phd in healthcare administration online

Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)

Location: Online Start Term: Fall, Spring Format: Part-Time This 54-credit flexible, online program is for healthcare leaders who are looking to expand their ability to deliver impact in complex healthcare environments.

Prepare to Tackle the Issues that Challenge Today’s Healthcare Administrators

Your dha journey.

The DHA program strengthens your analytical, leadership, and scholarly skills in each area of study. You will graduate ready to:

• demonstrate critical thinking and critical analyses through the identification, assessment, and translation of evidence to solutions that address the complex practice-based problems of healthcare
• advance professional practice in healthcare through the collection and collation of available data, synthesis of evidence, and demonstration of support for complex decision-making in the evolving healthcare environment
• model collaboration, communication, and motivational approaches that lead teams and colleagues to perform at the highest levels and achieve shared goals
• integrate the principles of quality improvement in leading, innovating, and developing solutions to improve healthcare delivery
• practice interdisciplinary and interprofessional leadership in pursuit of sustainable changes in healthcare delivery and health services organizations
• leverage the latest technology to develop solutions to healthcare administration and leadership challenges, while maintaining professional ethics and standards
• demonstrate knowledge of healthcare finance, accounting, and general business principles in addressing the challenges of healthcare
• demonstrate social responsibility and organizational citizenship promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), and professional ethics.

The Future of Healthcare is Interdisciplinary

Drive Change in the Practice of Healthcare

Learn to integrate the principles of quality improvement in leading, innovating, and developing solutions to improve the delivery of healthcare.

Average salary for healthcare administrator according to 2021 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Forbes ranks MCPHS as the best online doctorate in Healthcare Administration of 2024.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare management is projected to grow 32% by 2030.

In the News

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Related mcphs programs.

MCPHS offers multiple programs in healthcare management to suit your life and your professional circumstances.

Master of Science in Clinical Management

Part-time, online program that you may begin in the fall or spring semester.

MBA in Healthcare Management

Part-time, online program that you may begin in the fall, spring, or summer.

Master of Science in Health Informatics

Part-time, online program that you may begin in the fall or spring.

Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management

Four-year, full-time program that you may begin in the fall or spring.

Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Management

Part-time, 12-credit program that you may begin in the fall, spring, or summer.

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Online Doctorate Degree in Health Care Administration

Online Health Care Administration Degree: An Overview

• Health care systems, quality and improvement.
• Leadership.
• Operations and finance.
• Public health administration.
• Information technology management.
• Health care policy and regulations.

Jobs for Doctorate in Health Care Administration Degree-Holders

Degree requirements, prerequisites for an online doctorate in health care administration degree, online coursework.

• Regulatory compliance for health care leaders.
• Health economics.
• Communication, marketing and public relations for health administration leaders.
• Innovative business practices in health care.
• Strategic vision and planning in health care.

How long does an online doctorate in health care administration degree take to complete?

Cost and return on investment (roi), how much does a health care administration doctorate degree cost, how to estimate the roi of your degree, job outlook and salary, example courses.

• Health policy, law and regulation
• Population health
• Health economics
• Leading organizational change
• Research design and analysis

What Health Care Administration Doctorate Degree-Holders Have to Say

"I pursued a Doctor of Health Administration degree because I was deeply passionate about advancing health care systems and improving patient outcomes. With a background in health care administration and health information management, I wanted to enhance my expertise and contribute more effectively to the field. For students considering a Doctor of Health Administration degree, I recommend thoroughly researching different programs to find one that aligns with their career aspirations and learning objectives. Additionally, seek out opportunities for hands-on experience, whether through internships, practicums or research projects, as these experiences are invaluable for practical skill development. Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of networking and building relationships within the health care industry."

"I have long understood that leadership in health care matters, but it became apparent that it was crucial when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I instantly felt how much my team and those we served depended on me. Having completed my degree, I am better equipped to approach my work, my team and my colleagues across the health care spectrum. I understand clearly and accept that it is my responsibility as a leader to continue my education, to actively invest in the development of others and to strengthen the professional health care network so that meaningful partnerships may continue to grow in the service of others. Careers in health care are demanding and can present many logistical challenges, but pursuing a terminal degree with proper planning and self-management is possible."

"Recognizing the increasing demand for effective leadership in health care, I saw the DHA as a pathway to expand my skill set and advance my career within the industry. As a result, I am better equipped to contribute significantly to the improvement of health care delivery and patient outcomes. My advice to potential students considering this degree route would be to research the program and assess whether it aligns with their professional aspirations. Ultimately, while the journey towards earning a DHA may present challenges, the sense of accomplishment and the enhanced opportunities for career advancement make it a rewarding investment in one's professional development and future success."

Next Start Date

About start dates.

Additional future start dates include:

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

Years To Complete

Set solutions in motion with a doctorate in healthcare administration.

Program Availability

No-Fear Dissertation™

Get 360-degree support to take on (and finish!) your dissertation.

3-Year Completion

Finish your DHA faster -- including one year for your dissertation.

Personalized Program

Customize your program with a variety of electives.

100% Online Classes

Earn your degree around your schedule.

Relevant Curriculum

Keep up -- and stay ahead -- of an evolving industry.

Finish Faster

Transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit.

Program Overview

Pioneer change: improve healthcare effectiveness and advance leadership.

The healthcare industry is – and will continue to be – in a state of tremendous change. From economics, to policies, to governance, to quality, the issues surrounding healthcare are far-reaching and complicated. That’s not to say, though, that healthcare advancement is behind us. Quite the opposite.

Next-generation influencers are taking on new, expanded and visionary roles to propel this nation’s healthcare system forward. Healthcare administration leaders, for example, are taking on a dual role; first as innovator and second as educator, bringing forth new ideas for policy, practice and patient improvements.

Meanwhile, those committed to educating and equipping tomorrow’s healthcare leaders are advocating out-of-the-box thinking, strategizing and leading in an arena that’s become, at times, unwieldy and contentious.

Make an impact for yourself – and a nation

Rapid change in healthcare is inevitable, so keeping up is no longer an option. Instead, you have to be two, three, even 20 or more steps ahead. But how? Through research, exploration and problem solving. The nation’s healthcare system needs fresh yet practical solutions to help solve real-world healthcare dilemmas, gaps and problems.

Higher levels of leadership are needed, including those who possess refined verbal and written competencies, expanded technical and technological abilities, and advanced interpersonal aptitude. Yet these skills don’t come easily – or automatically. Instead, they require proficiencies beyond even a master’s-level degree; they require a degree of the highest level, a terminal degree. A terminal degree can prepare you to make logical, relevant connections between classroom learnings and real-world efficiencies and effectiveness.

A practitioner-oriented education, however, differs from a research-based degree. Whereas a Doctor of Philosophy or Ph.D. in healthcare administration degree focuses on substantive advancement of theoretical research within a discipline, an applied doctorate degree, such as Franklin University’s transfer-friendly Doctor of Healthcare Administration or DHA, focuses on expanding your knowledge within your field and combining it with applying it practically in real-world setting.

Become a more dynamic leader

Our DHA program reinforces the core technical aspects of quality research, yet also equips you with such sought-after skills as communication and technology. Franklin’s applied doctorate is a practical degree that enables both subject mastery and field application. That means you’ll be prepared to research and communicate complex, organization-wide issues.

Franklin’s applied Doctor of Healthcare Administration is a program designed to help you:

• Design organizational strategies to improve healthcare operations and outcomes
• Develop innovative healthcare leadership practices based on executive leadership practices
• Assess and refine your own leadership competencies
• Apply research to advance the field of healthcare administration

Improve healthcare processes, efficiencies and outcomes

Few would argue the large and complex nature of the administrative side of healthcare. Few also would argue the need for improvement in even the leanest, safest, most patient-friendly healthcare organization. The truth is, there’s always room for improvement – and you could be the catalyst for change in your healthcare organization. While earning your doctorate in healthcare administration from Franklin, you’ll focus on ways to drive quality improvements, including patient safety, risk management and service quality. You’ll explore various efficiency- and process-improvement models, as well as research quality improvement drivers within both public and private sectors. More importantly, you’ll be prepared to research, evaluate, develop and recommend appropriate prevention, mitigation and improvement strategies.

Make more informed decisions

When it comes to healthcare decision making, be it process improvement, program effectiveness or sustainability strategies, the crux of any decision is evidence. That’s why our doctoral program for healthcare includes major area coursework related to workflows, databases, informatics and analytics. Your Franklin DHA will help you better understand retrieving, analyzing and reporting intelligence metrics as part of healthcare decision making.

Create and influence healthcare policies and regulations

In spite of being highly regulated and governed, healthcare continues to require new and updated policies to ensure sustainability and parity. Your Franklin DHA will help you explore various aspects of corporate, state and federal policymaking, including regulations, enforcement and organizational impact. You’ll learn how to evaluate the role of agencies in implementation and enforcement, create policies at all government and corporate levels, and influence change for existing policies and regulations.

Get 360-degree support

We’ve taken a comprehensive and systematic approach to our online doctoral program, which includes team-based curriculum development, doctorally qualified faculty, and student-centered activities designed for the working adult. You’ll receive robust academic support from a variety of resources, including a graduate advisor, faculty advisor, personal librarian and peers, as well as the Student Learning Center staff and your Dissertation Committee members. You’ll also enjoy a cohesive and robust graduate culture and cohort. Together, our practice-minded faculty and your fellow students will support, mentor, encourage and keep you accountable to the program – and to yourself. At Franklin, you’re never alone on your doctoral journey.

Transfer up to 24 credit hours

Want to complete your terminal degree in less than three years? Franklin grants up to 24 hours of prior-learning credit for previous doctoral work. We honor your prior learning and make it easier to get credit for what you already know. Transfer credit can help you earn your applied doctorate degree faster, as well as reduce your overall tuition expenses.

Succeed with our unique dissertation structure

If there’s such a thing as a no-fear dissertation process, Franklin has it. We’ve intentionally designed a dissertation structure to help you complete your dissertation step-by-step, beginning with your enrollment in the program. We’ve also built-in faculty mentoring and guidance, and peer-to-peer support so you’re never left to “figure it out” on your own.

Throughout the DHA program, you’ll develop important research skills and the necessary writing prowess to publish a dissertation or a dissertation in practice as a capstone project to your studies. Your dissertation will showcase your ability to identify a topic of interest within the workplace, develop a proposed solution to a problem, and test your hypotheses in the real world.

Dr. Raven-Seymone J.

Dha graduate '22.

"I was very nervous in enrolling in the Doctoral program at Franklin University due to still wanting to work my full-time position. With Franklin's flexibility and catering to my adult learning needs, I was able to maintain my personal and work-life balance. I am forever grateful to Franklin for bringing me to the crossroads of my career and excelling me forward with receiving this degree."

Future Start Dates

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please  request free information  & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

If there’s such a thing as a no-fear dissertation process, Franklin has it. We’ve intentionally designed a dissertation structure to help you complete your dissertation step-by-step, beginning with your enrollment in the program. We’ve also built in faculty mentoring and guidance, and peer-to-peer support so you’re never left to “figure it out” on your own.

Throughout the Ed.D.-Higher Education leadership program, you’ll develop important research skills and the necessary writing prowess to complete and publish a dissertation in practice (DiP) as the culmination of your studies. Your DiP will showcase your ability to solve a challenge within the workplace using action research. As a part of the (DiP), you will test your hypotheses in the real world, or based on your findings, document a process to implement your solution. 

Your Best Value Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)

Choose Franklin's DHA and get an applied doctorate that fits your budget and your ambition. 

The Finish Formula

2 years of coursework + 1 year for the dissertation.

Transfer MORE Credits, Pay LESS tuition*

Save thousands of dollars in fees by choosing Franklin over other leading programs for your DHA.

Source: Internal research of leading programs (May 2022)

Student Satisfaction

98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.

Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023)

Curriculum & Course Descriptions

The doctoral colloquium is designed to build a community and ensure that learners have the support, motivation, and guidance necessary to succeed in their doctoral programs. This first colloquium also will provide students with an overview of the doctoral program expectations, coursework sequence, doctoral student support services, as well as comprehensive exam and dissertation requirements. The first colloquium is designed to establish a learning community and graduate culture for the doctoral students at Franklin University. The doctoral colloquium will be held at the University's main campus in facilities that provide appropriate online interaction for out-of-state and international students.

In this course, students prepare to be active participants in advanced professional and academic discourse communities by practicing the writing and research strategies associated with their chosen field of study. By calling attention to the conventions of research writing, the course provides students the analytical tools that will help them join ongoing scholarly conversations. Students will analyze and compose a variety of academic writing genres as they develop a literature review over the course of the term. They will also develop their presentation, peer review, proofing, and reflection skills in alignment with the standards of advanced academic study.

Through this course, students will gain an overview of quantitative research designs and methods. The course starts with successful completion of the CITI training - the protection of human research participants, to move on to an introduction of quantitative sampling designs, data collection approaches, experimental versus non-experimental designs, and data analysis. Students will engage in practical hands-on experience with formulating a research question or hypotheses, discussing important ethical issues, designing sampling methods, collecting data, and analyzing data. They will learn how to examine validity and reliability issues and will be introduced to available software for conducting quantitative design. At the end of this course, students will be introduced to the research proposal to get a start on the guidelines required for their dissertation proposal.

