Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

The best master’s in healthcare administration degrees prepare you for leadership roles in the medical field without providing direct patient care.
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Updated July 6, 2023

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Earning a master’s in healthcare administration (MHA) gives you the expertise and skills to pursue a variety of well-paying leadership positions in the healthcare industry.

Are you more interested in building operational efficiency and improving the quality of healthcare outcomes than providing direct patient care? Then, an MHA degree might fit your goals. Check out our ranking of the top online MHA programs and what to expect once you enroll.

Featured Online Healthcare Administration Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The 10 Best Online MHA Programs of 2023

Learn About Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $670

Out-of-State | $670

Credits to Graduate: 36

At Franklin University, you can enroll in an online MHA. The program focuses on process improvement, physician management, and risk management. You can also choose a focus area in health informatics.

You take nine six-week classes in Franklin's MHA program. The curriculum follows a one-class-at-a-time format, and you can graduate in 14 months. The program offers three start dates in February, May, or September. 

You need an undergraduate bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA to apply. Admissions representatives consider applicants with a 2.5 GPA on a conditional basis.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$16,080
Retention Rate
9%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,926
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $565

Out-of-State | $565

Credits to Graduate: 48

The fully online MHA program at Liberty University follows an asynchronous format so that you can log on and complete coursework on your own time. On average, students complete the 48 credits in about two years. 

The curriculum follows a general track, or you can pursue one of 11 specializations, including accounting, finance, and human resources. You need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Seton Hall University

  • South Orange, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,450

Out-of-State | $1,450

Credits to Graduate: 42

Seton Hall University offers its MHA program in an online/hybrid or on-campus format. The 42-credit curriculum teaches leadership skills, critical thinking, population health, communication, and ethics.  

The online/hybrid option requires three in-person intensive residencies to fulfill course requirements and build networking and professional skills. You must also complete a  three-credit capstone course culminating in a final project presentation. 

You need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You should also submit three recommendation letters and a statement of goals. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,920
Out-of-state
$42,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,372
Out-of-state
$24,372
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
9,814
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

AdventHealth University

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $670

Out-of-State | $670

Credits to Graduate: 39

AdventHealth University facilitates a master of healthcare administration in strategy and innovation (MHA-SI) that you can complete online. 

You need either an associate or bachelor's degree to enroll. Although the general coursework follows a 39-credit general curriculum, students with bachelor's degrees take 15 additional credits and those with associate degrees complete 21 bridge credits.  

To apply, you need at least a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and a goals statement.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,275
Out-of-state
$24,275
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
1,802
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

University of Pennsylvania

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $6,698

Out-of-State | $6,698

Credits to Graduate: 14 units

For Penn's MSN in nursing and healthcare administration, you take 13 regular courses, plus two nursing practicum courses worth 0.5 course units each. 

You can enroll in either the on-campus or online option. Coursework combines nursing and healthcare administration, covering topics like financial management, strategic planning, quality improvement and patient safety, and informatics. 

You need a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a registered nurse license to apply. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,166
Out-of-state
$53,166
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,678
Out-of-state
$37,678
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
26,552
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

  • Carbondale, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Association of University Programs in Health Administration 

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $550

Out-of-State | $550

Credits to Graduate: 42

In Southern Illinois University's MHA program, you can take either online or on-campus courses. You can complete the 42-credit program in two years. 

You can also add a certificate of clinical leadership to your degree. The certificate focuses on patient care environments with courses in strategic planning and operations. 

You need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA to apply. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,591
Out-of-state
$9,591
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,268
Out-of-state
$28,170
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
11,366
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $586

Out-of-State | $1,602

Credits to Graduate: 49

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online executive MHA focusing on  building skills to navigate the modern healthcare marketplace. 

You participate in synchronous distance learning courses on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and complete intense on-campus workshops in business competencies.

You must complete three on-campus requirements each year, with the program lasting two years. To apply, you must submit your bachelor's degree transcripts, three references, and a personal statement. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
30,092
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Pfeiffer University

  • Misenheimer, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $680

Out-of-State | $680

Credits to Graduate: 39

Pfeiffer University offers an online MHA that you can complete in 29 months. The program's curriculum covers organizational communication and behavior, law and ethics, leadership, health economics, health services information, and financial management.

You engage in applied field experiences, usually conducted under the supervision of a senior manager. You can also participate in an optional study abroad experience for 7-10 days in London, Austria, or Germany.  

To apply, you need a bachelor's degree and three recommendation letters. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,550
Out-of-state
$30,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,600
Out-of-state
$12,600
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
1,185
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Utica College

  • Utica, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $690

Out-of-State | $690

Credits to Graduate: 36

The MHA program at Utica College follows a 100% online format with eight-week courses. The curriculum covers advanced leadership skills and helps prepare you for administrative roles across healthcare settings. 

