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MBA degrees in healthcare management prepare you for success in an in-demand field. These are the top five online programs for MBA in healthcare management.
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Online MBA healthcare management programs help you develop foundational business skills for the contemporary healthcare system and market. You can learn about finance, marketing, and leadership, along with health informatics, healthcare operations, and health law.
With an MBA in healthcare management, you could help improve the U.S. healthcare system. The outlook for the profession appears bright as well, outpacing the demand in most other fields.
Find out what the best online MBA in healthcare management programs and careers have to offer.
Popular Online Healthcare Management Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Is Healthcare Management?
Healthcare management involves overseeing various healthcare facilities, departments, and networks. Managers ensure their facility or department runs smoothly and provides high-quality patient care. Their typical job duties include setting goals, supervising staff members, and ensuring the facility complies with regulations and laws.
To prepare students for their future, MBA healthcare management programs provide general business skills and in-depth knowledge of healthcare systems and operations. Some programs offer specializations in health information management, nursing home administration, or clinical management.
Graduates with an MBA in healthcare management can pursue careers as medical and health services managers, healthcare administrators, and healthcare consultants. They may work in hospitals, physician's offices, nursing and residential care facilities, and the government. They can also take on administrative service management roles in non-healthcare industries.
According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 560,000 medical and health services managers were employed in 2023. The BLS also projects the addition of more than 160,000 new healthcare managers between 2023-2033, attributing the growth to the need for more healthcare services and technologically skilled leaders.
The Top Online Healthcare Management MBAs
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#1 Top 5 Online MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Founded in 1947 with about 250 students, UNCW has grown to host a student body of over 17,000. The university works with local military stations to create flexible programs for military personnel and their families.
Master of Business Administration with a Specialization in Healthcare Management Online
The Cameron School of Business at UNCW offers several MBA concentrations, including a specialization in healthcare management. This 36-credit program includes 30 core credits in economics, management, accounting, analytics, and marketing. Students complete the degree with healthcare-focused analytics, systems, and finance electives.
UNCW's healthcare management MBA features six start dates a year, including two summer options. Students can finish in as little as 12 months with accelerated seven-week classes.
The fully online program gives learners access to the university's digital library, support resources, and extensive networking community.
UNCW's Affordability
UNCW's online students can pay by the course rather than financing a full semester at one time. North Carolina residents attending part-time pay $1,509 per course in tuition and fees. Full-time students may receive lower rates.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
Tuition: $470/credit (part time, in state); $1,269/credit (part time, out of state)
Required Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 12 months
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Admissions
Process: Admission requires official transcripts from an accredited bachelor's degree program, at least two years of professional work experience, a resume and cover letter, and two letters of recommendation.
GPA: 3.0
Standardized Tests: GMAT
Cost: $80
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,443
Out-of-state
$18,508
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,719
Out-of-state
$18,548
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
17,915
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Top 5 Online MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
Parker University
Dallas, TX
4 years
Online
Located in Dallas, Texas, this healthcare-focused university is known for its chiropractic doctoral program. Parker partners with 35 private practices to give students hands-on experience and research opportunities.
Master of Business Administration Healthcare Management Concentration
The MBA healthcare management concentration from Parker weaves management, research, and analysis into a flexible program for working professionals. The core MBA curriculum includes courses in accounting, ethical leadership, and business research. Three healthcare-focused courses complete the concentration, exploring analysis, policy, and legal issues.
Students pursuing Parker's MBA in healthcare management complete a capstone in business strategy. The course requires learners to think critically about healthcare operations and management, conduct case studies, and complete a practicum project.
Some applicants must complete six credits of prerequisite coursework before entering the 36-credit program.
Parker's Affordability
Students with the required undergraduate coursework can bypass prerequisites to save money on tuition. Parker also offers merit-based and need-based scholarships and grants.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Tuition: $775/credit
Required Credits: 36-42 credits
Program Length: 6-7 terms
Delivery Format: 100% online, on campus, or hybrid
Admissions
Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school. Students with a GPA of at least 3.0 or those with a GPA of 2.7 plus two or more years of relevant work experience may waive GMAT or GRE requirements.
Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
Cost: $50
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,622
Out-of-state
$21,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,870
Out-of-state
$12,870
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,697
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Top 5 Online MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
West Texas A & M University
Canyon, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
WTAMU's 342-acre campus is located in Canyon, Texas. Since its founding in 1910, the university has grown to include several online and hybrid programs. Online students at WTAMU enjoy multiple resources for distance learners, like a virtual math lab and writing center.
Master of Business Administration — Healthcare Management Specialization
The healthcare management MBA specialization from WTAMU is housed in the school's Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business. Students may take up to six years to finish the program. The MBA is available online or in a hybrid format to allow scheduling flexibility.
Before starting the program, learners need experience in accounting, finance, and statistics. Students without prior coursework in these areas may take placement tests to determine if they can skip prerequisite courses.
The program's core areas of study include economic theory, international business, and computer technology. The healthcare specialization adds the learner's choice of healthcare-focused courses totaling nine credits. Options include healthcare marketing, legal aspects of healthcare, and information technology planning.
WTAMU's Affordability
WTAMU students from several Texas-bordering counties in New Mexico and Oklahoma receive residential tuition rates. MBA learners can also apply for scholarships from WTAMU and the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
Tuition: $321/credit (in state); $747/credit (out of state)
Required Credits: 37-48 credits
Program Length: 2 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous) or hybrid
Admissions
Process: WTAMU's applicants submit a resume and undergraduate transcripts to receive a personalized study plan. Next, students complete an application and submit official transcripts, a statement of goals, and three letters of recommendation.
Standardized Tests: GMAT
Cost: $40
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,748
Out-of-state
$7,195
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,968
Out-of-state
$5,832
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
10,036
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Top 5 Online MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Regent's Virginia Beach, Virginia, campus sits near the shoreline and the city's popular attractions. The Christian school holds eight accreditations and operates a Center for Student Happiness to encourage academic, professional, and personal excellence.
MBA – Healthcare Management
The healthcare management MBA from Regent blends Christian education with entrepreneurial skill-building and healthcare-related technologies and practices. Students complete hands-on projects throughout the curriculum to build a solid portfolio by graduation.
Each course takes eight weeks, with full-time students typically completing two courses at a time. Learners develop a business plan throughout their program, culminating in a business planning and launching course that can help put their vision into action.
Online Regent students can access digital library resources, an academic support center, success coaching, and educational webinars.
Regent's Affordability
Regent offers several student scholarships, including aid from the School of Business and Leadership. Regent also matches donations from a student's church, up to $750 per semester, as a grant toward tuition.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: SACSCOC, ACBSP
Tuition: $695/credit
Required Credits: 42 credits
Program Length: 16 months
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous), hybrid, or on campus
Admissions
Process: After completing an online application, applicants must submit unofficial transcripts, an admissions questionnaire, and a copy of their government-issued ID.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,220
Out-of-state
$17,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,552
Out-of-state
$15,552
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
10,483
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
#5 Top 5 Online MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Situated on Long Island near New York City, Hofstra provides opportunities for students to grow their networks, find career opportunities, and explore nearby attractions. Graduate students can choose from 190 programs emphasizing cross-cultural learning.
MBA in Strategic Healthcare Management
Offered through the Frank G. Zarb School of Business, Hofstra University's strategic healthcare management MBA allows students up to five years to complete the program. The curriculum includes 24 core business credits, nine healthcare management-focused credits, and a three-credit capstone course. Students must attend orientation and capstone residencies.
For the capstone, enrollees choose between a report-based strategic decision-making course and an experiential learning co-op. Students can also add an optional global practicum to their program. During the weeklong practicum, MBA candidates travel to other countries and learn about international business practices.
Applicants with a minimum 3.2 undergraduate GPA can waive GMAT and GRE requirements.