Through this course, students will gain an overview of qualitative research designs and methods. The course starts with an introduction to qualitative approaches. Students will become familiar with the narrative approach, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, and case studies. This course will introduce students to some of the critical works in qualitative research methods and design and give an overview of the historical progression of the field. Students will gain hands-on experience with observations, qualitative data collection, and qualitative sampling design. They will also get some introduction in qualitative data analysis, validity, reliability, and researchers' bias in qualitative work. At the end of this course, students will be introduced to the research proposal to get a start on the guidelines required for their dissertation proposal.

This course will introduce the concepts of descriptive statistics and probability distributions. Topics will include basic statistical terminology, statistical graphs, numerical summaries of data, probability concepts and distributions, and sampling distributions. The course is designed to allow students integrate statistical software of choice with the aforementioned concepts and to provide opportunities to interpret resulting outputs.

Applications of statistical techniques and methods will be explored, including fundamental statistical tests for central values, variances, and categorical variables, as well as regression analysis and the general linear model. The emphasis will be on selecting and applying the appropriate statistical techniques as well as the interpretation and reporting of results with the use of a major statistical software. The course is also designed to provide numerous opportunities to critique statistical techniques commonly used in empirical research articles.

This is an advanced course in statistics that covers analyses used in multivariate statistical techniques. The course is designed to broaden and deepen learners understanding of advanced statistics in multivariate techniques. As such, several multivariate techniques are covered, including their appropriateness to given situations, analysis, and interpretation. The emphasis of the course is on practical application of concepts learnt to given research problems and/or opportunities. The course is developed to balance theory and application and provides numerous opportunities for application to practical problems. Learners also complete a draft research proposal integrating sound research plans and procedures.

The advanced qualitative research course builds on the knowledge and skills students acquire in prior research courses. This course leads students to an in-depth treatment of qualitative research methodology, exploring its theoretical underpinnings and associated methods for design, data collection, interpretation, and reporting of results. Ethics are emphasized for each stage of research. This course will guide students to develop the methodology and data analysis for their dissertation proposal and research.

Through this course, students will familiarize with mixed-methods research and design. They will gain knowledge on the four different types of mixed-methods: triangulation design, embedded design, explanatory design, and exploratory design. Students will learn how to conceptualize their own study in terms of these different design types. They will gain hands-on experience on how to formulate a research question fitted for a mixed-methods design, collect some data, and analyze it. They will discuss and learn about challenges and advantages of mixed-methods designs. At the end of this course students will be able to work on their dissertation proposal.

This is a hands-on course designed to equip students with skills and knowledge necessary to develop new, valid and reliable instruments as well as help improve existing ones. In particular, the course looks at evolution of measurement development and the process involved in developing reliable and valid measurement instruments. The course includes creation of a reliable and valid measurement that can be readily used and applied in the field.

This course is designed to equip students with essential skills in qualitative coding, analysis, interpretation of findings, and writing of the qualitative results. These skills are crucial for the doctoral candidacy journey. The course aims to provide students with hands-on experience in collecting text data from original qualitative research studies, as well as mapping, memoing, coding, analyzing, interpreting, and writing qualitative research. By the end of the course, students will have produced a small meta-synthesis, allowing them to put their newly acquired skills into practice.

In this course, students will be introduced to the main schools of critical and social theory: structuralism, post-structuralism, cultural theory, queer theory, gender theory, critical race theory, disability studies, and post-colonialism among others. Students will analyze foundational theoretical scholarship, examine how critical and social theory has developed over time, and consider the ways in which theory might inform their own research. Throughout the course, students will complete short papers as well as a major writing assignment at the end of the term.

The aim of this course is for you to learn about and be able to apply key research design frameworks in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches. In particular, you will learn conditions under which each design and/or approach would be most appropriate and effective. Additionally, you will learn how to formulate research questions, critically evaluate various research designs in order to select a suitable one for a given research problem, develop appropriate data collection and analysis procedures and plans as well as ethical conduct of research studies. During the course, you will learn to craft a research proposal integrating critical components, namely background of study, purpose statement, research question, theoretical framework, significance of the study, critical review and synthesis of key literature underpinning the study, appropriate research design, and data collection and analysis procedures.

This science of epidemiology is essential for projecting the population health needs, and appropriate allocation of public and private resources. This course focuses on the utilization of epidemiologic studies and techniques as a basis for organizational policy and administrative decision-making. Students will examine the connection between organizational leadership and social health. Students will create and recommend organizational strategies that enhance organizational, community, and global health.

This course will explore various aspects of corporate, state and federal policy making. Students will examine the impact of existing health policies on healthcare organizations, providers and patients. Students will develop skills to influence and change existing healthcare policies. Students will also create and propose a new healthcare policy.

This course will examine the importance of resource and financial management in a healthcare organization. Students will determine the financial status of a healthcare organization and create strategic plans to sustain healthcare services. This course will also explore the various concepts driving healthcare economics. This course will also critique the use of organizational supplies, human resources, and technology.

This course will examine various aspects of patient safety, quality improvement and risk management in healthcare. Students will compare and contrast several process improvement models with the goal of improving organizational efficiency, patient safety, and service quality. Students will also research governmental agencies driving quality improvement in healthcare organizations.

16 credits from levels 800-899 in the following subjects: ACCT, EDUC, HIM, HRM, IDL, MGMT, MKTG, MTHD, PUAD, HCM, ITEC.

Students can also select from FINA 737, FINA 750, or FINA 773.

This course is designed for students to prepare for, take and complete their comprehensive exam. Remedial strategies and actions will also be provided for students who do not successfully pass their comprehensive exam on the first attempt, with the opportunity for a retake during the six weeks of the course if the student chooses to do so. A third attempt on taking the Doctoral Comprehensive Examination will not be automatically provided to doctoral students failing to successfully pass the examination after two attempts. Any third attempt will only be considered upon receiving a written petition by the student requesting a final attempt. The request may or may not be approved based on review by the Dean of Doctoral Studies and the student's doctoral Program Chair. Students who fail the comprehensive examination two times, or fail the examination three times when a third attempt was granted through appeal, are dismissed from doctoral studies at Franklin University.

At least 6 credits from the following courses:

In consultation with the Dissertation Chair and Committee Members, the doctoral candidate will design and conduct research to complete the aims identified in their research prospectus, proposal and IRB application or as subsequently modified in line with recommendations from the Chair and Committee Members. This course may be repeated as necessary to earn sufficient credit or to finalize the Dissertation to fulfill requirements to earn the doctorate.

Doctoral candidates will finalize all aspects of the Dissertation/Dissertation in Practice and make an oral defense of their design, methods and findings.

Students may complete 8 credit hours of a focus area to count within the Major Elective requirement.

At least 8 credits from the following courses:

Education Focus

The course will study the teaching and learning philosophies, methods, and techniques in higher education. Topics will cover learning theories, instructional design models, instructional strategies, and evaluation of student performance. By the end of this course, students will develop their own teaching philosophy along with an instructional unit demonstrating their mastery of learning theories and instructional design models, selection of proper learning technologies in designing the instruction, and incorporation of appropriate instructional and assessment methods. In addition, students will also explore faculty careers in higher education.

This core course focuses on state-of-the-art leadership skills necessary for the effectiveness of today's leaders and managers. The course concentrates on the specific transformational, servant-leadership, and other leadership competencies and skills necessary for providing sound management of institutional resources, projects, and performance. Students will apply leadership theoretical underpinnings to real-world cases, scenarios and situations that involve effective and ineffective resource and performance management practices. The course concentrates on the application of critical thinking and decision-making in optimal practices for providing highly effective leadership in today's organizations.

This course is key for students who have chosen the PK-12 educational leadership concentration that require a solid understanding of 21st century technological skills as it applies to educational technology (including social media). After establishing a foundation and knowledge base of educational technology, you will learn about the most recent and innovative educational technology that can be utilized effectively for both learning and leading in the PK-12 educational setting. Through the lens of ensuring all students in the PK-12 educational setting are college-, career-, and life-ready, you will analyze and learn how educational technology plays a vital role in this process. In addition, you will analyze and evaluate how to utilize the most recent educational technology tools with effective building and district leadership in the PK-12 educational setting. Finally, you will analyze and evaluate current trends and issues associated with use of educational technology (including social media) within the PK-12 educational setting.

This course is key for students who have chosen the PK-12 Educational Leadership focus and must develop expertise and practice in navigating the unique aspects of building and district leadership in K-12 structures. Concepts of transformational leadership developed through the Leadership Core will be leveraged in the examination of school level and district level issues. Students will be required to define problems within their unique professional situation and apply recognized leadership structures to promote a shared vision, and establish a professional learning community that focuses on the mission of ensuring that all students learn through the development of a culture of collaboration rooted in data-based results.

This course provides an examination of leadership theories and structures in institutions of higher education. Focusing on major theories of leadership of higher education organizations that inform leadership practices, students will develop skills as practitioners in university leadership. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the structure and function of university leadership structures from multiple theoretical perspectives. Students will gain an understanding of the management, leadership, and administrative roles of academic and student affairs offices in colleges and universities including personnel, program definition, research and teaching issues, and other functions of academic and programming oversight. Additional consideration to the roles, responsibilities, and leadership styles required will be examined for different organizational contexts. Through the linking of theory to practice, the class activities will lead students to develop skills as campus leaders and to empower them to make conscious, deliberate decisions, utilizing multiple, and at times divergent, theoretical frames.

The purpose of this course is to explore critical, challenges facing American higher education. The course explores the history of higher education, with an emphasis on the development of higher education in the United States, to present challenges facing institutions. It includes issues of access, accountability, academic freedom, financial aid, state and federal government policy, changing legal structures, teaching and learning in a digital age, student issues, diversity, and the influence of business models and values on institutional strategy and practice. This course also covers different educational systems (community colleges, private colleges, and public colleges) and the critical issues affecting their institutional type. Students will gain an understanding of their responsibilities, critical thinking, and explore current issues that affect managers in institutions of higher education. This course addresses interdisciplinary influences on leadership practice within learning organizations and focuses on recent developments that have broad implications for research and practice in educational leadership.

Health Informatics Focus

In this course students will evaluate an organizations current health information governance infra-structure and will make recommendations for improvement that will cover the broad spectrum of strategic issues in healthcare including policies, guidelines, standards, processes and controls required to manage and implement enterprise-level information. Students will research how health data and organizational information systems are utilized as a strategic asset to healthcare organizations, process to manage various risks to the quality of information and ensure its appropriate use.

In this course students will evaluate an organizations existing clinical workflows to include a variety of inpatient, outpatient and emergency healthcare environments. Material in the course covers the documentation, review, mapping and diagramming of clinical workflow information and processes. Students will also assess and make recommendations for improvement of patient care to workflow mapping and change management, as part of evidence based decision making in healthcare.

In this course, students will evaluate an organization’s existing process of retrieving, analyzing and reporting intelligence to make healthcare decisions. Student will assess and make recommendations for improvement on the techniques of extracting, transforming, and loading data from a myriad of operational databases into corporate data warehouses, as well a means to ensure that decision making is based on clean and reliable information. Students will also develop skills for reporting the healthcare intelligence gathered.

Human Resource Management Focus

Organizations across the globe are composed of groups of people working together to achieve goals that include organizational success, employee growth and contribution, and contribution to the larger community. The defining factor that differentiates the most successful companies from those that struggle to survive is the people who make up the employee base. While the Human Resources function has the specific task of planning for and resolving many employee issues and needs, individual managers and employees have direct responsibility and accountably for achieving sustained organizational success. Organizations that invest in their employees and develop workplace environments that encourage full employee engagement are rewarded with a competitive advantage in the marketplace. This course provides students with an opportunity to learn the knowledge and skills needed to enhance the contributions of all employees in support of an organization's purpose. Student's research will analyze trends and issues influencing the development and application of these elements within contemporary organizations. Additionally, students will come to understand the benefits afforded to organizations that create, craft and maintain a rich, empowering culture.

In Strategic Human Resource Management, students will analyze workforce management processes in light of their strategic importance. This will include an examination of the relationships between traditional human resource functions and the various business functions so that efficiency and effectiveness are balanced and optimized. Students will also review these processes and relationships in both the domestic and global environments now and in the future. Further, students conduct research to explore trends within the discipline of Human Resource Management that have a positive impact upon employee engagement as well as the productivity and profitability of an organization.

In this course, students will evaluate the process of change as related to the principles and practices of various types of organizations. Students will conduct research into the area of total rewards to determine what influences are leading many organizations to implement progressive human resource practices. Students will apply this learning to examine change processes and techniques used to facilitate transformational change in order to enhance employee engagement and organizational success. Students will also understand the business case supporting why companies should invest in their employees and internal cultures, regardless of industry affiliation, company size and/or revenue generation and apply this research to examine the processes and techniques for facilitating transformational change.

Instructional Design Leadership Focus

Leaders of instruction and learning must stay abreast of continual changes in trends and technology and leverage them to ensure the competitiveness and health of their organization. However, not all technologies and emerging processes are worth adopting. In this course, students will examine pedagogical trends and emerging technologies. Students will learn how to evaluate theories and incorporate designs, processes, and technologies in strategic and tactical decisions for instruction and learning in the organization.

