The MBA That Fits Your Life
- Under $19K total tuition
- Earn credentials along the way
- Complete in about 1 year
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Program accredited by ACBSP
- 15% healthcare industry growth through 20291
MBA in Healthcare Management Online Overview
How can you fit healthcare, business and your career goals into one master's degree program? It's possible, with Southern New Hampshire University's Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management.
Healthcare is growing – and it's growing fast. To move your skills into the future, SNHU has revised its traditional MBA curriculum to better serve you in a role with high-performing healthcare companies.
The skills you'll learn in the MBA in Healthcare Management program help prepare you to transition into or excel in leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, medical offices, healthcare corporations, insurance and pharmaceuticals. And you'll get the hands-on experience you need through your participation in scenario-based learning, giving you the problem-solving experience you need to succeed.
Our 10-course program can help you excel at managing the day-to-day intricacies of major organizations, including healthcare systems, as well as develop the skills to think critically, fix programs and undertake strategic planning. And the updated curriculum was also designed to help you succeed throughout the program: With more fluidity in assignment due dates, some of your assignments will now span multiple modules.
Learn how to:
- Lead and operate within cross-functional teams by effectively navigating the complexities of healthcare management
- Analyze and interpret data for decision-making
- Develop and foster adaptable strategies for an organization
- Evaluate and implement various models and processes in the design and continuous improvement of organizations and their practices
- Cultivate globally aware and culturally responsive teams and organizations
- Create and implement plans around culture, ethical and legal standards, and sustainable practices
Should you want to focus more on healthcare, SNHU also offers an Master's in Healthcare Administration and an Master's in Management with a concentration in Healthcare.
Career Outlook
It's no secret that the healthcare industry is growing. It's even less of a secret that an MBA stands out on a resume. And when you put them together, you have an unstoppable combination.
With that, the job outlook for medical and health services professionals is bright as the healthcare industry continues to expand and diversify.
Jobs in the healthcare field are projected to grow 15% through 2029, resulting in the creation of about 2.4 million new jobs.1 As the baby boomer population moves into the 65-and-older age group, the need for elder care surges – specifically within personnel and facilities.
In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects management occupations could see 5% growth – thanks to the formation of new organizations and the expansion of current ones.1 Meanwhile, the BLS reports employment specifically for medical and health services managers is projected to grow a whopping 32% by 2029 – about 8 times the rate of growth of all occupations.1 Medical and health services managers are in demand to both improve the quality of healthcare and control costs.
SNHU's healthcare management MBA provides the industry knowledge and training needed to achieve these goals in a wide range of healthcare-related organizations. The BLS cites the top employers for medical and health services managers1 as:
- Hospitals (state, local and private): 33%
- Offices of physicians: 11%
- Nursing and residential-care facilities: 10%
- Government: 8%
- Outpatient care centers: 7%
A 2019 recruiters survey conducted by the Graduate Management Council (GMAC) of MBAs and other business master's degrees highlights hiring growth. It shows healthcare as one of the top 4 industries that's seeking out MBA graduates – in the same category as energy/utilities, consulting and technology.2
In addition, it found that larger companies are the ones seeking MBA talent. Which makes sense: Think hospital systems, pharmaceuticals and insurance companies, to name a few.2
The GMAC report also states that within healthcare, the top 3 areas that MBA grads are in demand are finance, marketing and strategy.2 SNHU's curriculum prepares you – and can position you – for all 3 of these job functions. (Plus, through 2029, business and financial occupations could see 5% growth, and advertising, promotions and marketing manager roles may see 6% growth.1)
Healthcare leaders should be thinking about building a skill set that works well for executive roles in other industries.3 An MBA can help you develop those traits, such as:
- Collaborative intent: Cast a wider net when it comes to who you need to collaborate with. Through the program's group work, you'll better position yourself to work with a wide variety of people from all over the world.
- Execution discipline: Merge quality and speed to help improve service, quality and cost – all while learning how to create and sustain high-performing organizations. Keep in mind that patients want accessibility and affordability.
- Strategic nimbleness: Understand that reinvention will be key to your organization's longevity. Stay relevant by continuing to focus on access, data and quality for short- and long-term strategic planning.
So while an MBA is in great demand, focusing on healthcare can equip you to be most attractive to large, growing organizations.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online MBA Degree
Why SNHU for Your Master's in Healthcare Management
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. Our online MBA program offers more fluidity around assignment due dates than before and course resources better suited for the on-the-go learner.