Hofstra University's Affordability
Hofstra's four-year locked tuition rate program allows students to budget for their MBA without worrying about rising tuition costs. Learners can also make monthly payments each semester to help them manage their finances.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $1,605/credit
Required Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 16 months
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous and synchronous)
Admissions
Process: Hofstra applicants must submit official transcripts from all prior colleges or universities, a resume, GMAT or GRE scores, and contact information for three recommendations.
Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE
Cost: $75
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,315
Out-of-state
$48,315
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$26,172
Out-of-state
$26,172
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
10,444
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
This list has not been updated for 2024. Visit our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Healthcare Management Degree Options
Healthcare management master's programs can come in several degree types, including a specialized MBA, a master of science (MS), and a master of healthcare administration (MHA).
Each of these options features a different focus, such as business management or healthcare decision-making.
MBA in Healthcare Management
An MBA in healthcare management covers general business skills with a focus on healthcare management. Students gain leadership, communication, project management, and decision-making skills, particularly as they relate to healthcare.
MS in Healthcare Management
An MS in healthcare management provides an in-depth understanding of modern issues facing the healthcare industry. Students learn to evaluate healthcare proposals, compare technology solutions, and oversee healthcare settings.
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
An MHA focuses on the administrative duties of a healthcare manager, including healthcare-specific finance, systems, and policy. Students learn about healthcare legal and ethical issues, laws and regulations, and evidence-based analysis.
Students may also encounter MBA healthcare management programs with other names, such as MBA in healthcare administration, MBA in hospital management, or MBA in healthcare. These degrees typically cover the same issues as MBAs in healthcare management but can differ in scope and approach.
MBAs in Healthcare Management vs. General MBAs
General MBA and MBA healthcare management programs share many similarities, including the program structure and core requirements. However, MBA healthcare management programs substitute some general business fundamental coursework with courses that explore business applications in healthcare.
If you know that you want to work in the healthcare industry, consider a healthcare management MBA. If you want to develop business management skills but haven't settled on a career destination, explore all available MBA programs.
In the table below, we compare healthcare management and general MBA programs to help you identify your ideal degree.
Side by Side: General MBA vs MBA in Healthcare Management
Comparison Factor
MBA in Healthcare Management
General MBA
Program Length
Two years
Two years
Types of Classes
Health operations, health economics, health informatics
Accounting, finance, marketing, business ethics
Focus
General business and healthcare management knowledge and skills
General business management knowledge and skills
Available Jobs
Medical and health services manager, healthcare consultant, healthcare administrator, administrative services manager
Administrative services manager, top executive, sales manager, training and development manager
Admission Requirements
Bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, professional experience
Bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, professional experience
Course Load
30-45 credits
30-45 credits
Popular Healthcare Management MBA Courses
MBA healthcare management program curriculums vary among institutions, but most focus on healthcare law and regulations, organizational and operational management, and financial reporting and analysis.
Most programs feature 30-45 credits of core and concentration/elective courses. Healthcare management students commonly complete capstone projects, as well. Some popular healthcare management courses include:
E-Service Management In Healthcare: This course considers how technological change, communications, and connectivity affect healthcare service delivery. Students learn to design, evaluate, and explain e-service solutions in healthcare.
Strategic Management: Enrollees learn about processes that affect an organization's ability to manage innovation and change. This core class explores theoretical issues of strategic management and practical frameworks for leading organizations.
Population Health Informatics: This class provides an introduction to population health management and improvement through public health data and healthcare information technology (IT). Degree-seekers apply IT strategies to improve patient care while considering social context, legal and ethical concerns, and technology availability.
Policy and Finance for Healthcare Delivery: This course emphasizes the role of leadership in improving healthcare service delivery. Learners explore financing structures and policy changes that can improve patient care.
Healthcare Management Capstone: This culminating experience allows students to apply the knowledge and skills they gained throughout the program into one final project. Students put their education to practice by working on real-world problems in the healthcare industry.
How Much Does an Online Healthcare MBA Cost?
