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2024’s Best Online MBAs in Healthcare Management

Find top online healthcare management MBA programs and learn about healthcare management coursework, careers and financial aid.

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Enrolling in an online MBA in healthcare management can be a significant step toward career advancement in the healthcare field. These online degree programs are designed to help students gain essential business know-how and apply business practices in healthcare settings. However, the content and quality of online master’s in healthcare management programs can vary, so it’s important to do your research before applying to schools. We’ve compiled essential information on choosing the right program for your career path, what it takes to earn your MBA, and ways to pay for school. We’ve also researched and accounted for factors like affordability and accreditation to help prospective students find top online healthcare management MBA programs throughout the U.S. See which schools have the top programs for 2024.

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About the ranking

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Methodology for EduMed’s 2022 Best Online Programs

1. Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs

To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

  • Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • At least one program in subject area offered partially or fully online.

2. Assign Weightings

After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.

Online Program Availability

  • Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.

Affordability

  • Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
  • Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.

Support Services

  • Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
  • Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.

About Our Data

EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2021

# School Name Type Cost Online Programs More Details School Information Online Students Academic Counseling Career Placement Students w/Institutional Aid Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry Accreditation
1 Concordia University-Saint PaulSaint Paul, MN Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1

Completing an online MBA in health care management at Concordia University's St. Paul campus provides the skills and training needed to take on high-powered roles in diverse healthcare settings. This online, asynchronous program supports students from varied professional backgrounds with a focus on harnessing practical industry experience and information systems knowledge.

Some of the topics explored in this interactive online MBA include strategic healthcare leadership, applied ethics for health care leaders, tools for managerial decision analysis, and legal environments for managers. This program concludes with a reflection-based capstone. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit a personal statement alongside their completed application.

Program Highlights:

MBA – Health Care Management

  • Credits: 39
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $625/credit
  • Mode: Fully Online
  • Accreditation: HLC (school)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
96%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
2 Wilmington UniversityNew Castle, DE Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1

Wilmington University in Delaware offers a fully online MBA with 13 concentrations, including one in health care administration. Through accelerated courses lasting just seven weeks, students can cover a wide range of seminal topics while graduating in 12 months of full-time study.

Core classes include managerial decision-making, global marketing management, and organizational behavior and ethical leadership. Within the health care administration pathway, courses include health policy and economics, health insurance and reimbursement, legal aspects in health care, and marketing in the health care sector. Applicants must submit a completed application, a $35 non-refundable fee, and official transcripts. They must also participate in a program planning conference.

Program Highlights:

MBA – Health Care Administration

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: 1 year
  • Cost: $1,500/credit
  • Mode: Fully Online
  • Accreditation: MSCHE (school)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
16%
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
3 Ohio University-Main CampusAthens, OH Public N/A 1

Ohio University offers a 35-credit online MBA focused on health care that takes just two years to complete. While all classes can be completed via distance learning, students must participate in a leadership development program offered at the university's Athens, Ohio, campus.

In addition to core business administration classes, students following this concentration cover studies in the U.S. health care delivery system, health care finance, and health law. Upon graduating, alumni go on to positions as medical and health services managers, health informatics managers, and corporate social responsibility managers. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, 3.0 or higher GPA, and two or more years of professional experience. They must supply official transcripts, a current resume, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement.

Program Highlights:

Online MBA – Health Care Concentration

  • Credits: 35
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost: $1,028/credit (resident); $1,047/credit (non-resident)
  • Mode: Partially Online
  • Accreditation: AACSB (school)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
83%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
4 Mount Vernon Nazarene UniversityMount Vernon, OH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1

Located in Ohio, Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) provides an online MBA in health care administration via the School of Graduate & Professional Studies. Designed to support working professionals, this flexible program takes just 19 months to complete and offers multiple start dates throughout the academic year. Each class lasts six weeks to accommodate learners looking to graduate on an accelerated schedule.

Learners who previously completed approved graduate credits can transfer up to six of these into the MVNU program. Some of the required health care administration courses include health care management, legal aspects of health care organizations, leadership in health care organizations, and health services administration.

Program Highlights:

Online MBA in Health Care Administration

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: 19 months
  • Cost: $498/credit
  • Mode: Fully Online
  • Accreditation: HLC (school)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
81%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
5 Trevecca Nazarene UniversityNashville, TN Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1

From its home base in Nashville, Tennessee, Trevecca Nazarene University provides a 100% online MBA with several concentrations, including health care administration. Students pursuing the standard program graduate in 22 months of full-time study, while those who opt for the accelerated pathway can finish in just 15 months.