In this course, students will be exposed to new and innovative approaches for designing effective learning and instruction. This course will equip students with knowledge of applicable frameworks and strategies for implementation at the organizational level. Students will review learning environments such as e-learning, blended and hybrid learning, mobile learning, game-based learning, and informal and social learning, to determine the appropriate learning environment based on the learning and training needs of an organization.

Today's researchers, leaders, and managers in the instructional design field must be able to use data to make decisions, as well as influence others in their organizations. In this course, students will learn how to apply relevant tools, techniques, theories, and principles of strategic assessment and decision-making to address the learning and performance needs for continuous improvement for learning problems or a learning organization.

Learning and knowledge management is crucial to the success of organizations. In this course, students will go beyond the design of learning environments and acquire skills to lead and manage the learning organization at a strategic level. Students will be able to recognize and meet the evolving learning needs of an organization within the framework of the organization's strategic goals. Multicultural awareness and how to lead multi-functional and cross-cultural instructional design teams and projects will also be addressed in this course.

Instructional design leaders often work in a consulting role with both internal and external clients and stakeholders. In this course, students will gain consulting skills in instructional design. Major topics of the course include: applying doctoral-level research strategies to analyze and evaluate learning and performance problems; communicating effectively with stakeholders; applying consulting strategies and skills; and creating a consulting professional development plan.

Management Focus

The primary objective of this course is to provide a substantive overview of the development of management theory and its applications through the 20th century to date. Managerial concepts and constructs will be researched and applied in a scholar to practitioner modality. The course will focus on the evolution of management thought and the implications of its development for modern managers and leaders.

This course is an advanced research seminar in the field of organizational culture and behavior. The seminar allows you to begin the process of substantive academic research and formal inquiry into these important theories and the implications of these for managers. The seminar will require the synthesis of critical thinking, analysis, research, writing, and evaluation. Students will develop a key deliverable that involves a research proposal in the fields of organizational culture and behavior and then conduct substantive research into the literature developed by others. The final project in the seminar is the development of a research-ready proposal utilizing, at minimum, one research methodology.

This course addresses historical and current leadership concepts, theories, and constructs. An emphasis will be on the application and assessment of transformational, servant, and authentic leadership theories for use by both leaders and followers in 21st century business and academic settings. The course will challenge you to assess your own leadership strengths and weaknesses and produce an in-depth plan of action to develop and refine leadership competencies. You will conduct substantive scholarly research to address and capture relevant and cutting-edge leadership theoretical work for application in course assignments.

This course focuses on the theory and practice of organizations as open and adaptive systems. Students will address the implications of systems theory for organizational sense-making, learning, innovation and transformation. The complexity of organizations as integrated participants in while systems will be addressed through research and presentations.

Innovation enables organizational growth and sustainability. However, for companies to remain competitive, leaders must understand the theories, models, and strategies framing innovation applying relevant concepts and practice to business development, customer satisfaction, and market acquisition. Conceptually, innovation, defined and applied in organizations, has morphed over the last three decades. However, the 21st-century global business environment offers an opportunity to rethink, even reimage innovation and its application to the emerging digital defined markets and workplaces. While innovation is evolutionally, even revolutionary relative to an organization's purpose, product, and processes, leadership should explore contemporary knowledge and skills associated with innovation determining if cultivating cultures of innovation, is essential to achieving organizational goals.

This course addresses a multi-prong approach to manage, lead, and assess overall organizational performance in achieving tactical and strategic goals. Metrics including: shareholder value, the balanced scorecard, risk management, system alignment, human resource management, and organizational learning are addressed in this course. Also the application of research on organizational performance theories are incorporated in the course.

This course focuses on the evaluation and analysis of key ethical decision-making theories and constructs, and their direct application and integration in 21st century organizational practices. The role of corporate social responsibility will be explored by assessing the role of organizational leaders and stakeholders with improving the quality of life for individuals and the community.

This course focuses on research and evaluation of the key theoretical concepts and practices central to the leading of organizational change initiatives. Students will evaluate real-world situations, cases, and scenarios in order to recommend and justify theoretically based change management practices to ensure ongoing organizational acceptance and effectiveness of these programs. Students will conduct scholarly research to explore, evaluate, and interpret state-of-the-art change concepts for viability in today’s organizations. Students will assess the role of change agents as key players in the overall change process.

Marketing Focus

This course is an advanced research seminar in contemporary marketing management. The seminar relies on critical inquiry and analysis as the foundation for substantive academic research involving current marketing issues that shape and are shaped by society. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have completed a comprehensive research study proposal.

This course is an advanced seminar in consumer behavior and market-driven applied research. Readings and assignments will synthesize prior knowledge of consumer behavior, research methodologies, methods, and theories with critical analyses of how these are used to inform marketing decision-making. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed a plan to conduct and analyze a research study.

This course is an advanced seminar in the use of quantitative and qualitative data in the marketing process. Upon successful completion of this seminar, students will have an understanding of how quantitative and qualitative analyses are used by marketing academicians and practitioners for academic and applied research, assessment, and decision making.

Methodology Focus

Public Administration Focus

This course focuses on theories and practices for leading cross-sector collaborations to accomplish public policy goals and objectives of mission-driven organizations. Students evaluate different collaborative approaches for delivering government and nonprofit services and assess the risks and benefits of engaging in cross-sector collaborations. Students learn analytical approaches, principled negotiation skills, and best practices for initiating and managing effective cross-sector collaborations.

The course examines the latest technologies that can be used to improve service delivery, engage stakeholders, and solve problems. Students learn the technologies and best practices for using web-based applications, e-commerce solutions, geographic information systems, crowd-sourcing, social media and other e-tools to make government and nonprofit organizations more efficient and effective. Ethical, legal, and implementation, aspects of these approaches are assessed.

This course examines concepts, tools, and techniques for evaluating government policies, philanthropic, and social programs to assess the performance of mission-driven organizations. The course focuses on evaluating different approaches to program evaluation and applying methods for performance evaluation, including needs assessments, logic models, evaluation designs, quantitative and qualitative evaluation techniques, ethics, and reporting.

Information Technology Focus

This course critically analyzes the current state of IT strategy practices and demonstrates how an IT strategy serves as a strong foundation for competitive IT management. Several tools and methods are synthesized to assess internal and external environments for formulating a strategy, execute a strategy based on environmental factors, and improve a strategy. The course brings the current academic and business literature to the class. It examines emerging IT strategy and management issues such as hyper-automation, AI, cybersecurity mesh, anywhere operations, and the internet of behaviors.

This course aims to improve critical thinking and decision-making skills in the IT policy and governance field. The course brings forth today's complex and cutting-edge computing environment by taking threats, vulnerabilities, and cyber controls into account. This course provokes the questions of how the GRC (Governance, Risk Management, Compliance) practices should be applied in today's complex IT environments to make the most out of the cutting-edge technology and how critical assets should be protected from adversarial actions of advanced persistent threats. The course brings various essential processes and services to the table, including but not limited to supply-chain risks, innovation, and resilience. Research papers and discussion assignments help students obtain pertinent information and improve research and academic writing skills within the field.

Vision is necessary for an organization to adopt, implement, and use information technology effectively. Leadership makes vision work. In this course, students will study, research, and apply leadership concepts, theories, and constructs that have been shown to be successful in information technology organizations. Two broad topics, (1) Vision and leadership in IT, (2) How to choose and benefit from the technology to accomplish the vision, will be delivered in the first four weeks of the course. This course is heavily based on research, presentation, and writing on future trends combined with leading people and IT organizations. In the first four weeks, each student will pick a very recent technology and research and write a paper about it. In the last four weeks, they will present the technologies that they've researched.

Finance Focus

Financial decisions made at the higher levels of a business organization can have far-reaching effects. Intended to achieve firm operating goals and create shareholder value, they must be made judiciously, with a thorough understanding of all the factors involved. In this course, you will learn to apply the analytical techniques required for developing effective and workable financial solutions at the executive level. You will gain an overall understanding of the workings of the U.S. financial system. In addition, you will study the concepts of financial risk, return, and the valuation of bonds, common and preferred stock, cost of capital, capital budgeting, capital structure, and the evaluation of investment opportunities.

This course provides students with advanced knowledge of the capital markets, financial institutions, financial products, and analytical tools and skills needed for investments portfolio management. The objective is to provide students with a solid foundation of advanced concepts, tools, and techniques for making informed decisions in the highly dynamic investment environment. Students will utilize computer software, simulations, and internet tools to understand the viewpoint of professional investors more fully. The course will adopt an application-oriented approach so that students will be able to explain their financial decision under conditions of uncertainty. The course will provide students with a framework that will be useful in business settings where such analyses are routinely made.

No longer are only mammoth corporations concerned with the complexities and nuances of multinational financial operations. Today the leaders of companies of even moderate size often must have at least a fundamental knowledge of the global financial environment. In this course, you will be introduced to the workings of international finance as it relates to business operations. You will gain an understanding of such international macroeconomic topics as the balance of payments and models of exchange rate determination, while at the same time focusing on institutional issues such as the choice of exchange rate regime and growth of offshore currency markets. You will examine business and investor decisions involving exchange rate risk management, cross-border investment strategies, and participation in international money and capital markets.

Doctor of Healthcare Administration Program Details

A learning outcome map functions as a roadmap to help guide students' progress through their program of study. Click HERE to view the Doctor of Healthcare Administration matrix.

The admission process reflects Franklin University’s efforts to clearly identify the performance standards that can help predict student success in graduate level study. The selection criterion for Franklin’s graduate programs, as determined by faculty, emphasizes academic ability, contributory work experience, and personal qualities and characteristics.

Requirements for admission include having earned a master’s degree from an institution accredited by a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)-recognized accrediting organization with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Applicants who earned lower than a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in their earned master’s degree can petition for admission to the program chair by submitting an essay detailing other criteria that the applicant believes should be considered to demonstrate their ability to be successful in a doctoral program. This petition could include details on the applicant’s work experience, work ethic, level of professionalism, personality characteristics, level of difficulty of program of study previously completed, etc. 

If a student is admitted as a result of the petition, the student will need to obtain a “B” average (3.0 GPA) during the first doctoral-level course (ENG 800) of their program. If the terms of the conditional enrollment are not met, the student will not be allowed to advance in their program and will be unable to earn this graduate degree from Franklin University. 

Program Prerequisites

The Doctor of Healthcare Administration requires a minimum of 30 hours of graduate coursework in a healthcare-related field.

English Language Testing & TOEFL IELTS

Prospective students must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. The requirement is met through any of the following:

• The applicant is a citizen of a country where English is the official language.*
• The applicant has received a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution located in an English-speaking country in which the courses were taught in English.*
• The applicant has earned appropriate scores on language proficiency exams taken within the last two years, as listed in the  Academic Catalog .  

*For more information about English proficiency, including a list of English-speaking nations, please visit our International Students section.

To be awarded a graduate degree, students must:

• Successfully complete all required curriculum courses.
• Maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00.
• Earn in residence at Franklin University at least 34 of the 58 required credits. According to the Ohio Department of Higher Education, to earn a doctorate degree, students must have completed a minimum of 90 semester credit hours above the bachelor’s degree. Students requiring additional credit hours to meet this minimum will take GRAD 900 Advanced Integrative Research.
• Complete the payment of all requisite tuition and fees.
• Not to be under disciplinary dismissal due to academic dishonesty or violation of Student Code of Conduct.

The University employs a team approach to planning, developing and maintaining its academic curriculum. An essential element of this process – and a key to the institution’s quality assurance practices – is the Program Advisory Board (and the associated Alumni Advisory Board). A diverse array of business and industry leaders make up these discipline-specific boards that provide guidance on theory-to-practice ideas, global business perspectives, and emerging topics in the field. Each academic year, Program Advisory Boards meet with Division Chairs and faculty for lively and engaged conversations, thus bringing members’ substantial professional experience and expertise into the classroom. In addition, some Division Chairs elect to engage Program Advisory Board members in the assessment of academic program outcomes.

Free Healthcare Administration & Management Career Guide

Discover the steps to launching or leveling-up a healthcare administration career with real-world advice from business pros who know.

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Hear What Our DHA Graduates Are Saying

“I didn’t really have any hesitations. I knew right away that Franklin was the school for me. I knew that a doctorate in healthcare is what I wanted from the beginning to help make an impact on the community."

"Obtaining my doctorate has been such an extraordinary lifelong commitment and an incredible feeling of accomplishment!"

"Since the first meeting my faculty advisor is cheerleading and supporting me." 

"I got an education for me. I hope to use that education to benefit others."

Career Opportunities

Professors primarily plan curriculum, conduct original research, and teach and test students, helping expand their knowledge within a particular subject matter or discipline.

Consultants are paid experts who assess a particular problem, challenge or opportunity and provide strategic recommendations for action.

C-Level Executive

C-Level Executives are responsible for oversight of an organization, including determining and/or implementing initiatives and leading senior management.

Adjunct Faculty

Adjunct Faculty are contingent or contractual instructors who plan lectures, teach specific courses within a field of study, assess learning outcomes and advise students.

Employment Outlook

From 2021-2031 jobs in healthcare administration are expected to increase by 8%.

All Occupations

Medical and Health Services Managers

Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants

Source information provided by Lightcast.

Frequently asked questions, back to college blog.

Healthcare Culture: How to Navigate It If You Don’t Have an MD

Options for Executive Education in Healthcare

Ways to Gain Business Leadership Skills in Healthcare

Is a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Worth It?

Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Salary: 8 Top-Paying Jobs

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Bouvé College of Health Sciences

Healthcare leadership.

Northeastern University's Doctor of Medical Science in Healthcare Leadership (DMSc) is an innovative, 100% online doctoral degree that is open to all medical professionals seeking to expand their career potential in healthcare leadership, administration, education, and advocacy.

Healthcare leadership careers are rising, with jobs for medical and health services managers estimated to grow 32% by 2030.

Northeastern's Doctor of Medical Science in Healthcare Leadership (DMSc) fills the need for medical professionals of all kinds to advance their education. The program is delivered 100% online and is the first degree of its type to be offered by an R1 research institution. You'll graduate ready for new career opportunities in healthcare leadership, administration, education, and advocacy.

The degree creates a path to leadership for individuals with varied healthcare backgrounds and career goals. Here's what you can expect:

• Gain perspectives and visibility into challenges and opportunities across the medical sciences.
• Engage in a curriculum comprising core courses centered on healthcare systems and leadership skills, a specialized concentration, and a problem-based thesis project related to your concentration.
• Advance your career with a degree developed in cooperation with healthcare leaders and designed to create leaders with both technical proficiency and in-demand management skills.
• Customize your degree with a choice of nine available concentrations.

Register for our open forum webinar to meet with the Program Directors, ask questions, and get information about the program.

More Details

Unique features.

Northeastern’s DMSc degree is an innovative pathway for all healthcare degree holders to advance their education toward leadership—other universities limit admissions to physician assistant graduates.

Earn your degree part-time with maximum flexibility and a 100% online curriculum open to a broad range of medical professionals working in a clinical healthcare setting. 

Gain the career advantage of a degree developed in cooperation with healthcare leaders and employers and designed to create leaders with both technical proficiency and in-demand management skills.

Specialized concentrations add career flexibility to a rigorous core curriculum. Concentrations include Health Informatics (Practice); Health Informatics (Research); Health Law; Business Management for Healthcare; Public Health; Patient Safety; Extreme Medicine; Exercise Science; and Interdisciplinary Healthcare Leadership.

Northeastern's Doctor of Medical Science in Healthcare Leadership is the first DMSc program of its kind offered by a leading R1-rated research university. 

Career Outlook

Healthcare leadership careers are rising, with jobs for medical and health services managers estimated to grow 32% by 2030. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)

Median annual wage for medical and health services managers is $101K. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)

Median annual wage for medical scientists in research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences is $102,210. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)

Testimonials

- mary jo bondy, dhed., mhs, pa-c, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Application
• Application fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal statement
• TOEFL or IELTS for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English
• Applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in a healthcare-related field plus at least 3 years of experience in a healthcare-related field and is in a leadership/management role with evidence (a supervisor letter) of duties that supports significant/progressive leadership and responsibilities will be considered.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the accredited program

Learn More Access the program page on the Bouvé College of Health Sciences website.

Admissions Details Learn more about the Bouvé College of Health Sciences admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Fall term deadline: August 1

Spring term deadline: December 1

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

Northeastern's experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. Your Northeastern education can be a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Mary Jo Bondy

Bianca Belcher

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

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25 Best Online PhD in Healthcare Management [2024 Doctorate Guide]

Quality, affordable healthcare is a hot topic these days, and not only can an online PhD in Healthcare Management make you part of the conversation, but it may give you the education and tools you need to become part of the solution.

A doctoral degree can help you stand out from other applicants for a variety of jobs in healthcare leadership.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

It may show employers that you understand the wide variety of skills—from business and communication to human resources and research—that a healthcare manager needs today.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Healthcare Management Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. A.T. Still University

AT Still University’s Doctor of Healthcare Management is an online PhD program accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

This degree prepares its students to become leaders in the healthcare field, pairing advanced business knowledge with contemporary health policy. This interdisciplinary program is taught by a diverse, experienced faculty.

A.T. Still University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s Doctorate in Behavioral Health Management focuses on career development and healthcare policy knowledge. Business entrepreneurship is emphasized alongside concentrations in the field of health care, such as community health and sustainability. A dedicated, full-time faculty teach courses in this online degree program.

Arizona State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

3. Capella University

Capella University’s Doctor of Health Administration is an online program accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and recognized by the National Center for Healthcare Leadership. Graduates obtain the highest degree in healthcare education, becoming experts on contemporary healthcare issues in a range of concentration topics.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University presents an online PhD in Health Administration. This 63 credit hour degree program emphasizes up-to-date policy alongside interpersonal leadership.

Graduates’ knowledge furthers their career development into ethical administrators dedicated to patient care. The program is capped by a dissertation to round out the degree.

CMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University’s Doctorate in Management with a concentration in Healthcare Management and Leadership is an online program that includes a residency.

With completion in 3 years, ending in a dissertation, CTU’s program gives healthcare professionals the leadership training, knowledge, and experience they need to take the next step in their careers.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Drexel University

At Drexel University, students who enroll in the Doctor of Health Science receive the quality instruction necessary for a variety of healthcare careers. Academic research is conducted alongside learning and hands-on care in the community to round out this higher education online instruction in management, administration, and health service.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

7. Franklin University

Franklin University’s Doctor of Healthcare Administration is a leader in training the next generation of healthcare professionals.

With a focus on career development and leadership, Franklin graduates influence and expand the healthcare field to better patient care. Contemporary policy, healthcare ethics, and community support are all topics covered in this degree program.

Franklin University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Healthcare Administration provides students with the skills and knowledge to manage and organize healthcare teams and facilities.

With a strong curriculum taught by industry professionals, students conduct qualitative research ending in a dissertation to complete their online degree.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

9. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University’s Doctor of Business Administration offers a specialization in Healthcare Administration that prepares students for educational and professional development. Students gain organizational, management, and leadership skills to head a healthcare business or nonprofit. This 3 year degree program is flexible and fully online.

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

10. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University offers a PhD in Health Policy and Management that helps provide students with the knowledge and skills to become the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Leadership skills are taught alongside contemporary ethics and policy to prepare students for their future career goals. This online program includes practicum and dissertation components.

The Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

11. Keiser University

Keiser University’s online Doctor in Health Science gives current healthcare professionals the education and tools they need to further their career aspirations.

Students are presented with a rigorous curriculum to prepare them for leadership in the modern healthcare field. The program’s courses cover topics such as cost effective care, diversity, accessibility, and leadership.

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

12. Liberty University

At Liberty University, the Doctor of Business Management in Healthcare Management is an online degree program whose graduates go on to top-level positions in nonprofit and healthcare businesses alike.

This 60 credit hour, 3 year program includes research, career development, and a flexible schedule to suit students’ busy lives. A tuition discount is available for former military personnel.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a Doctor of Health Sciences in a part-time, online format that is flexible for students’ busy lives. This 54 credit hour program covers contemporary healthcare issues alongside academic study, leadership training, and a capstone project to round out the degree.

MCPHS University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

14. Medical University of South Carolina

The Medical University of South Carolina’s Doctor of Health Administration is a 3 year online course that’s training the next generation of healthcare leaders.

With a small cohort size, students are guaranteed face time with industry professional faculty to ensure their academic and industry success. Several curriculum tracks are offered for students to personalize their degree.

The  Medical University of South Carolina  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

15. National University

National University offers an advanced, up-to-date Doctor of Health Administration program that aims to train graduates for career success. The curriculum covers topics like community care, organizational structures, and policy ethics to ensure quality patient care from the administration level.

The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours and offers year-round enrollment.

National University  is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

16. Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College’s Doctorate in Education and Leadership in Healthcare is an online program focused on career development and student success. With flexible class schedules and a degree available in just 2 years, this program gives students knowledge and experience in the healthcare topics they need to excel.

Nebraska Methodist College  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

17. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Health Science is a program for healthcare administrators and practitioners alike to advance their academic knowledge.

Students study contemporary healthcare ethics, policy, and research design to contribute to academic literature, enhancing the theories of patient care. This online degree includes a dissertation.

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Regent University

Regent University’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership in Healthcare Leadership is a 51 credit hour program that includes 2 residency components. As the first online doctorate of strategic leadership, Regent offers flexible scheduling and provides the tools and knowledge for career advancement.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. Trident University

Trident University’s online Doctor of Health Administration provides current healthcare professionals with experience and knowledge to further their career goals.

Policy, political and social trends, and technological advancements are all covered in this program’s curriculum, ensuring an up-to-date education that prepares students for their future careers as healthcare leaders.

Trident University is accredited by WASCUC—Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior Colleges and University Commission.

20. University of Alabama – Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Executive Doctor of Science in Healthcare Leadership trains healthcare professionals to secure future positions in senior leadership.

Management skills are taught alongside community care, policy changes, and technology advancement so students have a contemporary understanding of healthcare administration and leadership. This 3 year program includes a 1 year dissertation.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. University of Denver

At the University of Denver, students of the Doctor in Healthcare Management program receive an up-to-date education in the policy, leadership, and organizational training that prepares healthcare administrators to best provide patient care. This program provides flexible scheduling with evening or online classes.

The  University of Denver  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

22. University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi’s Doctor of Health Administration is an online degree program with a varied curriculum.

Topics of epidemiology, policy, and administration ensure students are prepared for their future careers in leadership of nonprofit or healthcare business organizations. A dissertation and dissertation defense cap off the degree.

The  University of Mississippi  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

23. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill offers an Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership for current healthcare professionals to take the next step in their career goals.

Whether in the private or public sector, at the local, national or even international levels, UNC’s online degree program gives students the leadership capabilities and knowledge they need for success. This 3 year program includes a dissertation.

UNC-Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix’s online, 54 credit hour Doctor of Health Administration is taught by experienced industry professionals. Students take classes with flexible scheduling to master contemporary healthcare policy, leadership skills, and administration management. This degree program finishes with a dissertation.

University of Phoenix is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

25. Walden University

Walden University’s online Doctor of Healthcare Administration trains the next generation of healthcare professionals. With a focus on student career development, this program offers two tracks for students to personalize their academic goals. A tuition reduction is available for current military service members and their spouses.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online Doctorate in Healthcare Management Programs

A doctorate in healthcare management is ideal for working professionals who want to advance their careers. Online programs are more flexible, and professors often understand the demands on your life.

Like all doctoral programs, those in healthcare management emphasize original research and are popular with students who wish to teach, write, or use research to enhance their leadership abilities, whether in medical, academic, clinical, nonprofit, or corporate settings.

Your studies will include classes in business management from a healthcare perspective. Your courses will normally combine a core of basic classes with those in a specialty that matches your particular interest. Basic courses will include management theory and ethics, strategic thinking and organizing, and research methods and design.

If your career goal is in healthcare administration, you will also study leadership, interpersonal skills, and business administration, which generally includes finance and healthcare management.

Doctorate degrees in healthcare management are flexible and valuable. Career opportunities in hospitals, clinical settings, specialty healthcare facilities, academia, and industry are all possible. A research career may even lead to teaching or investigating ongoing, current problems.

Healthcare Management Careers & Salaries

There are almost limitless possibilities for careers in healthcare administration. The ever-expanding field and America’s aging “baby boomer” population have greatly increased the demand for qualified healthcare leaders. Hospital administrators, for example, supervise every aspect of their institutions.

While jobs in hospital administration are among the most popular for those with a PhD in Healthcare Management, they are, by far, not the only career paths available. For example, you may oversee an organization’s health information, which includes all patient records and their privacy requirements.

Other healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes, dialysis centers, and rehabilitation centers, need qualified administrators as well. The following information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics will give you an idea of some possible careers and salaries:

Another career option includes being a manager in clinical settings. As a manager you would assure that reports are written according to professional standards, budgets are created and followed, and policies reflect both patient and institutional needs.

You would also make sure that the staff is properly trained and all healthcare laws, policies, and protocols are followed.

Salaries for healthcare managers with doctoral degrees will widely vary depending on several factors, including your years of experience, the size of the healthcare facility where you work, the number of physicians and other staff you supervise, and the state where you are working.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for healthcare administrators in the United States is $104,280. There are also opportunities in industries such as medical or pharmaceutical manufacturing that can pay well. These statistics alone explain why online degrees in healthcare are a popular choice among college students.

As you can see, an online healthcare management degree can open many career paths, so think about which career opportunities interest you most, and do a bit of additional research to narrow it down. The classes you take may even lead you toward an unexpected path.

PhD in Healthcare Management Curriculum and Courses

A doctoral program in healthcare management will likely include basics in business, administration, and specialty areas, all culminating in a dissertation. Some will require time spent on campus while others will require seminars and practicums that can be tailored to overlap with your current work.

Courses may include:

• Research Design and Data Analysis : Prior to starting dissertation research, students must learn qualitative and quantitative research and data collection methods.
• Healthcare Leadership : This course studies current leadership strategies and research to familiarize you with existing systems.
• Healthcare Law and Policy : This course covers state, national, and possibly local government laws and policies that must be understood.
• Strategic Planning : All healthcare leaders are responsible for learning about existing structures and policies so they can implement positive institutional change.
• Communications Skills : This course teaches how to communicate with populations with whom you will interact, from funders to physicians and support staff.
• Organizational Theories : You would study organizational behaviors and attributes of different management styles in this course.
• Epidemiology : This course covers current research and practices in how disease is spread and controlled in various populations and environments.
• Public Health : Here you would learn the healthcare behaviors of groups within populations, especially those that are currently underserved.
• Healthcare Financing : The complex healthcare market offers numerous ways to pay for treatment, so this course focuses on what institutions can do to create affordable options.
• Dissertation : This course prepares you for the capstone degree requirement and covers how to develop a proposal, select research methodology, and defend findings to a faculty panel.

