Healthcare is growing quickly which means there are many opportunities for employment within the industry, including leadership roles. The BLS predicts a 16% employment growth in healthcare between 2020 and 2030, making it a great time to pursue an online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA). An MHA builds on your previous education and advances your career by giving you detailed knowledge of healthcare systems. It prepares you for work in management and other leadership roles in healthcare facilities, as well as in business and financing organizations.
Since most MHA students are already employed, a flexible and affordable online class schedule is important. This guide reviews the most affordable online MHA programs and highlights how to find an accredited program that is also flexible.
Most Affordable Online MHA Programs for 2023
Choosing an online MHA program should be based on your needs and goals. Important factors include affordability, specialties available, accreditation, location, faculty, and learning format. For most students, though, cost is the deciding factor. We’ve compiled a list of the most affordable online MHA programs for 2023 based on a combination of key affordability and quality metrics from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Learn more about how we calculated the rankings by clicking on the “About the ranking” button below.
The Master of Health Administration degree from Midwestern State University is ideal for students who want to operate in health services administration leadership roles. MSU offers four concentrations in the MHA program, and students must choose a focus on health information management, medical practice management, public and community sector health care management, or rural and urban hospital management. Once students have selected their area of concentration, the MHA Graduate Coordinator helps them design an individual degree plan to meet their goals. This program is tailored to accommodate students who are working full-time to complete a master’s degree in two to three years. While students can complete coursework entirely online, optional face-to-face workshops are available for interested students.
Program Highlights:
Master of Health Administration
- Credits: 45
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $591-$999/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Grantham University’s 100%-online Master of Healthcare Administration meets the educational needs of individuals with experience in the healthcare industry and those new to the field. For experienced healthcare professionals, the program offers insights and management strategies relevant to hospitals and other healthcare organizations’ unique financial and budgeting needs. For those earning a degree to serve in healthcare leadership roles, the coursework will establish an understanding of the internal schematics of U.S.-based health systems. All students gain the skills needed to obtain management positions within medical facilities after graduation. For students’ convenience, Grantham’s MHA coursework can be completed entirely online.
Program Highlights:
Master of Healthcare Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 24 months
- Cost: $350/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: DEAC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | DEAC |
At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, graduate students can earn a Master of Healthcare Administration online in as few as 12 months. This MHA curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of efficient and effective healthcare management practices in the areas of human capital resources, healthcare reform policies, population health management, and patient experience. One unique aspect of UNCW’s program is its personalized learning approach. Students submit an initial gap analysis assessment to identify areas of strength and improvement before beginning their studies, taking additional assessments to track their growth as they proceed through coursework. For students who lack a background in healthcare, there are applied learning opportunities to participate in faculty research, international travel, case competitions, and practicum courses.
Program Highlights:
Master of Healthcare Administration Online
- Credits: 48
- Length: 1-2 years
- Cost: $295.29-$1063.57
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
For those who aspire to roles as health care executives, Appalachian State University’s Master in Health Administration degree can be earned in two to three years. After completing a core curriculum in general health administration, students can choose from two possible areas of specialization for the remainder of their studies. The health care leadership concentration prepares students for leadership in healthcare and healthcare operations management. In contrast, the information systems concentration focuses on data analytics and data management in healthcare settings. While most coursework is accomplished via online, asynchronous courses, students must spend one Friday and Saturday per semester in person on the Appalachian State campus.
Program Highlights:
Health Administration (MHA)
- Credits: 46
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $471/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Students who prefer entirely self-paced learning can take 100% online, asynchronous courses with Florida Atlantic University’s Online Master of Health Administration program. This MHA follows a cohort model, providing structure and networking opportunities to students. A new program begins each fall, spring, and summer semester, with a group of participants assigned to progress through the 15-month course as a group, sharing the same class sequence and educational experience. Additionally, all students kick off their experience in the program with a one-credit Leadership Bootcamp course featuring specific skills-based lectures from industry experts. Upon graduation, students have earned both a master’s degree and a Lean Six-Sigma Green Belt certification.
