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Phd in healthcare administration: requirements, salary, jobs, & career growth, what is phd in healthcare administration.

A PhD in Healthcare Administration is a doctoral degree program that prepares students for roles of leadership and management in healthcare administration and management.

Typically, the program includes a thorough examination of healthcare policy, management, finance, law, ethics, and technology, as well as research methods and statistics.

Students pursuing a PhD in Healthcare Administration should expect to gain advanced knowledge and skills in areas such as health policy, strategic planning, organizational behavior, human resource management, quality improvement, and financial management.

Through their dissertation, they are also expected to conduct original research and contribute new knowledge to the field.

How much money do people make with a PhD in Healthcare Administration?

Individuals with a PhD in Healthcare Administration can earn a variety of salaries depending on a variety of factors.

As of May 2020, the median annual income for medical and health services managers, including those with a PhD in Healthcare Administration, was $104,280, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The top 10% made more than $195,630, while the bottom 10% made less than $60,430. However, it is important to note that salaries can vary greatly depending on the job title and industry.

Medical and health services managers, for example, tend to earn more than those working in physicians’ offices or outpatient care centers.

Furthermore, those in executive roles may earn much more than those in entry-level or mid-level positions.

What is expected job growth with PhD in Healthcare Administration?

Several factors are driving growth in the healthcare industry, including an aging population, increased demand for healthcare services, advances in medical technology, and changes in healthcare policies and regulations.

These trends are projected to continue, resulting in a high demand for experienced healthcare administrators and managers in the coming years.

Individuals with a PhD in Healthcare Administration have a generally positive job outlook as the healthcare industry expands and evolves.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical and health care managers, including those with a PhD, is expected to expand 32% between 2020 and 2030, substantially faster than the national average.

What can you do with a PhD in Healthcare Administration?

Individuals with a PhD in Healthcare Administration have numerous career options in the healthcare industry. Here are some examples of roles that may be available:

1. Executive-level positions: PhD in Healthcare Administration graduates may be well-suited for executive-level jobs such as CEO, COO, or CFO at hospitals, healthcare systems, or other healthcare organizations.

2. Health policy and advocacy: Those with a PhD in Healthcare Administration may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutions to formulate healthcare policies, lobby for healthcare change, or perform healthcare-related research.

3. Healthcare consulting: Consulting businesses engage PhDs in Healthcare Administration to advise and guide healthcare corporations on financial management, operations, and strategic planning.

4. Academic research and teaching: PhD program graduates may pursue academic jobs as professors or researchers, doing research and teaching courses in healthcare administration, policy, or finance.

6. Healthcare informatics and technology: With a PhD in Healthcare Administration, you could work in healthcare informatics or health information technology, inventing and implementing technology solutions to improve healthcare operations and patient care.

7. Hospital administration: PhD in Healthcare Administration graduates may work as hospital administrators, controlling day-to-day operations, managing finances, and assuring regulatory compliance.

What are the requirements for a PhD in Healthcare Administration?

The specific requirements for obtaining a PhD in Healthcare Administration can vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, the following are common requirements:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: Applicants to most PhD programs in Healthcare Administration must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Although it is not usually required, certain schools may accept applicants with a Master’s degree in a related discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: Applicants are usually expected to present certified transcripts of their undergraduate and graduate education, which demonstrate their academic performance and achievement.

3. Statement of Purpose: Applicants are typically expected to provide a personal statement or statement of purpose detailing their research interests, academic ambitions, and reason for pursuing a PhD in Healthcare Administration.

4. Standardized Test Scores: Applicants to many PhD programs may be required to submit scores from standardized tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or other related assessments.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants to PhD programs in Healthcare Administration are frequently required to provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who may speak to the applicant’s academic talents, research potential, and eligibility for a PhD program.

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How long does it take to get a phd in healthcare administration.

The length of time it takes to acquire a PhD in Healthcare Administration varies based on a number of factors, including the exact program requirements, the student’s pace of study, and whether the school is attended full-time or part-time.

A PhD degree in Healthcare Administration typically takes 4-6 years to finish.

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Do you need a masters in healthcare administration to get a phd in healthcare administration.

Applicants to most PhD programs in Healthcare Administration must have a master’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as healthcare management, public health, or business administration.

Some PhD programs, on the other hand, may accept applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a related field and significant work experience in healthcare administration.

Students with a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration or a related field will have a solid foundation in healthcare management and leadership, as well as a deeper understanding of healthcare policies, economics, and finance.

This information can be useful when pursuing a PhD in Healthcare Administration because it can help students acquire more sophisticated research abilities and make a relevant contribution to the area.

What are the Best PhD in Healthcare Administration Degree programs?

1. johns hopkins university : phd in health services research and policy 2. university of michigan : phd in health services organization and policy 3. harvard university : phd in health policy 4. university of alabama at birmingham : phd in health services administration 5. university of north carolina at chapel hill : phd in health policy and management 6. university of california, berkeley : phd in health policy 7. university of pennsylvania : phd in health policy 8. university of minnesota : phd in health services research, policy and administration 9. university of southern california : phd in health policy and management 10. new york university : phd in health policy and management, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Is a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Worth It?

Healthcare is taking on a new visionary role, eschewing tradition for more pioneering approaches to healthcare economics, policies, governance and quality. The people at the helm of this change are bringing forth fresh ideas supported by high-quality education, often in the form of a doctorate in healthcare administration (DHA). While earning an advanced degree is not necessary in some professions, it’s of utmost importance in healthcare. 

“There are silos in healthcare and in the past we relied on business degrees to run healthcare, but we have found that some things just don’t fit the way we do business. People’s lives are at stake with what we do. A DHA brings all of the pieces together — regulatory, quality, social, community— so that as a leader, you can understand all of the perspectives.”   Gail Frankle, RN, DHA, program chair at Franklin University

A leader’s ability to properly address growing needs in patient care and policy change — particularly during these unprecedented times — requires knowledge and skill. With a DHA, healthcare professionals can firmly establish themselves as trusted authorities, lead a new era of care and increase their earning potentials. 

What’s more, the healthcare industry is poised to grow, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting the field will add roughly 2.3 million jobs between 2016 and 2026.

What is the difference between a DHA and a Ph.D.?

Healthcare professionals have a choice when pursuing an advanced degree; strive for a DHA or a Ph.D. While both degrees are research focused, a Ph.D. is best suited for people who are in pursuit of evidence and knowledge and want to work in research institutions and universities. In contrast, DHAs seek to apply evidence and knowledge to reach the upper ranks within healthcare systems and facilities. It’s a significant difference that prepares people for very different healthcare professions.

While a Ph.D. is more readily known across industries, a DHA is more specific in its application, making it extremely attractive to healthcare professionals and employers alike. At no other time in recent history have we seen a need for seasoned yet pragmatic leaders in healthcare who not only have knowledge, but can also apply that knowledge to improve or eliminate current-day challenges. A DHA degree gives leaders a better understanding of what it takes to make smart, well-informed healthcare decisions and the qualifications to earn high-profile and high-paying leadership positions.

"A Ph.D. is for someone who wants to do research all the time, and those who get a modified Ph.D. are more academic-research embedded. They aren’t necessarily in a clinical setting or a hospital,” said Frankle. “A DHA gives professionals the opportunity to impact the healthcare system and everything that touches it. You can be a C-suite leader, an administrator over a cancer center or other medical center, or even a manager or director over a set of departments. It elevates you into a leadership area where you’re working with teams.”

While it is possible for people who earn DHA degrees and Ph.D.s to cross-pollinate within the healthcare industry, with both finding opportunities to conduct research and teach, a DHA is the preferred choice for leadership positions and administrative roles in the healthcare industry. 

Advance your career in Healthcare Administration while you advance patient care. Download your free career guide.

What career opportunities will a dha provide.

The next generation of healthcare leaders are taking on new, expanded and visionary roles to advance healthcare. Earning a DHA creates opportunities to bring forth new ideas for policy, practice and patient improvements — and the timing couldn’t be better to pursue a degree.

Hospitals, medical and pharmaceutical companies, universities and much more are in need of professionals with advanced degrees to advocate out-of-the-box thinking and to lead an arena that can be unpredictable, challenging, and occasionally contentious.

Those who qualify can expect to advance their careers in the following professions.

• Chief Executive Officer: Individuals are responsible for the operations of an entire hospital or medical facility and are the final decision-makers of all aspects of operations.
• Chief Patient Experience Officer: They impact and improve the relationship patients and their families have with a hospital or medical institution.
• Chief Innovation Officer: Leaders drive innovation and best-practices as they relate to the hospital environment.
• Health Information and Technology: This important role requires leaders to understand software and medical information technology to ensure the preservation and confidentiality of medical records. 
• Nursing Home Administration: Similar to hospitals, nursing homes require leaders to manage finances, management and admissions.
• Healthcare Consultant: They work in a variety of settings and conduct research to identify problems and possible solutions.

With career advancement comes increased salaries. Figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that medical and health services managers make an average of $104,280 annually. However, health administrators with DHA degrees who work in big hospitals earn as much as $195,630 per year.

What does it take to earn a DHA?

Students pursuing a DHA degree should do their research to ensure the program they are applying for is committed to their success. 

At Franklin University, students get 360-degree support, meaning they’ve taken a comprehensive and systematic approach to their online doctoral program, which includes team-based curriculum development, doctorally qualified faculty, and student-centered activities designed for working adults. Students also receive robust academic support from a variety of resources, including a graduate advisor, faculty advisor, research support and peers, as well as the Student Learning Center staff and Dissertation Committee members. With flexible online classes and most students earning their DHA in three years (including dissertation), Franklin University is a smart choice.

The Franklin University Difference

When choosing an institution to earn a DHA, it’s important to find a program that creates dynamic leaders who can understand the core technical aspects of quality research while also equipping students with sought-after skills such as communication and technology. 

Franklin University’s applied doctorate program is a practical degree that enables both subject mastery and field application. That means students are prepared to research and communicate complex, organization-wide issues, design organizational strategies to improve healthcare operations and outcomes, and apply research to advance the field of healthcare administration.

Check out Franklin University’s DHA program, and confidently take the next step toward the career you’ve always wanted.

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What is PhD Healthcare Administration Salary and Career Potential?

Key Takeaways:

• Holding a PhD in Healthcare Administration can lead to high earning potential and diverse career opportunities. Graduates can pursue roles as hospital administrators, health services managers, or policy advisors , with salaries often exceeding $100,000 depending on the position and location.
• The degree also opens doors to academic and research positions , allowing professionals to influence healthcare policies and systems.
• The comprehensive education and specialized training prepare graduates for senior-level and executive roles in healthcare settings.

Leadership in the field of health policy and management requires extensive knowledge, experience, and judgment. Health management covers a wide variety of services and opportunities. This is one of the reasons it is important to find the answers to these questions you may have. Before considering a doctorate in health management and policy you may wonder:

• Is health information management a good career choice to meet my career objectives?
• Can I meet my financial objectives by reaching for the health management careers that interest me?
• What are available careers in health management?

Degree candidates enrolled in a doctorate-level degree program in health management can enter the healthcare field ready to work. They can work as researchers in both the private, public and academic environments.

Health management and policy researchers have the responsibility of investigating health care systems from many essential perspectives. The goal is identifying and improving health care disparities in public and private health systems. Ph.D. programs in health management and policy cover the complexities of health care costs, quality, and access affected by –  

• Social factors
• Financing and available capital
• Health care organizational structures
• Health care technologies, to name a few

Health management and policy focuses on populations, groups, healthcare institutions, and defined communities.

Accreditation for Health Management and Policy Programs

The concept of accreditation refers to a standardized process by which neutral-third-party. An organization or agency (governmental or industry-related) evaluate academic facilities and its offerings against a standardized set of criteria to determine if a school or program meets the academic muster. Ultimately, the objective of accreditation is to –

• Protect the public by requiring higher learning institutions to be held accountable by requiring they open their facilities and academic curricula to a neutral accreditation agency and process. This process ensures that the quality of the education promised/advertised is the same education a student receives.
• Improve the overall academic quality of education in the United States.

It is noted that the accreditation process – the continuation of the quality control – is renewed, on average, every five to ten years, depending on the level of accreditation and the industry standards. In the United States, there are two fundamental levels of accreditation – Regional Accreditation and Specialized Accreditation. These are discussed below.

Regional Accreditation

The United States Department of Education is the federal oversight agency comprised of nine regional agencies that manage the regional accreditation process through the United States’ divided regions. Each federal, regional agency is responsible for administering the accreditation processes to those higher learning institutions located with that regional agency’s boundaries.