With the completion of core courses, such as those listed here, you would then normally work with an advisor to plan to take additional courses that focus more on your individual, academic goals.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements will differ from institution to institution, but most require that you have:

• Master’s degree . A graduate degree in a health-related field and a resume that demonstrates familiarity with management
• Work Experience & Recommendations . Professional experience in a healthcare environment ranging from three to six years along with letters of recommendation
• GPA & Transcripts . Transcripts of all courses taken and a minimum GPA that is generally around 3.0
• Exams Scores . GRE or GMAT scores, if required, should be submitted with the application and should show high scores in science, math, and critical thinking sections

Be sure to read all application requirements carefully, and pay close attention to deadlines.

Accreditation

In your search for a quality doctoral program in healthcare management, it is vital that you narrow your search to accredited institutions that are among those recognized by the Council on Higher Education Administration .

An institution that is accredited has received recognition for meeting national quality standards in areas such as faculty, curriculum, facilities, and student services. Employers will usually require job applicants to be graduates from an accredited institution.

In addition, eligibility for financial aid is usually dependent on attending an accredited institution that has met all the standards for quality education.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Tuition for graduate school can put a strain on any budget, but Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) exists to help students pay for higher education. Their website is user friendly and is a great place to begin your search for funds to help pay for your doctoral program.

Universities know how complex and important your search for funds will be. A good first step in your search is to contact the financial aid offices at the universities you are considering. They are trained to locate public, private, or employer scholarships that can offset high tuition cost.

You can also look into organizations in the health field or in your own community that may offer help with tuition.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Healthcare Management?

Jobs in healthcare management are in great demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the average job growth in healthcare will be 15% for the next ten years.

Your doctoral degree may be the key to professional fulfillment in a field you already love. Career opportunities abound and may include leadership roles in hospitals, clinical settings, corporations, and academia.

Most of these positions allow you to continue your research into areas of interest while also giving you a chance to implement your research findings to bring about positive change.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Healthcare Management Online?

The length of time it will take you to receive your PhD in Healthcare Management will depend on the number of units required for your specific program and the number of units you take each semester.

Generally, universities require between 50-80 classroom units. So, for example, if you take 8 units per semester, and your program requires 65 units, it will take you about 8 semesters to complete.

Taking courses year-round, including summer school, will let you finish in about 3 to 5 years. After the class curriculum is complete, a dissertation will be required. Completing your research, writing, and thesis defense normally takes from 2 to 6 years.

What is the Difference Between Healthcare Management vs. Healthcare Administration?

Healthcare management is a holistic discipline that is concerned with the needs and quality of an entire medical or clinical organization.

Healthcare administration, on the other hand, focuses more on the day-to-day operations of these institutions or their individual departments. Healthcare managers are concerned with policies and procedures while healthcare administrators take care of specific units within larger organizations.

They may be called directors or managers and may work in clinics, medical offices, or specialty medical organizations. Both roles need to be familiar with medical terminology, procedures, and medical environments. Requirements for each will depend on specific job requirements.

Is a PhD in Healthcare Management Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Healthcare Management is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare jobs are set to grow at 15% over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Common careers in this field include leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, academia, or industries related to medical care. Caring for our nation’s aging population will require research-based solutions. Needed developments in technology must also be integrated into the healthcare system. Opportunities abound!

Getting Your Healthcare Management Doctorate Online

The next step for those working in medical professions who already hold masters degrees in health-related fields is an online doctorate in healthcare management. This online healthcare leadership degree from an accredited institution can lead to esteemed positions that are not available to others.

Whether you see your future in research, healthcare administration, academia, industry, or government, this degree sets you apart. It proves you have the education and skills that organizations need.

Employers recognize the value of online doctoral programs from accredited institutions, and universities understand the unique needs of online students, working with them to ensure success. Why not start your journey today?

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CollegeRank.net

Best College Rankings

20 Best PhD Healthcare Administration Online Programs

Earning one of the 20 best online PhD healthcare administration degrees can pave the way for a high-paying career managing complex healthcare systems. Plus, you’ll be making a difference in human health and wellbeing. 

Curious what you’d be doing with an online PhD in healthcare administration ? Administrators with an online PhD health administration degree are the ones diving into these subjects, analyzing population data, and developing the nation’s future healthcare policies. While medical doctors attempt to solve the day-to-day problems plaguing specific individuals, healthcare administrators are tackling the healthcare problems of nations and the world. 

What are the Best Online PhD’s in Healthcare Administration?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue, but you may not know where to start. The editors of CollegeRank utilize a unique ranking methodology based on the following three aspects:

40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni 

30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year 

30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school

At CollegeRank , we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Arizona State University

Scottsdale, Arizona

Average Net Price

Not Reported

Named the most innovative school in the nation by U.S. News & World Report , Arizona State University offers one of the best healthcare administration programs in the country. This degree is part of ASU’s outstanding College of Health Solutions, which boasts more than 100 faculty, in addition to 247 Barrett Honors scholars.

ASU’s online Doctor of Behavioral Health with a concentration in management is an excellent option for students who wish to be a part of a large, well-funded academic community without having to attend a physical campus. A focus on business entrepreneurship enables graduates of the program to pursue leadership roles in healthcare administration.

The curriculum is 84 credit hours in total, earned in 14 classes. ASU requires students, as is standard with Ph.D. programs, to hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution; it may be in any field. The curriculum focuses on areas like:

• integrated behavioral health programs
• quality and performance measurement
• business entrepreneurship

University of North Carolina

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Widely known for its excellent basketball program, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is not to be missed for its academics. The healthcare administration degree from UNC is formally known as the Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership. It aims to prepare current professionals for larger and more demanding roles in the healthcare administration field.

In addition to helping current healthcare administration professionals bolster their knowledge and credentials, the degree offers students a broad look at health care leadership and the different ways in which it can be practiced. UNC’s Gillings School of Global Public health has been known to produce top-quality health care leadership candidates; in 2018, one of its alumni was named Young Healthcare Executive of the Year by the National Association of Health Service Executives.

UNC gives health care professionals a lot to love with its online doctorate in healthcare administration. From the large community and research budget to well-structured online classes, opportunities abound for professionals to expand their expertise and knowledge in the healthcare industry.

University of Illinois at Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

An excellent choice for those looking to earn a doctorate in public health leadership, the University of Illinois at Chicago offers a flexible online curriculum that suits professionals in many walks of life. Alumni have the skills needed to influence public health policy and assume key roles in the public health community.

Students in the U.S. must apply by Feb. 1 to be considered for the fall term. The number of semester hours this program requires varies, depending on a student’s curriculum concentration. There are 28 required core semester hours. Students can choose to take a course in biostatistics or quantitative methods. All students complete a DrPH dissertation requirement of at least 28 semester hours.

A large university with plentiful funding, the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students and health care professionals an innovative and modern take on policy and administration in a variety of different healthcare organizations, preparing them for a variety of careers.

Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Central Michigan University, one of the nation’s 100 largest public universities, provides health care professionals seeking a doctorate in healthcare administration with an affordable and well-respected option to do just that. Students work with the same group of colleagues from start to finish in this curriculum, which totals 63 credit hours.

CMU claims that its rigorous coursework expands current professionals’ knowledge and capabilities in health care leadership. With a focus on real-world, applicable methods of health care leadership, graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue leadership roles in the healthcare industry.

The cost is $850 per credit, and to gain admission, students must hold a master’s degree in a field relevant to healthcare administration. This requirement is slightly stricter than colleges that only require a general master’s degree, but practicing health care professionals with relevant master’s degrees are certainly qualified for admission to the program.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama

Known for offering numerous excellent online degrees, the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s doctorate in healthcare administration provides health care professionals with an excellent option for advanced study. The degree, first offered in 1978, aims to improve health care leadership and research practices throughout the industry.

A substantial amount of work and time are required outside of the online doctorate in healthcare administration coursework, as the intensive curriculum challenges students to examine their own skills and build upon them in creative ways. UAB states that the majority of the students graduating from its program pursue careers in academia, but consulting and research positions are quite popular as well.

Due in part to its popularity and size, UAB is able to draw from a wide variety of resources and departments to provide students with the best possible academic experience. Many faculty members are nationally recognized scholars in their respective fields, meaning that students will have plenty of well-equipped health care leaders to reach out to during the course of the program.

Medical University of South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina

A strictly medical university, the Medical University of South Carolina helps health care professionals boost their leadership skills to prepare for work in an ever-changing industry. MUSC helps current health care professionals gain a better understanding of policy and the nuances of health care.

The curriculum is 54 credit hours in total, and new cohorts commence each fall. Though the program is mostly delivered online, students must attend the campus in Charleston for one weekend each semester, where they participate in classes and meet with colleagues. MUSC claims that this blend of in-person and online courses works well to prepare students for rewarding careers.

The second year of the program takes students on a week-long trip to Washington DC, where they meet with experts to discuss groundbreaking health care policy ideas and strategies. This alone is invaluable, and students graduating from MUSC’s Ph.D. program will find themselves ready to pursue innovative careers in healthcare administration.

University of Mississippi Medical Center

Jackson, Mississippi

The University of Mississippi Medical Center offers an impressive range of medical education through its School of Health Related Professions. Chiefly held online and requiring minimal on-campus schoolwork, the health administration program is friendly to the lifestyle of working professionals. Students from out of state who are enrolled in the program are not charged additional fees, as the work is primarily completed online. 

New applicants to the Doctor of Health Administration program must hold a master’s degree in a related health care field and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Among other prerequisites, applicants must submit an essay on their health care work experience. Different from a traditional doctorate in healthcare administration, this program is profession focused. Rather than an emphasis on research alone, students study practical applications of medical research to real-world issues. 

Over nine semesters of study, students receive tools and knowledge to shape not just their know-how, but also their ability to use their skills. With an awareness of the constantly changing health care environment, students graduate with an understanding of how to navigate these changes and help shape them for future generations.

Franklin University

Columbus, Ohio

Franklin University was founded in 1902 for students looking to finish their degrees. Boasting an accelerated program and numerous helpful guides, Franklin’s program is built for busy adults who want to further their education. The online doctorate in healthcare administration program is designed for professionals in health care working toward a higher position in the field who do not want to sacrifice work to further their education. 

FU offers a Doctor of Health Administration for students aiming to heighten their skills and influence in the health care field. Its courses focus on leadership and presentation. Speed is a key factor in FU’s program descriptions. With the right qualifications and work ethic, students can graduate in three years, including completion of their dissertation. If three years isn’t fast enough, students may transfer up to 24 previously earned credit hours into the program, shortening the time frame even more. 

With extensive mentoring and guidance features, students at FU can collaborate with fellow learners and mentors alike. Students learn at the highest level, with their profession, community, and future in mind. Graduates of FU’s DHA program emerge with advanced knowledge of the medical field and know how to pioneer change and proceed as a leader in the field.  

Regent University

Virginia Beach, Virginia

A private Christian university, Regent University offers an array of study areas to fit any student. Though physical classes are held in Virginia Beach, VA, its online coursework is no less thorough or carefully designed. RU’s Healthcare Leadership program equips students with knowledge of both theoretical and practical applications. 

RU’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership – Healthcare Leadership program totals 60 credit hours. Applicants face a comprehensive scoring process before admission into the DSL – Healthcare Leadership program. They are graded for academic achievement, and each student’s personal qualities are taken into account during the admissions process. These include how well the student’s goals align with RU’s program, their writing quality, history of leadership positions, and more. 

Students work with the intention of spearheading change in the health care field. They also learn effective methods of predicting and forecasting changes in the ever-transforming medical environment. Many students report leaving RU with the skills they need to make changes, and the accompanying confidence required to set those changes in motion. 

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

With a 100% online doctorate in healthcare administration degree program, Liberty University caters to the needs of non-traditional students all over the nation who are seeking higher education. While many universities require a minimum amount of physical attendance in addition to online studies, LU does not. Perhaps travel expenses need not be a worry after all. 

LU’s Doctor of Business Administration – Healthcare Management degree is built to be flexible enough to suit every student’s schedule. There are no set login times; students can study when it’s the most convenient for them. As a private evangelical Christian university, LU works Christian principles into its coursework. Students with military experience are eligible for a great number of benefits at LU, including discounted tuition rates. 

Students enrolled in LU’s doctorate in healthcare administration program work both collaboratively and independently throughout their course of study, aiming to practice leadership skills and improve collaborative methods of solving problems. They graduate with abilities in all aspects of the field, from finance to quality control. 

Colorado Technical University

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Known across the nation for its career-specific studies, Colorado Technical University focuses on innovation, modern techniques and technology, and embracing change in all it offers. With thorough courses offered both on- and off-campus, CTU ensures education and skills development relevant to current industries. The Doctorate in Health Management – Healthcare Management and Leadership degree program is no exception. 

