informatics will find ample job opportunities post-graduation.

Professionals who excel in this career are able to lead effectively and adapt quickly, as health laws, regulations, and technology are constantly changing. A large part of a healthcare administrator’s job is recruiting, training, and managing staff, so strong interpersonal skills and a knack for managing tasks is crucial. Choosing to pursue a healthcare administration degree online allows a flexible schedule for working individuals entering the growing field.


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Degrees

Online Healthcare Administration Degree Overview

Degree Avg Degree Cost Avg Loan Default Rate Time Commitment Early Career Pay Mid-Career Pay Unemployment Rate
Associate $14,905 17.34% 1+ years $28,400 $36,600 N/A
Bachelor's $18,144 10.81% 4 years $39,600 $60,600 4.8%
Master's $20,066 7.32% 2+ years $52,800 $72,900 2.9%
Whether you are new to the field, or looking to advance in your current career, you should weigh the costs and time of getting a new degree against its benefits. There is no one-size-fits-all degree. The best choice for you will depend on your current educational background, financial standing, employment history, and area of interest. For instance, those with no experience may want to consider an associate degree, due to its shorter time commitment and lower cost. If finances are tight for you, then you should prioritize the student loan debt and default categories, as you will want to choose a degree that offers you the best chance of improving your financial standing with minimal risk. If your employer or someone else is paying for your education, then you might want to consider the degree that will offer you the highest salary. All salary information is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and/or PayScale

An associate degree in healthcare administration is a good starting point for aspiring professionals seeking entry-level positions, particularly in the administrative and clerical sectors. Earning a bachelor’s-level healthcare administration degree online or on-campus provides a stronger foundation for a career in the field, along with the specializations needed to be competitive in the job market.

A healthcare administration master’s degree online is typically the next step for aspiring professionals. This program requires two to three years, and applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Coursework includes advanced topics like healthcare policy and law and organizational behavior. One year of supervised administrative experience in a hospital or healthcare consulting setting is also usually required. The average cost of a master’s degree is around $2,000 more than a bachelor’s, and professionals who hold this degree typically see a 33% rise in their salary along with further reduction in average loan default rate.

A doctorate is the last step in major accreditation, and professionals who earn this healthcare administration online degree can go on to land chief positions or teach at the university level.

Online Healthcare Administration Degrees

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Online Associate’s Degree in Healthcare Administration

Individuals just starting out in the field of healthcare administration and wishing to pursue a clerical route may find an associate’s degree a suitable option. An online healthcare administration degree at this level usually takes 1-2 years to complete and costs roughly $14,900. The average income for this degree type is $28,400. A majority of associate degree-holders go on to pursue a bachelor’s in healthcare administration degree online, as many employers require it for job placement.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Healthcare Terminology, Informatics, Delivery Systems, Healthcare Finance, and Electronic Health Records Accuracy

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Health Service Administration, Business Management, and Medical Law and Ethics

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Medical Transcriptionist, Health Office Receptionist, Customer Service Representative, and Medical Coders and Billers

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    $28,400

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    27% growth from 2014-2024

Healthcare Administration
Get Seal
For the 2016 rankings, OnlineColleges.net has greatly refined its approach to evaluating schools and their respective programs. Our innovative method of assessing schools is what makes our rankings so distinctly authoritative. On the surface, every ranking we produce employs a basic formula: Academic Quality + Online Offerings + Cost and Student Aid = Final Score. This final score determines where a school ends up in our rankings. Of course, there's a lot more than meets the eye. Visit our methodology page to discover the data points that shape our formula and to learn more about our process.

Healthcare Administration Associate’s Degree Rankings

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Rank School Name School Logo City Cost Address & Contact Info School Links Acclaim for Online Programs School Description
1Pitt Community CollegeWinterville$$$$$1986 Pitt Tech Road
Winterville, NC 28590
(252) 493-7200

Pitt, located in Winterville, North Carolina, educates and empowers students by making their programs and services accessible to all students. They have expanded their accessibility through their online programs, offering 10 degrees and various certificates. Online resources include a mandatory orientation, access to PCC library online, an online tutoring service, and more. The school’s online programs include an associate degree in healthcare administration that focuses on the necessity of planning, directing, and controlling tasks to achieve the healthcare organizational objectives. It requires students to earn 73 credits in courses like payroll accounting, managerial accounting, law, and public speaking. Students who graduate from this online healthcare management technology program have the knowledge and accreditation to become successful in the healthcare management industry. Graduates are prepared for careers as cash management coordinator, patient financial counselor, patient accounts supervisor, and more.

2Minnesota West Community and Technical CollegeGranite Falls$$$$$1593 11th Ave
Granite Falls, MN 56241
(800) 658-2330

Minnesota West serves a diverse population with varied educational needs in an affordable, accessible, and supportive setting. Their online program provides flexibility and convenience for learners by allowing students to create their own schedule. The courses are offered through Desire2Learn Brightspace, an easy-to-use platform where courses are designed uniformly to ensure a smooth experience for all distance learners. Minnesota West’s healthcare administration degree online gives current healthcare workers the knowledge to pursue a management position while continuing to work. Sixty credits must be earned in classes like corporate compliance, leadership, and employment. Students will graduate with an associate of science degree in management and supervision in healthcare and will have the option to transfer to a four-year university. Online learners are also encouraged to use Smarthinking, an online tutoring service, which assists students in math, economics, accounting, and more. Students can also get feedback on writing assignments.