Some of the topics covered within the nine-credit concentration include health care strategy, quality health care management, and legal and regulatory issues in health care. Students also benefit from a mentoring program designed to pair business leaders with degree seekers. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree from a CHEA-recognized institution and a 2.75 or higher GPA.

Program Highlights:

Online MBA in Health Care Administration

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: 15-22 months
  • Cost: $563/credit
  • Mode: Fully Online
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC (school)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
6 Youngstown State UniversityYoungstown, OH Public N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
68%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
7 Rivier UniversityNashua, NH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
99%
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education
8 University of Southern IndianaEvansville, IN Public N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
62%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
9 Belhaven UniversityJackson, MS Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
10 University of Louisiana at LafayetteLafayette, LA Public N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
57%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
11 Purdue University-GlobalS Portland, ME Private, For-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
0%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
12 Minnesota State University MoorheadMoorhead, MN Public N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
56%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
13 University of ScrantonScranton, PA Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
93%
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
14 Queens University of CharlotteCharlotte, NC Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
97%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
15 Rosemont CollegeRosemont, PA Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
16 University of Saint MaryLeavenworth, KS Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
98%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
17 Walsh UniversityNorth Canton, OH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
18 Tiffin UniversityTiffin, OH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 2 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
93%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
19 Pfeiffer UniversityMisenheimer, NC Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
89%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
20 Anderson UniversityAnderson, IN Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
21 Capella UniversityMinneapolis, MN Private, For-Profit N/A 2 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
50%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
22 Saint Joseph’s UniversityPhiladelphia, PA Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 2 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
97%
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
23 Brenau UniversityGainesville, GA Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
90%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
24 University of St FrancisJoliet, IL Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
98%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
25 Baker CollegeFlint, MI Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
88%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
26 Colorado Technical University-Colorado SpringsColorado Springs, CO Private, For-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
15%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
27 University of MaryBismarck, ND Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
99%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
28 New England CollegeHenniker, NH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
83%
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education
29 Davenport UniversityGrand Rapids, MI Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
93%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
30 MCPHS UniversityBoston, MA Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
99%
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education
31 Oklahoma Christian UniversityEdmond, OK Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
98%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
32 George Washington UniversityWashington, DC Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
75%
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
33 Cleary UniversityHowell, MI Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
94%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
34 Southern New Hampshire UniversityManchester, NH Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
39%
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education
35 Our Lady of the Lake UniversitySan Antonio, TX Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Students w/
Institutional Aid
95%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
36 Saint Mary’s University of MinnesotaWinona, MN Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
No
Students w/
Institutional Aid
100%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission
37 Western Governors UniversitySalt Lake City, UT Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
No
Students w/
Institutional Aid
0%
AccreditationDistance Education Accrediting Commission
38 Charleston Southern UniversityCharleston, SC Private, Not-for-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
No
Students w/
Institutional Aid
99%
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
39 American Sentinel UniversityAurora, CO Private, For-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
No
Students w/
Institutional Aid
0%
AccreditationDistance Education Accrediting Commission
40 Walden UniversityMinneapolis, MN Private, For-Profit N/A 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
No
Students w/
Institutional Aid
0%
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission

B-School Profiles: Inside Look at 3 Online Healthcare MBA Programs

What’s it really like to earn your healthcare management MBA online, how long will it take to earn your degree, and what types of classes will you take? Take a look at our three B-School spotlights below and get an early preview of what you can expect from these and similar online MBA programs.

University of Texas at Tyler

TYLER

The University of Texas at Tyler offers an online MBA in healthcare management that aims to help students attain advanced leadership and management roles in the healthcare industry. The AACSB-accredited program can be completed in as few as 12 months and is fully online. The courses are asynchronous, so students can work through materials on their own schedule. The curriculum includes 27 credit hours of core courses plus nine credit hours of concentration courses tailored specifically to issues in healthcare. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and must meet GMAT score requirements. However, GMAT scores may be waived for students with a 60-hour GPA of 3.25 or higher. UT at Tyler also offers tuition discounts up to $5,000 to those employed by corporate sponsor organizations, making it a great option for qualifying MBA students.