Generally speaking, institutions of higher education that are awarded regional accreditation are predominantly state-funded, nonprofit schools, although not always. In addition to regional accreditation, professional schools, colleges, and universities – and their programs can voluntarily seek specialized accreditation. Although not mandated, most quality institutions of higher learning seek to earn specialized accreditation from an industry-approved agency.

Specialized accreditation is typically awarded by industry-sanctioned oversight organizations, developed to ensure accreditation assessments are fair, just, and accurate. Health Care Management Accreditation is discussed next.

Specialized Accreditation – Health Care Management Accreditation

The CAHME – the Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education

The CAHME – the Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education is the accreditation benchmark used for employers and students alike – that speaks to the fact that students with degrees awarded by the Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education accredited schools/programs have been appropriately prepared to be future healthcare management leaders. This agency serves the public by –

• Setting forth measurable standards that define excellence in healthcare management education.
• Making this accreditation information easily accessible to relevant students, educators, and employers.
• Maintaining membership with the Association of Specialized & Professional Accreditors (ASPA)
• Maintaining membership with the ASPA Code of Good Practice.

Members of the Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education hail from a cross-section of inter-related health care groups that include –

• Health care clinicians.
• Health care professionals.
• Health care managers and administrators.
• Health care educators, among others.

It is also essential to notify the reader that the Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education holds the distinction of being the ONLY accreditation organization sanctioned by CHEA (the Council on Higher Education Accreditation) with regard to professional graduate and post-graduate degrees in healthcare management and policy.

Types of Health Management & Policy Doctoral Degrees

A Health Policy and Management PhD program is typically appealing to health care-minded thought leaders who want to focus their careers in the betterment of healthcare organizations, developments, and structures. Many healthcare managerial professionals and health services managers have tremendously busy careers, so an online health care management PhD degree program is often most appealing because it an online health care management PhD degree candidates flexibility when pressed for time.

Any degree candidate for a doctorate in health policy can opt for either on campus health management doctoral programs or health management doctoral programs online . However, there are two types of health management PhD programs from which to choose –

• A PhD in Health Management – a PhD in Health Policy and Management focuses on medical research; however, this Health Care Management PhD degree program typically present their work and conclusions to medical/academic communities. From behind the scenes, those who attain a PhD in Health Policy and Management online, on-campus, or as a hybrid program, help prepare the next generation of health care managers and leaders. 
• A Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) – those who earn this type of PhD in Health Care Policy and Management online or by a hybrid program seek to work on real-world problems impacting health care in the here and now.

Both PhD health management degree programs prepare degree candidates for the upper management levels of the health care field, which includes the exploration of the organizational nuances that buck conventional theoretical wisdom. The advanced research and study offered by a PhD in health management online program, health care managers, refine their skills at –

• Problem-solving.
• Problem identification
• Innovative resource allocations
• Confident decision-making
• Conflict mediation experts

Careers in Health Management and Policy

So, you have finally concluded that a career in health management and policy will meet your educational, financial, and career objectives. But what kind of jobs are available if you earn this health administration degree? What are the available PhD in health policy jobs with my background, education, and within my commuting area? What kinds of medical facilities can I work in with a healthcare administration degree? Have you asked and answered the question – What can I do with a PhD in health policy? And is it better than a master’s degree?

Students enrolled in a doctoral health management and policy degree program explore the theories, concepts, and research that prepares candidates to become the next generation’s health care industry leaders in any healthcare organization. However, students generally must make a choice as to which of the many health care management facets they find holds the most interest. Among the choices are a career in –

• Public health
• Facility management

Courses taught in post-graduate health administration programs require incredible skills that promote communication and innovation in problem-solving. As such, health management and policy professionals are typically thought to be creative, out-of-the-box thinkers, collaborative types, and self-starters. 

However, prior to making our final decision, be sure you know what you can do with a PhD in health policy before enrolling in any program! A doctoral level degree program in health management a policy offers degree candidates a wide variety of academic emphases and concentrations. These include, in part, the following –

Academic Concentration & Description s

• Health Policy & Advocacy – Degree candidates explore how to improve healthcare ideologies and organizations through research methodologies. Many degree holders work in governmental policy-making at various levels influencing the access, availability, and exposure of health care to populations throughout the country.
• Healthcare Analytics – Degree candidates primarily work within the regulatory/compliance areas of healthcare, using metrics to monitor patient and staff safety.
• Bioethics – Degree candidates explore the ethical impacts of health care policy making using empirical research methodologies. Among the issues addressed are infectious diseases, obesity, emergency preparedness & population health, among others.
• Healthcare Leadership – Degree candidates explore the ways to direct organizational change using empirical evidence-based data. Ethical decision making is also explored.
• Quality & Patient Safety – Degree candidates explore the many theories available for improving care to patients in all types of clinical environments.
• Health Economics & Policy – Degree candidates explore and apply modern financial and economic modeling in the evaluation of public econometric policies and interventions.
• Clinical Manager – Degree candidates explore the many functions required to keep a clinic working according to legal guidelines and with a profit margin.

PhD in Health Policy and Management Salary 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a federally funded agency that manages incredible amounts of labor statistics from across the country, notes that overall, health care occupations are anticipated to grow at a 15% pace through 2029, which is considered significantly faster than the average of all United States occupations combined for the same timeframe.

The field of health care is recognized as one of the country’s fastest growing job markets. Because of the tremendous diversity, the health care field has, the highest paying jobs in health policy generally fall within the subspecialties within the field. According to Payscale.com, the average salary for someone who holds a doctorate in health care administration or management is $92,500 per year. A hospital chief financial officer, for instance, can make over $150,000, while a hospital chief executive officer can make more than $300,000.

The Factors That May Influence Health Management & Policy Salaries

Similar to most industries, there is a list of factors that influence the salary one receives, having earned a doctoral degree in health management and policy. Among these factors that may impact one’s compensation package are –

• The exact nature of one’s health management position.
• One’s level of education plus additional licenses, credentials, and other certifications.
• One’s previous relevant work and life experience.
• One’s personal and innate skills and abilities.
• The exact facet of the health services administration industry.
• The job growth potential of the health management/policy job chosen.

A PhD health policy and management salary – for those who enter the healthcare arena as a Medical or Health Services Manager, can expect that the median annual salary (2019) for a health or medical service manager was $100,980, which translates to $48.55 per hour. However, the most impressive is the job growth rate anticipated by the BLS statisticians through 2029 of 32% – about eight times as fast as the average growth rate of all U.S. combined occupations. In addition, this 32% job growth rate is expected to generate more than 125,000 new jobs over the next decade.

A PhD in Health Policy Salary – for those who enter the health care arena in the area of academia, will often perform research and teach at a university, college, or professional school that specializes in the many facets of health care and the healthcare industry. As a college educator, those who hold a doctoral level degree in health care management and policy will find the median health policy PhD salary will be $79,540 per year, with an anticipated job growth rate of 9% – about twice the United States average of all occupations combined.

In addition, a PhD in health management or policy may also lead to these well-paying and rewarding careers –

To help put additional and relevant perspective on the PhD in health policy salary potentials, consider the top paying states for –

Statisticians with a Doctorate in Health Management and Policy

Epidemiologists with a Doctorate in Health Management and Policy

Environmental Scientists with a Doctorate in Health Management and Policy

Professional Organizations in Health Management and Policy

The health care industry is forever evolving, which makes it essential for health administration program candidates and students within this field to stay professionally connected to the industry. Like most industries, the health care industry has a number of professional organizations that have been designed to support both the industry and the many professionals working to excel within the healthcare arena.

Each professional organization offers its members a host of services and benefits; however, each organization generally caters and serves a slice or small portion of the entire industry. The professional organizations noted below are considered among the most prominent and valuable for degree candidates, students, and professionals in the health care management industry.

The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)

The American College of Healthcare Executives is comprised of more than 75 regional chapters. With nearly 50,000 members, the American College of Healthcare Executives seeks to the healthcare executive’s trusted partner in making healthcare more affordable, more accessible, and safer for all. Members who join ACHE make a professional commitment to lifelong learning in terms of leadership diversity, inclusion, and integrity. The regional chapters of the American College of Healthcare Executives offer members a plethora of options at the local level that includes –

• Volunteer opportunities for members to become acquainted with community services and members.
• Educational programs and services to create more confident and competent health care executives.
• Job boards and career advancement services, to name a few of the many benefits offered.

Dues are $160 per year for two years, then $265 for the next three years. After year five, membership dues increase to $345 per year.

The National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM)

The National Association of Healthcare Access Management is a Washington-based professional organization that was developed to ensure the healthcare industry maintains the highest of standards by –

• Promoting the best medical practices
• Establishing subject matter expertise among healthcare professionals working in the industry

To accomplish its objectives, the National Association of Healthcare Access Management provides its members with these important benefits –

• Industry networking functions.
• Workshops and educational opportunities.
• Credential and certification options.

Active memberships – best suited for managerial level professionals have a yearly fee of $102.50. Associate members – suited for non-managerial professionals is $65 per year.

The AAHAM – the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management

The American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management, founded in the late 1960s as the American Guild of Patient Account Management, has grown to become one of the healthcare management’s most prominent organizations. The mission of the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management is to be the healthcare manager’s one-stop for important and relevant resources in the areas of –

• Professional networking.
• Certification and credential opportunities in coursework and exams.
• Advocacy, support, and mentorship in relevant areas.
• Education and workshop options are designed specifically for health care managers tasked with the responsibility of revenue cycle management.

Full time students (with a minimum course load of 12 semester credits) may join for free, with limited, non-voting benefits. National membership costs $209 per year, which can be prorated depending on the time of year you choose to join the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management.

The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA)

The HFMA – the Healthcare Financial Management Association, is a professional organization with more than 55,000 members dedicated to helping its members meet their financial performance expectations offering pragmatic solutions and techniques to financial managers in the healthcare industry. The Healthcare Financial Management Association offers tremendous educational opportunities and certifications that include –

• Chapter and national conferences
• In person and online seminars
• E-learning opportunities, among others

The Healthcare Financial Management Association benefits students – offering a reduced $50 yearly membership fee. New member fees for the Healthcare Financial Management Association are offered on an organization level or several levels of membership that cost between $175 to $495, depending on the level selected.  

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

The American Health Information Management Association is a professional organization for those who are dedicated to pursuing a career in health information management. Members of AHIMA – the American Health Information Management Association have access to valuable resources and helpful tools/techniques that will facilitate the professional’s goal of raising the standards of care offered. The American Health Information Management Association differs from other healthcare management professional organizations as it primarily focuses on providing and developing systems that improve the standards of care provided by healthcare professionals. The AHIMA – the American Health Information Management Association, offers a variety of industry credentials and certifications that include –

• CCHIM – Commission on Certification for Health Informatics & Information Management, plus another eight related certifications.

The annual membership fee for new members to AHIMA is $79/year for the first two years. A premier membership in the American Health Information Management Association is $199, a student membership is $49, and an active membership is $135 per year. Global members must be $109 per year for a membership.

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About the PhD in Health Policy and Management Program

The PhD in Health Policy and Management is a full-time doctoral program that trains its students to conduct original investigator-initiated research through a combination of coursework and research mentoring. The curriculum includes core coursework that is common across the four concentrations and courses specific to each individual concentration. Applicants to the PhD in Health Policy and Management apply directly to one of four concentrations. All four options have the same deadline, structure, and funding.

Concentration Areas

This concentration is designed for students interested in conducting independent research on ethical issues in public health policy, research and practice such as domestic and international research ethics, learning health systems, emerging biomedical technologies, ethics and public health genetics, national and global food policy, access to care and health care priority setting. By the end of their training, students are equipped to function as independent researchers, conducting empirical research related to bioethics, public health and health policy, as well as prepared to provide practical and normative recommendations regarding ethics and public health policy.

View more program information about the Concentration in Bioethics and Health Policy.

This concentration is designed for students interested in preventing leading public health problems through the development, analysis, implementation and evaluation of public health policies. Students affiliated with this concentration employ an interdisciplinary approach to their research in areas such as environmental and occupational health policy, injury prevention and control, social policy, and health and the practice of prevention.

View more program information about the Concentration in Health and Public Policy .

This concentration prepares doctoral students for conducting innovative and rigorous research on the economics of health and healthcare. The curriculum stresses a solid grounding in applied modern microeconomic theory, quantitative methods, and econometrics applications. Students take courses through the Department of Economics in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences.

View more program information about the Concentration in Health Economics and Policy.

This concentration prepares doctoral students for conducting innovative and rigorous quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation in health services delivery. The curriculum includes exposure to a wide variety of research methods, content areas, and datasets. It also offers the opportunity for in-depth study in areas such as public health informatics, quality of care and patient-centered outcomes research, including a focus on older adults, and health care disparities.