3Florida Institute of TechnologyMelbourne$$$$$150 West University Blvd
Melbourne, FL 32901
(321) 674-8000

Florida Tech, located in Melbourne, houses thousands of students each year and is home to The Scott Center for Autism Treatment. The center has undergraduate and graduate students work with children with autism and other related disorders to become specialists. Online courses are presented in eight-week terms and are designed to have students interact with peers and faculty through discussion boards and live chat. FIT’s online associate degree in healthcare administration provides students with instruction in areas of the healthcare industry, including healthcare organizations, managed care and medical ethics, and a range of business disciplines. Distance learners must earn at least 64 credits in classes like physical science, biological science, and accounting. Graduates are prepared for entry-level careers in the industry and have the opportunity to continue their education and earn a bachelor of arts in business administration – healthcare management.

4St Petersburg CollegeClearwater$$$$$6021 142nd Ave N
Clearwater, FL 33760-2822
(727) 341-4772

St. Petersburg’s eCampus offers more than 650 online courses and dozens of degrees to more than 20,000 students each year. Distance learners are welcome to visit the Clearwater, Florida, campus and use the wellness center, visit the Crossroads Gallery, or eat at the Hard Drive Café. The online associate of science degree in health sciences includes an embedded certificate in health care services. The certificate is earned after completing 32 credits of required courses. The program has 10 specializations, including dental hygiene, emergency medical services, general health, and health information technology. Each specialization is around 60 credits and has students complete general education, support, and major courses. Graduates are prepared for careers as medical and health services managers, medical office specialists, nutrition services managers, mental health program managers, and more. Students can access various resources online, including advising, financial aid, library online, and a technical help desk.

5Wayne Community CollegeGoldsboro$$$$$3000 Wayne Memorial Dr
Goldsboro, NC 27534-8002
(919) 735-5151

Wayne strives to be a catalyst for economic development, social equity, and personal enrichment by enabling individuals and responding quickly to the training needs of local businesses and industries. Unique to the school is their Wayne Business and Industry Center located on campus in Goldsboro, North Carolina. It’s a place for local companies to conduct business and employer training. WCU also offers online programs where students can earn various degrees or certificates, including a healthcare administration degree online. This program teaches students how to perform a wide array of administrative duties and prepares them for employment in medical settings like hospitals, clinics, medical offices, and insurance companies. The associate of applied science degree in medical office administration requires students to earn 68-69 credits in courses like procedure coding, diagnostic coding, professional development, and medical law and ethics.

6Concordia University - WisconsinMequon$$$$$12800 N Lake Shore Dr
Mequon, WI 53097-2402
(262) 243-5700

Concordia embodies and upholds their mission to develop each student’s mind, body, and spirit in every class, including online. The school offers more than 50 online degrees, including an associate of healthcare management degree. The program prepares students to enter the workforce. Throughout the program students are assigned an online student success advisor who personally assists them throughout all stages of their education. Distance learners must earn at least 64 credits in courses like health care ethics, financial issues, human resources management, and strategic healthcare planning and evaluation. Graduates are prepared for careers as medical records coordinators, nurse managers, nursing home administrators, and ambulatory care center managers. A health care practicum is required. The practicum has students earn on-the-job training. Students keep a journal while completing the practicum and turn in a research paper. Learners who want to sit for the State of Wisconsin Nursing Home Administrator exam must complete their practicum in a nursing home setting.

7Fayetteville Technical Community CollegeFayetteville$$$$$2201 Hull Rd
Fayetteville, NC 28303-0236
(910) 678-8400

Fayetteville Tech offers more than 200 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates; many are also offered completely online. The healthcare administration degree online provides students with the knowledge to apply management principles in a healthcare setting. The associate degree in healthcare management technology can be earned in five semesters and requires students to earn at least 65 credits. Courses include management of healthcare organizations, medical insurance, human resource management, and public speaking. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Patient Account Manager and the Certified Manager of Patient Accounts exams. Student resources include the Student Learning Center, counseling services, and more. Military training can be converted into class credits reducing the time it takes to complete a degree. Applicants must hold a high school diploma and have at least one unit of algebra. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and more.

8Lanier Technical CollegeOakwood$$$$$2990 Landrum Education Dr
Oakwood, GA 30566
(770) 531-6300

Lanier Tech provides students with an affordable and practical education. The school supports local economic growth by being a major resource for the surrounding county’s workforce development. LTC offers various degree programs online, including an online associate degree in healthcare administration. The health care administration program allows students already working in the industry to obtain their associate degree in healthcare management technology within 6 semesters, positioning them for managerial advancement. Learners must earn at least 73 credits in courses like anatomy, healthcare statistics, medical coding, and medical records and systems management. The program emphasizes the skills necessary to achieve healthcare organization objectives, specifically in the ethical and legal environment. Students have access to resources like tutoring, online orientation and tutorials, and an assigned advisor. Students are encouraged to use the career placement services to help them find a career.