Affordable
Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation – with total tuition at $18,810 – plus financial aid for those who qualify. We also make it easy to transfer to SNHU by accepting up to 6 credits toward your online MBA from your previous institution.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 100,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
In addition, SNHU's suite of online business programs, including the MBA, are also programmatically accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Recently, Southern New Hampshire University has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- “Most Innovative” regional university honors from U.S. News & World Report each year since 2015
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
- Recognition as a 2017 Digital Learning Innovator by the Online Learning Consortium
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 200,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate your industry. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Extensive Business Alumni Network
Since our first MBA graduate class in 1974, we’ve welcomed over 20,000 MBA graduates to our alumni network. For current students, that means an extensive business networking group, an opportunity to seek out college mentorship opportunities and learn from students who have already walked the path.
96.5% of students would recommend SNHU.4 Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Part of our mission to expand access to quality, higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials — with no GRE or GMAT required.
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms.
How to Apply
Simply contact an admission counselor, who can help you explore financial options, answer all your questions and walk you through the application process, which includes:
- No application fee
- Completing a graduate application
- Providing undergraduate transcripts
Courses & Curriculum
The subject-matter experts at Southern New Hampshire University have turned the traditional online MBA into a program that lets you practice the skills you'll need to lead healthcare while you're studying them.
Revised in 2021, the major courses have been trimmed down to 7 core courses in broad discipline areas, weaving critical cross-cutting business themes throughout each class.
Within your classes, you'll have the opportunity to participate in scenario-based learning projects. Solving a problem on your own or with a group, you'll need to apply critical and creative thinking, as well as problem-solving skills, in a real-world context.
What's more, built into the courses are teachings that position you to earn industry-recognized credentials throughout the length of your program. That way, you're earning more resume-building skills even before you get your degree.
In addition to gaining a solid foundation in business management in your core classes, earning your MBA in Healthcare online can also expand your understanding of:
- Social, ethical and organizational challenges faced by healthcare workers and how to effectively handle these challenges
- Introducing and managing clinical information systems and their effects on patients and interdisciplinary teams
- Current trends in healthcare informatics practices and how technology can improve patient care
- Healthcare industry trends, including quality care initiatives, population health management, medical law and ethics, and other current topics
“Healthcare administrators support policies and processes for the delivery of care and services that impact our patient populations,” said Dr. Toni Clayton, associate dean of healthcare professions at Southern New Hampshire University. “It requires leaders to apply healthcare principles and methodologies as they manage people and processes."
The MBA in Healthcare Management online program may include classes like:
- Healthcare Informatics: Dive deep into the history and current state of healthcare, as well as how the industry uses information systems to improve patient care.
- Topics in Health Administration: Develop organizational processes and structures using the total quality management (TQM) approach to deliver health services.
- Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare: Study change management strategies, including the impact of introducing or enhancing clinical information systems and the effect of these systems on patients and on interdisciplinary teams within the healthcare setting.
"These courses, combined with the business curriculum, help students to expand business management theories and methodologies to a focus on healthcare delivery systems," Clayton said.
The healthcare concentration was designed to provide a solid understanding of business as it relates to the healthcare industry.
Now, said Scott, responsibilities like creating budgets is no longer a mysterious process. "It all makes perfect sense to me now," he said.
Don't have a business background? No problem. Our MBA is accessible to everyone. Interested students must have a conferred undergraduate degree for acceptance, but it can be in any field. Those without an undergraduate degree in business or a related field may be asked to complete up to 2 foundation courses to get started. These foundations cover essential business skill sets and can be used to satisfy elective requirements for the general-track MBA. With foundations, the maximum length of your online MBA would be 36 credits.