Benedictine University

BENEDICTINE

Benedictine’s online MBA in healthcare management is designed to be completed in 18 months. Students gain a solid foundation in business skills, theory and practice and can tailor their studies through their choice of healthcare-focused elective courses like public health, environmental health and the business of healthcare. Each healthcare course involves a mini capstone, allowing students to apply their new knowledge in a controlled, practical scenario under instructor guidance. Benedictine’s healthcare courses are taught by faculty from their accredited Master of Public Health program, so students can benefit from the expertise of the school’s business and health departments alike. Benedictine’s online MBA in healthcare administration does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission, and students can choose between a traditional MBA and an accelerated degree. This degree can be completed fully online, but Illinois students can also enroll in a hybrid program if they prefer. Additionally, those with a professional background in business may be able to waive some foundational courses, speeding up their degree and cutting costs at the same time.

Western Governors University

WGU

Western Governors University offers a flexible, competency-based online MBA in healthcare management. Rather than working through courses in a traditional sense, students prove their competency in certain skill and knowledge areas through tests, essays and projects. Therefore, students who have relevant work skills can breeze through familiar subject areas and quickly move on to new subject matter. The degree consists of 11 courses, including a capstone. The capstone is a group project, so students may have a little less flexibility in completing that at their own pace. Western Governers is also unique in its tuition structure. Instead of charging per credit, WGU charges a flat rate per six-month term. The faster you finish, the less you pay. Most students finish their MBA in about two years, but those with a robust professional background could complete their degree in less time. WGU provides interactive tools to help MBA students determine their cost of attendance, and they offer a handful of scholarships for those pursuing master’s degrees. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and significant professional experience in business.

Accreditation for Online MBAs in Healthcare Management

Accreditation indicates that an institution or program of study has been evaluated by a board and meets certain quality standards. When looking for an online healthcare management MBA program, students should check for regional and programmatic accreditation. Regional accreditation evaluates an institution as a whole and is the most widely recognized form of accreditation. Programmatic accreditation has a narrower scope and assesses the quality of degree and certificate programs within a specific field of study. Many online healthcare management MBA programs may be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is an international professional organization and accrediting body for business programs. However, prospective students can also look for accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), which is the only accrediting body that focuses specifically on master’s degrees in healthcare management. Over 100 programs are CAHME accredited. Students may also find healthcare management MBA programs that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), which evaluates collegiate business programs of all levels.

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Earning Your MBA in Healthcare Management Online

Each online healthcare management MBA program is different, so it’s important that prospective students do ample research before jumping into a degree program. Making an informed decision can help students feel prepared and confident that they are making the best move for their career goals and personal circumstances.

What do you learn in an online MBA in healthcare management?

While program specifics can vary, most healthcare management MBA programs will cover a similar set of core subjects essential to the healthcare management field. Since MBA programs in healthcare management are business programs first and healthcare programs second, curricula typically consist of more finance, marketing, management and accounting courses. However, healthcare management MBAs may examine these skills from a healthcare lens or provide students with opportunities to apply traditional business skills in healthcare scenarios. Check out some common courses you may come across in your healthcare management MBA program.

Marketing

Marketing courses may cover principles of marketing, market research, branding, marketing strategies, consumer behavior and implementation of marketing plans. In the healthcare industry, knowing how to appeal to new and existing patients is essential. Many people have multiple options when choosing healthcare providers, so standing out in a positive way is crucial.

Course titles to look for: Marketing Fundamentals; Marketing Strategy; Healthcare Marketing in Contemporary Society

Organizational Issues and Communication

This is a broad subject, so different programs may focus on different aspects of communication and organizational issues as they pertain to healthcare. Students may learn about management, organizational behavior and communication theories; conflict management and resolution; and challenges within the healthcare industry. Classes may provide an overview of the U.S. healthcare system and regulatory policies and challenge students to assess complex healthcare issues and apply business-focused decision-making skills to find resolutions.

Course titles to look for: Organizational Behavior; Organization of Healthcare Systems and Policy; Organizational Behavior and Communication; Social and Organizational Issues in Healthcare

Leadership

Leadership courses may provide students with general leadership theory and skills or be focused specifically on leadership in healthcare. Students can study ethics in management and business and hone their decision-making skills as they pertain to healthcare management. When working in both healthcare and business, graduates may find themselves making difficult decisions that must balance business with care and management of different people within a healthcare system.

Course titles to look for: Ethical Leadership; Leadership and Management; Healthcare Strategic Leadership

Healthcare Information Systems

These courses focus on information systems and technologies used for patient care and administrative management. The goal of information systems and informatics classes is to give students the chance to survey tools and best practices pertaining to efficient data delivery and communication in healthcare. Students may combine health sciences and business decision-making with computer and information sciences to evaluate healthcare information systems and determine the best way to provide support to staff and patients.