9Community Care CollegeTulsa$$$$$4242 South Sheridan
Tulsa, OK 74145
(919) 610-0027

Community Care is a nonprofit, private institution located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The school is dedicated to helping students reach their career goals. Community Care’s online programs offer flexibility with the opportunity to create your own schedule. The college’s career and life development course helps students develop good learning habits. The development courses also teach students academic and career skills. Students can earn a healthcare administration degree online. The program teaches core competencies of the health care administration field while developing critical skills in scheduling, data entry, and insurance. Courses include medical law and ethics, medical terminology, diagnostic coding, and healthcare management. This program is structured with online lectures and a virtual internship experience to prepare students to succeed in a medical office setting. The program can be completed in eight months. Graduates are prepared for managerial positions.

10Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma CityOklahoma City$$$$$900 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73107-6195
(405) 947-4421

Oklahoma State offers a variety of online associate degrees, including an online associate degree in healthcare administration. Students gain the skills and knowledge necessary of a healthcare administrator. Learners must earn at least 64 credits. Courses include health care provider relationships, health care management, business law and ethics, and medical terminology. Student services include the Student Success and Opportunity Center, where students can receive tutoring, attend study skills workshops, find one-minute study tips, and utilize the computer lab. The university has delegated an entire office to focus on student development, with the objective to aid in improving the overall student experience. Graduates are prepared for careers in sales and marketing, office management, customer care, and hospital administration. At least 15 credits must be earned on-campus, and students must maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher. Thirty-seven credits are general education requirements.

11Colorado Christian UniversityLakewood$$$$$8787 West Alameda Avenue
Lakewood, CO 80226
(303) 963-3000

Colorado Christian is a private university known as the flagship interdenominational Christian university in the Rocky Mountains. CCU offers many of their degrees through on-campus classes or online. Online students take one, five-week course at a time, each taught from a Christian worldview. CCU’s healthcare administration degree online is designed for busy adult learners. Students must earn at least 60 credits, including 18 major, 36 general education, and six elective credits. The program gives students the knowledge necessary to make important decisions about patients and educates them in the field of human resources. Courses include health care terminology, healthcare informatics, human anatomy, and health care law. The degree can be earned in two years or less. CCU provides each student with a Life Directions advisor who offers students academic, career, and spiritual guidance. Students must earn a “D” or better in all courses, and graduates must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0.

12Iowa Central Community CollegeFort Dodge$$$$$One Triton Circle
Fort Dodge, 50501
(515) 576-7201

Iowa Central, located in Fort Dodge, Iowa, offers a two-year, online associate degree in healthcare administration. Courses are taught in an eight-week format. The program is designed for entry-level employees and health care professionals. Students must earn at least 66 credits, and the program is usually completed in two years. Students who graduate with an associate of professional studies in health care administration degree are prepared to become health profession managers. Courses cover the topics of economics, management, accounting, and the aging population. Iowa Central provides students with an Academic Resource Center that is an educational support service providing in person tutoring, online tutoring, proofreading, and a writing center. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

13Bossier Parish Community CollegeBossier City$$$$$6220 East Texas
Bossier City, LA 71111-6922
(318) 678-60006206

Bossier Parish, located in northwest Louisiana, empowers the regional workforce by creating programs that align with regional employment sectors. BPCC created an online program that allows working students to earn a degree. They offer an associate of science in health care management degree online with two concentrations: professional practice and health studies. The professional practice concentration is designed for students seeking immediate employment. The health studies concentration is designed for students planning to apply to a baccalaureate program. Both concentrations provide students with necessary information to succeed in the healthcare industry such as, applying management theory to real world situations and the knowledge to work with the technology used in the industry. Students must earn at least 60 credits in courses like basic statistics, healthcare law, risk and insurance, and supervision. The professional practice concentration requires distance learners to complete an internship. Students have access to a personal advisor, writing center, online tutoring services, and career services.

14Guilford Technical Community CollegeJamestown$$$$$601 High Point Rd.
Jamestown, NC 27282
(336) 334-4822

Guilford Tech serves more than 40,000 students from its campuses around North Carolina; the main campus is located in Jamestown. Student services include academic advising, career services, financial aid, a student success center, online and in person tutoring, and 24/7 technical assistance. GTCC offers an associate of applied science in healthcare administration. The curriculum teaches students the knowledge necessary for employment in the business operations sector of healthcare. Courses include professional development, healthcare financial management, office editing, and human resource management. Students must earn at least 68 credits, including general education courses and science, math, humanities, and communication electives. Graduates are prepared for a variety of healthcare environments, including dental offices, hospitals, insurance companies, and medical supply companies. Students learn about many software packages and financial management tasks. Graduates will also be able to understand medical terminology.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration

A bachelor’s degree offers a more solid foundation for those wishing to enter the field of healthcare administration. Students who pursue a healthcare administration online degree at this level learn business fundamentals while also picking up specialities that will help them to navigate technology, interact with people, and understand and control resources efficiently in healthcare facilities. Depending on the program, internships or a capstone project is required for graduation. Many students at this level continue on to earn a healthcare administration master’s degree online.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Epidemiology, Applied Healthcare Statistics, Patient Records Management, and Healthcare Information System

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Global Health Issues, Economics of Health, Financial Management in Healthcare Organization, and Healthcare Law

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Assistant Administrator, Nursing Home Administrator, and Health Information Manager

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    $39,600

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    17% growth from 2014-2024

Online Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration

The healthcare system relies on leaders skilled in managing the daily operations of healthcare organizations and facilities. Professionals with a master’s in healthcare administration can improve facility outcomes in the face of various systemic challenges, including socioeconomic pressures and technological advancements.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects medical and health services managers to experience 20% job growth by 2026 — much higher than the national average for all occupations. A master’s in healthcare administration qualifies graduates for roles as hospital administrators, clinic managers, and nursing directors who work in hospitals, medical group practices, and other healthcare organizations.

