MHA/MBA Dual Degrees Online: Finding Your Program
If you’re drawn to the business side of healthcare, should you earn a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA)? But what if you can earn both degrees in the same amount of time it takes to earn just one? For healthcare professionals with a strong interest in business, MHA/MBA dual degrees can offer a significant edge in today’s rapidly-evolving healthcare administration job market. Learn more about MHA/MBA dual degrees with EduMed.
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Inside Online MHA/MBA Dual Degree Programs
MHA/MBA dual degree programs are designed for students who want to combine healthcare administration expertise with business leadership skills. These programs cater to professionals who are aiming for executive roles in hospitals, healthcare organizations, and/or related industries. Many universities offer fully online or hybrid formats, which make it possible for working professionals to balance studies with careers.
Online MHA/MBA programs typically include asynchronous coursework, live virtual discussions, and group projects. But, some might require in-person residencies, networking events, and/or practical experiences. Unlike standalone MHA or MBA degrees, this dual degree provides a broader skill set that prepares graduates for strategic decision-making in both the healthcare sector and the business field.
When choosing a program, consider accreditation, flexibility, internship requirements, and technology needs. Check out three top dual degree options to see if this educational pathway might be for you.
AdventHealth University and Stetson University
AdventHealth University collaborates with Stetson University to offer an online MHA/MBA dual degree program. Graduates earn a Master of Healthcare Administration in Strategy and Innovation from AdventHealth University and a Master of Business Administration from Stetson University. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The schools’ MHA/MBA program is fully online; GRE or GMAT test scores are not required for admission. Each university provides students with an admissions specialist and an academic advisor to coordinate their journey throughout the program.
The program requires that students complete 27 credit hours in each subject (spread out over two years) to graduate. Courses are offered through live online sessions combined with recorded lectures; this format gives students flexibility to enroll in the dual degree program while working.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $670 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Resume/CV
- Goal statement/essay
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Two letters of recommendation
Curriculum:
- Foundations of Business Analytics
- Finance and Accounting
- Financial and Managerial Accounting for Managers
- Information Systems and Healthcare Informatics
- Population Health Management
- Healthcare Systems and Governance
The University of Scranton
The University of Scranton’s online MBA/MHA dual degree program is designed for professionals who are seeking leadership roles in both business and healthcare administration. The program takes approximately two and a half years to complete; it requires between 65 and 72 credit hours.
Dual accreditation sets this program apart – its MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), while its MHA is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
The curriculum integrates advanced business concepts such as the Triple Bottom Line theory – which evaluates the social, fiscal, and environmental impacts of business decisions – alongside healthcare-specific topics like regulatory compliance, quality management, and healthcare technology.
Students benefit from several financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs. The university provides specialized support for veterans and active-duty military personnel. The program is delivered fully online, which allows students to balance education with professional and personal commitments.
Duration: Approximately two and a half years
Mode: Online
Cost: $965 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Professional resume
- A statement of intent
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Three letters of recommendation
- At least three years of professional or supervisory work experience
- Background check
Curriculum:
- Accounting for Management
- Financial Management
- Health Care Law
- Health Care Statistics and Resource Methods
- Leadership in Health Care Organizations
- Healthcare IT Management
University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix offers a fully online MHA/MBA dual degree program. It is designed for working professionals who want to advance their career in healthcare leadership and business management. The program typically takes two and a half years to complete; it requires 58 credits. However, students can transfer eligible credits to reduce necessary coursework and graduate faster.
The dual-degree program blends healthcare administration with core business principles. It covers topics such as healthcare policy, financial management, strategic planning, marketing, and organizational leadership. Students engage in flexible, asynchronous online learning, which allows them to complete coursework on their own schedule.
An average course costs $2,289, including tuition and a $195 resource fee. The university offers scholarships that range from $1,000 to $3,000, plus access to federal grants, loans, and employer tuition assistance programs.
Duration: Approximately two and a half years
Mode: Online
Cost: $698 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Non-native English speakers must pass an English proficiency test.
Curriculum:
- Intro to Graduate Study in Health Sciences/Nursing
- Managerial Accounting and Legal Aspects of Business
- Systems Thinking in Healthcare Environments
- Financial Management in Healthcare
- Managing in a Changing Environment
- Marketing: Social, Mobile, and Analytics
FAQs About Online MHA/MBA Dual Degrees
How do online classes work in MHA/MBA dual degree programs?
Online healthcare administration classes can be synchronous or asynchronous. Synchronous courses require students to attend live virtual sessions at scheduled times and engage in lectures, discussions, Q&A sessions, and (sometimes) real-time quizzes. This format fosters direct interaction with instructors and peers.
