Best MBA in Healthcare Management
An MBA in Healthcare Management is designed for professionals who want to lead healthcare organizations, optimize healthcare operations, and drive policy innovation. This specialization focuses on healthcare finance, hospital administration, regulatory compliance, and patient care management, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of the rapidly evolving healthcare industry.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28% from 2021 to 2031, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. Additionally, the median salary for healthcare administrators is $104,830, reflecting the high demand for professionals who can lead healthcare institutions effectively (BLS). A report by McKinsey & Company states that technological advancements and policy changes are driving unprecedented innovation in healthcare management, making it an opportune time to pursue this specialization (McKinsey).
An MBA in Healthcare Management specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to lead hospitals, healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical companies, or health policy initiatives.
Learn all about MBA degrees.

Table of Contents
What is an Online MBA in Healthcare Management?
An Online MBA in Healthcare Management provides a flexible pathway for professionals looking to develop expertise in healthcare operations, patient care strategies, and financial management while maintaining their careers. These programs focus on healthcare leadership, medical ethics, and policy compliance, helping students prepare for executive roles in healthcare organizations.
Students gain expertise in healthcare analytics, insurance systems, and strategic decision-making, ensuring they are well-prepared to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare operations. Many online programs include real-world case studies, healthcare leadership simulations, and hospital management projects, providing an immersive learning experience.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Healthcare Management?
Admissions requirements for an MBA in Healthcare Management vary by program but typically include the following:
- Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often a BBA degree or a bachelor’s in healthcare administration or a related field.
- Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in healthcare, hospital administration, or public health is preferred.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
- Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Healthcare Management.
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, healthcare executives, or academic mentors.
- Resume – Highlighting experience in healthcare administration, patient care, or policy management.
Is an MBA in Healthcare Management the Right Specialization for You?
An MBA in Healthcare Management specialization is best suited for detail-oriented, leadership-driven professionals interested in optimizing healthcare delivery. If you are passionate about hospital management, healthcare policy, and improving patient care, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.
Unlike other MBA specializations, such as General Management or Public Health, an MBA in Healthcare Management focuses on healthcare operations, policy regulation, and financial sustainability. If you want to lead hospitals, insurance companies, or healthcare startups, this program may best fit you.
2026 Best MBA in Healthcare Management Programs
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY - Public 4-Year - buffalo.edu
Master's - MBA with Health Care Management Concentration
Concentration: Health Care Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's MBA with Health Care Management Concentration prepares professionals to transform healthcare through innovative leadership. This on-campus program develops comprehensive skills in strategic planning, policy development, and operational management across complex healthcare systems. Students learn to navigate financial challenges, analyze care delivery models, and drive improvements in patient outcomes and organizational efficiency. The curriculum includes 15 concentration credits with required core courses and health care electives covering strategy, economics, and policy. As a master's level program, it requires entrance exams such as GMAT or GRE for admission.
- Healthcare Management MBA Concentration
- 15 total concentration credits
- 6 credits required core courses
- 9 credits health care electives
- Courses cover strategy, economics, policy
- Leadership skills development focus
- Career preparation for healthcare roles
- Networking with healthcare leaders
- Understand healthcare policy intricacies
- Advanced health analytics training
Master's - Health Care Management Concentration
Concentration: Health Care Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Full-Time MBA with Healthcare Management Concentration equips students to lead in the complex healthcare industry through strategic management skills. This campus-based program blends business acumen with healthcare insights, focusing on policy, economics, operations, and innovative approaches to healthcare challenges. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in care facilities, insurance companies, and health-focused organizations, emphasizing critical thinking and analytical skills. The concentration involves 15 credits with required core courses and diverse electives. As a master's program, entrance exams like GMAT or GRE are required for admission.
- Healthcare Management Concentration
- 15 total concentration credits
- Two required core courses
- Seven diverse elective options
- Focus on healthcare policy
- Strategic healthcare management skills
- Career-ready leadership development
- Networking with healthcare leaders
- Interdisciplinary learning approach
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Health Care Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's MBA with a Healthcare Management concentration offers a strategic pathway to leadership in healthcare, focusing on policy development, health system management, and innovative solutions to financial and operational challenges. This on-campus program develops analytical and critical thinking capabilities essential for driving transformative changes in healthcare delivery and organizational strategies. The 15-credit concentration includes required core courses and elective options, preparing graduates for management roles. As a master's level program, it requires entrance exams such as GMAT or GRE for admission.