The following ranking outlines the best healthcare administration master’s programs online. Many of these programs offer affordable tuition and flexible curricula, allowing students to meet work and family obligations while pursuing the degree.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Healthcare Marketing, Legal Issues, and Statistics for Decision-Making and Management

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Health Informatics, Medical Law and Practices, and Healthcare Social Work

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Senior Healthcare Administrator, Senior Medical Records Director, and Director of Health Informatics

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    $52,800

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    22% growth from 2012-2022

Healthcare Administration
Get Seal
For the 2016 rankings, OnlineColleges.net has greatly refined its approach to evaluating schools and their respective programs. Our innovative method of assessing schools is what makes our rankings so distinctly authoritative. On the surface, every ranking we produce employs a basic formula: Academic Quality + Online Offerings + Cost and Student Aid = Final Score. This final score determines where a school ends up in our rankings. Of course, there's a lot more than meets the eye. Visit our methodology page to discover the data points that shape our formula and to learn more about our process.

Healthcare Administration Master’s Degree Rankings

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Rank School Name School Logo City Cost Address & Contact Info School Links Acclaim for Online Programs School Description
1University of St. FrancisJoliet$$$$$500 N Wilcox St
Joliet, IL 60435-6188
(815) 740-3360

A Catholic college rooted in the liberal arts, the University of St. Francis offers many online programs. The 36-credit MBA in health administration gives learners the skills needed to administer various functions within healthcare organizations, including finance and information management.

Students complete an MBA core that examines managerial economics, finance, and accounting. The 12-credit concentration develops competencies in health information and analytics, healthcare finance, healthcare law and compliance, and healthcare ethics and decision-making.

Students receive hands-on training through an experiential learning project supervised by faculty. Qualified students can join Delta Mu Delta, an international honor society for business students. Learners may transfer up to nine credits into this master's in healthcare administration online. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and two years of managerial experience or a competitive Peregrine Inbound Exam score.

The content of online courses -- and all assignments and requirements -- are the same as on-campus courses. Online students interact with program faculty on a regular basis, all of whom have specialized training to offer meaningful and challenging online course experiences.

2University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill$$$$$103 South Bldg Cb 9100
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
(919) 962-2211

Students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill prepare for roles as innovators and leaders in diverse industries. UNC offers an online master of healthcare administration that empowers students with the decision-making and leadership skills necessary to optimize healthcare delivery. The 60-credit curriculum examines topics such as quality of care, health law, and health economics for policy and administration.

The core covers subjects such as healthcare strategy and marketing, healthcare finance, and management of human resources in health organizations. A 12-week, 480-hour practicum refines students' operational skills as they acquire relevant experience under the supervision of an approved field preceptor.

Students develop a business plan, make an oral presentation, and write a thesis to culminate the MHA. Students must visit campus for limited residencies in the fall, spring, and summer. Admission requires school transcripts and the GRE or GMAT.

3Clarkson CollegeOmaha$$$$$101 S 42nd St
Omaha, NE 68131-2739
(402) 552-3100

Clarkson College began in 1888 as Nebraska's first nursing school, later expanding into a comprehensive college specializing in various realms of healthcare. The fully online, 39- to 45-credit MS in healthcare administration advances learners' business and leadership skills in 4-7 semesters.

The core begins with a course that acquaints learners with the fundamentals of scholarly writing in APA. Students then explore healthcare-related subjects such as leadership, informatics, strategic planning and marketing, and healthcare quality and regulatory issues.

Students synthesize learning by completing a business plan that demonstrates proficiency in areas such as financial analysis, industry analysis and trends, and fundraising. The program offers accelerated courses that start every six weeks to give students maximum flexibility.

Students can expedite graduation by transferring up to nine credits from regionally accredited graduate programs. Admission to one of the nation's best online MHA programs requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and official transcripts.

4George Washington UniversityWashington, DC$$$$$1918 F Street, NW
Washington, DC, DC 20052
(202) 994-1000

George Washington University hosts students on a main campus four blocks from the White House and online. GW's online master of health administration equips students to assume leadership positions in healthcare-related organizations. Students can complete the curriculum on a part-time or full-time basis.

The core of the 50-credit curriculum covers topics such as healthcare management and strategy, quality and performance improvement, and medical informatics and decision-making. For an organizational research project, students develop a business plan, evaluate an organization, or complete a literature review that addresses a specific operational challenge.

Students must complete four in-person immersions at prominent organizations in Washington, D.C. and around the globe. The immersions focus on three areas: leadership and ethics, health systems analysis, and presentation of students' organizational research projects. Admission to the online MHA requires current employment in the healthcare sector.

5Colorado State University GlobalAurora$$$$$585 Salida Way
Aurora, CO 80011
(800) 920-6723

Colorado State University-Global Campus offers learners flexible online programs that align with the needs of fast-changing industries. The online master of healthcare administration emphasizes in-demand leadership skills and management tools. The 36-credit curriculum covers areas such as healthcare finance, healthcare information systems, health law and ethics, and quality and performance improvement.