View more program information about the Concentration in Health Services Research and Policy.

Curriculum for the PhD in Health Policy and Management

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue  and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory .

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Health Policy And Management?

Our graduates graduates pursue research careers in top-tier universities, research and policy-making organizations, the health care industry and government agencies. Visit the  Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page. All concentrations follow the same admission process. Please see below for full details on the scope of each concentration.

PhD in Health Policy and Management – Bioethics and Health Policy

PhD in Health Policy and Management – Health and Public Policy

PhD in Health Policy and Management – Health Economics and Policy

PhD in Health Policy and Management – Health Services Research and Policy

For general information regarding tuition and fees, visit the Bloomberg School’s  Tuition and Fees  page.

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the JHU PhD Union, the minimum guaranteed 2025-2026 academic year stipend is $50,000 for all PhD students with a 4% increase the following year. Tuition, fees, and medical benefits are provided, including health insurance premiums for PhD student’s children and spouses of international students, depending on visa type. The minimum stipend and tuition coverage is guaranteed for at least the first four years of a BSPH PhD program; specific amounts and the number of years supported, as well as work expectations related to that stipend will vary across departments and funding source. Please refer to the CBA to review specific benefits, compensation, and other terms.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help. [email protected]  

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Home » Careers » How to Become a Healthcare Administrator » Healthcare Administrator Salary

Guide to Healthcare Administrator Salary

Healthcare administrators—also referred to as medical and health services managers—are critical to the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. They are involved in everything from overseeing staffing needs and budgets to ensuring legal compliance and general managerial duties. 

The salary of a healthcare administrator reflects the importance of their role within the public health field. The following guide discusses healthcare administration salary by location, work setting, industry and experience.

Healthcare Administration Salary Overview

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that  the typical healthcare administration salary falls between (lowest 10%) $59,980 and $195,630 (highest 10%) —the annual median wage was $104,280 as of May 2020. Healthcare administration hourly pay is roughly $50.13 per hour, according to the BLS. 

BLS data shows that those working in healthcare administration often make more than those who work in other management roles. The median annual salary in May 2020 for other management positions was $95,180. Healthcare administration salary is also significantly higher than the average median salary for all occupations in the United States, which was $41,950 in May 2020. 

Those interested in learning  how to become a healthcare administrator  should start by learning more about the skills, steps and education requirements necessary to enter the field.

Healthcare Administrator Salary by Location 

Location is a key variable in the salary ranges of many occupations, including those related to medical and health services management. According to the BLS, the  states with the highest healthcare administration salary in terms of annual mean wage  are as follows:

When comparing healthcare administrator salary by state, it’s also important to look at the salary differences between various metropolitan areas. The following table shows the top-paying metropolitan areas for those working in healthcare administration:

The BLS data shows that healthcare administration salary by state is the most favorable in the District of Columbia, New York, Hawaii and California. However, when looked at from a metropolitan area standpoint, California healthcare administration salaries tend to outpace other areas of the country. 

It is important to keep in mind that location is only one factor that plays into salary ranges. Education, experience, the industry and the size of the employer are all part of the salary equation.

Healthcare Administrator Salary by Work Setting

Just as geographic location can play a significant role in determining healthcare administration salary ranges, so can work setting. The following table shows the top median annual wages for healthcare administrators by work setting, according to May 2020 BLS data:

The highest median annual wage for healthcare administrators comes with government-based work, with more traditional healthcare settings not far behind. In certain work settings like hospitals, you may be asked to work nights and weekends. Healthcare facilities tend to be open and staffed 24/7, which means that on-call work is sometimes required for these types of healthcare administration positions. 

Healthcare Administrator Salary by Industry 

Every industry has its own unique demands, which may affect healthcare administration salary. The BLS provides the following data on the  top-paying industries for healthcare administrators :

The responsibilities for healthcare administrators in these industries may vary from those who work in more traditional healthcare settings. For example, healthcare administrators in the pharmaceutical industry may be more involved in the coordination of research and development than individuals working in other settings.

While the industries listed above have the highest healthcare administrator salaries, they are not the most common industries that employ healthcare administrators. The BLS reports that outpatient care centers have the highest concentration of employment for this occupation. Healthcare administrators working in this setting have an annual mean wage of $117,200.

Healthcare Administrator Salary by Work Experience

Work experience tends to be a determining factor for salary potential in healthcare administration. This means that someone with years of experience and a proven track record may expect to earn more than someone with little or no experience. According to the BLS,  the top 10% of those working as medical and health services managers may earn up to $195,630 per year . This likely reflects a senior healthcare administrator salary or the salary of someone with experience and a higher degree. 

Ultimately, it is up to the employer to set their own healthcare administrator starting salary. Different organizations have different requirements for education, work experience and job training, but many roles in this field do require an advanced degree. 

On average, those with a  master’s in healthcare administration  (MHA) may expect to earn more than someone with a bachelor’s degree in a similar field. Students also have the option of pursuing an  online MHA , which allows them the opportunity to continue working while completing their studies.

FAQs About Healthcare Administrator Salary

Organizations take many factors into consideration when setting salary ranges, so earning potential for healthcare administrators can vary greatly. Salary differences often come down to education, location, work setting and industry. Below, we address some commonly asked questions regarding healthcare administration salary, using information provided from the BLS’s May 2020 data.

As mentioned in the guide above, the BLS reports that the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $104,280 as of May 2020. There are many factors that determine healthcare administrator salary, such as the location, industry and education level.

Salary ranges for healthcare administrators vary depending on where you work and what type of experience you have. One of the top-earning industries for healthcare administration, according to the BLS, was pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, with an estimated annual mean salary of $205,470. Healthcare administrators working in the District of Columbia, New York, Hawaii, California or Massachusetts may expect higher salaries than in other states.

Education may play a role in the salary one can expect from a healthcare administration career. The BLS states that master’s degrees are commonly required for these roles and may be preferred by many employers. In addition, employers often require candidates to have previous work experience in the field. Depending on where you work, previous experience and an advanced education may lead to higher salaries.

Gaining work experience in a related field is one tactic that may boost earnings for prospective healthcare administrators. Current healthcare administrators who want to increase their salary may consider switching industries (e.g., looking for a job at a pharmaceutical company instead of a hospital). Additionally, you may improve your earning potential by completing a master’s in health administration degree or pursuing  healthcare administration certifications .

Last updated November 2021

Healthcare Administration Salary: How Much Can You Make?

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As the field of healthcare only continues to grow, the need for healthcare administrators does too. Healthcare administration is an important role in the healthcare industry, and many people are drawn to it because it is a rewarding career path with the ability to make a real impact in healthcare. It also comes with many benefits, including upward mobility and potentially high salaries. 

In this guide, we’ll explore how much healthcare administrators make, salaries by city and state, some of the highest-paying healthcare administration careers, and more!

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Part One How Much Do Healthcare Administrators Make?

Healthcare administrators have the potential to make substantially high salaries. A hospital CEO , for example, could make millions, while many other healthcare admin jobs can earn six-figure salaries. 

Here is a sampling of some of the healthcare administrator salaries you might find in the field:

Private Practice Office Manager - $100,000+

As a private practice office manager, you would essentially be in charge of running a medical practice for a provider. According to the BLS , a medical and health services manager makes an average salary of $110,680, although that could vary widely. A smaller office, for instance, may not earn you as high of a salary as a multi-facility one. 

Nursing Home Administrator - $130,619

A nursing home administrator would hold a senior-level position at a nursing home, managing other people in leadership roles and working on the business end of directing the facility. Nursing home administrators or directors are one of the highest-paid healthcare administration roles. According to Salary.com , a nursing home administrator makes an average of $130,619. 

Health Services Manager or Administrator - $110,680

This role could be a Nurse Manager, who oversees a particular unit or floor of the hospital, or an administrator in another department of the hospital, such as employee health or infection control. According to the BLS , medical and health service managers make an average of $110,680 per year. 

Hospital Executive - $157,532

Hospital executives encompass anyone at an executive level working in a hospital, from finance to HR to management. As an example of one type of salary in this role, ZipRecruiter reports an annual wage of over $157,532 for a hospital vice-president. 

Health Information Manager - $169,510

A health information manager has a very specialized role in the healthcare industry. In this position, you would be overseeing other health informatics specialists who are responsible for working with medical records and data. According to the BLS , computer and information systems managers make an average of over $169,510 per year. 

Hospital Director/CEO - $374,000

Obviously, a hospital CEO is at the very top of the healthcare administration tier and is in charge of an entire healthcare facility. According to the Economic Research Institute , a hospital director makes an average of over $374,000 every year, although annual wages can easily reach over 1 million dollars for large hospital operations. 

>> Related: 10 Highest Paying Healthcare Administration Jobs

Part Two Healthcare Administration Salaries by City & State

One of the biggest factors in salary for healthcare administrators is location. Here’s what you can expect to earn in each state according to the BLS. 

Healthcare Administration Salaries by State

Source Zip Recruiter

Highest Paying Cities for Healthcare Administrators

The BLS lists the following cities as the highest-paid for healthcare administrators: 

Part Three  Healthcare Administration Salaries by Place of Employment

According to the BLS , the highest-paid healthcare administrators work for the government, while the lowest-paid work in nursing and residential care facilities. The BLS lists place of occupation and salary as follows for medical and health services managers:

• Hospitals: Average salary of $128,740
• Government: Average salary of $125,590
• Outpatient care centers: Average salary of $104,710
• Physician offices: Average salary of $102,360
• Nursing and residential care facilities: Average salary of $97,490

Part Four How to Increase Your Salary as a Healthcare Administrator

Although on average, you can expect to earn a reasonable salary as a healthcare administrator, there are always ways that you can increase your salary. The best way to increase your salary in any role is to increase your value by adding additional skills to your resume. You can do this by:

• Pursuing advanced education: For instance, if you are a nurse looking to become a department manager, you can pursue your MSN or MBA in order to gain more managerial and leadership skills.
• Finding a mentor: If there is someone in your field that you aspire to be like, speak up! Ask them if they would be willing to take you on as a mentor so you can learn from them. 
• Learning advanced skills: Even if you don’t pursue another separate degree, you can add technical skills or certifications to your resume that can help increase your value as an administrator. 
• Get involved: Whether it’s a new field you’d like to move into or an advancement in your current role, it can help to get involved in new ways. That might mean volunteering to supervise the team leadership conference or signing up for more community events–there are many different options you could pursue depending on your current role and where you would like to advance to in order to raise your salary. 

>> Show Me Online Healthcare Administration Programs

Part Five How to Get Started in Healthcare Administration

If you’d like to pursue a career in healthcare administration, it can help to have an idea of where you would like to go with your carer. For instance, if you’d like to eventually be a nurse manager, you’ll need to go the RN-BSN-MSN route. However, your career path for a health informatics manager will look much different. 

1.) Earn Your Degree

If you aren’t entirely sure where you’d like your career to take you, however, don’t worry––you can still earn a basic degree that can open up many doors for you as a healthcare administrator. For instance, you can focus on pursuing a Bachelors and Masters degree in:

• Public Health
• Health Administration
• Health Management

2.) Get Certified

Along with the right degree, you’ll also need to gain experience in your field and it can’t hurt to earn additional certification along the way either. 

For example, the BLS lists several different certifications that can be helpful for health administrators, including:

• Certificate in medical management from the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management
• Health information management certification from the American Health Information Management Association
• Certified Nursing Home Administrator and Certified Assisted Living Administrator specializations through the American College of Health Care Administrators.

Part Six Healthcare Administration Resources

As you pursue a career in healthcare administration, you’ll want to stay equipped with tools to turn to when you need them. Nurse.org has plenty of resources and guides to help you along the way: 

• The complete career guide to healthcare administration 
• How one intern worked his way up to hospital CEO 
• How to earn your MBA in healthcare management
• Top 10 online healthcare administration degrees (with high graduation rates)
• Information on a Masters in Healthcare Administration (MHA)
• The complete career guide on healthcare management
• Healthcare administration degrees
• Choosing an MBA vs. MSN as a nurse
• Highest-paying healthcare administration jobs

Part Seven  FAQs

• A hospital CEO may make well into the millions. Many healthcare administrators make around $100,000, however. 
• A healthcare administrator works on the administrative side of healthcare as opposed to the direct patient care side. Health administrators typically have responsibilities that include managing teams, overseeing employees, dealing with budgets, and outlining fiscal responsibilities, as well as job-specific duties. A healthcare administrator in a hospital, for instance, will have different responsibilities than a healthcare administrator at an IT company overseeing medical records. 
• The highest-paying healthcare administrator jobs include medical managers, hospital administrators, insurance directors, nursing home directors, and information technology managers. 

