Master’s in Healthcare Administration Online Accredited MHA Program
Program Overview Why get a master’s in healthcare administration online?
The healthcare industry needs more than just clinicians — it needs leaders like you who can help people of all kinds gain access to the best care. Southern New Hampshire University's online Master of Science (MS) in Healthcare Administration will teach you how to effectively oversee the operations of departments, floors, units or even entire facilities. Beyond healthcare education, you'll explore finance, law, policy, informatics and strategic planning, so you can feel confident in every aspect of your future career.
Skills you'll learn:
- Interpersonal abilities and applications
- Organizational development and operation tactics
- Data interpretation and analysis methods
- Information management system proficiencies
- Company-wide planning strategies
- Applications of best business practices
Courses & Curriculum Career-focused online healthcare administration classes
Our rigorous curriculum was developed by well-respected practitioners and aligns with standards from both the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) and Healthcare Leadership Alliance (HLA). It's regularly reviewed by an advisory board comprised of healthcare professionals across the industry to reflect the industry's latest developments.
Gain knowledge and skills in Healthcare Administration courses
This program requires you to take classes within 3 critical disciplines – integrated health profession, organizational leadership and health information management.
Courses may include:
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- 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.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Hands-On Learning
Bring your education to life
As a master's in healthcare administration online student, you'll have the option to participate in HEaRT (Higher Education and Real-World Training) Challenges. These internship-type work experiences let you tackle a critical problem in healthcare, and then present your ideas and recommendations directly to industry experts.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: March 24, 2025 | June 9, 2025
Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience
Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in healthcare. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in a field that's always changing.
Dr. Toni Clayton
Before transitioning to her current role, Dr. Toni Clayton acted as adjunct faculty and associate dean of healthcare administration at Southern New Hampshire University. She's received several accolades for her work, including the Association of Continuing Higher Education’s Distinguished Program Award and University Professional and Continuing Education Association’s D2L Excellence Award.
Position
Executive Director, Health Professions
Joined SNHU
2014
Education
- PhD in Philosophy with a concentration in Healthcare from Capella University
- MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University
- BS in Accounting from Indiana University
Read more about Dr. Toni Clayton and other online faculty at SNHU.
What Our Instructors Have to Say
SNHU professors reflect on the importance of our master's in healthcare administration online degree:
"With healthcare being one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States – and those currently in health care administrative roles retiring at record rates – graduates will be able to pursue a variety of career options in hospital, outpatient clinic or long-term care facility, home care agency roles managing entire organizations or specific departments."
Dr. Rebecca Arsenault, adjunct faculty
"In healthcare, the only constant is change and innovation. SNHU teaches nurses and healthcare administrators the philosophy about leadership, focusing on building a foundation that will allow post-graduates to adapt to the ever-changing environment. Students are provided the tools to be leaders who will help drive a better healthcare delivery system."
Dr. Matt Frederiksen-England, adjunct faculty
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 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 the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
It's easy, fast and free.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,911 $3,822 $5,733 $7,644If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Career Outlook What can I do with a master’s in healthcare administration online degree?
The demand for qualified healthcare administrators only continues to grow as medical technology advances and each generation continues to lead longer lives. Once in this role, you'll be responsible for managing growth in human capital, leading strategic planning efforts and navigating the U.S. healthcare system, which is heavily influenced by public policy, government leadership and legislation.
Industries
According to the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA), healthcare executives have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to improving the health of the citizens in the communities they serve.2 They also have the opportunity to work in thousands of health services organizations throughout the U.S. and the world, including:
Offer strategic recommendations to healthcare organizations to improve care and efficiency.
Provide medical equipment, office supplies and other items to hospitals and healthcare organizations.
Help people get access to healthcare through federal and state-funded programs, like Medicare and Medicaid.
Work within communities to provide greater access to medical care and assistance.
Help ensure hospital departments, staffing, equipment and more are functioning at optimal levels.
Work with hospitals, federal agencies and other organizations to provide insurance coverage and process claims.
Increase in roles for medical and health service managers through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
Median annual pay for medical and health service managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
Frequently Asked Questions
Deciding to earn your master's in healthcare administration could be a wise choice if you want to take your career to the next level. While it is possible to get a job in healthcare administration with a bachelor's degree, requirements vary by employer, job function and position title.
At SNHU, we believe learning is a lifelong journey. The MS in Healthcare Administration is a great degree option for those who have been working in healthcare and are on the leadership trajectory or for those looking to enter the field. It provides students with a breadth of knowledge in critical assets of healthcare including reimbursement, quality improvement, strategic planning and marketing for nonprofits.
Many prospective students worry about having to leave work or reduce working hours to earn their graduate degrees. SNHU's online programs have been carefully designed with the lives of busy working adults in mind. A great number of our students find that the online nature of our programs gives them the ability to enroll as part-time students while continuing to work full-time jobs.
"SNHU offered the program and flexibility that I needed as an adult student that allowed me to complete coursework on my time and schedule and at my own pace," said Bambi Dixon, Class of 2022 and full-time healthcare professional. "Once I started the courses and realized that I could set my schedule, it was easier to develop a routine and schedule to ensure that I didn’t ever miss a deadline for projects and assignments."