Students in the master's in healthcare administration online may opt for an internship to acquire practical management experience. Students leave the program with expertise in systems analysis, financial management, operations, and problem-solving. CSU Global offers accelerated courses, asynchronous learning, and monthly start dates.

All students pay the same tuition regardless of residency, and CSU Global locks in tuition so that students need not worry about tuition increases for the duration of the program. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, school transcripts, and a resume.

6University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles$$$$$University Park
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-2311

The University of Southern California offers a bastion of scholarship and research in Los Angeles. USC's 36-credit online executive master of health administration best suits professionals already working as advanced clinicians, healthcare managers, or in other related roles.

Students learn key skills, such as how to manage risk, financial health, and health information systems. Students learn the Six Sigma and Lean methodologies used to improve healthcare organizations. They also develop proficiency in the use of economic analysis to determine the factors that influence healthcare delivery.

Students supplement learning with two on-campus residencies where they work alongside healthcare trendsetters, industry executives, and policymakers. Admission to the online MHA requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least five years of relevant experience.

7Mississippi CollegeClinton$$$$$200 South Capitol Street
Clinton, MS 39058
(601) 925-3000

7. Mississippi College
Mississippi College, the oldest college in the state, offers programs in the liberal arts and sciences. The school's master of health services administration provides healthcare professionals with an affordable, fully online curriculum. The 30-credit curriculum advances competencies in core areas such as healthcare and financial management, healthcare marketing, and research methodology and procedures.

A course focused on organizational behavior examines how interpersonal relationships and behavior development can impact a healthcare organization's morale, efficiency, and practices. Students may use elective credits to acquire expertise in areas such as negotiations and public relations.

A capstone health services seminar rotates topics each year, and students must complete a paper to culminate this course. MC offers affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities for students in this master's in healthcare administration online. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and the GRE.

8University of the SouthwestHobbs$$$$$6610 North Lovington Hwy
Hobbs, NM 88240
(575) 392-6561

Founded in 1962, the University of the Southwest is a Christian college located in Hobbs, New Mexico. The school offers an MBA in healthcare administration that students may earn in one year. The 36-credit degree advances learners' operational, policy analysis, and strategic planning skills to create competent leaders for the changing healthcare sector.

Core courses examine issues such as financial management, controllership, information technology for managers, and human resource management. The specialization delves into subjects such as healthcare organization leadership, policy analysis, and decision-making.

The capstone course in the master's in healthcare administration online focuses on organizational design and strategy. The school awards credit for professional and military training. Students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and school transcripts.

9Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied HealthOmaha$$$$$720 N. 87th Street
Omaha, NE 68114
(402) 354-7000

Nebraska Methodist College ranks among the nation's top schools for allied health and nursing. NMC Online provides learners with specialized training through programs such as the 42-credit MBA in healthcare. Students develop core business administration competencies and learn how to take a compassionate approach to their roles as healthcare administrators.

The core focuses on operational areas such as accounting, strategic management, and business law and ethics in healthcare. Students choose one of three specializations: informatics, healthcare administration, or quality improvement and outcomes management. Each specialization requires a capstone project in which students apply their theoretical knowledge in the workplace.

Students can complete the online MHA in 18-30 months. All students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.

10William Woods UniversityFulton$$$$$One University Avenue
Fulton, MO 65251-1098
(573) 642-22512251

Established in 1870, William Woods University hosts students in Fulton, Missouri, and online. The master of healthcare administration provides learners with in-demand administration skills and hands-on training. The 36-credit curriculum explores diverse topics such as finance, administration, ethics, and organizational and change management in healthcare.

Each course in the online master's in healthcare administration degree includes a weekly forum discussion, allowing learners to communicate and share experiences with peers. Students use electives to examine areas of interest and culminate the degree with a capstone project.

The school offers affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and at least one year of professional healthcare experience. WWU offers multiple start days throughout the year.

11City University of SeattleSeattle$$$$$521 Wall Street, Suite 100
Seattle, WA 98121
(800) 426-5596

City University of Seattle makes learning accessible to nontraditional learners with 20 locations in the Northwest and worldwide. CityU also offers many programs online, including the 45-credit MS in healthcare administration. The program provides healthcare professionals with advanced proficiencies in business management, strategic planning, and change management.

The MS core addresses topical issues that impact U.S. healthcare delivery, including financial management, healthcare leadership, policy and economics, and healthcare informatics and technology. Students can take electives to tailor their degree to career objectives. Students complete a project or an externship as the capstone experience. Graduates qualify for careers as hospital administrators, clinic managers, and nursing directors.

Students in one of the nation's best healthcare administration master's programs online pay the same tuition regardless of residency.

12Louisiana State University - ShreveportShreveport$$$$$One University Place
Shreveport, LA 71115-2399
(318) 797-5000

Louisiana State University-Shreveport educates 7,000 learners who benefit from the school's reputation for academic rigor and affordability. The fully online master of health administration prepares learners for middle- and upper-management roles within healthcare organizations. Learners can complete the 30-credit degree on a part-time or full-time basis in as few as 10 months.