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​​Top 10 Highest Paying Healthcare Administration Jobs 2024 (Inc Salaries)

Discover the top 10 highest paying healthcare administration jobs in 2024, including salaries and job duties. Find your next healthcare administration job here!

Are you considering a medical and health services administration career but find your skillset unsuited for direct patient care? A position in health care administration may be your perfect choice.

Jobs in this field allow you to have a positive impact and contribute to the efficiency of the healthcare system, with or without a medical degree.

Healthcare is one of the most stable and fastest-growing fields. Not only that, jobs in healthcare also pay considerably high, with managerial roles reported to have an average annual

salary of around USD 100,980 in 2019 . According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for medical and health service managers is projected to expand by 28% until 2032, which is much higher than the average for all jobs.

The healthcare administration field offers a wide range of positions for many educational and professional backgrounds, with numerous opportunities for career advancement.

So, here’s what you need to know about the highest-paying healthcare administration jobs in 2024 that could be waiting for you.

Top 10 Highest Paying Healthcare Administration Jobs 2024 (Inc Salaries)

1. medical director.

A medical director is a senior healthcare professional who oversees the operation of healthcare organizations, clinics, medical facilities, or hospitals.

He ensures quality service for patients by designing, managing, and coordinating strategic plans and protocols.

He is also responsible for supervising medical staff and other healthcare providers, implementing budget management strategies, and implementing policies and regulations. One key responsibility is to stay abreast of the healthcare laws, regulations, and the latest medical technologies to improve their practices and services.

Educational Requirements

To become a medical director, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in any health-related or pre-medical program. Then, you must complete medical school to become a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). A doctorate in healthcare administration is also acceptable.

Medical directors must also earn a board certification and license, gain at least 10 to 20 years of clinical experience or hospital administration exposure, and pursue health administration training.

Potential Income

The average pay for a medical director is around USD 226,000 per year. Because of this, a medical director also belongs to the highest paying medical and healthcare jobs as well as the highest-paying public health jobs.

2. Hospital Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

A hospital CEO is also known as the President or Executive Director of a hospital or any large healthcare facility, whether private or public. He is in charge of developing and implementing policies that direct the organization's operations in collaboration with a board of directors.

The primary responsibility of a hospital CEO is to coordinate and manage all operational activities to produce quality medical service for patients, a conducive work environment and conditions for health workers, and a stable financial situation for the business.

A hospital CEO needs a master's degree in healthcare administration (MHA) or a master of business administration (MBA).

To gain a competitive edge over other candidates, you must also obtain prior training, certifications, licenses, several years of experience, preferably in the healthcare industry, and a solid background in management and leadership positions.

The average annual pay for a hospital CEO is around USD 205,800 . The estimated additional pay, including bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit shares, is about USD 78,200 per year.

3. Healthcare Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Healthcare chief information officers manage and implement the information technology systems of healthcare facilities and institutions.

Healthcare CIOs utilize information technology to streamline operations, enhance patient care, and ensure compliance with regulations and best practices.

These healthcare professionals develop procedures, standards, and policies for the organization's use and applications of data and technology. They are also responsible for upholding patient health records' privacy, integrity, and security.

To become a Healthcare Chief Information Officer (CIO), you need a bachelor's degree in healthcare management, information technology, business administration, health informatics, or computer science. Conveniently, you can even enrol in an online BBA program .

You may need a master’s degree in a business administration program, computer science, or management information systems, along with relevant certifications to enhance your qualifications.

You will also need several years of experience in healthcare IT for positions such as IT director, project manager, healthcare informatics specialist, or systems analyst.

Healthcare CIOs get an annual median salary of around USD 203,200 , with about USD 148,000 additional pay in bonuses, commissions, and profit shares.

4. Hospital Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Just as the title suggests, hospital CFOs handle the hospital's or similar organisation's financial and business aspects.

Hospital chief financial officers manage budgets, evaluate the risks and benefits of investments, minimize losses, and ensure that revenue is generated for continued operation.

They collaborate and cooperate with other health information management administrators when making decisions on financial matters. They play an essential role in the sustainability of medical services, reasonable pay for personnel, and profit for the hospital.

Becoming a hospital CFO requires at least a master’s degree in health care administration, healthcare finance, or business administration.

To boost your chances of getting this position, you need a solid background in leading and managing businesses, ideally through roles as an accountant, financial analyst, or financial manager.

Obtaining Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certifications are also advantageous.

A Hospital Chief Financial Officer's average yearly healthcare administration salary is about USD 191,300 .

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5. Chief Nursing Officer

A chief nursing officer is an administrative position that oversees nurses and monitors patient care.

This professional may or may not perform clinical duties within the healthcare system but is still involved in designating tasks, scheduling staff, setting goals and priorities, and implementing protocols and standards of practice among nurses.

A chief nursing officer may also be responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and managing the nursing staff. They ensure that all personnel comply with regulatory standards and are well-versed in the organization's policies, vision and mission.

To qualify for a Chief Nursing Officer post, you need to obtain a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and pursue advanced degrees such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

You must also pass the nurse licensure exam and gain years of clinical experience as a registered nurse or work in healthcare administration.

Work experience in different healthcare settings, such as community health centers, long-term care facilities, clinics, and hospitals, preferably in management or leadership roles, is highly recommended.

The expected average salary for a Chief Nursing Officer is around USD 140,400 per year, with an estimated additional pay of USD 14,900 annually.

6. Clinical Informatics Manager

Clinical informatics managers are experts who work as both information technology experts and healthcare managers.

They supervise an organization’s informatics program for the safe and secure storage and access to health records. They are also responsible for collecting and analyzing data to identify improvement areas and adjust policies or practices accordingly.

Additionally, they collaborate with clinical staff and other IT professionals to lead the implementation of clinical information systems. They are in charge of studying the workflow and looking for opportunities to optimize technology systems.

A clinical informatics manager position requires at least a bachelor's degree, usually in pharmacy, medicine, or nursing, combined with a degree or background in health informatics. However, most employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.

You also need experience in healthcare informatics, database management, and related areas. For better chances of getting the role, consider getting relevant certifications.

The average annual salary for Clinical Informatics managers is around USD 120,500 .

7. Ambulatory Care Director

Ambulatory care directors are in charge of outpatient healthcare services, which include clinical duties, outpatient surgery, and urgent care. They typically work with mental and behavioral health specialists, social workers, nurses, and other professionals.

Their duties may also include managing finances, monitoring regulatory compliance, evaluating the quality of patient care, and supervising staff.

To qualify as an ambulatory care director, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in healthcare or human resources.

After that, you need to obtain years of experience in nursing, healthcare management, or many other healthcare-related roles that will provide the needed skills and knowledge of healthcare to excel in this role.

Lastly, you could pursue higher education, certifications, and training for better chances of employment.

An ambulatory care director position pays an average salary of USD 108,800 annually.

8. Nursing Home Administrator

Nursing home administrators lead and manage the staff and residents in a nursing home. Aside from ensuring smooth daily operations, they also monitor compliance with regulations and the best practices for patient care.

As supervisors, nursing home administrators are also concerned with financial management, hiring and training, facility upkeep, and ensuring that residents are safe, comfortable, and cared for.

Lastly, they are also in charge of organizing entertainment, outreach healthcare programs, and enrichment events.

To become a nursing home administrator, you need a bachelor’s degree, ideally in long-term care, health administration or a similar field.

To improve your prospects of landing this position, you must pass a licensure exam, complete a state-approved training program, gain years of experience, and obtain certifications.

The average nursing home administration salary is about USD 108,200 yearly.

9. Database Administrator

Like clinical informatics managers, database administrators manage the data for healthcare facilities and medical organizations.

However, these healthcare administrators work by focusing on organizing, backing up, and storing data securely. They ensure that healthcare information is readily accessible but also protected.

Other duties of database administrators include troubleshooting systems, coding data, and solving technical issues. Because of this, they must have advanced computational and analytical skills in various database platforms.

To become a database administrator, you need a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer and information technology, business, or a related field.

It’s also recommended that you complete a master's degree focused on information systems, computer science, information technology, or database management.

Having certifications and proficiency training for software and products will also be advantageous.

These healthcare administrators earn an average salary of USD 106,000 annually, with about USD 7,700 in extra pay.

10. Healthcare Quality Improvement Manager/Consultant

Healthcare quality improvement managers or consultants are responsible for optimizing healthcare products and services.

They ensure that all resources are utilized to their maximum potential through careful planning and execution of projects.

They perform quality assessments and ongoing evaluations to identify and address issues in healthcare services.

On top of that, they also collaborate with a healthcare team to devise strategies and develop policies, quality indicators, and performance measures to reach the organization’s objectives. These goals include enhancing patient experience and reducing medical errors.

Becoming a healthcare quality improvement manager or consultant requires at least a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, quality management, nursing, public health, or a relevant field.

Some employers prefer candidates with a master's in public health or healthcare administration degree and certifications in healthcare quality management and patient safety.

You also need substantial experience as a clinical quality analyst, healthcare consultant, quality improvement specialist, or quality assurance manager.

You can earn an average of USD 101,800 yearly as a healthcare quality improvement consultant or manager.

In addition to these professions, other high-paying jobs in healthcare administration and the annual median salary for each include:

Hospital administrator ( USD 96,800 )

Health care marketing manager ( USD 90,200 )

Government Agency Healthcare Administrator ( USD 75,700 )

Hospice Administrator ( USD 70,700 )

In summary, healthcare administration offers many roles that serve as the backbone of the medical and healthcare services sector. Careers in this field are among the most secure and rewarding positions today, and their job outlook and compensation are expected to remain that way in the years to come.

The downside, however, is that the industry is also evolving to become increasingly competitive and demanding regarding skills and educational background.

If your goal is to land high paying jobs in healthcare , adding a BBA or MBA degree to your credentials is worthwhile. This will make your resume stand out and impress employers with a broader range of value you can offer.

A business background on top of your medical or technical degree will expand your horizons, especially if you are going for executive, managerial, or administrative roles.

Offering globally-recognized online business programs, Nexford gives you an opportunity to secure your advanced degrees and diversify your skillset anywhere, anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions about Healthcare Administration

What is the highest paying healthcare administration job in 2024.

The Medical Director position will be the highest-paying healthcare administration job in 2024. This role receives an annual salary range of USD 228,000 to USD 425,000 , averaging around USD 226,000.

Additional pay in the form of bonuses, commissions, and profit shares can reach up to USD 77,700 each year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which healthcare administration jobs are projected to have the highest level of growth?

The healthcare administration positions are expected to have the highest growth in the next few years, including medical director, clinical informatics manager, and nursing home administrator. All of these fall under medical and health services managers, and the number is projected to grow by 28% by 2032 .

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What is the best healthcare administration career path in 2024?

In 2024, the healthcare administration industry is all about combining management and leadership skills with clinical experience.

With that in mind, the best position out of all healthcare administration careers is a Medical Director in terms of job satisfaction, outlook, and compensation.

What skills or expertise is required for high-paying healthcare administration jobs?

Given that the healthcare field is focused on patient care, service, and management of staff and resources, the right combination of soft and hard skills is necessary for a high-paying healthcare administration job.

Soft skills include communication, time management, attention to detail, adaptability to a dynamic work environment, and the ability to motivate others.

On the other hand, hard skills are technological know-how, a solid understanding of regulations and policies, data analysis, and financial and project management skills.

Download Our Free Report now to find healthcare skills that will help you shine in the healthcare administration industry.

What qualifications are required for high paying healthcare administration jobs?

Healthcare administration opens positions in healthcare administration with high salaries for applicants with a wide range of educational backgrounds, skillsets, and experience. The most common qualifications are:

a bachelor’s or master’s degree in healthcare, management, or a niche-related program,

years of experience in entry-level or supervisory roles and

specialty training and certifications.

Why is it beneficial to gain a BBA/MBA degree to gain a career in healthcare administration?

A BBA or MBA degree will benefit any candidate looking for a leadership or supervisory position. A BBA will allow you to understand and explore the business aspect of healthcare administration roles.

An MBA degree from a traditional or online MBA program provides valuable knowledge and skills for a high-paying role in healthcare administration. These will allow you to:

effectively set and reach business objectives,

improve operations through well-executed strategic plans and policies,

manage resources and workforce effectively, and

have a competitive advantage for career development and advancement.

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Healthcare Administration Degrees » Health Administration Programs » Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Degrees

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Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Degrees

Consider a featured online health administration program currently accepting applications for 2024.

Click to search for online health administration programs that are currently taking applications for 2024.

A Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, or DHA degree, is a terminal degree within health administration that can help prepare professionals to become leaders in the healthcare industry, healthcare research and healthcare policy.