CTU wastes no time in its course descriptions and list of requirements. Despite weighing in at 100 credit hours, CTU claims that its online healthcare administration degree can be completed in as few as three years. Dissertation development, a distinctive component of the program designed to support students in their closing defense, is built into the online courses. 

CTU is a proud innovator in the world of higher education. Students graduate with leadership skills, relevant tools, and knowledge specific to the field of healthcare administration. They enter their professions with modern abilities and the professional practice they need to adapt in real-world situations. 

University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, Connecticut

The University of Bridgeport is a private school with an impressive 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. It prioritizes student life, success, and diversity with a strong and personable social media presence. Its online platforms reflect this in the fullest, with resources readily available, events and achievements on display, and enthusiastic student participation.

Students who apply to UB’s hybrid Health Sciences, D.H.Sc. degree program are required to submit a personal statement, resume, two recommendation letters, and academic history from every school they have attended. Unlike many universities, experience in the health care field is not necessarily required. Instead, applicants without field experience are evaluated for their potential of success and leadership demonstration. UB’s website estimates that it takes 40 months to complete this program, including one week of mandatory campus residency.

UB aims to open doors for students and help them explore all aspects of their passions. In its Health Sciences, D.H.Sc hybrid program, learners become familiar with current topics and issues in health care. They leave as capable researchers, innovators, and leaders, well-versed in their trade, from small-scale methods to global health concerns. 

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, Massachusetts

Named No. 1 in Earning Power by the Wall Street Journal in 2018, the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Services is known for its effective and thorough courses. Its Doctor of Health Sciences degree program is held exclusively online and can be completed in as few as nine semesters.

MCPHS’s DHS online degree program has a prerequisite list comparatively less intensive than that of many other universities. Applicants must hold a master’s degree, but it does not have to be in a specific or relevant health field. Applicants must also provide proof of their experience in the health care field and, if applicable, a score of 90 or higher on the internet-delivered Test of English as a Foreign Language. With a total of 54 credit hours, the program is designed to be flexible to suit students’ varying needs. 

Students in MCPHS’s DHS degree program have the opportunity to choose a specialty in the field. Graduates of this program are capable of leading the health industry with:

• best practices
• progressive methods
• professional implementation

With the help of experienced faculty, students work independently to develop research- and evidence-based knowledge and methods in health care.

Rush University

Rush University is based in Chicago and provides degrees pertaining specifically to the medical field. Its online Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences program requires an on-campus presence only for a student’s dissertation defense and comprehensive examination. The program is designed to help healthcare administration professionals develop their skills and knowledge to become leaders in the field. 

With both full- and part-time opportunities available, students usually take four to five years to complete the courses. Full-time students can complete the required courses in as few as three years. RU’s faculty not only teach the profession, they practice it. Students have readily available help from experts as they complete their studies. 

RU’s DPHS online curriculum is divided into categories that prepare students for vital aspects of healthcare administration. These include both leadership and professional development. The program is designed to reinforce the skills that graduates will need to succeed in all facets of the career that awaits them. 

A T Still University of Health Sciences

Kirksville, Missouri

Ranked by BestColleges.com for offering one of the best online doctorate in healthcare administration degrees, A. T. Still University’s program is respected for its success. Its Doctor of Health Administration works to heighten and reinforce the skills of health care professionals. It aims to build problem-solving, business, and leadership skills in its students. 

ATSU, founded in 1892, is known as the home of osteopathic healthcare. The DHA degree is challenging and comprehensive, and services are provided for students in need of tutoring and mentoring. All faculty have a great deal of experience in various areas of the health care field, from economics to management of the industry. Tuition for ATSU’s DHA online degree program starts at $1,000 per credit hour. 

ATSU’s DHA online degree program trains students in both business and practice. Graduates will grow as leaders and pioneers in health care change. They will have the opportunity to follow a career path with more influence, whether through teaching the profession or by seeking a higher position in the field. 

Thomas Jefferson University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Thomas Jefferson University, established in 1824 and merged with Philadelphia University in 2017, provides a range of medical degree programs. Its PhD in Population Health Science combines on-site instruction with online course work. Compared to many universities, the on-site requirements are extensive; however, the school caters to working students with both morning and evening classes.

Students must complete 62 credits to graduate. Rather than a broad overview of healthcare administration, students are required to choose one of four subjects in which to specialize:

• Health Policy
• Healthcare Policy and Safety
• Health Behavioral Science
• Applied Health Economics and Outcomes Research

Students home in on specific topics and skills relevant to their chosen area of study.

TJU’s online portion of the Ph.D. in Population Health Science is delivered asynchronously. This, combined with flexible on-site class scheduling and options to begin work in the fall or spring, cater to students’ busy lives. Students can complete their work at whatever pace suits them best. All courses are taught by experienced professionals in the field, to best create experts and leaders in health care. 

Northcentral University

La Jolla, California

Northcentral University, a strictly online school, offers an extremely flexible Doctor of Health Administration degree program. Start dates for the DHA program are every Monday. Students must complete 20 courses to graduate, and the estimated completion time is three years. Students work independently without the worry of group projects or collaborative assignments. This way, they can complete their work on their own time without the constraints of other students. 

NCU students are not, however, completely alone in their course work. With a unique one-to-one model, professors teach and guide students at the pace most ideal to the learner, rather than a standard pace set by an entire class. Personal assistance and guidance are key components in all of NCU’s programs. 

NCU’s DHA degree program builds opportunities for students in the health care profession. Graduates become strong leaders in their healthcare organization. They learn strategies for:

• solving problems

Students hone their collaborative skills and their understanding of health policies, problems, the legal system and its relation to health care, and ethical issues. 

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Nova Southeastern University, with a main campus in Fort Lauderdale, FL, offers a Doctor of Health Science degree program. It is delivered almost completely online, requiring on-campus attendance at only two seminars. Each are one weeklong, and they are held during the summer. The amount of collaborative work required depends on the instructor; however, students complete a great deal of the work independently.

Rather than requiring a dissertation, as many universities do, NSU requires an internship and course in Doctoral Objective Analysis. In other words, NSU has replaced the usual dissertation requirement with real-world experience and the application of learned skills. NSU’s Doctor of Health Science program focuses on the role that health care professionals play and the current environment of the health field. 

As with most doctorate in healthcare administration programs, students must complete both mandatory courses and a number of electives. NSU’s Doctor of Health Science program allows students to take electives during any part of the program, and it offers an impressive array of them, including Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Independent Studies directed by the student and guided by a professor, and Narrative Medicine. 

University of the Southwest

Hobbs, New Mexico

The University of the Southwest offers a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration. The program is offered 100% online to accommodate professionals in the healthcare industry. Core course offerings include:

• Information Technology in Global Competition
• Human Resource Development
• Healthcare Policy and Management

Financial aid opportunities are available for qualified students. Graduates are prepared for executive roles in healthcare and have the skills needed to become innovative leaders in the healthcare industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

A PhD can offer opportunities for research, academia, and high-level policy roles. You can also work in healthcare administration at the highest level, in executive and management roles. But the degree takes significant time and effort. Prospective students should weigh personal and career goals against the commitment needed for a PhD in healthcare administration.

It takes between 6-7 years to get a PhD in Healthcare Administration. If you have a master’s degree in a relevant field, you can finish your PhD in four years, but it depends on the program requirements. Plan on completing about 70 credits to get your PhD.

There are many different careers you can do with a PhD in Healthcare Administration, from academia to executive healthcare roles. Here are some jobs you can get: • Adjunct faculty • Assistant professor • Clinical manager • Consultant • Health officer • Hospital administrator • Hospital executive

A Doctorate of Health Administration (DHA) is an applied doctorate. It focuses on gathering evidence currently available in medical, organizational, and policy areas of healthcare and using it to solve problems in the field. A DHA is a terminal degree that allows students to pursue executive roles in healthcare administration.

Six figures! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health services managers make an average of $104,830/year. The top 10%, including those with advanced degrees, make over $209,000/year.

While both a Doctorate of Health Administration (DHA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are advanced degrees, they differ in focus and are not the same. A DHA is more practice-oriented, emphasizing leadership in healthcare administration. A PhD is research focused. It delves into original contributions to knowledge within a specific academic discipline, including healthcare management.

The two degrees are different and choosing one over the other should depend on your career goals. A PhD is research focused. It is suitable for students interested in academia. A DHA is practice-bent. It is geared toward leadership roles in healthcare administration. So, one isn’t better than the other. It all depends on which career path you want to take.

It depends on your career goals. Options include a PhD in Health care Administration, Health Services Research, Public Health, or Health Policy. Consider individual interests and whether a research-focused PhD or a practice-oriented Doctorate in Health Administration (DHA) better aligns with your professional objectives. If you’re interested in healthcare administration, a PhD in this discipline could serve you well.

Earn your Doctoral Degree Online

Doctor of healthcare administration affordable | accessible | accredited.

We are accepting applications for the Fall 2024 semester that begins on September 2, 2024. Admission decisions are made on an ongoing basis. Questions on the admissions process may be sent to [email protected].

Applicants must have successfully graduated from an accredited university. An earned master's degree is required.

Doctor of Healthcare Administration

The fully online Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL) Doctor of Healthcare Administration degree is designed for professionals interested in leadership roles in education and/or clinical practice. The module-based curriculum is self-paced for students to enter into the program at any one of three starting points in the academic calendar.

This program is to prepare health professionals to be leaders in healthcare by acquiring skills as educators, administrators, members of research teams and advocates for best practice. Through our program, students will be given the opportunity to critically evaluate and learn from literature, extending their knowledge to better serve their customers. They will also gain the business acumen to move into positions of leadership within their institutions or clinics.

Certified by State Council of Higher Education for Virginia

Accredited by The Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)

Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)

Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL) is a member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) 15935 Forest Road, Forest VA 24551; Telephone: (434) 525-9539; e-mail: [email protected], having been awarded Reaffirmation 2 of its Accredited Status as a Category IV institution by the TRACS Accreditation Commission on April 11, 2021. This status is in force through June 30, 2031. TRACS is recognized by the United States Department of Education (ED), the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE).

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree (if any) in a related discipline awarded by an institution accredited by an agency recognized by US Department of Education.
• Official transcripts prior institution from which a degree was earned
• Proof of Identity
• Completed online application
• Applicants are required to participate in a phone interview with the Admissions Committee

Required Material for Application

• Virginia University of Lynchburg Application
• World Education Services (WES) or equivalent evaluation for any foreign coursework
• International applicant is required to take and submit official score reports from English proficiency testing: the TOEFL-Test of English as a Foreign Language (both the internet-based TOEFL iBT test and the paper-delivered TOEFL test are accepted).
• Two recommendation letters or phone interview
• FERPA Waiver
• Student Enrolment Agreement
• Financial Contract
• Mode of payment needs to be setup (Financial Aid/Cash Payment Plan)

Graduation Requirements

• For the Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA) degree, student must earn at least 36 hours of credit, of which all must be at Virginia University of Lynchburg. Students must complete the curriculum requirements with a grade of "B" or higher.

DHA Academic Calendar for 2024-2025

Summer semester, 2024, fall semester, 2024, spring semester, 2025, summer semester, 2025, why dha at vul.

• 12 months-beginning to completion
• Tuition capped at $19,500 + technology fee
• Qualify for a top level position
• Position yourself for higher earning
• Distinguish yourself as a thought leader
• Earn the highest scholarly respect

Doctorate in Healthcare Management Online

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Updated July 27, 2023 · 5 Min Read

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Degree Options & Potential Careers

An online Ph.D. in healthcare management provides the advanced research and leadership skills healthcare professionals need to take on administrative and management roles in the public and private sectors. Doctoral candidates pursue a variety of career paths after graduation, becoming healthcare administrators, college and university professors, healthcare consultants, and health information managers. Graduates enjoy a generally positive employment outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth rate for medical and health services managers is projected to  increase by 20%  by 2026 -- much faster than all other occupations combined.

The following guide explores everything prospective students need to know about earning a doctorate in healthcare management online, including career options, salary information, degree requirements, and common course offerings.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Healthcare Management?

There are many professional and personal reasons why individuals choose to earn a doctorate in healthcare management online. Some candidates want to pursue advanced healthcare roles that directly involve patient care and staff. Other students may seek a research-focused path that allows them to contribute to scientific progress, scholarship, and education. Below are just a few reasons why healthcare management professionals choose to pursue a doctorate.

• Leadership Skills:  Doctoral students develop versatile leadership and communication skills that apply to a variety of administrative and management roles in the healthcare field. Doctorate-holders are able to find a job that fits their professional and personal goals.
• Rewarding Tasks:  Healthcare management professionals assume important roles in healthcare facilities and leave a lasting impact on patients and staff. Their daily activities often directly affect the facility's quality of services and financial health. Many professionals take comfort in knowing that they contribute to a positive healthcare environment.
• Research Opportunities:  Learners pursuing a doctorate in healthcare management online can explore diverse areas within the discipline. Graduate students work closely with professors, study specialized topics, and develop an extensive body of knowledge as they make unique contributions to the field.
• Financial Security:  Many individuals with a doctorate in healthcare management secure well-paying positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health service managers earn a  median annual wage  of $99,730 -- more than double the median annual wage for all other occupations in the country.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Healthcare Management?

Many professionals who earn a doctorate in healthcare management online hold positions at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Serving in leadership roles, they work directly with patients and staff, making crucial decisions that affect facility employees, daily operations, and the quality of patient care.