The core of the master's in healthcare administration online examines topics such as finance, economics, healthcare policy, and informatics. A notable course explores human resource management issues, including compensation, employee development, and employee/labor relations. Students without a business background may complete courses in finance, economics, and accounting, but these foundational courses do not count toward the degree.

Online MHA students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA in the last 60 semester hours of the bachelor's degree and the GMAT.

13California State University - Long BeachLong Beach$$$$$1250 Bellflower Blvd
Long Beach, CA 90840-0115
(562) 985-4111

California State University-Long Beach offers learners 151 degree options on a 322-acre campus in Southern California and online. The 45-credit online MS in healthcare administration features a cohort learning model, and students graduate in two years. The program's 15 core courses cover areas such as healthcare economics, managed care, strategic planning/marketing, and human resource management.

The MHA online focuses on building competencies in five areas: healthcare environment, professionalism, leadership, business, and communication and relationship management. Seniors must complete a 120-hour internship, gaining hands-on experience at a local healthcare organization.

Admission requires prerequisite courses in statistics, financial accounting, and microeconomics; a minimum 3.0 GPA; and at least five years of work experience in the healthcare industry or the GRE or GMAT.

14Pennsylvania State University - Main CampusUniversity Park$$$$$201 Old Main
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 865-4700

Pennsylvania State University ranks in the top 1% of colleges in the world. Through Penn State's World Campus, learners receive access to 150 online degree and certificate programs. The 49-credit master of health administration in health policy and administration enrolls mid-level career professionals seeking career advancement.

Faculty use a cohort model to train learners in areas such as healthcare finance, economics, quality improvement, and clinical issues in health services management. Students complete two intensives. During the six-credit intensives, students acquire expertise in areas such as strategic management and performance improvement. Site visits to local healthcare facilities provide learners with additional opportunities to learn from other professionals in the field.

Students in the MHA online pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and an extensive healthcare background.

15Belhaven UniversityJackson$$$$$1500 Peachtree St
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 968-5940

Belhaven University is a Christian college located in a historic neighborhood in Jackson, Mississippi. Belhaven's 70 degrees include online options such as the 42-credit MBA with a concentration in health administration. The curriculum delivers advanced administrative proficiencies steeped in Christian values.

Core courses examine subjects such as organizational behavior, financial analysis, managerial economics, and quantitative decision-making. Students can use electives to acquire training in healthcare quality management and healthcare laws and regulations. Each course brings students together for team projects that enhance the learning experience and hone problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Students may expedite graduation by transferring up to six credits into this master's in healthcare administration online. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission to the MHA online requires a minimum 2.8 GPA and prerequisite coursework in algebra or another higher mathematics course.

16Bellevue UniversityBellevue$$$$$1000 Galvin Rd S
Bellevue, NE 68005
(402) 291-8100

Bellevue University hosts 9,000 students on campuses in four states and online. In BU's 36-credit master of healthcare administration, students acquire expertise in areas such as healthcare finance, operations management, and leadership and team development.

During a course focused on strategic management within healthcare organizations, students conduct an analysis to determine how their healthcare organization can improve performance and competitiveness. Another course trains professionals to address emerging HR technologies and employment laws and regulations that affect the healthcare arena.

Students interested in the MHA online must already work at least 20 hours a week within a healthcare organization or submit a letter from a healthcare organization that outlines support for the student during the program. This requirement ensures that students have access to the staff and facilities necessary to complete courses. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA.

17Wilmington UniversityNew Castle$$$$$320 Dupont Hwy
New Castle, DE 19720
(877) 967-5464

Wilmington University enrolls 20,000 students on campuses in Delaware and New Jersey and through a robust virtual college. The school's 36-credit MS in management offers a concentration in healthcare administration.

The master's in healthcare administration online's core curriculum empowers learners with general business management expertise in areas such as organization theory and design, analysis of decision-making, and leadership development and change management. The 12-credit concentration develops healthcare proficiencies in areas such as health policy and economics, health insurance and reimbursement, and the legal aspects of healthcare.

WilmU awards up to six credits for professional certifications, such as certified public accountant, senior professional HR manager, or certified production and inventory manager. All students pay low in-state tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires school transcripts.

18Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant$$$$$106 Warriner Hall
Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
(989) 774-4000

Central Michigan University has more than 120 years of experience cultivating leaders in various disciplines. CMU's 51-credit master of health administration offers a fully online curriculum that prepares learners for senior roles in hospital administration. The curriculum covers topics such as financial analysis, strategic planning, health economics, and healthcare administration and ethical compliance.

A notable course advances students' competencies in quantitative decision-making by showing them how to apply parametric and non-parametric statistical techniques to address healthcare administration cases. Students leave the program with fine-tuned critical-thinking and strategic operations skills.

Online learners may choose a hybrid format, blending online studies with in-person courses at one of CMU's locations. All students in the online MHA pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.

19University of Central FloridaOrlando$$$$$4000 Central Florida Blvd
Orlando, FL 32816
(407) 823-2000

The University of Central Florida's 13 colleges administer more than 200 degrees on campus and online. The master of health administration offers two online tracks: health services administration and executive health services administration.

The 51-credit health services administration track examines business and administrative functions within health services organizations. Areas of study include accounting, human resources, information systems, and facility management. A required 240-hour internship provides learners with hands-on experience within a healthcare organization over the course of a semester.