Generally speaking, the DHA degree is for established professionals in the healthcare industry as a path to advance their career, a Ph.D. in Health Administration combines the advancements in healthcare technology, business education, and the social sciences into one degree.

Click to search for online health administration programs that are currently taking applications.

A Ph.D. in Health Administration is best suited for the healthcare professional, either administrative or clinical, that is seeking to advance into a research or academic field.

A Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, or Health Administration, will prepare professionals to become leaders in the healthcare industry, healthcare research and healthcare policy.

Generally sought out by established professionals in the healthcare industry as a path to advance their career, a Ph.D. in Health Administration combines the advancements in healthcare technology, business education, and the social sciences into one degree.

Who Should Pursue a Doctorate in Health Administration?

These professionals may also choose to combine this employment change with a position in government or a specific industry as a consultant. At the Doctorate level, experience is mandatory for both admissions and to be able to get the most out of the educational experience.

A doctorate level degree in Healthcare Administration will not be applicable to a new professional or an individual without direct healthcare experience.

What Does a Typical Doctorate of Health Administration Program Look Like?

Ph.D. programs in Healthcare Administration are found both in the Traditional classroom setting and online, however there are very few programs to choose from. Most programs have modified to use both online classrooms and in-person sessions.

This allows professionals to attend school while continuing to work. Many schools and universities focus on Doctorate programs in Public Health, with options in policy and administration, that can be quite similar to Ph.D. programs in Health Administration.

Pre-Requisites

For most Ph.D. programs, the pre-requisites include a related post-bachloriate degree with around five years of experience in the desired field. Students applying to Ph.D. programs in healthcare administration need to prove proficiency in a variety of topics, from health finance, to organizational behavior, to economics.

Proficiency can be demonstrated either through graduate level course work or professional experience. Career personal statements are also often among the requirements for application.

Curriculum & Classes

Most coursework for a Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration will take a minimum of three years. Many programs offer part-time options for classroom work, or will require (or allow) students to teach undergrad or graduate level courses while completing their Ph.D. requirements.

Few programs allow for further specialization within the degree, such as Information Technology or Leadership. The coursework covered will include topics in leadership and management, research methods, policy, and social theories. Class work will focus on theory, but also practical applications of theory.

Successful completion of a Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration degree requires successful passing of all courses, potentially long term projects or research, and a final Dissertation or Thesis presentation.

Doctorate in Healthcare Administration FAQs

How does a doctorate in healthcare administration differ from a phd.

One of the primary questions asked by upcoming students in this program may pertain to the difference between these two degrees. Typically, PhD programs may be more preferable for students that wish to work behind the scenes in research and development of healthcare policies, while doctorate learners may work in more hands-on positions in higher level careers in hospitals or other healthcare facilities. The PhD in Healthcare Administration is more focused on the research-based aspects of healthcare service and quality. Professionals at this level may work in more research-driven sectors of healthcare such as policy development and healthcare law. The Doctorate in Healthcare Administration can help students remain in the applied settings of healthcare administration, which can lead to careers in corporate management, quality control or even hospital ownership.

How long will it take to complete this degree?

Before choosing a degree option, you might consider how much of a time investment the degree will be. Students choosing to pursue doctoral-level degree programs may find that the time it takes to complete the degree is small in comparison to the benefits of enrolling. The time it takes you to complete this degree program may be dependent on several different elements. What type of degree did you have before entering this program? If you come straight from your bachelor’s program, you might expect to spend an additional 4 years working on this degree. Those that have already obtained a related master’s program may only require 2-3 years for this program.

What type of work experience should I have before entering into this program?

Work experience in healthcare can be beneficial for upcoming students in healthcare administration. Some programs may require that you have a minimum of 5 years work experience in the healthcare field to be considered for acceptance. However, there may be plenty of programs available for new students that are either interested in pursuing the healthcare field as their first work experience or those that are changing fields mid-career. Work experience may be very important when seeking out leadership positions, so students should pursue opportunities prior to the end of their program.

What can I earn with a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration?

One important factor that may not easily be overlooked for upcoming DHA students is the earning potential. Regardless of which field a person chooses to work in, there are certain considerations that go into making that decision.

As able-bodied adults, most people choose to pursue a career that is worth the time and effort of a degree program and can pay well throughout their experience.

There may be numerous professional paths to consider with a DHA. Some graduates may choose to work for healthcare organizations that oversee the healthcare process from an outwards perspective, while others may seek positions more closely rooted to the application of healthcare services to the public.

Depending on what type of career you are seeking, there may be very different levels of salary for each. Below this section, you can read about the average incomes for higher-tier executives currently working in the healthcare field. See if these salaries are what you expected for degree holders at this level.

• Top Executives – Healthcare : $74,140 on average per year ( BLS ).
• Chief Executives – Healthcare : $196,050 on average per year ( BLS ).

Schools to Consider

Your choice of university can potentially lead you into great quality education programs to help further your career in healthcare administration. All over the United States, there are schools that can help you achieve your goal of achieving higher knowledge in the healthcare field, so that you can pursue a career that utilizes all of your skills.

One university currently offering an online DHA is Franklin University. Students that choose this school can engage with experienced instructors throughout a 3 year program.

A.T. Still University is another option for students interested in pursuing their degree online. This online DHA program requires that applicants hold a minimum 2.5 grade point average from earlier education and have some experience in the healthcare field. If you enroll in this program, you could complete your online DHA degree in 2-3 years.

Courses to Expect in a DHA program

If you make the decision to enroll in a DHA program, you might be intrigued to find that the coursework for this degree focuses on the needs of communities as a whole rather than just individual treatment.

Some of the goals of DHA programs may include providing a more widespread knowledge of the healthcare field, so that professionals can improve the quality of healthcare systems from a wider angle. Take a look below at some of the courses involved in this degree program.

• Population Health : In order to be an effective healthcare professional, students should have a diverse knowledge of the community and population in which they work. Population health can help students learn more about the types of health issues, risks and prevention methods present within their particular research area. Learning more about the overall health of the population can help healthcare professionals address more centralized issues, which can result in better and well-rounded care for all people.
• Research Methods : One of the most important aspects of providing great-quality care is constantly reviewing and improving policies. Research methods can provide students with the skills necessary to conduct knowledgeable and scientifically-accurate research. During this course, students can learn more about the ways to gather information, organize data and analyze results in a way that promotes efficient research. Engaging in this course can help prepare students for a career in gathering evidence to support healthcare change.
• Healthcare Trends : The field of healthcare may be constantly undergoing change. Healthcare technology and policies can be changed due to new information, advanced healthcare procedures and newly released tools. Staying up to date on the latest trends of healthcare can assist students in being more accurate with their knowledge of the field, which can promote success in leadership positions in the field.

Doctorate Versus Master’s in Healthcare Administration

If you are interested in pursuing a higher degree in healthcare administration, it is important to consider your different options and what types of careers they can prepare you for. The 2 most popular choices for students within this field is the Doctorate in Healthcare Administration and the Master’s in Healthcare Administration. Read more below this section to learn about what each degree can provide to you as a student in this discipline.

The Master’s in Healthcare Administration is a great option for healthcare professionals interested in moving out of practicing fields of healthcare. This option could also be useful for students that desire a more influential career in hospitals or healthcare centers across the United States.

The master’s program typically consists of courses that can help students better understand the general operation of healthcare facilities, as well as the organization and application of healthcare services to the public.

The Doctorate in Healthcare Administration may be a better option for students interested in providing advancement in the healthcare field. Graduates at this level can pursue careers in higher positions in the healthcare field, such as corporate hospital management and treatment decision making. The coursework for this degree program may focus more on the broader aspect of healthcare in America, such as overall population health, ethical practices and conflict resolution.

In comparison, these 2 degree programs touch on very different aspects of the healthcare field. As you move towards making your decision, you should consider what type of job you wish to have after graduation as well as the type of influence you wish to have on the people you serve.

As the years progress, changes to the healthcare field could open up even more career opportunities for graduates that have gained extensive knowledge through either of these programs.

School Spotlight:Medical University of South Carolina

The College of Health Professionals at the Medical University of South Carolina has one of the most expansive Doctor of Health Administration Programs Available with three programs to choose from: Executive, Inter-professional, or Information Systems.

Each expands upon the students experiences to teach leadership, research, health policy, and other topics applicable to the specific program chosen by the student.

While the majority of course work is completed online, with instruction from international healthcare leaders, on campus sessions use team building and professionalism to further enhance the learning experience.

Career Options for Doctorate of Health Administration

Job opportunities for individuals with a Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration are often found in academic fields as a professor or university president. Outside of academia those with a Ph.D. may find themselves as a highly sought after consultant or as a CEO, CFO or COO for a health system.

Most individuals who choose this degree path have a specific position they are seeking in their organization, or are attending school with the assistance of their employer.

Those with a Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration can expect to make around $104,000 yearly, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The vast majority of individuals with a Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration are employed in Hospitals, with few in other industries such as pharmaceuticals or business organizations.

The need for Healthcare Executives and Administrators is currently on the rise, but as current lower level employees advance, the need will be driven down ( source ).

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Home / MHA Articles / Salary for MHA Degree Graduates

Salary for MHA Degree Graduates

America’s healthcare system is being challenged like never before. Mergers and consolidations, constantly shifting regulatory requirements, and the unprecedented demands and skyrocketing costs associated with an aging nation and a growing number of Americans with obesity and comorbid conditions – these are among the contemporary issues that fall squarely in the lap of healthcare administrators. Add to this the introduction of a true game changer – a worldwide pandemic – and everything we thought we knew about healthcare has been effectively turned on its head.

Now, more than ever, we need professionals who don’t just manage these systems, but who work to improve them and fix longstanding issues along the way. We need administrative leaders who can support clinicians, create and maintain efficient and cost-effective operations, and handle the next curveball that gets thrown at the healthcare industry.

When it comes to handling these gargantuan challenges, only the most qualified will do, which is why the Masters of Health Administration (MHA) has become the standard qualification for hospital and healthcare managers, administrators, and executives and why salaries for top-level professionals these days are more impressive than ever.

Top-Paying Industries and Cities for Health Administrators

Healthcare administration is no longer just about keeping an eye on the bottom line (although this is certainly vital) – it’s about creating healthcare environments where the newest technologies and innovations thrive, where care is focused as much on quality as it on cost, and where healthcare outcomes are the best they possibly can be. Because of the high level of expertise needed to assume these positions, salaries among healthcare executives and administrators are among some of the highest in the industry, rivaling that of even medical specialists.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2019 medical and health services managers earned an average salary of $100,980. And among those in the top 10% – likely those with graduate-level degrees and a number of years of relevant experience – the average salary skyrocketed to $189,000.

BLS stats showed that the highest paid healthcare administrators (according to average annual salary) worked in the following industries:

• Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing: $204,300
• Scientific research and development services: $169,240
• Wholesale electronic markets and agents and brokers: $162,880
• Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing: $159,910
• Chemical manufacturing: $155,180

The top-paying states (according to annual, mean salary) for healthcare administrators in the nation during this time were in states that traditionally have a high cost of living. Geographic location continues to play a big part in a healthcare administrator’s earning potential:

• Washington D.C.: $150,040
• New York: $147,000
• Hawaii: $133,320
• California: $133,040
• Massachusetts: $132,960

Similarly, the highest-paying metro areas for healthcare administrators during this time were also in areas where cost of living is significantly higher than in other parts of the country:

• Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA: $163,280
• Vallejo-Fairfield, CA: $159,190
• Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT: $154,570
• Salinas, CA: $154,440
• Hanford-Corcoran, CA: $145,340
• San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: $144,530
• New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY/NJ/PA: $144,370

It’s Not Just About the Salary… It’s important to note that for most healthcare administrators, an annual salary is just part of the total compensation picture. Bonuses, executive retirement benefits, and other cash incentives based on performance are all part of a healthcare administrator’s annual income. A 2019 Hospital Executive Compensation Report by Total Compensation Solutions, which examined salaries of 15 executive and director-level positions from 1,345 hospitals, found that a base salary accounted for just 68-76% of an administrator’s total compensation.

Factors Influencing Salaries for Healthcare Administrators

Education, experience, and professional designations remain the largest factors that influence the earning potential among health administrators:

You’ll find degrees in health administration at every level, from associate’s to master’s degrees. Most health administrators come into the field with a bachelor’s degree. Most bachelor’s degrees in the health and hospital management/administration field are in health administration, health management, and health services administration, although some students prefer to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a healthcare focus.

Rising through the ranks of health administration calls for plenty of years of relevant experience and a master’s degree. The Master of Health Administration (MHA) remains the gold standard in graduate education for healthcare administrators.