In contrast, asynchronous courses offer flexibility by allowing students to complete lectures, assignments, and discussions on their own schedule while adhering to deadlines. Many programs blend both formats and incorporate case studies, group projects, and simulations to mirror real-world healthcare scenarios.
Expert Insight
When exploring asynchronous versus synchronous programs or sessions, it’s important to consider your work schedule and if you’ll have the flexibility to attend live virtual sessions.
What is the average cost of online MHA/MBA dual degrees?
The cost of online MHA/MBA dual degrees varies widely depending on the institution, accreditation, and credit hour requirements. On average, tuition ranges from $30,000 to $80,000; some programs exceed those amounts, depending on prestige and additional fees.
For example, The University of Scranton offers its online MBA/MHA dual degree program for $965 per credit hour. This adds up to an approximate total of $62,725 to $69,480 for completion of the program.
Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, tuition reimbursement programs, and military discounts, can help offset costs. Prospective students should consider hidden expenses like technology fees, textbooks, and residency travel costs when budgeting for a degree.
Expert Insight
Some employers offer tuition assistance. I was able to cover a significant portion of my MHA expenses from my employer tuition assistance program.
How do online MHA/MBA programs support networking and career advancement?
Despite being fully or primarily online, many MHA/MBA programs integrate networking and career-building opportunities. Students can connect through virtual networking events, discussion boards, group projects, and/or mentorship programs.
Many universities provide career services, job placement assistance, and access to alumni networks. Additionally, guest lectures, industry panels, and professional association partnerships can further enhance career advancement opportunities.
What are the benefits of earning MHA/MBA dual degrees instead of a single degree?
Both an MHA and an MBA focus on finance, leadership and strategy, and overall administration and management. The main difference is that MHA degrees concentrate on healthcare, where an MBA has a much broader business relevance. Therefore, a dual MHA/MBA degree can open doors to broader leadership positions and potentially offer graduates more career flexibility.
Additionally, completing a dual degree program often takes less time than earning both degrees separately, which makes it a more efficient option for career advancement.
What should I look for in online MHA/MBA dual degree programs?
When selecting an online MHA/MBA dual degree program, consider factors like accreditation, program format, faculty expertise, and networking opportunities. Accreditation by organizations like the CAHME (for MHA programs) and the AACSB (for MBA programs) ensures that the degree meets industry standards.
Look for a program that offers flexibility (such as asynchronous vs. synchronous courses) plus strong career services, internships, and networking opportunities. Tuition cost and financial aid options should also be considered.
Additionally, you should review a school’s curriculum to ensure that it aligns with your career goals; some programs emphasize hospital administration, while others focus on healthcare consulting, policy, or entrepreneurship.
Finally, check if a program requires any in-person residencies or practicum experiences, as this can impact your schedule and location preferences.
What Can You Do with MHA/MBA Dual Degrees?
Graduates of MHA/MBA dual degree programs can pursue leadership roles in hospitals, healthcare systems, insurance companies, consulting firms, and/or government agencies. A combination of healthcare expertise and business acumen opens doors to higher salaries, policy-making roles, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Some of these careers include:
Chief Executive Officer
Chief executive officers (CEOs) with MHA/MBA dual degrees oversee healthcare organizations and ensure operational efficiency, financial stability, and regulatory compliance. They develop strategic initiatives, manage resources, and foster relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies and investors.
Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential, as is a deep understanding of healthcare policies and business operations. CEOs drive innovation, spearhead growth strategies, and navigate complex industry challenges.
Healthcare Financial Manager
Healthcare financial managers with MHA/MBA dual degrees oversee budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting for healthcare organizations. They also ensure financial health through tax compliance, contract reviews, and resource allocation. Strong analytical, leadership, and strategic planning skills are essential for success in this role.
Hospital Administrator
Hospital administrators with MHA/MBA dual degrees manage operations, finances, and staffing within healthcare organizations. They ensure organizational efficiency, implement new policies, and stay updated on healthcare regulations. Strong leadership, multitasking, communication, and analytical skills are essential for success in this role. Hospital administrators earned an average annual salary of $110,278 as of February 2025, according to ZipRecruiter.
Management Consultant
Management consultants with MHA/MBA dual degrees help healthcare organizations identify inefficiencies and develop strategies for growth. They focus on improving revenue, reducing costs, and optimizing operations. Strong analytical, communication, problem-solving, and project management skills are essential for success in this role.
Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and health services managers with MHA/MBA dual degrees oversee healthcare operations and ensure efficiency and regulatory compliance. They plan, supervise, and manage services; develop goals; recruit and train staff; and handle budgeting. Medical and health services managers earned a median annual salary of $117,960 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