Program Highlights:
Master of Health Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: 15 months
- Cost: $900/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | WSCUC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACICS |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ABHES |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NECHE |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACICS |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACICS |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NASD |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | ACCSC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | MSCHE |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
Funding Your Online MHA: 5 Ways to Save
For most students who choose to pursue an MHA, affordability is key. Luckily, there are several ways that you can reduce the cost of obtaining your MH, including options for extra earning potential while you pursue your degree. Below are five of the main ways to reduce the cost of your online MHA.
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Scholarships, grants, and fellowships created for MHA students.
Grants, scholarships, and fellowships are great ways to receive funds for tuition. They are awarded based on factors like academic performance, financial need, special interests, race, gender, identity, and more. You can find more information and a list of potential scholarships on Scholarships.com and information on fellowships at the American College of Healthcare Executives. You can also find more information in OMD’s scholarships and resources guide.
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Work-Study or Assistantships
Work-study or graduate assistantships allow students to put the skills they’re learning to work in real-life settings while finishing their degrees. Interested students need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you qualify, you’ll look for a job through the school. The University of Iowa is an example of a school offering graduate assistantships for MHA students.
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Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Some employers provide tuition reimbursement to employees interested in pursuing higher education. Employees with a graduate degree bring advanced knowledge and skills to the organization, and tuition reimbursement is a great way for companies to attract top talent. If you’re currently employed, ask your employer if it has a tuition reimbursement program. Many companies offer up to $5,250 per year, the maximum amount allowed by the IRS free of taxes. Advent Health University and BJC Healthcare are two examples of companies that offer tuition reimbursement.
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Payment Plans
Many schools allow MHA students to pay their tuition on a payment plan, alleviating the burden of making large-sum payments at once. For example, Florida Atlantic University allows students to pay tuition in four installments. Another example, the University of Illinois, offers two payment plan options, monthly payments or six payments over the fall and spring semesters.
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Paid Internships
A paid internship can offset the cost of school but also give hands-on knowledge and experience. MHA students can find Internships in hospitals, educational settings, clinics, healthcare organizations, or medical businesses. Many schools assist in placing students in internships, but students can also find paid internship opportunities on career sites like Indeed.
FAQs about Affordable MHA Programs
Q. What impacts the affordability of an online master’s program?
Many factors impact the cost of an online MHA program. Whether a school is public or private and if a program is online or in-person can impact the cost. You can also look for ways to reduce costs through transfer credits and through grants, scholarships, or work-study opportunities.
Q. What is the ROI of an online MHA degree?
An MFA can advance your career and earning options, and it’s important to understand the potential ROI (i.e., how much you will earn after the degree versus what the degree will cost). MHA tuition costs vary a great deal, anywhere from $15,000 to $36,000 based on the schools profiled above. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health services managers with master’s degrees can make over $100,000 a year. So, the ROI potential of an MHA is significant.
Q. How can I ensure that an affordable MFT program is high-quality?
Choosing an online MHA program that meets your needs and provides a high-quality education involves choosing a program and school that is properly accredited, offers networking and career training and placement services, has experienced faculty, and provides student support. Looking at how many students are placed in jobs and how they perform on national certification exams can also indicate the quality of a program.
Q. Is an online MFT more affordable than an in-person MFT?
Enrolling in an online MHA program is a great way to save money. Not only can online programs be slightly cheaper than in-person programs, there are other ways an online program reduces your education costs. An online program means you don’t have housing costs associated with living on campus, and you won’t have to commute to campus, saving on money and gas. You also won’t have to pay for parking on campus. Finally, you’ll save time and money by taking classes and completing homework when it works for you, which frees up time for other things.
Q. Can job experience count towards a master’s degree and help cut costs?
While some schools offer credit toward their master’s programs based on an applicant’s previous work experience, MHA applicants typically won’t receive credit hours for work experience. However, prior relevant work experience can help MHA candidates in other ways, such as using experience during the application process to help offset a lower GPA in undergraduate classes. It can also help you stand out among other candidates and excel in internships or practicums.
Q. How can I know if an affordable MFT program is right for me?
Choosing an online MHA program is a very personal and individual choice. Each student has different goals, experiences, and learning types. Only you can know what the most important factors are for you when choosing a program. Make a list of exactly what you must have in an online MHA program, then research schools to see how they fit your needs to help you choose the best program for you.