Other variations of the degree include the following, all of which offer a similar blend of courses to prepare you for an understanding of the business side of healthcare:

• Master of Management in Healthcare Management
• Master of Health Care Organization Management
• Master in Organizational Leadership – Healthcare Organization
• Master of Science in Public Health
• MBA in Health Administration

A graduate degree like the MHA prepares health administrators to assume top-level positions in health administration, such as:

• Chief operating officer
• Chief financial officer
• Chief medical officer
• Hospital administrator

Salaries for these top administrative positions are among the highest on the payroll at any given healthcare organization. For example, the Modern Healthcare Executive Compensation Survey revealed the following average salaries for top executives, as of 2018:

• President and CEO, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of less than $300 million): $495,000
• Chief medical officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of less than $300 million): $325,000
• Chief financial officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of less than $300 million): $207,000
• Chief operating officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of less than $300 million): $198,000
• President and CEO, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of more than $300 million): $800,000
• Chief financial officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of more than $300 million): $438,000
• Chief medical officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of more than $300 million): $366,000
• Chief operating officer, stand-alone hospital (hospitals with revenues of more than $300 million): $280,000

Professional Certification

One or more professional designations can go a long way toward establishing yourself as a leader in the healthcare administration field and earning a salary to match. Top professional certifications in the field include:

• Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) – Certification holders are recognized as FACHE fellows. To qualify, you’ll need to be an ACHE member and you’ll need a master’s degree, a current position in executive healthcare management, and at least five years of experience in healthcare management.
• Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) – Certification through the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) displays your commitment to the improvement of healthcare through technology. To qualify, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience in information and management systems; a master’s degree and at least three years of experience in information and management systems; or a at least ten years of experience in information and management systems.
• Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM) – This certification requires applicants to pass a certification exam that assesses their ability as a healthcare management professional.
• The AAHAM Certified Revenue Cycle Executive
• The AAHAM Certified Revenue Cycle Professional
• The AAHAM Certified Revenue Integrity Professional
• The AAHAM Certified Revenue Cycle Specialist
• The AAHAM Certified Compliance Technician

Top States for Health Administration Jobs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides a breakdown of the number of health and services managers by state, along with average salaries at both the median level and the top 10%:

• Alabama: $82,960 – $145,590
• Alaska: $102,750 – $184,650 (approximately 1,030 medical and health services managers)
• Arizona: $103,960 – $204,990 (approximately 8,050 medical and health services managers)
• Arkansas: $76,580 – $129,500 (approximately 5,680 medical and health services managers)
• California: $122,880 – $207,610 (approximately 36,940 medical and health services managers)
• Colorado: $108,940 – $188,510 (approximately 5,790 medical and health services managers)
• Connecticut: $108,520 – * (approximately 6,270 medical and health services managers)
• Delaware: $115,290 – * (approximately 1,050 medical and health services managers)
• District of Columbia: $133,680 – * (approximately 1,600 medical and health services managers)
• Florida: $92,810 – $177,790
• Georgia: $94,320 – $185,800
• Hawaii: $118,350 – * (approximately 1,540 medical and health services managers)
• Idaho: $88,160 – $148,560 (approximately 2,170 medical and health services managers)
• Illinois: $105,270 – * (approximately 14,510 medical and health services managers)
• Indiana: $90,660 – $159,960 (approximately 7,960 medical and health services managers)
• Iowa: $78,500 – $130,130 (approximately 6,880 medical and health services managers)
• Kansas: $86,040 – $142,200 (approximately 4,110 medical and health services managers)
• Kentucky: $81,660 – $136,120 (approximately 5,340 medical and health services managers)
• Louisiana: $93,260 – $153,080 (approximately 4,990 medical and health services managers)
• Maine: $89,830 – $133,600 (approximately 2,080 medical and health services managers)
• Maryland: $113,150 – $191,660 (approximately 10,890 medical and health services managers)
• Massachusetts: $114,340 – * (approximately 15,810 medical and health services managers)
• Michigan: $93,660 – $179,330 (approximately 12,310 medical and health services managers)
• Minnesota: $101,510 – $166,680 (approximately 8,330 medical and health services managers)
• Mississippi: $84,950 – $152,660 (approximately 3,030 medical and health services managers)
• Missouri: $98,460 – $169,530 (approximately 7,290 medical and health services managers)
• Montana: $90,640 – $139,530 (approximately 1,540 medical and health services managers)
• Nebraska: $102,680 – $201,130 (approximately 2,640 medical and health services managers)
• Nevada: $110,270 – $178,450 (approximately 2,600 medical and health services managers)
• New Hampshire: $102,550 – $194,860 (approximately 2,170 medical and health services managers)
• New Jersey: $113,430 – $167,820 (approximately 12,620 medical and health services managers)
• New Mexico: $106,320 – * (approximately 1,710 medical and health services managers)
• New York: $126,780 – * (approximately 25,740 medical and health services managers
• North Carolina: $101,840 – $187,300 (approximately 10,000 medical and health services managers)
• North Dakota: $109,180 – * (approximately 800 medical and health services managers)
• Ohio: $91,690 – $161,290 (approximately 14,490 medical and health services managers)
• Oklahoma: $81,580 – $147,760 (approximately 6,540 medical and health services managers)
• Oregon: $107,630 – $196,340 (approximately 4,670 medical and health services managers)
• Pennsylvania: $89,420 – $150,070 (approximately 17,330 medical and health services managers)
• Rhode Island: $116,880 – * (approximately 1,920 medical and health services managers)
• South Carolina: $90,830 – $158,040 (approximately 5,770 medical and health services managers)
• South Dakota: $98,940 – $142,670 (approximately 780 medical and health services managers)
• Tennessee: $90,690 – $162,410 (approximately 9,820 medical and health services managers)
• Texas: $97,540 – $167,050 (approximately 33,320 medical and health services managers)
• Utah: $89,310 – $172,880 (approximately 3,800 medical and health services managers)
• Vermont: $92,710 – $159,560 (approximately 1,180 medical and health services managers)
• Virginia: $105,450 – $170,890 (approximately 7,740 medical and health services managers)
• Washington: $109,990 – $197,050 (approximately 7,310 medical and health services managers)
• West Virginia: $96,420 – $165,900 (approximately 1,710 medical and health services managers)
• Wisconsin: $100,610 – $160,740 (approximately 5,800 medical and health services managers)
• Wyoming: $93,290 – $145,120 (approximately 850 medical and health services managers)

*average salary is greater than $208,000

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019 . Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which medical and health services managers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

All salary and employment data accessed June 2020.

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The 7 Best Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.): Salary and Information

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Are you searching for a Doctor of Health Administration degree program? The majority of, if not all, universities that award the Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.) degree offer an online format for prospective students.

Some healthcare management education programs are entirely online. It is a viable option if you’re like most people who could use a flexible schedule in pursuing a higher education degree and advancing their career.

Hospitals entertain an endless surge of patients; therefore, the healthcare industry continues to grow. Medical professionals ensure that all of them get the help and treatment they need. The direction from and guidance of Doctors of Health Administration make this possible.

The 7 Best Doctor of Health Administration Degree Programs

A.t. still university.

ONLINE DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

School Highlights: A.T. Still University’s Online Doctor of Healthcare Administration program blends practical and theoretical coursework to provide a distinctive approach to a pivotal discipline.

Students choose from nine exciting concentration options to focus their coursework towards personal career goals, and the curriculum as a whole supplies enough flexibility for students to continue down individual avenues of success. 

It is designed for post-graduate students with experience in the healthcare industry and drastically enhances their skills, knowledge, and capabilities as future administrators of massive medical facilities.

Health professionals further hone their range of leadership skills, from innovative problem-solving to management of improvements in healthcare administration systems. The degree can be completed 100% at a distance, and the online classroom is a state-of-the-art virtual space that encourages both independent and collaborative work.

Learners benefit from the comprehensive training delivered through a mix of efficient online instruction, chatroom and email interactions, and directed readings. Faculty members conduct regular assessments of learning and, thus, ensure that learners are on track. 

With a low 9% acceptance rate, applicants must be prepared to demonstrate their suitability for the rigorous program. The minimum admission requirements include a master’s degree from a CHEA-accredited institution, official transcripts, and a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Applicants must also submit a current resume, complete an essay, and meet technical requirements for the online program. 

Coursework Sample:

• Healthcare Law
• The Economics of Medical Care
• Organizational Theory and its Effect on the Health Industry
• Health Policy
• The Financing of Healthcare
• Effectiveness/Cost-benefit Analysis in the Healthcare Industry
• Health Information Systems
• Quantitative Methods
• Management Science

Campus Location: Kirksville, MO

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

LEARN MORE ABOUT A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY’S DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION DEGREE ONLINE

Did You Know?

At 130 years old, ATSU is the world’s first osteopathic medical school! ATSU is also known for its research programs at its AT Still Research Institute and Center for Oral Health Research. Primary funding comes from NIH and NCCHR, among other federal agencies. 

CAPELLA UNIVERSITY

School Highlights: Capella University is one of the most massively successful and popular online schools in America. It produces an unprecedented amount of graduates of all levels, which includes those from the online Doctor of Health Administration. 

The fairly affordable tuition becomes even more budget-friendly with its accelerated format and financial aid. Students must complete 60 post-graduate credits but can transfer up to 18 credits from another post-graduate degree.

The curriculum of this healthcare administration degree program consists of nine core courses and three specialized courses, and it’s known for its rigorous academic standards. 

The DHA program uses the university’s Guided Path format, a structured learning format that combines guidance from the faculty and active peer interactions. Students can study at their own pace but must meet the scheduled deadlines set by their professors. Assignments are given weekly and classroom discussions are encouraged. 

Capella uses a quarter system with each quarter consisting of 10 weeks. Students take between one and three courses per quarter, meaning manageable coursework for working professionals. 

Students must complete the capstone requirement to earn the doctoral degree, too. Most will spend at least one-third of their academic stay working on it. Tuition for the capstone work is $3,020 for four credits per quarter. 

Academic success is vital for Capella’s programs and, thus, it offers a wide range of student support services. These include academic advising, writing coaches, financial aid advisors, library services, and career counselors. 

Graduates become proficient in the myriad aspects of healthcare administration at the executive level. Their knowledge allows them to lead healthcare organizations toward the achievement of strategic vision, directional strategies, social accountability, and community engagement. 

Admission requirements include a master’s degree, official transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a valid government-issued ID. GMAT/GRE scores aren’t required.

• Strategic Financial Management in Health Care
• Innovative Business Practices in Health Care
• Health Care Policy Processes

Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN

• National Center for Healthcare Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DHA DEGREE

Capella University was named after Capella, the third-brightest star in the Northern Hemisphere. 

FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY

ONLINE DOCTOR OF HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION 

School Highlights: The Doctor of Healthcare Administration curriculum at Franklin University offers a huge amount of elective courses that students can use to fully personalize their academic approach.

These classes span a wide range of options that allow students to pursue careers in administration, research, or education. There is a comprehensive focus on leadership, and the program emphasizes the substantive advancement of theoretical analysis. 

The 58-credit program can be completed in three years of full-time study, but it can be longer depending on your dissertation’s progress. A maximum of 41% or 23 credit hours can be transferred from post-graduate credits earned at another accredited institution. This is a 100% online program suitable for working professionals and other non-traditional learners. 

With a $748 per credit hour tuition fee, it’s among the more affordable DHA programs. Financial aid counselors provide useful information about financial aid that further decreases the cost of attendance. 

Learners gain knowledge and skills in the effective, efficient, and responsive design of organizational strategies, the development of healthcare systems, and the conduct of research in the industry. Leadership skills are emphasized and developed in every course, too. 

Students receive above-par support services, including academic support from faculty members, librarians, and dissertation committee members. Franklin takes pride in its no-fear dissertation process, too, which incorporates faculty mentoring and peer-to-peer support. 

At least 34 credit hours must be earned within the program and a 3.0 cumulative GPA must be maintained to earn the degree. While the 100% acceptance rate means admission is fairly easy, retention in the program is more challenging. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA; petitioning for admission for a lower GPA is possible. 

• Leadership of Healthcare Organization Principles
• Foundations of Human Resource Management
• Advanced Clinical Work Flow & Applications

Campus Location: Columbus, OH

• Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, Illinois 60604 www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7440

LEARN MORE ABOUT FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY’S DOCTOR OF HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION (DHA)

Franklin University maintains strong partnerships with over 135 community and technical colleges in the US! These partnerships are designed to provide professional development for adult learners and educational opportunities for communities. 

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX

DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

School Highlights: The University of Phoenix is yet another of the nation’s most phenomenal online schools that offer an equally outstanding Doctor of Health Administration.