The 44-credit executive health services administration track best suits working professionals with more than three years of healthcare management experience. This track emphasizes leadership, financial planning, and trends in healthcare. Though students may complete either track online, faculty may not teach all electives and prerequisites virtually.

Applicants pursuing the health services administration track need certain prerequisite courses, and applicants pursuing the executive health services administration track need at least three years of experience in healthcare management. All applicants to the master's in healthcare administration online need a minimum 3.0 GPA.

20Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton$$$$$777 Glades Rd
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 297-3000

Florida Atlantic University offers about 170 degrees to the most diverse community of learners within the state university system. The 30-credit executive master of health administration features a fully online curriculum that students can complete in 15 months. The cohort program covers healthcare law, policy, finance, and organizational behavior.

A notable course acquaints learners with the research methods used in healthcare management and how to apply them to current issues in healthcare. Unlike many similar master's in healthcare administration online programs, this program leads to Lean Six-Sigma green belt certification.

All students pay the same affordable tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, at least four years of relevant work experience, and the GRE or GMAT in some cases.

21University of DenverDenver$$$$$2199 S. University Blvd
Denver, CO 80208
(303) 871-2000

Located near the Rocky Mountains, the University of Denver is a private college that offers a suite of nationally recognized programs, including a 48-credit online MS in healthcare management. The program offers several concentrations, such as global health program management and healthcare policy and regulatory leadership. Students can complete the degree in as few as 18 months.

All students complete core courses examining healthcare finance, communication and leadership, research practices and applications, and healthcare systems and regulatory environments. Students then complete courses in a concentration or design a plan that addresses their area of interest in healthcare. Students must complete a capstone research project on a particular theme, which highlights their critical thinking, problem-solving, research design, and methodology.

Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission to the online master's in healthcare administration degree requires a minimum 2.5 GPA.

22The Sage CollegesTroy$$$$$65 1st Street
Troy, NY 12180
(518) 244-2000

Founded in 1916 and located in Albany, New York, The Sage Colleges enrolls about 2,600 students in 50 programs. The college offers a fully online MS in health services administration through Russel Sage Online. Students learn from healthcare administration practitioners, studying areas such as healthcare strategy, finance, and quality management.

Students gain expertise in healthcare delivery from a global perspective during a course that reviews issues such as coverage, reimbursement, pricing, and payment methods. Learners receive hands-on experience during an internship or externship within a healthcare facility in their community. Graduates are equipped with the managerial and analytical skills necessary to improve programs within healthcare organizations. Admission to this master's in healthcare administration online requires official transcripts.

23Jefferson College of Health SciencesRoanoke$$$$$101 Elm Avenue SE
Roanoke, VA 24013
(888) 985-8483

Students at Jefferson College of Health Sciences receive specialized training from a college with a longstanding tradition of teaching sought-after healthcare professionals. The master of healthcare administration offers a fully online curriculum to meet the needs of nontraditional learners. The 45-credit curriculum covers areas such as healthcare accounting, healthcare information systems, research methods and analysis, and operations and performance management.

The 18- to 24-month program develops leadership, critical-thinking, and interdisciplinary skills. During a 120-hour practicum at a host organization, students gain hands-on experience to fine-tune professional competencies. This field experience component requires completion of a related project under the guidance of a preceptor and faculty advisor. Students synthesize knowledge and skills during a project that culminates the MHA online. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and prerequisite coursework in statistics.

24National UniversitySan Diego$$$$$9388 Lightwave Ave
San Diego, CA 92123
(800) 628-8648

With 100 on-campus and online degrees, National University gives nontraditional learners many ways to customize their education. The San Diego-based college offers a fully online master of healthcare administration that prepares learners to solve complex problems in the healthcare environment, align organizational priorities with community needs, and incorporate quality management to improve healthcare outcomes. Students must complete 72 quarter units to earn the master's in healthcare administration online.

Learners study topics including biostatistics, health organization management, healthcare leadership, and human resources management. An internship provides learners with practical experience within a healthcare organization. A related capstone project gives learners the opportunity to explore a theoretical or practical challenge in healthcare administration.

Students learn from faculty with expertise in diverse fields, such as management, medicine, and law. Faculty deliver the program using four-week classes for accelerated degree completion. The school offers affordable tuition and tuition discounts to military personnel and their dependents. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA.

25Simmons CollegeBoston$$$$$300 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115-5898
(617) 521-2000

Located in Boston, Simmons College offers an online MBA in healthcare to propel working professionals into leadership positions in healthcare. Faculty use 60% of the curriculum to explore management principles and practices from a healthcare perspective.

The 48-credit curriculum covers topics such as financial reporting and analysis, quantitative analysis, marketing management, and negotiation and conflict management. During a strategic management capstone, students apply management proficiencies and strategic decision-making skills to address specific healthcare challenges. All MBA students must participate in two immersions. Immersions cover topics such as solving financial management problems in the healthcare industry.

Applicants to the online master's in healthcare administration degree must demonstrate exceptional accomplishments and leadership potential.