Some graduates seek careers outside of healthcare facilities, working in healthcare consulting and private industry management after they earn a doctorate in healthcare management online. Using specialized knowledge, they help private companies, individuals, and other entities make informed business decisions.

A doctoral degree also prepares graduates for public sector jobs with local, state, and federal government or nonprofit groups. These healthcare professionals work closely with communities and governing officials to develop and fund public programs, social services, and community organizations.

Most doctoral programs center heavily on research, allowing candidates to build a strong analytical skill set as they contribute original scholarship to the field. Doctoral students who are interested in research careers often take positions in academia and research facilities. Most universities and colleges prefer to hire professors with advanced degrees.

Career Profiles

Health information management manager.

These  managers  ensure that hospitals and private practices uphold ethical, medical, and legal standards. They maintain complex databases that contain patient information and legal records, prioritize patient safety, and comply with legal stipulations. Most oversee a team of information technicians and office workers.

Healthcare Consultant

Consultants  typically work for private healthcare organizations, where they study and evaluate hospital management systems and facility efficiency. Many professionals in this area hold additional work experience outside of healthcare; usually in marketing or business. They must be able to synthesize large amounts of data, work independently, and effectively communicate statistical findings.

Healthcare Administrator

Administrators  work in a wide variety of facilities, including primary care medical practices, nursing homes, hospitals, and specialty clinics. They handle staff training, conduct performance reviews, and ensure their facilities receive attention from accrediting agencies. Many healthcare administrators hold registered nurse licensure.

Social and Community Service Managers

Working on behalf of human services or social organizations, these  managers  collaborate with community members to develop and implement health-related programs and services. They oversee administrative duties, plan outreach activities, and write funding proposals. Some work with large agencies to address issues such as mental health needs, chronic hunger, and substance abuse.

Finance and Healthcare Managers

Finance and healthcare managers  ensure that healthcare facilities adhere to budget restrictions, reduce spending, and increase revenue. These managers must thoroughly understand the costs associated with healthcare facility operations.

Healthcare Management Doctoral Degree Overview

Applying to graduate school is a daunting task for many prospective healthcare management students. Differences between programs are often subtle and difficult to identify, making it challenging to find a degree that best serves your academic and professional needs. The following section covers some important factors to look for as you research healthcare management and administration programs, including application and admission requirements, common course offerings, and desired program outcomes.

Types of Doctoral Degrees in Healthcare Management

Distance learners  interested in pursuing a doctorate  in healthcare management can choose from two degree options: a doctoral degree in healthcare management (Ph.D.) or a doctor of healthcare administration (DHA). Both degrees offer similar training and emphasize research; however, the Ph.D. best serves students interested in developing original research projects and contributing to existing scholarship. Students interested in using research to improve applied healthcare practices and patient care may prefer a DHA program.

Required courses for each degree vary between programs. While the Ph.D. and DHA require similar introductory coursework, advanced courses and electives options can vary greatly between the two degrees. Although most Ph.D. and DHA programs require candidates to complete a dissertation, the intention behind this research-driven endeavor may differ based on degree type. A Ph.D. dissertation typically focuses on contributing new information to an existing body of work, while DHA dissertations use existing information to solve immediate problems in healthcare.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

While application requirements differ between schools, most institutions request similar materials. Contact an admissions advisor at your prospective schools to ensure you satisfy all application requirements. Admissions committees often discard incomplete applications.

Candidates applying to doctorate in healthcare management online programs must submit their official transcripts from all previously-attended undergraduate and graduate programs. Many schools require applicants to demonstrate a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher. Additionally, prospective students may need to demonstrate experience working in a healthcare administration setting or related area.

Some schools also request letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your professional and academic abilities. These letters should come from your previous professors or job supervisors. Other common application materials include a resume, professional statement, writing sample or an example of original research, and GRE scores. In addition, candidates are typically required to pay a handling fee when they submit their application.

Every doctoral program features a slightly different curriculum, and curricula can vary considerably between departments and schools. Candidates who wish to earn a doctorate in healthcare management online should consider any prospective department's faculty members, as course offerings often depend largely on faculty specialties.

Most Ph.D. and DHM curricula include a series of core courses. These classes typically address general topics in healthcare management and administration such as human resources, research ethics, policy compliance, and quality management. Core classes typically take up over half of a degree's required credits. Most students who earn a doctorate in healthcare management online complete 60-75 credits.

In addition to classroom study, candidates usually complete multiple supervised residencies at approved healthcare facilities. Distance learners may also complete capstone courses, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation before graduating. These components allow doctoral students to demonstrate their applied knowledge and skills. Doctoral students often take one or more of the following classes:

• Healthcare Management This class develops leadership strategies and managerial competencies that improve organizational quality and healthcare delivery. Students gain a broad understanding of daily operations at healthcare facilities of all sizes. Lectures often use case studies to illustrate key organizational theories, concepts, and principles.
• Resource Management for Administrators Students explore strategic resource management theories commonly used in healthcare settings. Learners study management practices and theoretical models associated with integrated health systems, nursing homes, medical offices, and similar facilities.
• Marketing and Communications for Healthcare Leaders This class provides an overview of public relations principles used in healthcare administration. Coursework examines social media marketing methods, community partnerships, and communication principles.
• Global Health In this interdisciplinary course, learners explore global healthcare and disease prevention strategies. Students examine the interplay between economics, urbanization, and globalization.
• Healthcare Law & Policy Candidates examine governance principles, health policy issues, and laws from political, ethical, economic, and sociological perspectives. Lectures emphasize the ways in which policies impact healthcare managers and administrators.
• The U.S. Healthcare System This course surveys the U.S. healthcare system from a historical perspective. Class topics may include reimbursement methods, hospital systems, long-term care, and illness prevention strategies.

Program Outcomes

Students who earn a doctorate in healthcare management online master a spectrum of desirable competencies. In addition to possessing top-notch research and writing skills, graduates are excellent leaders, managers, and communicators. In-depth study of national and global healthcare organization and practices helps graduates understand and serve diverse populations.

Individuals with a doctoral degree find success in a variety of healthcare careers and related jobs in both the public and private sectors. Both Ph.D. and DHA degrees require students to absorb information in specialized subject areas, develop strong decision-making skills, master budget analysis and financial planning, and synthesize large amounts of information for research projects. These valuable skills help graduates find lucrative and fulfilling positions in today's competitive job market.

Accreditation for Doctorate in Healthcare Management Online Programs

It is important to select an accredited college or university if you wish to earn a doctorate in healthcare management online. During the accreditation process, organizations known as accrediting bodies evaluate and ensure that an institution upholds quality standards. Accrediting bodies, in turn, are monitored by the U.S. Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

While colleges and universities hold regional or national accreditation, some healthcare management programs possess programmatic accreditation. The field's top programmatic accrediting body is the  Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education  (CAHME). CAHME ensures that a program meets academic standards specific to healthcare management.

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Doctorate in Health Administration (DBA)

Transfer credits, next start date, brighten the future of healthcare with a dba in healthcare management.

If you are seeking top-level management positions in the healthcare field, Liberty University’s online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – Healthcare Management degree can help prepare you for professional success. Our program provides advanced training in management, human resource development, and quality control. At Liberty, you can develop the communication, research, and leadership skills needed to boost your résumé and help you take your career to the next level.

This 100% online degree is designed to fit your busy schedule while offering a high-quality education. You’ll dive into aspects of both business and healthcare, study how to streamline business processes, learn to provide patients with quality care, and prepare to lead your organization to success. Partner with us and train to become an expert in the field of healthcare administration.

Among only 3% of business schools worldwide to receive ACBSP accreditation

What You Need to Know About Earning Your Doctorate in Health Care Management When choosing a postgraduate program, it’s important to understand how a doctorate can impact your future and help you grow professionally. There are many questions you may have as you consider pursuing a DBA, such as: Can someone with a DBA be called a doctor? — A DBA in Healthcare Management focuses on the business side of health care instead of clinical training. While earning a DBA does not make you a doctor in the medical sense, this is a doctorate degree that, much like a PhD, allows you to use the title of “doctor.” How much can you make in a healthcare management career? — According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for medical and health services managers is $104,280 per year. This field is projected to grow 32% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all industries. * What’s the difference between a DBA in Healthcare Administration and a PhD in Healthcare Management? — While a PhD and a DBA are both terminal degrees that offer advanced training, they are designed to train you for different career paths. A PhD in Healthcare Administration can help you pursue a career in academia, perhaps as a college professor. In contrast, a DBA focuses on providing vocational knowledge that can be applied to a career in the real world of business.

Why Choose Liberty’s DBA in Healthcare Management Program?

At Liberty, we’re committed to your success. Our healthcare administration program is designed to help you develop practical, on-the-job skills and knowledge that can be applied to your career. You’ll learn from professors who have years of real-world experience in the healthcare industry. Drawing on what they have learned in their own careers, they can help strengthen your expertise and help you pursue several career paths.

If you’re worried that school will get in the way of your other commitments and priorities, we have just what you need. This doctorate program is 100% online, so you won’t have to worry about taking on-campus courses. With no set login times, you’ll have the flexibility to complete your coursework when and where it’s most convenient for you.

What sets Liberty apart from other schools? We don’t just offer an education — we seek to Train Champions for Christ and equip students like you to lead with excellence and integrity in the workplace. Join us and prepare to take the next step in your career.

Why Pursue a Doctorate Degree in Health Management?

A degree in healthcare management may be a good choice for those seeking an administrative or leadership position in the health care industry. Maybe you already work in healthcare management and want to expand your skill set or pursue higher-level roles. Whether you’re looking to start a new job or advance in your current career, a DBA can help you achieve your goals.

By choosing a doctorate degree in healthcare administration, you’re taking an important step that may increase your employment opportunities and help you stand out from other job candidates. Additionally, you can gain the specialized skills and knowledge needed to lead in the industry and provide patients with the best care possible.

Effective management is a vital part of fostering a positive environment for hospital patients and staff. Choosing this degree can help prepare you to make a difference in the lives of others.

Military Tuition Discount We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

What Will You Learn in Our Online Healthcare Management Program?

In this program, you can learn how to communicate effectively with patients, staff, and stakeholders in the world of healthcare. By gaining a solid foundation in business and understanding the challenges that face health professionals, you can hone your leadership skills and pursue roles in healthcare administration at your organization.

Our business courses dive into many important topics, such as supply chain management, quantitative research methods, and consulting techniques. You’ll study how to promote company growth, allocate financial resources, and develop marketing strategies. You’ll also explore current issues and topics in the business field — allowing you to fully understand the industry and use that knowledge to further your organization’s success.

By examining the legal and ethical issues facing health professionals today, you can prepare to offer solutions that align with industry best practices. This program explains how to effectively manage everything from finances to healthcare workers, so you can develop strong business acumen and establish working relationships.

Our DBA focuses on creating and maintaining a productive health environment, which is why you’ll study human resource management and healthcare informatics. You’ll also explore healthcare systems on a local, national, and international level so that you can develop innovative solutions to unique challenges. Completing an applied doctoral research project will allow you to conduct practical research related to your specialization.

Featured Courses

• BUSI 505 – Healthcare Informatics
• BUSI 506 – Legal and Ethical Issues for Health Professionals
• BUSI 511 – Healthcare Administration
• BUSI 646 – Managing Human Capital in Healthcare

Admission Requirements for the Doctor of Health Administration Online Program

A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree in business or a business-related field with at least 30 hours of graduate business credit with a 3.0 or above GPA is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Online Degree Information

• The DBA program falls under the School of Business . 
• Download and review the Degree Completion Plan .
• View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required) .
• Download the Doctor of Business Administration Handbook for additional program information.

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What Can You Do with a DBA in Healthcare Administration?

Earning a doctorate in healthcare administration can help you pursue a variety of careers in the healthcare industry. You can gain the business, leadership, and decision-making skills needed to take your career to the next level. After completing our DBA program, some of the roles you may qualify for include:

• Healthcare administrator
• Hospital administrator
• Management consultant
• Medical and health services manager
• Nonprofit organization director
• Nursing home administrator

Highlights of Earning a DBA at Liberty University

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online DBA from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we’re committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we’ve frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years — and counting.
• Liberty University’s School of Business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs ( ACBSP ). Our School of Business is among only 3% of business schools worldwide to earn ACBSP accreditation, h aving an ACBSP-accredited degree may give you an advantage in the job market and help you stand out to employers.
• As an online student, you can access a wealth of resources through our top-notch research portal.
• You can complete your doctorate in healthcare management in about 3 years.
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Medical and Health Services Managers (viewed online June 24, 2020). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

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Other programs you may be interested in

Doctor of Ministry (DMN)

Doctor of Ministry: Chaplaincy

Next Start Date: May 13, 2024

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

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Doctor of business administration: international business, doctor of business administration: leadership.

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL)

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Home Blog Intersection of Healthcare and Business: Why Pursue an Online MBA in Healthcare Administration

Intersection of Healthcare and Business: Why Pursue an Online MBA in Healthcare Administration

April 19, 2024

Contributing Author: Alley Bardon

8 mins read

On the surface, it may seem like the worlds of healthcare and business are completely separate. However, upon closer inspection, you will find that these fields are uniquely intertwined. In fact, amid an ever-changing healthcare landscape, the need for thoughtful, forward-thinking business professionals has never been greater within the healthcare field. 