This is an accelerated doctoral degree program with approximately 38 months of time to completion.  Students must complete 54 credits but can transfer up to 27 credits, meaning it’s among the fastest online DHA programs. 

Adult learners with professional responsibilities will find it easier to manage their time in the program, too. Learners take one course at a time, with each course lasting for eight weeks. This means learners will take five courses per academic year, a manageable course load indeed. 

The unique dissertation process breaks up the dissertation into smaller – and more manageable – segments. Students begin their dissertation at the start of the third course resulting in more time, space, and learning curve to identify and address issues. Milestones are scheduled throughout the dissertation process, too, so learners can monitor their progress. 

UoPX doesn’t have an on-campus residency requirement for its DHA students. Instead, students take an 8-week online symposium that discusses a detailed overview of the dissertation process. Other topics are the university’s expectations of its DHA students and, in turn, their expectations of the university during their stay in the program. 

Graduates now work as clinical directors, nursing directors, and health information management directors in prominent research and medical facilities. Their professional success can be partly attributed to the skill sets acquired in the program, such as the analysis of healthcare subsystems toward the improvement of services.

Graduates also have a deeper insight into the regulatory, economic, and social factors that influence healthcare policy, sustainability, and strategies. 

UoPX has a tuition guarantee that ensures students pay a flat rate from admission to graduation. Its DHA program is also among the more affordable even amongst private, for-profit universities. 

Students are also guaranteed exceptional student support services, including a support team and academic counselors. Online resources include tutoring, productivity tools, and a student toolbox. 

A graduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, sufficient work experience in management or supervisory positions, and citizenship/residency are required for admission.

• Administration of Complex Health Care Systems
• Risk Management in Complex Health Organizations
• Policy and Regulations in Health Care

Campus Location: Tempe, AZ

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX’S DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

In 1989, UoPX offered online classes at a time when few other universities were in it. Today, it’s known for its diverse student body with more African Americans and women than most institutions in the US. 

MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

BLENDED DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION WITH CONCENTRATIONS

School Highlights: The Doctor of Health Administration at the Medical University of South Carolina follows a hybrid model of delivery. For the first two years of their studies, learners participate in online didactic coursework with an asynchronous format combined with one on-campus visit every term. 

The on-campus visits, which last for 3-4 days, typically happen in September, January, and June in Charleston, South Carolina. These are replaced by a week-long trip to Washington DC for policy studies during their second year. 

Their third year means more focus on their doctoral research projects with little to no didactic coursework. Students must identify a research topic for approval and then work on the completion of their individual doctoral research project. Faculty advisors provide mentoring and guidance until completion.  

The 58-semester-hour curriculum offers two unique specialization options. First, the Health Administrator track focuses on leadership in health policy, health administration, and strategic management.

Second, the Health Professional Track is geared more toward developing interprofessional leaders in healthcare. Both tracks have small class sizes with the average cohort class, which starts every fall semester, being 26 students. 

All learners complete 40 semester hours of academic coursework, including nine semester hours on concentration courses. The doctoral project represents 18 semester hours. Full-time enrollment is six credit hours or two courses per semester. 

The average time-to-completion is three years for full-time students who complete their dissertation within the scheduled milestones. There’s a 7-year cap on completion of the degree requirements. 

Graduates are now Health Systems Presidents and CEOs, Chief Financial Officers, and Medical Directors at prominent facilities, as well as respected educators at healthcare colleges and universities.

Regardless of residency status, full-time students pay the in-state tuition of $10,290 per semester. Minimum admission requirements include a master’s degree in a healthcare-related field and relevant work experience. Short-listed applicants will be called in for an interview.

Concentration Options:

• Health Administrator Track
• Health Professional Track

Campus Location: Charleston, SC

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA’S HEALTH ADMINISTRATION DOCTORATE

The MUSC seal highlights two Greek gods – Aesculapius, the god of medicine, and his son, Apollo, the god of healing and of the sun. 

UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

HYBRID DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 

School Highlights: The University of Mississippi Medical Center is highly respected among educational institutions of healthcare. It offers an online Doctor of Health Administration degree program delivered in a hybrid format. 

Students complete a large portion of the doctoral degree online and attend mandatory on-campus sessions where they collaborate with professors and classmates in their small, 10-15 student cohort.

Due to the hybrid format, out-of-state residents are accepted but must attend the scheduled on-campus sessions, with no excuses. On-campus sessions and their approximate dates are provided before the start of classes, thus, students can make advance arrangements. 

Designed for post-graduate professionals with a background and experience in healthcare administration, it sharpens these individuals’ knowledge and abilities to perform as executives. The DHA focuses heavily on professionalism in the field. The curriculum explores leadership strategies in healthcare administration while combining in-depth knowledge of policy, ethics, and current regulations. 

Learners must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA, minimum, for all courses to earn the DHA degree. Their dissertation must be approved by the department chair and student advisory committee for this purpose, too. 

Applicants must present one of two types of academic and work credentials. First, they must possess either a master’s degree or a professional doctorate in a healthcare-related field with a cumulative 3.0 GPA.

Second, they must have a master’s degree with a cumulative 3.0 GPA and at least five years of work experience in a healthcare-related field. The latter must be in healthcare policy or management or a clinical medical specialty. 

UMMC doesn’t accept transfer credits into its DHA program. Students must then learn and progress as a cohort on the same footing, credits-wise, in the three-year curriculum.

• Current Trends in Accreditation & Licensure
• Health Care Law, Regulations, and Ethics
• Communications in Health Organizations

Campus Location: Oxford, MS

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI’S DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

The University of Michigan is known by its two nicknames – The University and Ole Miss – but these have their distinctions. The University refers to its people and physical infrastructure while Ole Miss refers to its spiritual aspects – personality, emotion, and mood. 

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

School Highlights: Offering online coursework combined with on-campus seminars throughout the program, the Doctor of Health Administration at Central Michigan University is an excellent hybrid program. 

A 63-credit doctorate degree program, its cutting-edge curriculum analyzes the communication skills, leadership qualities, and understanding of healthcare organizations required by doctors in this field.

Students work closely with advisors, mentors, and tutors who support them throughout their years as post-graduates at CMU. They also have access to superb academic resources, such as the Global Campus Liberty Services. 

The average time-to-completion is four years, but students may choose either full-time or part-time enrollment. CMU offers 3-year and 5-year degree plans for this purpose. 

Regardless of enrollment status, however, the program of study has a sequential order starting with the didactic coursework consisting of 15 online courses. These are interspersed with six intensive, in-person, two-and-a-half-day seminars on the CMU campus. 

The general comprehensive examination is the assessment tool used in determining the learners’ knowledge and their suitability for the dissertation phase. Students who pass the exam can then proceed to the applied research dissertation aspect of their studies. 

Students learn as a cohort and pursue several learning objectives including becoming proficient in the theory, practices, and applied skills of leadership in the healthcare industry. Learners are also encouraged to present new knowledge through their dissertations.

Upon completion of the comprehensive examination and dissertation, the Career Development Center helps students obtain high-level positions of employment at the nation’s best hospitals and research facilities.

Up to 12 credits from a post-graduate degree can be transferred, but UMC doesn’t grant work experience credits. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a relevant field, at least three years of mid-level to senior-level managerial positions and English proficiency. A current resume, career goal statement, and three letters of reference are also required. 

CMU has two tuition types. One is for regular students and the other is for military students. Financial assistance options are varied.

• Quantitative Analysis in Health Organization
• Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability for Health Entities
• Health Systems Thinking and Practice

Campus Location: Mount Pleasant, MI

LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY’S DOCTOR OF HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (DHA) PROGRAM

Chippewas like to greet each other, “Fire up, Chips!” as a way to acknowledge their sense of community and their shared enthusiasm. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does a health administrator do.

A health administrator is a leader in the healthcare industry who manages the financial, organizational, and technological operations in medical institutions. They are equipped with leadership skills to implement systems in the healthcare industry.

One of the core functions of health administration is financial management. A healthcare executive calculates medical expenses and, from that data, decides on the most cost-effective course of action. Through cost-benefit analysis, medical practitioners can optimize health services and give their patients the best experience.

On a macro level, health administrators work in regional, national, or global health organizations to address epidemiological concerns. In other words, health administrations are the geniuses that prevent HIV, Ebola, bird flu, and other outbreaks from potentially harming communities. They stop the spread of diseases by tracking human patterns in migration, tourism, trade, and other transport opportunities.

Aside from taking charge of money and administrative matters, health administrators also pay close attention to Information Technology. They utilize cutting-edge technology to handle responsibilities that pertain to population health and management.

By being involved in the financial, bureaucratic, and technical processes of medical businesses, healthcare financial management personnel are the key persons who aid legislators in developing policies related to healthcare.

What sort of accreditation should I look for in a school?

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides accreditation to all tertiary-level academic programs in the country, including the D.H.A. Accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) that may supplement the school’s eligibility to open online programs.

Affiliation with professional organizations such as the National Center for Healthcare Leadership (NCHL) and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) certainly helps improve a D.H.A. institution’s reputation.

How do I earn my D.H.A. degree?

To enter a D.H.A. program, you must have a master’s degree related to public health. Medical professionals, doctors, nurses, dentists, and more are encouraged to take their educational level a notch higher.

Bachelor’s degree holders may also apply in a straight program wherein students earn a master’s degree in the same university with fewer coursework requirements upon proceeding with the D.H.A. program.

If you are studying full-time, you can finish the D.H.A. program within 3 to 5 years. Study on a part-time basis and earn your D.H.A. degree in 7 to 10 years.

The written research requirement varies depending on your school. Some universities require students to write a dissertation, while others have them work on a “doctoral project” or a capstone project. These deliverables are necessary to develop the research skills of graduate students while also giving them opportunities to contribute to health.

The final project of the D.H.A. program involves quantitative research methodologies and comparative studies of different health services around the globe.

You might encounter the Sca.D. title ( salutem cura administrationem in Latin ) , which is an equivalent doctorate of Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.).

What type of degree do I need to pursue research or educate others in Health Administration?

Due to its interdisciplinary nature, D.H.A. programs have quite an impressive faculty lineup. Professors come from the medical, scientific, and business sectors and are holders of a D.H.A., Ph.D., Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), medical doctors (M.D./D.O.), or equivalent degrees. Some professors may also have a multifaceted set of credentials, for instance, MBA and Ph.D.

Scholarly endeavors in Health Administration are publishable in journals and books related to health, business, and social sciences.

What kind of career and salary can I expect with my Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.) degree ?

Health administrators work as officials in medical institutions. Figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that medical and health services managers make an average of $104,830 annually. Health Administrators with D.H.A. degrees who work in big hospitals earn as much as $209,990 per year.

This professional field is expected to grow as demand rises on account of more baby boomers seeking quality healthcare.

Do I need a license to be a Health Administrator?

Most states do not require licensing requirements for healthcare administrators. However, certification matters most in this field. If you have an advanced degree like the Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.), your co-workers and patients trust that you are a highly trained specialist in the field. Aside from your diploma, membership with ACHE is valuable in the medical community.

What are the benefits of pursuing a career in Healthcare Administration with a DHA degree? 

Emphasis must first be made that it’s a highly demanding career that requires its practitioners to possess excellent leadership skills, mental and emotional intelligence, and personal drive. DHA degree holders agree, however, that their advanced education contributed to their increased earnings ! 

The median weekly income is $1,883 or $97,916 per year, a significantly higher amount than for individuals with a master’s degree.  The difference can be as high as $800,000 more in earnings over a 40-year career.

Their average unemployment rate – just 1.1% – is also the lowest among individuals with higher education, including bachelor’s, master’s, and professional degrees. Beyond the dollars, a career in healthcare administration brings several non-monetary rewards, too.

You will be involved in a profession with a significant and positive impact on individuals and their families through effective, efficient, and responsive healthcare policies. You may not be directly involved with patient care, but your decisions and actions on the policy level will influence it.  

What are the best tips for getting into a DHA program? 

Keep in mind that the best DHA degree programs are selective in their admission process. You must be well-prepared to compete for the limited slots and these tips will be useful. 

• Comply with the admission requirements to the letter! Even a single missing information or document can jeopardize your application, even when you’re highly qualified for the program. The admission requirements are fairly standardized across DHA programs including a master’s degree in a relevant field, GRE/GMAT scores, and sufficient work experience. Your resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation are also common. You must prepare the necessary documentation as early as possible. 
• Be true to yourself including your professional goals and research interests in the short-term and long-term periods. Write them down since the interview phase will likely bring them up. Highlight your relevant qualifications and be prepared to explain your career-related decisions.  
• Prepare for the interview as if getting a slot in the DHA program is a highly coveted job. Practice your answers and dress in business attire even when it’s a virtual interview. 
• Make both your application and research statement stand out. With so many gifted applicants, putting more care into these documents can be your entry ticket.  