Online Doctorate Degree in Healthcare Administration

This degree path is necessary for those looking to land advanced roles in health administration, particularly in the sectors of research, policy, and higher education. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on experience, and the writing of a extensive dissertation, candidates who complete this healthcare administration degree online or on-campus learn to become innovative leaders within the healthcare industry. By combining theory and practice, the curriculum of this advanced degree provides students with the well-rounded knowledge needed to transition into a variety of potential careers where they might improve and influence the field.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Leadership Theory and Practice, Developing the Doctoral Identity, Healthcare Economic, Healthcare Marketing, and Globalization of Healthcare

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Healthcare Management and Leadership

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Chief Financial Officer, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Operation Officer of various healthcare-related organizations

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    $178,400

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    5% growth from 2012-2022

Online Healthcare Administration Choose Your Career

Average Healthcare Administration Salaries

$62,300
$42,450
$35,900
$45,500
$92,810

Health Insurance Specialist

Salary: $62,300
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
3% 315,300 High School Diploma or Equivalent None

A health insurance specialist’s main function is to ensure the proper conduct and application of plan benefits, and occasionally work with insurance companies to edit current benefits and create new ones. This position requires knowledge of medical records, coding, billing, and extensive and up-to-date understanding of the American insurance system. Those with excellent oral and verbal skills are well suited for this position, as it requires communication between patients, health facilities, and insurance companies. Professionals must also be able to make difficult insurance parlance and coding languages understandable to any of the groups above. While this field calls for a high school degree as a minimum education requirement, those who earn a healthcare administration online degree will have a leg-up in the job search.

Health Education Specialist

Salary: $42,450
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
13% 115,700 Bachelor's None

Health education specialists must have earned a bachelor’s-level healthcare administration degree online or on-campus. These professionals assess the needs of people in their community and design programs and events that will provide them with resources for healthier living. The role requires leadership and organizational skills along with knowledge of biological and socio-cultural factors that impact individual health. Health education specialists should be empathetic and have experience in community development and service. This is not a desk job, and professionals should prepare to be out in the field affecting change.

Health Information Specialist

Salary: $35,900
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
15% 188,600 Bachelor's None

Health information specialists organize and manage medical data and records. With the increased use of EHRs in the field, an information specialist must have extensive and current knowledge of databases and coding languages. Individuals with excellent organizational skills and the ability to assess large amounts of data are best suited for this job.

Public Health Social Worker

Salary: $45,500
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
12% 74,800 Bachelor's None

Public health social workers help clients in needy communities to understand, deal with, and overcome challenging situations, such as the adoption of a child, the diagnosis of a serious illness, mental health issues, and substance abuse. Social workers find people who need help, assess their situation, and work intimately with them and their community to create a plan to improve overall wellbeing. The position requires exceptional people skills due to the vulnerable and sometimes unpredictable nature of clients. These professionals should also be able to work well under stressful settings, as social workers are sometimes asked to deal with crisis situations such as child abuse or natural disasters.

Administrator (Management)

Salary: $92,810
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
17% 333,000 Bachelor's None

Managers lead the operation of various types of healthcare facilities, overseeing specific departments or the entire program. General job duties include serving as liaisons between administrators and medical staff, maintaining records, training and managing employees, and ensuring proper billing and insurance filings. Effective managers should be able discern task importance and delegate work, skills which can be learned when pursuing an online healthcare administration degree. They should also be strong collaborators, as they often deal with medical staff, their own staff, insurance companies, and patients.

Online Healthcare Administration Professional Requirements

Certified Healthcare Administrative Professional

The cHAP exam is designed for administrative professions working in hospitals or other healthcare provider organizations, and those who achieve the distinction are among the elite in their field in terms of experience, training, and continuing education. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must satisfy one of the following criteria: (1) have five or more consecutive years of work experience and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, (2) have been or is currently a member of cHAP, or (3) accrue 100 points from a list of requirements. Application and exam fees cost $250 and $125, respectively ($150 and $75 for cHAP members). The exam consists of multiple-choice, true/false, and fill-in-the-blank questions on five areas of administrative expertise: clerical, grammar, healthcare governance, healthcare regulatory, and software.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

1.5 hours

American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management

The exam is designed for healthcare administrators, particularly managers, interested in distinguishing themselves in the areas of patient financial services and the revenue cycle. There are five different AAHAM exams, designed for people at different stages in their career. The Certified Revenue Cycle Executive ($299) is an eight-hour proctored exam focusing on topics such as patient access and credit/collections. The Certified Revenue Cycle Professional ($199) is a four-hour exam consisting of multiple-choice and true/false questions on revenue cycle. The Certified Revenue Integrity Professional ($199) is a four-hour exam that measures basic competencies in healthcare compliance. The Certified Revenue Cycle Specialist ($100) takes two hours, and tests working knowledge of the revenue cycle. Last, the Certified Compliance Technician ($100) lasts 90 minutes and measures basic competencies in healthcare compliance.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

1.5 to 8 hours

American College of Healthcare Executives

The premier credential for healthcare managers, this exam is only open to those with at least two years of experience in the field. Applicants must also hold a master’s or other advanced degree, and should be in a healthcare management position. Thirty-six hours of healthcare management continuing education is required, 12 of which must be ACHE face-to face education credits. The exam itself costs $250, though a $200 waiver is available. The certification exam includes 230 multiple-choice questions, 30 of which are pretest questions. Content is drawn from 10 knowledge areas, ranging from governance and organizational structure, to finance and management. ACHE fellows are among the best in the field, and the distinction comes with organizational resources and high change for better salaries.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

6 hours