Those who may be interested in a business career with a healthcare focus may want to consider pursuing a healthcare MBA degree. 

What Is an MBA in Healthcare Administration?

A Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration is a specialized graduate degree program that focuses specifically on developing business management and leadership skills within the scope of the healthcare field. According to  Coursera , the healthcare MBA degree is designed to prepare students for career opportunities in the healthcare field. Such opportunities consist of hospital administration positions, healthcare facility management positions, and healthcare financial management positions. 

The Business of Healthcare

The healthcare field is commonly associated with the field of medicine, largely because most healthcare professionals work directly with patients to provide them with the care and treatment they need. That said, there is another aspect to this industry, which is the business side of healthcare. The American health care system is incredibly complex, and it consists of medical providers, insurance providers, and patients. While some healthcare facilities are for-profit companies and others are non-profit organizations, all healthcare facilities must work to streamline business operations while simultaneously improving patient outcomes. This requires business leaders who specialize in healthcare administration to have a unique set of business, healthcare, and interpersonal skills to succeed. 

What You Can Do With an MBA in Healthcare

One of the most significant MBA benefits is the fact that graduates are often able to seek higher-level, leadership positions within their chosen industry. Per reports from Indeed , graduates with an MBA in Healthcare are often qualified to pursue positions such as: 

• Healthcare Administrators 
• Hospital Managers 
• Clinical Office Managers 
• Corporate Development Manager 
• Health Information Manager 

That said, the benefits of an MBA in healthcare are vast in terms of career opportunities. Understanding such benefits is key to deciding where you ultimately would like to be down the road. 

Role of Healthcare Administrators

Healthcare administrators are responsible for overseeing the business activities of a healthcare facility. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that healthcare administrators are commonly employed at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and medical practices. Most healthcare administrators are employed full-time, and while a bachelor's degree is required for most entry-level positions, an MBA in Healthcare can provide a candidate with a competitive advantage. 

Managing Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare administrators are responsible for managing the day-to-day business operations at healthcare facilities. Some common management responsibilities include: 

• Creating a work schedule for staff that optimizes patient outcomes. 
• Recruiting and retaining top talent in the medical field. 
• Soliciting feedback from patients and adapting accordingly to improve patient outcomes and experiences. 
• Monitoring compliance standards and ensuring that the facility remains in compliance with all regulations. 

Directing Effective and Efficient Operations

At a time when many healthcare facilities are facing staffing shortages and patient needs are greater than ever before, healthcare administrators and managers must be exceptionally skilled at directing effective and efficient operations. Healthcare administrators are often responsible for collecting data and evaluating daily operations to see where improvements can be made. This is in terms of both the work environment for staff and the patient experience for those seeking care at the facility. 

Implementing Healthcare Policies and Regulations

Healthcare facilities must remain in compliance with all legal guidelines and regulations, which tend to change frequently. Healthcare administrators and managers are often responsible for monitoring all regulatory changes, and adapting accordingly to ensure that the facility always maintains compliance. In addition, administrators also must create healthcare policies for staff and patients to ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe and secure environment within the facility. These policies often must shift to adapt to changing cultural norms and expectations within the public. 

Improving Patient Care and Satisfaction

Patients have a lot of choices when it comes to seeking care, which means that healthcare facilities must be committed to constantly improving the patient experience to compete against other local facilities. Prioritizing patient care and satisfaction is crucial from a business perspective. By actively improving patient outcomes, the facility enhances its ability to attract top talent within the medical community and retain patients over the long term. 

Benefits of an MBA in Healthcare Administration

While there are several MBA benefits to consider, there are additional benefits associated with a specialized MBA degree, such as an MBA in Healthcare Administration. 

These are some of the benefits to consider as you explore the  healthcare MBA program at Lindenwood University : 

Career Advancement in Healthcare

One of the most significant benefits associated with any MBA degree is the fact that this sought-after graduate degree program allows business professionals to advance within their chosen field. The MBA degree offers students advanced coursework focusing on specialized business topics. Additionally, it includes leadership skill development, uniquely equipping them for upper-level positions within their field. 

Within the healthcare sector, graduates who earn a healthcare MBA degree may be qualified for leadership positions, such as healthcare administrators, practice managers, health information officers, hospital CEO, or hospital CFO positions. 

Leadership and Management Skills for Healthcare

An MBA degree program with a concentration in healthcare administration can help you develop the specialized skills needed to manage a healthcare facility. 

Some of the top leadership and management skills for healthcare administrators include: 

• Decision-Making — Healthcare leaders must be able to make effective decisions that provide positive outcomes for the entire facility. They must be able to weigh the needs of the staff, the demands of the business itself, and the expectations of patients as they make choices for the greater good of the hospital or medical practice. 
• Team Building — Healthcare administrators must be able to work with staff at all levels to create a positive workplace culture. By actively working to create a positive work environment, healthcare administrators will be able to attract and retain top talent while also improving patient outcomes. 
• Communication — Managers and administrators must be able to communicate effectively with both staff members and patients. Clear, consistent, and accurate communication is essential in the healthcare field, which is constantly subjected to changing laws, regulations, guidelines, and patient expectations.

Increased Earning Potential and Job Stability

Several graduates with an MBA in Healthcare Administration find that they can increase their earning potential over the course of their career. The BLS notes medical and health services managers earn a median annual salary of about $104,000 per year. In addition, the job outlook for these positions is incredibly positive, with the BLS anticipating a 28 percent job growth rate between 2022 and 2032. This anticipated job growth rate is much faster than average when compared to all other occupations. Graduates who complete a health care MBA program are likely to secure a position and enjoy long-term job security and stability, as it's expected that there will be increased demand for these specialized positions for years to come. 

Future of Healthcare Administration

The future of healthcare administration is bright, with many new job opportunities on the horizon. Furthermore, those pursuing careers in this field are likely to enjoy a long and vibrant career, one in which the changes of the digital age will greatly shape the trajectory of their career and their responsibilities daily. It's an exciting time to consider a career in healthcare administration, and the need for qualified professionals with adept leadership skills has never been greater. 

Increased Demand and Need in Healthcare

In the wake of the global pandemic, and at a time when healthcare facilities are facing dire staffing shortages, the need for qualified and skilled healthcare administrators has never been greater. The  BLS  anticipates that there will be about 54,700 job openings for medical and health services managers each year between 2022 and 2032. Most healthcare facilities are looking for dynamic and motivated managers willing to: 

• Develop effective policies that will help improve the overall culture at the facility and boost patient outcomes. 
• Apply their knowledge of the healthcare industry with their business acumen, ultimately providing a business-focused, patient-centered approach to healthcare. 
• Improve the reputation of the facility to attract the most qualified practitioners and medical providers as well as retain patients for the long-term.

Technological Advancements and Data-Driven Decisions

Over the course of the past several decades, technology has completely revolutionized the field of healthcare — and those changes are not going to slow down anytime soon. The digital revolution is in full swing, and advancements in technology will continue to redefine the healthcare experience for providers, payers, and patients. 

In the near-term, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and data harvesting are expected to play a significant role in the field of healthcare. Healthcare administrators are going to need to know how to make data-driven decisions in the age of AI to provide patients with streamlined care and improved outcomes. Moreover, managers are going to need to know how to leverage technology to alleviate the burden on staff members without compromising patient care to quell burnout and retain the most qualified providers in the medical field. 

Changes in Healthcare Reform and Regulations

As the healthcare industry continues to adapt to the changing times, healthcare administrators will be faced with constant changes due to healthcare reform and regulatory changes. Some hot topics within healthcare reform and regulatory activity include: 

• The cost of prescription medication, with many patients finding it difficult to access the medicine they require at a price that they can afford. 
• Medicare changes, which may include access to telehealth and other benefits. 
• Behavioral healthcare coverage, with patients and providers demanding that individuals receive better coverage for mental healthcare to provide them with the comprehensive, well-rounded care that they need to enjoy the high quality of life that they deserve. 

By being aware of trending topics and monitoring legislative changes, health services managers and hospital administrators will be able to effectively maneuver this ever-changing landscape. 

Explore the Health care MBA Program at Lindenwood University Online

At Lindenwood University Online, we offer a dynamic  MBA degree program  designed to prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed for an ever-evolving business climate. Within this online graduate degree program, you can choose a Healthcare Administration concentration, allowing you to specialize in this growing sector. 

Request more information  about our online MBA degree today.  

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• Outbreaks of Foodborne Illness

Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Organic Basil (April 2024)

Do not eat recalled organic basil sold at certain retail stores in 29 states and D.C. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Images of Additional Products

Two brands of organic basil have been recalled:

• Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil packed in 2.5-oz clamshell packaging (UPC 8 18042 02147 7) and sold at Trader Joe’s and Fruit Center Marketplace stores from February 1 through April 6, 2024.
• Melissa's brand fresh organic basil in 2.0-oz (UPC 0 45255 14142 9) and 4.0-oz clamshell packages (UPC 0 45255 14439 0) available for sale at Dierberg's stores in Illinois and Missouri from February 10 through February 20, 2024.

Both recalled brands of basil are labeled as a product of Colombia on the back of the package. Recalled basil is past expiration and should no longer be available for sale.

Symptoms of Salmonella Infection:

Illness usually occurs within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and usually lasts four to seven days. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children younger than five, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe infections.

Stores Affected

Infinite Herbs-brand was sold at:

• Trader Joe’s stores in D.C. and AL, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WI
• Fruit Center Marketplace stores in MA

Melissa’s-brand was sold at:

• Dierberg’s stores in IL and MO

Recommendation

• Consumers who purchased recalled organic basil from the stores listed above should check their refrigerators and freezers and should not eat it.
• This product should no longer be for sale at retail stores and is likely past shelf-life. If you bought recalled organic basil and removed it from the packaging or froze it and cannot tell if it is part of the recall, do not eat or use it and throw it away.
• Follow FDA’s safe handling and cleaning advice and use extra care in cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces and containers that may have come in contact with this product to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you think you may have symptoms of a Salmonella infection after eating basil.

Current Update

April 19, 2024

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella linked to recalled organic basil.

In response to this investigation, on April 18, 2024, Infinite Herbs, LLC, of Miami, FL voluntarily recalled 2.5-oz packages of Infinite Herbs-brand fresh organic basil sold at select Trader Joe’s stores and Fruit Center Marketplace stores in Massachusetts from February 1 through April 6, 2024.

On April 19, 2024, Infinite Herbs, LLC, expanded the recall to include Melissa’s-brand organic basil sold in 2.0 and 4.0-oz packages at Dierberg’s stores in Illinois and Missouri between February 10 through February 20, 2024.

Both brands of recalled basil are no longer available for sale and any previously purchased basil should be past shelf life. If you previously purchased recalled basil and then froze it, you should throw it away if it’s part of the recall or if you cannot tell if it’s part of the recall.

Case Count Map Provided by CDC

Map of Stores Where Recalled Organic Basil was Sold

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 12 Hospitalizations: 1 Deaths: 0 Last Illness Onset: April 2, 2024 States with Cases: FL, GA, MN, MO, NJ, RI, WI

Product Distribution*: AL, CT, D.C., DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI

*Distribution has been confirmed for locations listed, but product could have been distributed further.

Useful Links

• CDC Outbreak Advisory
• Infinite Herbs Recall Announcement
• Infinite Herbs Expanded Recall Announcement
• Food Safety Tips for Retailers and Consumers During an Outbreak
• Food Safety Resources for Produce Shippers and Carriers During a Foodborne Illness Outbreak

Who to Contact

• What is Salmonella ?

Product Images

Recalled Product

On April 18, 2024, Infinite Herbs, LLC, of Miami, Florida, voluntarily recalled 2.5-oz packages of Infinite Herbs fresh organic basil sold between February 1 through April 6, 2024, and bearing the UPC 8 18042 02147 7. Additional information and images of UPC codes, can be found in the company recall announcement .

On April 19, 2024, Infinite Herbs, LLC expanded the recall to include Melissa’s-brand organic basil sold in 2.0 and 4.0-oz packages at Dierberg’s stores in Illinois and Missouri between February 10 through 20, 2024. Additional information and images of UPC codes can be found in the company recall announcement .

Previous Update

April 17, 2024

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil packed in 2.5-oz clamshell packaging and sold at Trader Joe’s stores in AL, CT, D.C., DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WI.

Based on epidemiological information collected by CDC, a total of 12 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from seven states. Seven of eight cases with information available reported exposure to fresh organic basil purchased from Trader Joe's before becoming ill. Additionally, traceback data collected by FDA determined that Infinite Herbs, LLC, in Miami, FL, was the supplier of the 2.5-oz packages of organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores.

In response to this investigation, Trader Joe’s has voluntarily removed all Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil packed in 2.5-oz clamshell packaging from their stores and this product should no longer be available for sale.

The investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are linked to illnesses. FDA will update this advisory should additional consumer safety information become available. 

Consumers who have symptoms should contact their health care provider to report their symptoms and receive care.

To report a complaint or adverse event (illness or serious allergic reaction), you can

• Call an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator if you wish to speak directly to a person about your problem.
• Complete an electronic Voluntary MedWatch form online.
• Complete a paper Voluntary MedWatch form that can be mailed to FDA.

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