The Best Master of Health Administration Programs

The ever-changing healthcare industry needs highly competent administrators. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these middle managers can expect a whopping 29% annual job growth projected for 2023-2033. That’s more than seven times the 4% national average.

Nurse managers’ blend of clinical and administrative experience enhance patient care and outcomes.

A master of health administration (MHA) provides specialized training that can make you a sought-after administrator.

Explore our ranking of the nation’s best MHA programs.

An MHA can pave the way for administrative and managerial careers in one of the nation’s largest job sectors. The return on your investment could include career advancement and a higher earnings potential. Schools design many programs for working professionals, including MHA degrees for registered nurses (RN). Executive MHA programs attract students with at least three years of healthcare experience.

Earning a master of health administration typically takes 1-3 years. Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks are available, and you can earn your degree online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.

You’ll complete 45-57 credits, covering topics such healthcare financial management, healthcare leadership, data analytics, and quality improvement strategies. Electives can include healthcare marketing, project management, and legal issues in healthcare.

Many programs incorporate real-world experience through an internship or capstone project. In short, the right MHA program will make you a stronger leader, a more effective problem-solver, and a better decision-maker.

Many RNs already meet the admission requirements for a master of health administration. Often, a bachelor’s degree plus healthcare experience is enough to gain admission. You can also strengthen your application by explaining how your background in nursing has prepared you for graduate school. While specific eligibility requirements and admission materials vary, many include the following requirements:

Accreditation is a hallmark of excellence. That’s because accredited programs undergo a rigorous review process that ensures they meet high standards of academic quality.

Independent accrediting agencies evaluate programs based on curriculum materials, faculty qualifications, and graduate outcomes. The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) is the accrediting agency for MHA programs. However, some programs may hold accreditation through a business accrediting agency or institutional accrediting agency.

Accreditation pays off. According to the commission, graduates from CAHME-accredited programs earn about $10,000 more in their first year than graduates from non-accredited programs.