The cost of earning an MBA in healthcare management varies significantly by program and school. Many factors can affect tuition rates, including program format (online or in-person), school type (public or private), and residency status (in-state or out-of-state).
For example, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports an average graduate tuition rate of $11,827 at public schools and $20,515 at private schools for the 2023-24 academic year.
While the NCES does not provide out-of-state tuition rates, many schools charge out-of-state students considerably higher rates than in-state students. For example, Arizona State University (ASU), one of the largest schools in the country, charges a base graduate tuition rate of $12,562 for Arizona residents and $26,496 for nonresidents.
Online programs may offer different prices for tuition and fees. Online learners save on travel costs, but they may also pay lower facilities fees and housing costs. Many schools even offer online learners the same tuition rate no matter where they live, including ASU.
Prospective students looking to save money can typically find the lowest tuition rates at in-state public schools. An online MBA in healthcare management might offer the lowest overall education costs.
They can also pursue MBA fellowships, such as those from the Forte Foundation and Reaching Out. Some organizations even offer tuition assistance programs for employees who want to upgrade their skills with an MBA.
Is an MBA in Healthcare Management Worth It?
Individuals with a passion for healthcare leadership may find an MBA in healthcare management worth the time and price commitment. MBA healthcare management programs provide students with advanced business expertise and relevant practical experience through internships, hands-on projects, and mentorships.
Before enrolling, calculate your possible return on investment from a healthcare management MBA by comparing tuition and fees to potential future earnings. While MBA tuition costs can exceed the NCES-reported average graduate tuition of $20,513, these degrees can also significantly increase your postgraduate earnings.
According to the Graduate Management Admission Council's 2024 Corporate Recruiters Survey, the estimated median starting salary for an MBA graduate nearly doubles that of bachelor's graduates.
Jobs for MBAs in Healthcare Management
Earning an MBA in healthcare management prepares graduates to pursue careers in the health industry and beyond. BLS projections indicate faster-than-average growth for these positions, along with strong salaries. Some common careers include:
Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare administrators or healthcare executives, coordinate health and medical services. They manage facilities, departments, practices, and systems. Typical job duties include setting departmental objectives, recruiting and training staff members, maintaining facility service records, and preparing budgets. This occupation typically requires a bachelor's degree at minimum, but many employers require or prefer candidates with master's degrees.
Administrative services managers coordinate the actions that help organizations function efficiently. Specific duties vary depending on organization size but may include supervising administrative staff, managing records, setting departmental goals, and overseeing equipment repairs. Earning professional certification from the Institute of Certified Records Managers or the International Facility Management Association can improve job competitiveness.
Human resources managers coordinate, plan, and oversee companies' administrative tasks. They plan employee benefits programs, advise other managers on human resources issues, mediate disputes, and oversee recruitment efforts. Many employers prefer managers who have an MBA in human resources.
Healthcare consultants conduct research, devise solutions to problems, talk to and observe employees, and write reports. Healthcare organizations hire healthcare consultants to improve service delivery. Many healthcare consultants are self-employed, but some maintain full-time employment within large healthcare organizations. Clients often prefer or require healthcare consultants with master's degrees and extensive relevant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA Programs in Healthcare Management
What is an MBA in healthcare management?
MBA healthcare management programs provide business and management skills within a practical healthcare context. Some of the courses may include healthcare finance, policy, and administration.
Which MBA is best for healthcare?
MBA healthcare management programs offer the most specialized MBAs for healthcare professionals. A general MBA combined with previous healthcare education and/or experience may also prove useful.
Is an MBA worth it for healthcare?
An MBA can help healthcare professionals better manage the business and administrative sides of their jobs. These degrees may also lead to more and better healthcare career opportunities and higher salaries, among other benefits.
Which bachelor's degree is best for an MBA in healthcare management?
A bachelor's degree in a business or healthcare-related discipline will best prepare you for an MBA in healthcare management. A business degree provides you with business fundamentals to build on, whereas a healthcare degree gives you a better idea of where and how to apply your newfound business expertise.
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