MBA in Healthcare Management Online Master of Business Administration
Program Overview Why get an online MBA in healthcare management?
How can you fit healthcare, business and your career goals into 1 master's degree program? At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), it's possible with a 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.
Skills you'll learn:
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Change management strategies
- Dynamic team cultivation
- Cultural, ethical and legal standards
- Healthcare informatics practices
- Population health management
Courses & Curriculum Online healthcare management MBA classes that prepare you for your career
Our 10-course program can help you excel at managing the day-to-day intricacies of major organizations like healthcare systems, as well as develop the skills to think critically, fix programs and undertake strategic planning. The updated curriculum was designed to help you succeed – with additional fluidity in assignment due dates, some of your assignments will now span multiple modules.
Should you want to focus more on healthcare, SNHU also offers master's in healthcare administration and a master's in management with a concentration in healthcare.
Online Healthcare Management MBA degree courses
We've transformed the traditional online MBA into a program that lets you practice the skills needed to lead while you're studying them.
You'll take 7 core courses in broad discipline areas, with each class weaving critical cross-cutting business themes like leadership, strategy, management, technology and innovation. You'll enhance your business skill sets, strengthen your marketability and open doors for your career.
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 – including Power BI, Microsoft Excel and Tableau – throughout the length of your program. That way, you're earning more resume-building skills even before earning your degree.
Courses may include:
Healthcare Informatics
Course ID:
HIM 500
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.
Topics in Health Administration
Course ID:
HRM 630
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.
Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare
Course ID:
IHP 600
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.
Leading People and Organizations
Course ID:
MBA 530
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.
Strategic Opportunity Management
Course ID:
MBA 699
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.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MBA in Healthcare Management curriculum.
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 – a rigorous program that positions you for many positions throughout the business workforce. With foundations, the maximum length of your online MBA would be 36 credits.
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.
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: October 14, 2024 | January 06, 2024
Next term starts:
July 29, 2024
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.
Instructors with real-world experience
Classes are taught by instructors with experience in business and healthcare, giving you insight into what the workforce needs and is doing right now.
Featured Faculty
Before academia, Clayton worked in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, serving in the roles of accountant, director and controller. In 2023, Clayton was recognized by the Association of Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) with the ACHE Leadership Award for extraordinary contributions in leadership, theory and practice in continuing higher education on a national level. She’s a certified professional coach and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Position
Executive Director, Healthcare 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
“Healthcare administrators support policies and processes for the delivery of care and services that impact our patient populations. It requires leaders to apply healthcare principles and methodologies as they manage people and processes."
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
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
You’ll fill out one form to verify your high school completion or GED. Then, if you’ve attended college before, you’ll submit a form for each school so we can request your transcripts for you. (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
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), which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. 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 programs
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 30-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$19,110
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$14,100
*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:
$1,274 $2,548 $3,822If 2 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,836
If 4 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $16,562
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
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 MBA degree. Most master's degrees require 30 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 6 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 an MBA in Healthcare Management?
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.
Graduates of MBA programs are often in demand. In fact, according to a Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) survey, the demand for hiring graduate management talent is now returning to pre-pandemic levels.2
Occupations
While MBA degrees are in great demand, focusing on healthcare can equip you to be most attractive to large, growing organizations. With your specialized degree, you could find yourself in a number of environments, like:
Hospitals
From branding and marketing to finance and analytics, hospitals are filled with non-medical opportunities and administrative roles needing capable leaders to ensure patients receive the best care.
Private Medical Practices
Ensure that private medical facilities – including doctor's offices – are run well when you manage both people and process.
Nursing & Residential Care Facilities
As baby boomers age and demands increase for elder care, patient support will require more facilities and staffing management to support this population's needs.
Government
Think of opportunities at national, state and local agencies where you can help make business decisions related to healthcare.
Health Insurance Organizations
Leverage healthcare laws, regulations and policy to support the massive and complex insurance industry.
Healthcare Technology
Make a difference when you help promote the use of effective technology in a variety of healthcare settings.
$116,880
The 2023 median pay for manager roles according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1 That's more than double the median salary of all occupations in the U.S.
28%
Job growth for medical and health services managers through 2032, 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
As I got further along in my professional career I realized the need for more education. I didn't think about it until I was far into the administrative part, thinking the people sitting in front of me were speaking a language that I didn't. That's when I realized I needed to go back [to school] and learn it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
As healthcare is one of the fastest-rising career fields today, a Master of Business Administration (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. Additionally, there are opportunities 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: Manage staff, finances and business processes for the facility you lead. You may also oversee resident care.
- Clinical director: 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: Act 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 expansive.2
How much can you make with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $110,680 in May 2023 – a career path you may be able to fast-track with your healthcare Master of Business Administration (MBA).1 Medical and health services managers who commanded the biggest median annual salaries in 2023 worked in hospitals and earned $128,740.1
Per the BLS, managers in government and outpatient care centers also have considerable earning potential having earned median annual salaries in 2023 of $125,590 and $104,710, respectively.1
Many professionals opt to earn their MBA because of that potential salary boost. In fact, a survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) cites that 86% of MBA alumni in the U.S. feel that the master's degree can increase their earning power.2
In healthcare management, job prospects continue to trend in a positive direction. The BLS reports employment for all healthcare occupations is expected to grow 1.8 million jobs, on average, each year through 2032.1
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 Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management.
While working as a nurse or other healthcare professional is not required, many people begin their careers just that way. Experience as a nurse, medical records specialist or in an administrative role can be helpful before deciding that an MBA in Healthcare Management is right for you.
At Southern New Hampshire University, earning this degree starts by calling our admission team or filling out an online request for information. Once you do this, you’ll be matched with a counselor who can help you choose appropriate courses to earn a degree at your pace.
To make your education experience as convenient as possible, we offer multiple term start dates throughout the year and 24/7 online course accessibility.
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 like management and operations with the added bonus of a healthcare management specialization.
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers a 7-course business core that merges traditional and innovative resources and topics.
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.
Breonna Williamson '21 chose the healthcare concentration because of her experience in the field.
"I chose healthcare administration because having been a practicing respiratory therapist, I am most familiar with the healthcare business sector," she said. "I have a passion for operations in the way of process development and process improvement."
Which is better, an MBA or MHA?
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management is a business degree with a healthcare focus. A Master of Health Administration (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 (SNHU) 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 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.
And because all SNHU MBA programs have the same 7-course core, you can open doors throughout many business disciplines, like marketing, finance, human resources or operations.
What is the scope of an MBA in Healthcare Management?
Because the healthcare industry is growing at such a fast rate, a Master of Business Administration (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 sets you up for success through hands-on projects that are used in the workforce today.
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.
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
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 Apr. 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm (viewed Apr. 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm (viewed Apr. 22, 2024)
2Graduate Management Admission Council, on the internet, at:
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/employment-outlook/2021_crs-demand-of-gm-talent.pdf (viewed Nov. 13, 2023)
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/enrolled-students/2022/2022_enrolled_students_survey_summary_report_final.pdf
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.