- 15-credit Healthcare Concentration
- Two Required Core Courses
- Seven Elective Course Options
- Focuses on Healthcare Leadership
- Prepares for Healthcare Management Roles
- Develops Policy and Strategic Skills
- Networking with Healthcare Leaders
- Addresses Healthcare System Challenges
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu
Master's - Executive MBA in Health Administration
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Executive MBA in Health Administration at University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus is a 16-month hybrid program designed for experienced professionals with at least five years in healthcare. This top-ranked program features a 100% health-focused curriculum delivered through online and in-person sessions, with no GMAT requirement. Students benefit from comprehensive networking opportunities and flexible learning options, with total tuition of $65,000 and scholarship availability. The program prepares graduates for advanced healthcare leadership roles through its strategic executive-focused approach.
- Top 25 Healthcare Management Program
- 16-month hybrid format
- $65,000 total tuition
- No GMAT required
- Minimum 5 years experience needed
- 100% health-focused curriculum
- August start date
- 48 total credit hours
- Online and in-person sessions
- $5000 scholarship available
Master's - MBA in Health Administration
Concentration: Financial Health Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Colorado Denver's MBA in Health Administration with Financial Health Management concentration is a 45-credit campus program that prepares professionals for leadership in healthcare finance. This CAHME-accredited program offers flexible evening and online courses that can be completed in 2-5 years, with GMAT/GRE optional. Featuring a top-32 national ranking and 90%+ job placement rate, the program emphasizes real-world experience through field studies and maintains a favorable 6:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized attention in financial health management specialization.
- 45 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- GMAT/GRE optional
- 6:1 student-faculty ratio
- Fall and spring start terms
- Complete in 2-5 years
- Evening and online courses
- Three specialization options
- CAHME accredited program
- Top 32 national ranking
Master's - MBA in Health Administration
Concentration: Health Information Technology Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Health Information Technology Management concentration within CU Denver's MBA in Health Administration provides specialized training for healthcare technology leadership roles. This 45-credit campus program offers flexible evening and online options, allowing completion in as little as two years without GMAT/GRE requirements. CAHME-accredited and top-32 ranked, the curriculum includes field studies and international travel opportunities while maintaining a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. The program focuses on practical technology management skills and boasts over 90% job placement for graduates entering health IT leadership positions.
- 45 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- GMAT/GRE optional
- 6:1 student-faculty ratio
- Fall and spring start terms
- Complete in 2-5 years
- Evening program in Denver
- Three specialization options
- CAHME accredited
- 90%+ job placement
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Health Administration - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's campus-based MBA with a Health Administration concentration equips professionals with essential business and healthcare leadership skills to tackle complex industry challenges. This AACSB-accredited program emphasizes strategic management principles blended with healthcare-specific knowledge, fostering innovation and efficiency in medical organizations. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexible options and includes a certificate pathway. An entrance exam may be required for this master's-level program.
- MBA with Health Administration concentration
- Flexible program options
- AACSB accredited business school
- Healthcare management focus
- Certificate option available
Master's - Online MBA
Concentration: Health Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's Online MBA in Health Administration prepares students for leadership roles in the evolving healthcare sector, with a projected 17% job growth through 2024. This AACSB-accredited program focuses on healthcare systems, policy, finance, and emerging technologies through a flexible online format. Tailored for professionals, it requires 12 elective credits and covers comprehensive management topics. An entrance exam may be required for this master's-level program.
- Online MBA with Health Admin Concentration
- 17% Healthcare Job Growth Projected
- Flexible Online Learning Format
- 12 Credit Elective Requirement
- Courses Cover Healthcare Systems
- AACSB Accredited Program
- Focus on Healthcare Leadership
- Comprehensive Healthcare Management Curriculum
- Courses Include Health Policy, Finance
- Targeted for Healthcare Professionals
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
Master's - Executive MBA
Concentration: Healthcare Leadership - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's Executive MBA in Healthcare Leadership prepares healthcare professionals for senior leadership roles through a specialized curriculum emphasizing strategic management and healthcare delivery systems. This campus-based program is designed for both clinical and non-clinical professionals, equipping them with advanced skills to navigate complex healthcare environments. Graduates develop visionary leadership capabilities with comprehensive insights into policy analysis and emerging healthcare challenges. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GMAT or GRE. The program is military-friendly.
- Executive MBA Healthcare Leadership
- For clinical/non-clinical professionals
- Strategic management focus
- Policy analysis curriculum
- Healthcare delivery systems expertise
- Senior leadership preparation
- Specialized healthcare concentration
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Healthcare Analytics - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's Online MBA with a Healthcare Analytics concentration equips professionals with essential skills for healthcare management, focusing on data-driven decision-making. This flexible program prepares students to handle complex healthcare industry challenges by managing large datasets, analyzing healthcare economics, and developing strategic insights. The curriculum combines advanced management techniques with specialized analytics training, including a capstone course and applied case studies. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GMAT or GRE. The program is military-friendly.