Course titles to look for: Healthcare Information Systems; Healthcare Informatics

Capstone or Practicum:

Many programs include a capstone or practicum, where students have the opportunity to explore a particular aspect of healthcare management more thoroughly and gain practical experience in the field. MBA capstones are often projects completed in small groups in order to simulate running a business, so healthcare students may have to collaborate with peers online. Practicums are typically completed in person and allow students to gain guided, hands-on experience in healthcare management. Both give students the chance to apply their new knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios.

Course titles to look for: Capstone Project; Healthcare Management Practicum; Healthcare Administration Practicum; MBA Capstone Course


A combination of general MBA coursework and coursework focused specifically on healthcare management can give students the theoretical knowledge needed to navigate the industry, but MBA students also have the opportunity to gain practical skills that can boost their success. Prospective students can look at course descriptions to see if their program may provide opportunities to gain and hone skills like:

  • Identifying target audiences for healthcare services and developing effective marketing strategies
  • Human resources management
  • Recognizing and addressing healthcare-specific challenges, like the cause and effects of introducing or changing clinical information systems
  • Financial management for healthcare systems
  • Using quantitative tools and techniques, like statistics and linear programming, to make decisions

Can you specialize when earning an MBA in healthcare management?

Sometimes students have the option to specialize within their degree program. Degree specializations allow for more focused study in a particular aspect of healthcare management, which can open up different or more advanced career opportunities. Healthcare management is a multifaceted field, and some aspects may be more relevant to some career goals than others, making specialization an appealing option. For many online MBA programs, healthcare management is a specialization in and of itself; however, students can tailor their knowledge by taking elective courses specific to their prospective career path.

Healthcare Operations Management

Studies in healthcare operations management will help students familiarize themselves with and hone their skills in strategic operations management and supply chain management in a healthcare setting. Students looking to pursue careers that focus on the “big picture” operations of a healthcare facility may want to explore courses in this vein.

Insurance and Risk Management

Insurance and risk management delves deeper into proactive and reactive measures healthcare managers may take to prevent or control safety hazards to patients, staff and visitors. This can include incident management, insurance and claims management, clinical research, emergency preparedness and healthcare policy and legislation.

Human Resources Management

Students who focus on human resources management will learn theories and techniques for building and maintaining an effective healthcare workforce. This may include studies in employee relations, impacts of technologies and regulations on employees and effective management of human capital to deliver high quality healthcare services to patients.

How long does it take to earn your MBA in healthcare management online?

One of the benefits of an online MBA program is that students can often log in and work through their classes at their convenience rather than having to push classes off because they don’t align with their work or personal schedules. Most programs can be completed in 18 months of full-time study, but some can be completed in as little as a year. Those taking classes part-time can expect their degree to take two to three years to complete, depending on their course load. Some programs may also require a capstone, practicum or research project, which can lengthen the completion time.

How much does an online healthcare management MBA cost?

The cost of earning your MBA in healthcare management online can vary. Many factors, like the individual school, how long it takes you to complete the program and your financial aid, come into play and should be considered when calculating the cost of your MBA. For instance, the University of Texas at Tyler gives a program estimate of $30,219, given that students take two courses per term, or “session”. However, since students must pay a fee for each session, those who take only one course at a time will pay more overall. Even if the degree program is fully online, tuition may be different for in-state students and out-of-state students, so it’s important that prospective MBA students carefully check program details and speak with an academic advisor for clarification.

Paying for Your Online MBA in Healthcare Management Program

Making sure you are financially prepared to enroll in an online MBA program is vital. Starting your MBA before securing financial aid may put you at risk of not completing your degree, so it’s best to plan early. Factoring tuition and fees into your budget can be daunting, but there are many ways to help offset the cost of earning an MBA.

1

Scholarships

Many schools provide students with a list of institutionally-affiliated scholarships related to their area of study, which can be a great place for healthcare management MBA students to start their search. Students can also look for scholarships provided by business, healthcare and other organizations and professional associations. For instance, CAHME offers multiple scholarships to students enrolled in CAHME-accredited healthcare management degree programs. Application deadlines vary by scholarship, but it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible to ensure the award applies to the correct academic term.

2

Financial aid

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens students to a variety of federal financial aid opportunities, including grants, work-study and federal loans. Schools may also use the FAFSA to determine your institutional financial aid package. Some aid opportunities are distributed on a first-come-first-served basis, so students should submit their applications early. The FAFSA opens October 1st for the following academic year.

