Explore Top Online MHA Programs in Pennsylvania (PA)

University of Scranton

The University of Scranton’s online Master of Health Administration is CAHME-accredited and its course content is built around the ACHE Healthcare Leadership Alliance competency model. Students can complete the entire program online with no campus visits required. Full-time students typically complete the University of Scranton’s program in about 2.5 years.

However, an optional Global Health specialization adds a 150-hour international fieldwork component. This prepares students to shape the future of global healthcare with hands-on experience and invaluable networking.

Notably, applicants who have three or more years of healthcare experience will complete a different practicum course better suited to their knowledge and skill level.

Duration: Roughly 2.5 years for full-time students

Mode: Fully online with optional internship for specialization (on-campus option also available)

Cost: $965 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

• Completed online application
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Submit a résumé
• Complete a written personal statement
• One letter of recommendation
• Pass a criminal background check

Penn State World Campus

Penn State’s online MHA in Health Policy and Administration is CAHME-accredited and structured as a cohort program spanning seven continuous semesters. This 49-credit curriculum is a good option for those who want to learn alongside the same group of peers throughout their enrollment. Courses cover healthcare finance, law, marketing, and information systems.

All coursework can be completed online. However, students must complete two in-person “Management Intensives”, including a week-long onboarding session and a final presentation. Applicants with three or more years of healthcare-related work experience receive priority consideration, though it isn’t required to apply.

Duration: 2.5 years (seven continuous semesters)

Mode: Fully online coursework with two required in-person Management Intensives

Cost: $1,048 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

• Completed online application
• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA with official transcripts
• Submit a résumé, personal statement, and two supplemental essays
• Two professional references
• Complete a remote interview with the admissions committee

Duquesne University

Duquesne’s online Master of Health Administration is delivered online in 14 courses, with concentrations available in Health Informatics and Data Analytics, Healthcare Compliance and Risk Management, or Population Health. It ranks as one of the fastest MHA programs in Pennsylvania, with full-time students able to complete it in just 18 months.

With rolling admissions, it’s possible to start in either the fall or spring without waiting on a single yearly deadline. Coursework is delivered online, though a three-day on-campus residency is required.

Duquesne holds CAHME accreditation; however, its own disclosure states the MHA program is in a probationary term. This means the program remains fully CAHME-accredited right now and current students don’t risk losing standing, but CAHME has flagged specific compliance areas that need to be resolved within the one-year probationary window to keep its accreditation status going forward.

Duration: As short as 18 months

Mode: Fully online coursework with a three-day in-person residency at Duquesne’s Pittsburgh campus

Cost: $1,673 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

• Completed online application
• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA with official transcripts
• Submit a résumé, comprehensive essay, and statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• Two to three years of healthcare work experience recommended, but not required