What are the typical courses in DHA degree programs? 

Every DHA program obviously has its unique coursework and degree requirements. But there are also common courses that underlie these programs including: 

• Population health 
• Dissertation and research methodologies 
• Financial management 
• Health organizations and their governance and economics 
• Leadership principles and practices in healthcare administration 
• Health informatics 

Most programs can be completed in three years or less with the first two years dedicated to didactic coursework. The third and succeeding years are spent on the completion of the dissertation project, and these years are considered the most challenging. 

The dissertation project demands not only intensive research but also represents an excellent opportunity for doctoral candidates to contribute to the body of knowledge in healthcare administration. The research topics must be chosen with care as they will likely undergo several reiterations before approval. 

While DHA programs have a formal and standard curriculum structure, students also have a certain degree of freedom in customizing their degrees. This is where electives come in although students may still have to request approval from their academic advisor. 

The specific courses and their sequential order will also differ depending on the track or concentration. There are two general tracks that universities typically offer: 

• The track for current professionals in the healthcare industry with relevant graduate degrees; and 
• The track for non-healthcare professionals 

What is a dissertation in a DHA degree program? 

Your dissertation is your individual scholarly research project that highlights your original research on an approved topic. Note that the topic must pertain to a complex and current healthcare administration issue, preferably one in your area of interest. You will likely choose a topic at the start of your doctoral studies, perhaps even present it in your research statement. 

The best dissertations have a coherent and complete structure that demonstrates the scholarly work conducted. These include research studies that have been published in journals as well as other scholarly artifacts, such as applications, web pages, and policy briefs. The word count varies but 60,000-80,000 words exclusive of footnotes, appendices, and bibliography are common.  

Aside from adding to the body of knowledge, your dissertation should also highlight your skill sets. You must show your ability for critical analysis of related literature, for utilizing the appropriate research methods, and for communicating your research. 

You should be prepared for numerous revisions to your draft, as well as a grueling defense session before your dissertation is approved. Only when you have completed the dissertation requirement will the university grant your DHA degree. 

Note: While a DHA dissertation and a PhD dissertation have similarities, these have different approaches. A DHA dissertation is designed for practical solutions to current issues, while a Ph.D. dissertation focuses on the theoretical aspects. 

What are the possible jobs for an individual with a DHA degree? 

Among the rewards of a health administration program (DHA) is the wide range of possible jobs, including: 

• Professor in post-secondary institutions where healthcare degrees, including healthcare administration, are offered. 
• Administrators in private and public healthcare settings, including hospitals, large outpatient and specialty clinics, and nursing homes. Preferred provider organizations, health maintenance organizations, and other managed care systems are also great workplaces. 
• Managers, directors, and executives in the public and private sectors, such as in federal agencies, state government organizations, and nonprofits. Policy-making is among the strengths of professionals with a DHA degree, thus, their suitability in government positions. 

These jobs have different compensation packages depending on the healthcare management level, too, but the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $104,830 in May 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics – and that’s with a bachelor’s degree!

The BLS also states an actual job growth of 28% between 2022 and 2032. Just imagine how much more money and career advancement in health leadership opportunities you will have with a DHA degree. 

What personal qualities do I need to excel in Healthcare Administration?

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills: Critical in coordinating between providers, patients, and insurance companies
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving: To develop and implement strategies to improve patient care and patient flow
• Leadership and management: To manage and lead a medical facility
• Strategic planning: To achieve profitability and cost-efficiency goals
• Decision-making: To assess and evaluate situations and make appropriate decisions in an effective manner
• Financial management: To understand and manage healthcare budgets and fiscal resources
• Data analysis and research: To interpret and understand medical data to assess outcomes and develop evidence-based practice
• Adaptability: To be able to respond to changes in the healthcare field
• Attention to detail: To ensure accuracy and quality when managing financial or data records
• Organization: To prioritize tasks and manage competing demands in order to maximize efficiency.

For more information:

• The Best Online Doctoral Degrees in Healthcare Administration (DHA)
• The Best Online Doctoral Degrees in Business Administration

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Apply to the Ph.D. Program in Health Policy and Administration

How to apply.

To be admitted to the Ph.D. Program in Health Policy and Administration (HPA), you must apply through Penn State's standardized online application system. Visit the Graduate School website for information on how to apply to the J. Jeffrey and Anne Marie Fox Graduate School at Penn State .

The application portal for the HPA Ph.D. program opens on September 1 for students enrolling in the fall semester of the following year. For full consideration, your completed application and all supporting materials must be received on or before December 15 .

Application Materials

1. statement of purpose.

Items to consider when writing your Statement of Purpose to help the HPA Ph.D. program committee better understand your goals and how they align with the  learning outcomes of the Ph.D. program .

• Become familiar with HPA  Ph.D. program faculty  research and identify those faculty whose research areas align most with your interests. Consider reaching out to them and introducing yourself.
• Describe your background and the reasons for pursuing a research doctoral degree in health policy and administration, and include your future career goals.
• academic preparation, including any experience in undergraduate and graduate coursework and opportunities you pursued outside of the classroom that will enable you to succeed in our program.
• experience engaging in scholarly research and what you have learned from your research experience.
• experience working with and learning from individuals from various backgrounds and different perspectives

2. Current curriculum vitae or resume

3. three letters of reference.

• Ideally, your letters of reference should be written by someone engaged in research who is familiar with your research skills or research potential (e.g., a supervisor).

4. Transcripts

• One unofficial transcript or scanned copy of the official transcript (or a notarized translation in English if the original is in a different language) from each institution attended.

5. TOEFL/IELTS

Note: Applicants submitting TOEFL/IELTS scores must request that scores be sent to Penn State electronically using school code 2660 Penn State University.

6. GRE scores (optional)

• We accept, but do not require, GRE scores. You may wish to submit GRE scores if you believe they will help us assess your ability to complete our program, which requires comfort with mathematical expressions, a solid foundation in quantitative empirical methods, and the ability to read and write analytically challenging content in English. Applicants who choose to submit GRE scores should have them sent to Graduate Enrollment Services (GES) at Penn State electronically using school code 2660 Penn State University.

More Information

For detailed information, including required coursework, the dissertation, and other milestones necessary to complete a Ph.D. in our program, please see our  Ph.D. program handbook . If you are interested in the  Dual Title program in Health Policy and Administration and Demography , please discuss that in your statement.

If you have any questions, please email our graduate program coordinator, Ashlee Foreman , or our professor-in-charge of doctoral studies, Dave Vanness .

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5 Best Universities to Study Public Health in Russia

Are you looking to study Public Health abroad? Russia is one of the top places you should consider. The country is known for its top universities, with programs and qualifications that are aligned with international standards.

Besides that, you also get to manage your finances while living abroad due to its relatively low cost of living and affordable tuition fees. Finally, studying Public Health means you’ll need to be competent in research and fieldwork, which Russian universities can surely prepare you for. To help you choose your host university, here are the top universities for Public Health in Russia!

Top Universities for Public Health in Russia

1. i.m. sechenov first moscow state medical university.

• Study Program
• Degree/s Offered: Master’s

The I.M. First Moscow State Medical University, or simply Sechenov University, is the oldest university for Medicine and a top institution for public health in Russia. Founded in 1758, it was initially the Imperial Moscow University’s medical faculty. However, it became an independent university in 1930, and in 1955, adopted the name of Russian Physiologist, Ivan Sechenov.

The university is among the higher education institutions in the country that offers a degree in Public Health. Its English-taught Master in Public Health focuses on teaching competencies in research and management activities of Public Health professionals. Moreover, it looks to provide education that is relevant to the global public health field, aligning with the Russian health standards.

Students take two years or four semesters to complete the program. In the first semester, students already dive into coursework, mastering core knowledge on public health and relevant factors, such as demography, biostatistics, and health management. The succeeding semesters also acquaint students with Information Technology and working with databases, crucial to collecting and handling data in their fieldwork. Finally, students complete a thesis and practicum during their third and fourth semesters.

2. International University of Fundamental Studies

The International University of Fundamental Studies (IUFS), founded in 1998, is a research university in St. Petersburg, Russia. It has 14 faculties, all offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields. As a research university, IUFS works with the Intergovernmental Higher Academic Council or IHAC, providing the medium for dissertations to find intended audiences and grant the researchers International Postgraduate Degree Qualifications.

The International University of Fundamental Studies is also one of the top universities to study Public Health in Russia. It offers the Master in Public Health program, taught in Russian and English. This four-semester program covers fundamental competencies in subfields, such as epidemiology, biomedical statistics, health policy and administration, and environmental and occupational health.

Interested applicants for the Master in Public Health program at the IUFS must have at least a bachelor’s degree in biology, physiology, environmental sciences, or any related field. The admission process also requires applicants to submit a comprehensive study plan and personal statement. Finally, students should be able to present reference letters

3. Northern State Medical University

Founded in 1932, the Northern State Medical University (NSMU) provides medical education to the northern part of Russia. The university has 16 institutes and faculties, offering programs from pre-high school teaching to vocational training to postgraduate studies. Some of the academic fields the university offers are Medicine, Dentistry, Medical Psychology, Social Work, and Pharmacology.

With its focus on health and environmental aspects of health, the university offers the Master in Public Health degree program through the Arkhangelsk International School of Public Health. The program aims to provide foundational knowledge for the practice and research of Public Health professionals. Moreover, it’s a two-year full-time program that requires the completion of 120 credit units. Each credit unit is equal to 36 hours of coursework, involving classroom instruction, homework, practice, and research work. Students are also expected to have excellent English language skills.

You can take the master’s program part-time, allowing you to complete it in two and half years. Either full-time or part-time, you’ll still go through the same coursework and allot your last semester to thesis writing. At the end of your education, you’ll receive a Russian MPH diploma, with Russian and English appendices aligned with the European Commission and UNESCO standards.

4. St. Petersburg University

• Degree/s Offered: Ph.D.

St. Petersburg State University or just St. Petersburg University is a leading university for public health in Russia that was established in 1724 through the decree of Peter the Great, making it the oldest in the country. Since its foundation, the university has focused on science, engineering, and humanities research. It has two campuses at two locations in St. Petersburg: Vasilievsky Island and Peterhof. The university has 24 specialized faculties, providing extensive education in various fields, such as International Relations, Law, and Philosophy.

Among its 400 degree programs is the Aspirantura Programme in Public Health and Preventive Medicine, which is equivalent to a Ph.D. It is a three-year full-time program taught in Russian and covers main academic courses. These include Public Health and Health Care Management, History and Philosophy of Science, and Psychology of the Treatment Process.

Besides the main courses, students are also required to take foreign languages, such as Spanish, German, and French. In relation to that, the program includes Foreign Language Academic Writing course. After all, the program is heavily research-oriented and students should be equipped on all aspects of conducting research, including writing and communication. After completing their studies, students can either join research in the medical science field or teach in higher education institutions.

5. ITMO University

ITMO University was established in 1900 as a Watchmaking, Optics, and Mechanics Department of the Prince Nicholas Vocational School. During that time, it was the only department that trained specialists in those fields. Since then, the department underwent major changes, from being a college to a university, and finally being the research university it is known today. ITMO University has four schools and 14 faculties, extending its research focus beyond information and photogenic technologies.

Through its Center for Science Communication, the university offers an excellent Master in Public Health degree program in Russia. The program features the integration of technology and research, as well as evaluating interventions for socially concerning health problems. Students take four semesters to complete the degree program, with the first three covering coursework. On the other hand, the final semester is left for a research internship and completion of the Master’s thesis.

We hope that this article on the Best Universities for Public Health in Russia was helpful. To know more information on how you can study in Europe, check out the Available Programs for International Students .

About the Author: Hyun Lee

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23 Best Public Health schools in Moscow, Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Moscow ranked based on their research performance in Public Health. A graph of 138K citations received by 14.2K academic papers made by 23 universities in Moscow was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Public Health

2. National Research University Higher School of Economics

3. Moscow Medical Academy

4. RUDN University

5. Russian National Research Medical University

6. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

7. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

8. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

9. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

10. New Economic School

11. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

12. Moscow State Institute of International Relations

13. Moscow State Pedagogical University

14. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

15. Russian State University for the Humanities

16. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

17. State University of Management

18. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

19. Russian State Agricultural University

20. Russian State Social University

21. Moscow Aviation Institute

22. Moscow Polytech

23. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

Universities for public health near moscow.

Medicine subfields in Moscow