You can enroll either full or part time. Although most courses follow an asynchronous format, some courses require scheduled Zoom sessions to meet your cohort. 

You need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a personal statement to apply for this program. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,560
Out-of-state
$21,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,480
Out-of-state
$21,480
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
4,613
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Concordia University-Irvine

  • Irvine, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $625

Out-of-State | $625

Credits to Graduate: 40

The fully online MHA program at Concordia University-Irvine emphasizes leadership, professionalism, healthcare environment knowledge, and business skills. 

You take seven-week courses one at a time. The culminating course involves a capstone project in which you carry out research and present your findings in class. 

You must submit your bachelor's degree transcripts, a statement of intent, and at least one professional reference to apply. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,250
Out-of-state
$37,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,121
Out-of-state
$8,121
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
4,071
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Online Master's in Healthcare Administration: Program Overview

Online MHA requirements vary by program. Earning your degree typically takes two years if you're attending full-time, but accelerated programs may only require 18 months. Part-time programs may take four years to complete depending on the number of credits you earn each term.

Most MHA programs require 30-60 credits in courses such as healthcare information systems, financial management, budgeting and marketing, law and compliance, and health policy. MHA students generally complete a thesis or capstone project addressing a real-world problem or policy issue.

How to Choose an Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration Program

When comparing online MHA programs, pay attention to key factors such as program delivery, accreditation status, tuition and fees, and the availability of specializations that interest you.

Program Format

While an online program may offer more flexibility than a campus-based degree, it's still important to understand your course delivery options. Does the program offer asynchronous courses that you can access at your convenience or a synchronous format that requires you to log in at specific times? Some degrees use a hybrid model that includes in-person attendance or on-campus residencies and online coursework.

Accreditation

Attending a school that holds accreditation from agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education ensures that you can transfer credits and receive federal financial aid. When choosing an online MHA program, look for degrees accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). CAHME accreditation indicates that your program meets rigorous standards of academic quality.

Cost

The average annual tuition for a graduate program in 2020-21 was $12,394 at a 4-year public institution compared to $26,621 at a private school, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Some online programs cost less than on-campus options. Enrolling in an online program may save you money on housing and transportation and give you the flexibility to keep working while earning your degree.

Specializations

Specializations can help you develop your expertise in a particular focus area that interests you. As the demand for healthcare administrators grows, specialization can make you more marketable. This list describes some of the most popular MHA specializations.

  • Healthcare Informatics: This subfield applies data analysis, information security, and business practices to healthcare delivery and electronic medical record-keeping.
  • Financial Management: Financial managers in healthcare organizations create and manage budgets, allocating and utilizing funds while minimizing risks.
  • Healthcare Policy: This specialization focuses on ethics and health law with applications in healthcare access, insurance, safety regulations, and government compliance.
  • Healthcare Operations: Prospective healthcare operations managers study marketing, human resources, facilities and project management, and asset management.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Healthcare Administration

An MHA helps prepare you for leadership roles in the healthcare industry, including hospitals, residential care facilities, and outpatient clinics. Many management roles in healthcare administration pay average salaries of 100,000 or more.

Healthcare Administration Career Outlook
Healthcare Administration Careers Median Annual Salary (2021) Projected Growth Rate (2021-2031)
Medical and Health Services Managers $101,340 28%
Administrative Services and Facilities Managers $99,290 7%
Financial Managers $131,710 17%
Sales Managers $127,490 5%

Source: BLS

Healthcare Administration Job and Salary Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), several demographic and industry changes will drive the employment and salary outlook for MHA jobs between 2021-31. The growing healthcare needs of the nation’s aging population, the emphasis on preventive care, and the expansion of IT and informatics systems and electronic health records contribute to the strong demand for healthcare administrators.

Is a Master's in Healthcare Administration (MHA) Worth It?

An online master's in healthcare administration program offers a convenient path to help you advance to leadership positions within the industry.

The BLS projects that medical and health service manager jobs will grow 28% between 2021 and 2031. These positions also pay a high average salary of about $100,000 per year. The top 10% of earners earn more than $200,000. Healthcare administration graduates can also pursue other hot jobs in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions About MHA Degrees

How long is a master's degree in healthcare administration?

Full-time students can complete an MHA degree in about two years, although curriculum requirements vary by program. Some schools offer accelerated programs that lead to a master's in 12-18 months.

What is the difference between an MHA and MBA in healthcare?

An MBA in healthcare is a business management degree that offers generalist courses in finance, economics, marketing and accounting with applications in healthcare administration. An MHA features a more specialized healthcare focus that covers the knowledge and skills for leadership roles in the healthcare industry.

What are the highest-paying healthcare administration jobs?

Healthcare administration jobs typically pay average annual salaries of $90,000-$100,000. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for hospital administrators was $90,770 as of June 2023. Clinical informatics managers — a relatively new position — earned $102,000.

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