Attend full time or part time. Students in the MBA have the option to enroll full time (at 2 classes per term) or part time (with 1 class per term). Full-time students should be able to complete the program in about 1 year, while part-time students could finish in about 2 years. Our students are busy, often juggling jobs, family and other obligations, so you may want to work with your academic advisor to identify the course plan that works for you. The good news is, you can switch from full time to part time and back again as often as you want.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| MBA - Healthcare Management |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Management | ||
| HIM 500 | Healthcare Informatics | Students will learn the history and current state of healthcare and how the industry uses information systems. Throughout the course students will discuss types of information systems, such as the electronic medical record (EMR), laboratory and radiology systems and more. Students will also study trends in new practices, such as telemedicine and home healthcare, and how they function in various healthcare settings. Finally, students will explore how these and other industry trends, with the use of technology, can improve patient care. |
| HRM 630 | Topics in Health Administration | This course focuses on developing organizational processes and structures utilizing the Total Quality Management approach to deliver health services which meet the needs of diverse clientele and a complex environment. Included are topical presentations by health care providers concentrating on the structure and delivery of quality health services. |
| IHP 600 | Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare | Students will learn the social, ethical and organizational challenges healthcare workers at all levels face with the incorporation of technology into the healthcare setting. Students will study change management strategies, current in the Healthcare Industry, including the impact of introducing or enhancing clinical information systems, while providing quality care, and the effect of these systems on patients and on interdisciplinary teams within the healthcare setting. |
| MBA 530 | Leading People and Organizations | Impactful leaders have the ability to define direction, understand their uniqueness, communicate effectively, and use emotional intelligence to lead people, teams, and organizations. Students will explore leadership theories, issues, and trends, while also applying evidence-based methodologies and tools to assess and elevate their personal leadership plan. By connecting leadership theories and methodologies to trends, challenges, and opportunities facing leadership, this course will help students to effectively lead and empower others. |
| MBA 699 | Strategic Opportunity Management | Impactful leaders move strategic initiatives forward with innovation, collaboration, and informed, data-driven decision-making. In this course, students will assess conditions, processes, and resources that impact how leaders design adaptive strategies, using emotional and business intelligence to manage strategic objectives. Students will solve complex problems, manage opportunities, and build sustainable stakeholder relationships. |
| Total Credits: 30 | ||
Minimum Hardware Requirements
|
Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
|
Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
|
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
|
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
|
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
|
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
|
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Technical Requirements
Video Communication Platform:
- Mac or PC desktop or laptop (not a mobile device or tablet)
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Required: At least 1 Mbps upload/download speed
- Learn more about our detailed technical requirements
Internet Connectivity for Virtual Labs:
- Recommended: 5Mbps upload/download speed with less than 40ms latency
Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Graduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 15 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $1,881 | $627 | $9,405 |
|
Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty) |
$1,410 | $470 | $7,050 |
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
Additional Costs:
$150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
As healthcare is one of the fastest rising career fields today, an MBA in Healthcare Management allows you to combine leadership, business and management principles into an exciting and dynamic career.
While some people with an MBA in Healthcare Management work in hospitals, many also work in healthcare organizations, doctor’s offices or residential care facilities. There are also career options in local, state and federal government.
Careers in marketing, market research, project management and strategy within healthcare organizations are also great career options.
With an MBA in Healthcare Management, you could take on business roles in healthcare as well as in marketing, business management, communications, consulting, finance or project management. This is a truly dynamic degree that offers many career paths. Some other career options are:
- Nursing home administrator, where you would manage staff, finances, and business processes for the facility you lead. You may also oversee resident care.
- Clinical director, where you could run a specific department, such as nursing, physical therapy or surgery. This role would likely include policy making, goal setting, and writing and designing procedures for your department.
- Heath information executive, where you would be responsible for the maintenance and security of all patient records and data. Applying business skills to the management and operationalization or health information systems is key here.
An MBA in Healthcare Management could also help nurses, doctors, emergency medical technicians and other experienced medical personnel advance in their careers.
Because healthcare is one of the top career fields that companies plan to fill with MBA talent, the professional possibilities are truly endless.2
How much can you make with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
In general, the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $100,980 in May 2019 – a career path you may be able to fast-track with your healthcare MBA.1
Medical and health services managers who commanded the biggest salaries work in government, with median annual wages of $111,520 in May 2019.1 Managers in physician offices and residential care facilities also have considerable earning potential, with median annual salaries of $91,600 and $86,820, respectively.1
The healthcare industry is expected to grow bigger and faster than any other occupational group in the United States over the next 10 years.2 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for all healthcare occupations is expected to grow as much as 15% through 2029. About 2.4 million new jobs are expected.1
This growth and demand is expected largely because the population is aging. That creates more demand on healthcare services across the board.
How do I get an MBA in Healthcare Management?
Whether you get your bachelor’s degree online or on campus, an undergraduate degree is necessary before earning your MBA in Healthcare Management.