3

Grants

Like scholarships, grants are an excellent form of financial aid that don’t need to be paid back. They may be offered by government organizations, schools or private foundations and can be awarded based on your area of study, financial need or academic merit. Learn more about grants and other financial aid opportunities.

4

Employer sponsorship

Some businesses will help their employees pay for additional training and expertise by providing tuition assistance up to a certain amount. There are usually stipulations, like attending a specific school or agreeing to work for the business for a certain number of years upon program completion, so it’s important that you understand the terms of your employer sponsorship before applying to an online healthcare management MBA program.

5

Private Loans

If scholarships, grants and federal loans don’t cover tuition and fees, you can apply for a private loan. These are not based on financial need, so loan amounts can vary and are often dependent your credit and cosigners. Private loans often have a higher interest rate than federal loans.

6

Retirement savings

Using retirement savings, like an IRA, to pay for school can be tricky, but it can be a good option under the right circumstances. The IRS removes the 10 percent early withdrawal penalty as long as the funds are used toward qualifying education expenses at an eligible institution. Students are responsible for paying income taxes on withdrawn funds, so plan accordingly.

https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/qualified-ed-expenses

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/slideshows/10-ways-to-find-money-to-pay-for-an-mba

Next Step: After the MBA in Healthcare Management Online

Pursuing an online MBA in healthcare management may seem like a surefire way to advance your career, but before enrolling, it’s important to research the industry and the various avenues you can explore. Asking key questions can help prospective students determine whether or not this degree can help them reach their career and income goals.

Do you need a special license or certification to work or advance?

While there aren’t any certifications or credentials required to work in healthcare management, MBAs may opt to pursue a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) credential. This credential indicates a high level of healthcare management expertise. It can take a while to earn–base qualifications include three years of ACHE membership and five years of executive-level healthcare management experience–so students interested in pursuing this credential should research it early and factor the certification steps into their education plans.

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What can you do with an MBA in healthcare management?

An MBA in healthcare management can prepare graduates for a wide variety of advanced positions and leadership roles in the field. Understanding potential career paths before starting their online MBA can help students make the right decisions for their professional goals.

MBA in Healthcare Management Healthcare Administrator Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) Health Information Managers Healthcare Consultant

Healthcare Administrators
Healthcare administrators are in charge of the operations of a healthcare facility, medical practice or specific care department. This can include staffing, training, assessing and improving facility efficacy, financial management, communication and goal-setting.

Health Information Managers
These administrators focus specifically on the organization and security of patient records and information. They must stay on top of technological changes, database security and relevant legislation to ensure patient data is safe and organized.

CFOs
CFOs are in charge of the financial operations of their healthcare facility. They assess finances, set goals and oversee the execution of those goals. CFOs may also study market trends to inform their financial decisions and the direction of the healthcare facility.

Healthcare Consultants
Healthcare consultants are a type of management analyst with expertise in the healthcare field. They observe a healthcare facility and offer suggestions to improve its efficacy and profitability. Healthcare consultants gather and analyze data, determine areas for improvement, research solutions and make long-term plans for a facility.

How much can you earn with an MBA in healthcare management?

The healthcare industry is growing rapidly and offers a median annual wage of $66,440, which is significantly higher than the national average for all careers. (BLS, May 2018) For healthcare managers, annual earnings can range from around $40,000 to over $200,000. Education level and experience in the field account for this huge range in salary potential. In general, those with higher degree levels and more relevant work experience see considerably higher earnings. Take a look at the table below to see how education and experience affects salaries for careers relevant to students seeking MBAs in healthcare management.