When you earn your master's degree in healthcare administration, you take a step in readying yourself for job roles such as healthcare administrator, healthcare executive and medical and health services manager – and could eventually lead to C-suite positions.
Healthcare administrator jobs go by many titles, so you’ll want to consider the area of expertise and type of facility you’re interested in working in throughout your job search. At this level in your career, you could find yourself managing and directing in spaces such as government, hospitals, nursing homes, doctors' offices and nonprofit organizations.
As a healthcare administrator, you could find yourself working with doctors, nurses, technicians, organization leadership and other healthcare workers. As a leader in your organization, you'll be responsible for ensuring the quality and efficiency of services offered and advocating for patients. Depending on the environment you work in, you could also find yourself interacting with patients and insurance agents regularly.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health service managers made a median annual salary of $104,830 in May 2022 – higher than the median annual wages in all other management occupations.1
The BLS also reported the highest median annual wages for medical and health services managers in these top industries:
- Government. Work in government-funded positions at branches of the military, Veterans Health Administration, federal prisons and more.
- Hospitals. State, local and private hospital settings provide plenty of opportunities for healthcare administrators in a specific unit or wing – or manage the entire organization.
- Nursing and residential care facilities. With the baby boomer generation advancing in age, there's an increasing need for assisted-living facilities – meaning an increasing demand for administrators. Be aware, all 50 states require nursing home administrators to obtain licensure.
- Offices of physicians. Private physicians' offices of all disciplines rely on healthcare administrators. This includes primary care, dentists, walk-in clinics and more.
- Outpatient care centers. Look for opportunities at organizations offering outpatient services such as minor surgeries, rehabilitation treatments, mental health services and substance abuse treatments.
Most students can expect to earn their master's in healthcare administration in about 2 years.
At SNHU, the length of your degree program is dependent on how many courses you choose to take each term. Though our online graduate healthcare administration program was designed to fit the lives of busy learners, and many of our students opt to study part time while maintaining full-time jobs, SNHU affords students flexibility by allowing students to take one or two courses per term. This means you can complete your degree in as few as 15 months as a full-time student.
To enroll in a master's in healthcare administration program, you will need to have already earned your undergraduate degree.
While your bachelor's degree does not have to be in healthcare for admission into SNHU's MS in Healthcare Administration, we want to ensure that students come equipped with the foundational knowledge to be successful in the program. After review of your undergraduate transcripts, you may need to take 1-2 courses prior to beginning the MS in Healthcare Administration program.
Our master's in healthcare administration curriculum requires you to take courses in integrated health, organizational leadership and health information management. These 3 areas of study will expose you to the healthcare knowledge and leadership skills necessary to succeed in a healthcare administration role.
After completing the master’s in healthcare administration program, you’ll have been given the knowledge and skills to demonstrate 4 competencies that the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) has identified as critical to succeeding in the field:
- Communication
- Computational skills
- Critical thinking
- Societal and cultural context
SNHU does not require GMAT or GRE scores for admission into our graduate programs. You can apply at any time and receive an admission decision within days of submitting the required documents. And since we have 5 graduate terms per year, a new term start is always right around the corner – meaning you don't have to wait to start your degree program.
The cost of a master's in healthcare administration varies depending on a few factors including where you decide to earn your degree and whether or not you have credits to transfer in.
Choosing to earn your degree online at SNHU is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable, quality program. We accept up to 12 transfer credits for our graduate programs, which could save you time and money.
Barring any transfer credits you might have, SNHU's 36-credit master's in healthcare administration program has a tuition cost of $22,572. This figure is not inclusive of additional costs such as fees and course materials.
But that number also doesn't include financial aid that you might apply and qualify for. Our Student Financial Services team is on hand to help you create a customized payment plan that makes SNHU's already-low tuition even more affordable.
Starting the application process can be an integral part of your research in finding the right degree, so you can understand exactly how much your specific program will cost you.
"Over several months, I researched different schools, but I kept coming back to SNHU," said Caitlin Regan '21G. "I liked that it is a nonprofit, and I loved that tuition rates were lower than most."
Educational requirements for landing a position as an administrator, chief executive officer, chief operating officer, president or vice president of a hospital vary.
Because hospital administrators are in charge of large organizations with multifunctional teams, many years of prior experience in the healthcare field is often required by employers hiring for upper-level healthcare administration positions. A master's program – such as a master's in health administration or MBA degree – is also emphasized by employers at this level because it provides both the leadership skills and technical healthcare knowledge one needs to run a hospital or healthcare system. This is often in addition to a medical degree at the doctorate level.
Many people in high-level healthcare roles come from clinical backgrounds such as nursing. Take Suzanne Rapoza ’15G, a graduate of SNHU's master's in healthcare administration program. She spent well over a decade as a nurse at a senior living facility before moving into roles like VP of health resources and executive director of a memory care community. As her career and responsibilities grew, she realized she had extensive experience as a nurse but little knowledge of the business side of the facility.
With the encouragement of the president and CEO, she pursued a master's degree in healthcare administration, which Rapoza said encompassed a lot of what she had lacked previously in her education – the management piece, the leadership, the finance, the marketing. "That whole other component was really covered in every part of the program," she said.
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2Association of University Programs in Health Administration, Future Students, on the internet, at: https://www.aupha.org/main-site/resourcecenter/futurestudents (viewed February 16, 2024)