Because the skills in an MBA are so broad, a variety of business degrees, nursing degrees and accounting and finance programs could provide a good foundation. With a degree in any of those areas, or in many other fields, you may be ready to pursue your MBA.
While working as a nurse or other healthcare professional is not required, many people begin their career just that way. Experience as a nurse, medical records specialist or in an administrative role is helpful experience before deciding that an MBA in Healthcare Management is right for you.
At Southern New Hampshire University, earning a healthcare MBA is as simple as picking up the phone. Call our admission team to get started or fill out an online request for information. You’ll be matched with a counselor who can help you choose appropriate courses to earn your degree at your pace.
Once you’re enrolled, our 24/7 online accessibility for courses makes attending class customizable and convenient. Multiple term start dates throughout the year allow you to complete your degree on a schedule that works for you.
What is a healthcare MBA?
A healthcare MBA is an advanced business degree with a focus in the healthcare industry. Courses provide a strong business foundation in areas such as management and operations, but with the added bonus of allowing you to specialize in healthcare management.
The healthcare MBA at Southern New Hampshire University offers a 7-course business core that merges traditional and innovative resources and topics. Revised in 2021, the courses reflect tomorrow's business needs.
"This new program looks away from the design and content of past, more traditional programs and forward into the future for the skills needed to succeed in the Fourth Industrial Revolution," said Dr. Andrew Gallion, an adjunct instructor who contributed to the updated MBA curriculum. "The program nods to critical traditional subjects such as accounting and marketing but also leans heavily on thematically weaving concepts such as emotional intelligence and innovation thinking and processes throughout the courses."
It then allows you to build on that with 3 core healthcare management courses: Healthcare Informatics, Topics in Health Administration and Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare.
With a dedicated focus on healthcare, the MBA in Healthcare Management at SNHU can prepare you for an exciting career in a field that is increasingly in demand.
Which is better, an MBA or MHA?
An MBA in Healthcare Management is a business degree with a healthcare focus. An MHA is a healthcare degree with a business focus. Both can get you where you need to go, but the MBA provides a broader foundation, allowing you to specialize in healthcare, or take your career toward government, policy, or the insurance and pharmaceutical industries if you wish.
With Southern New Hampshire University’s MBA in Healthcare Management, you can gain a strong base in business principles and build on that with the healthcare-related concentration of your choice. You'll also study healthcare informatics, topics in healthcare administration, and social and organizational issues in healthcare to round out your business knowledge and prepare you to excel as a leader in business and healthcare.
What is the scope of an MBA in Healthcare Management?
Because the healthcare industry is growing at such a fast rate, an MBA in Healthcare Management can give you the tools to stay on top of trends while developing the skills that give you a competitive advantage.
An MBA needs to prepare you to advance your career. At Southern New Hampshire University, the curriculum – revised in 2021 – sets you up for success through hands-on projects that are used in the workforce today.
"Scenario-based learning takes actual case studies from industry and requires the student to apply the class principles for the same deliverables that would be required in industry," said Dr. Andrew Gallion, an adjunct instructor who contributed to the updated MBA curriculum. "This allows for an authentic experience and practice of creating actual industry-standard deliverables."
Creating those projects through the lens of healthcare means you have the opportunity to use these skills tomorrow in your job. And that means that with each class, you can develop marketable skills in leadership and management. You may choose to work in a hospital, doctor’s office or long-term care facility. Or perhaps a career in the pharmaceutical or government sectors interests you. There are opportunities with insurance organizations as well.
No matter which industry or role you seek, you'll need to be prepared with a set of strong analytical and communication skills. Being able to write policies, think critically and adapt to new laws are critical aspects of a career in healthcare management.
A strong leader in healthcare management also has an interest in technology. Staying up to date in healthcare technology and data analytics can set you apart from the competition in a lucrative job market. Learning to analyze data, classify software and maintain electronic health record systems are examples of how you may use technology with your MBA in Healthcare Management.
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
Related Articles
References
Sources & Citations (1, 2, 3, 4)
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2Graduate Management Admission Council, Business School Hiring Report: Corporate Recruiters Survey 2019, on the internet, at https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/business-school-hiring-report_corporate-recruiters-survey-2019_may-2019.pdf (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
3Managed Healthcare Executive, The Future of Healthcare Leadership, on the internet, at https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/business-strategy/future-healthcare-leadership/ (viewed Nov. 5, 2020)
4According to more than 9,200 SNHU online students in survey responses from the fall of 2019.