Area Name Employment Entry-Level Early Career Mid-Career Experienced Late Career
Alabama 3,240 $55,240 $70,500 $90,500 $119,740 $157,040
Alaska 1,100 $64,180 $76,370 $99,040 $130,340 $187,660
Arizona 8,160 $55,720 $73,140 $97,520 $131,090 $201,860
Arkansas 4,900 $49,330 $60,380 $74,920 $96,490 $126,280
California 34,510 $60,240 $82,300 $116,080 $153,740 $200,340
Colorado 5,460 $62,980 $81,650 $108,660 $138,030 $181,790
Connecticut 5,510 $75,350 $90,020 $109,600 $146,560 -
Delaware 1,040 $71,720 $89,800 $114,480 $147,450 -
District of Columbia 1,580 $83,240 $103,360 $127,960 $164,210 -
Florida - $54,850 $72,010 $95,740 $126,230 $182,690
Georgia 8,790 $57,620 $74,110 $96,220 $126,510 $184,680
Hawaii 1,640 $65,660 $88,620 $114,490 $146,490 $185,400
Idaho 2,070 $48,380 $63,810 $86,160 $112,730 $141,840
Illinois 14,050 $65,350 $80,870 $103,700 $136,860 $205,890
Indiana 7,350 $54,590 $69,960 $90,410 $117,700 $156,360
Iowa 6,670 $53,270 $63,300 $77,120 $97,590 $126,090
Kansas 3,890 $54,880 $68,680 $85,610 $107,390 $140,990
Kentucky 5,000 $53,360 $66,850 $83,550 $105,400 $135,950
Louisiana 4,540 $59,820 $73,200 $90,840 $111,250 $149,790
Maine 2,000 $60,840 $71,670 $87,010 $104,280 $132,380
Maryland 11,210 $74,210 $91,390 $113,150 $144,880 $198,360
Massachusetts 15,380 $65,590 $84,960 $113,690 $157,710 -
Michigan 11,960 $57,090 $71,980 $94,540 $126,130 $191,890
Minnesota 8,220 $65,870 $78,970 $100,090 $126,460 $163,050
Mississippi 3,010 $47,380 $61,860 $80,950 $106,670 $151,880
Missouri 6,840 $61,160 $77,980 $98,370 $127,540 $177,860
Montana 1,430 $55,950 $69,850 $87,060 $110,040 $141,500
Nebraska 2,790 $59,470 $75,200 $96,490 $122,430 $164,860
Nevada 2,360 $65,040 $88,600 $113,310 $136,120 $179,720
New Hampshire 1,910 $64,140 $77,850 $98,290 $130,210 $174,710
New Jersey 11,260 $82,290 $93,490 $111,260 $129,750 $161,270
New Mexico 1,640 $67,540 $83,090 $102,100 $135,730 -
New York 25,830 $74,030 $94,060 $123,100 $164,210 -
North Carolina 9,230 $70,230 $82,650 $101,020 $129,820 $183,500
North Dakota 920 $63,450 $77,190 $99,770 $126,860 $169,840
Ohio 14,760 $57,270 $71,860 $91,300 $118,700 $154,540
Oklahoma 6,450 $46,750 $59,860 $79,040 $104,050 $139,750
Oregon 4,680 $63,010 $81,870 $105,690 $138,800 $187,220
Pennsylvania 16,410 $53,360 $67,600 $87,790 $114,630 $148,730
Rhode Island 1,660 $71,180 $88,660 $112,490 $147,680 -
South Carolina 5,470 $51,400 $66,960 $86,920 $114,260 $153,900
South Dakota 730 $68,540 $83,720 $101,340 $121,590 $144,740
Tennessee 10,320 $51,960 $67,780 $89,050 $118,140 $161,900
Texas 30,010 $51,430 $71,120 $95,590 $123,070 $163,250
Utah 3,560 $49,620 $67,080 $89,900 $123,090 $167,810
Vermont 1,060 $55,320 $69,120 $86,640 $116,620 $160,760
Virgin Islands 120 $47,860 $60,280 $76,480 $102,220 $177,940
Virginia 7,650 $65,310 $85,180 $104,010 $133,610 $171,800
Washington 6,950 $59,160 $79,600 $107,270 $135,340 $189,310
West Virginia 1,610 $60,070 $76,700 $96,920 $125,010 $169,030
Wisconsin 6,250 $68,270 $82,620 $98,600 $122,790 $154,840
Wyoming 850 $62,210 $73,700 $91,730 $115,470 $144,870
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Related Degrees

Related Degrees

If after looking into online MBAs in healthcare management you find that it might not be the route for you, don’t worry; the healthcare industry offers myriad paths for those looking to advance their careers or try something new. Similar degrees in the healthcare management field can be excellent means of pivoting into a new career or gaining more expertise in a familiar area.

Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration

Like an MBA, this degree pairs healthcare studies with business studies. The biggest difference between the two is that an MHA focuses primarily on integrating business practices in a healthcare environment, while an MBA focuses on gaining general business knowledge that can be applied in healthcare. An MHA may be a good option for students who know they want business knowledge specific to the healthcare industry rather than general business knowledge that can be applied in a variety of settings.

Online PhD in Healthcare Administration

Those who want to conduct original research to advance the field of healthcare administration may opt to pursue a PhD in Healthcare Administration. Graduates may take on positions as researchers or educators, or they may work directly in healthcare management.