- Online MBA program
- Healthcare Analytics concentration
- 15 credit hours concentration
- Capstone course included
- Focuses on data management
- Prepares for healthcare management
- Integrates project work
- Applied case studies
- Covers healthcare economics
- Develops negotiation skills
University of Delaware
Newark, DE - Public 4-Year - udel.edu
Master's - MBA Healthcare Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's MBA Healthcare Management program prepares students for leadership roles in the rapidly expanding healthcare sector, which is projected to grow 15% between 2019 and 2029. This online program offers comprehensive training in population health, healthcare policy, finance, and patient experience management. Students can choose between a full major requiring five courses or a concentration requiring three courses, with flexible scheduling for working professionals. The program develops strategic insights for diverse healthcare administration roles in both public and private sectors. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the university.
- Jobs in healthcare growing 15%
- Online and campus formats
- Major and concentration options
- 5 courses for major track
- 3 courses for concentration
- Population health focus
- Healthcare policy expertise
- Leadership skills development
- Flexible course scheduling
- Public/private sector opportunities
Master's - MBA Healthcare Management
Concentration: Healthcare Management Concentration - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's MBA with a Healthcare Management Concentration focuses specifically on developing expertise in healthcare leadership, policy, informatics, and patient experience management. This online program capitalizes on the healthcare sector's projected 15% job growth by 2029, offering both major and concentration options. Students gain advanced business skills tailored to healthcare administration through either five courses for the major track or three courses for the concentration. The flexible format accommodates working professionals seeking career advancement in healthcare management. As a master's level program, entrance exams such as the GMAT or GRE may be required, though applicants should confirm specific admission requirements with the university.
- Healthcare jobs growing 15%
- Online and campus formats
- Major and concentration options
- 5 courses for major
- 3 courses for concentration
- Covers population health informatics
- Leadership and innovation focus
- Healthcare policy and finance
- Patient experience management
- Diverse career opportunities
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu
Master's - Executive Healthcare MBA
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas Executive Healthcare MBA prepares professionals for healthcare leadership roles through a hybrid format combining online coursework with monthly on-campus sessions. This 44-credit, two-year program is designed for clinicians transitioning to management and working professionals seeking career advancement. Ranked among the top 30 public business schools, it emphasizes business acumen applied to healthcare contexts. GMAT/GRE waivers are available for qualified candidates with strong work experience and academic backgrounds. The total program cost is approximately $56,335.40, including books and fees, with an application deadline of July 19.
- 44 Credit Hours
- 2 Years to Complete
- Primarily Online
- Monthly On-campus Sessions
- Tuition $56,335.40
- GMAT/GRE Waiver Available
- Application Deadline July 19
- Designed for Clinicians and Managers
- Partnership with UAMS
- Global Business Projects
Master's - Healthcare Business Administration MBA
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Arkansas' Healthcare Business Administration MBA offers a comprehensive curriculum blending business fundamentals with specialized healthcare management courses. This flexible hybrid program allows completion in two years with minimal career disruption, featuring both online and on-campus components. It focuses on developing strategic insights into healthcare systems, financial management, and organizational leadership, catering to medical professionals and career changers entering healthcare administration. The program provides dual degree opportunities and potential partnerships with UAMS. GMAT/GRE requirements may be waived for qualified applicants with relevant professional experience.
- Healthcare MBA concentration available
- Hybrid/online program format
- Two-year completion timeline
- Executive Healthcare MBA option
- Specialized healthcare business courses
- Dual degree opportunities
- Flexible professional tracks
- Partnership with UAMS possible
Boston University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - bu.edu
Master's - Health Sector Management MBA
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Health Sector Management MBA equips professionals with advanced business and healthcare expertise to drive innovation in the industry. Located in Boston, a leading healthcare hub, this campus-based program from Questrom School of Business focuses on strategic leadership and practical skills for transforming healthcare organizations. It prepares graduates for high-impact careers in administration without requiring an entrance exam, offering a competitive edge through its specialized curriculum and industry connections.
- Specialized Healthcare MBA
- Located in Boston Healthcare Hub
- Competitive Professional Advantage
- Industry Innovation Focus
- Questrom School of Business
Master's - Health Sector MBA+ MPH
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Health Sector MBA+MPH dual degree combines management and public health in a rigorous 21-month campus program. Through 82 credits jointly offered by Questrom School of Business and the School of Public Health, students develop skills to address complex healthcare system challenges, emphasizing policy, administration, and global health solutions. This program does not require an entrance exam and leverages Boston's innovation ecosystem to prepare professionals for transformative roles in healthcare delivery and consulting.
- 82 total credits
- 21-month program length
- Joint Questrom and SPH degree
- Healthcare system focus
- Policy and management skills
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO - Public 4-Year - semo.edu
Master's - MBA: Health Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southeast Missouri State University's online MBA in Healthcare Administration provides a flexible, AACSB-accredited pathway for professionals aiming to lead in healthcare. The program emphasizes healthcare economics, performance improvement, and strategic management, with no GMAT or GRE required, making it accessible for those without a business background. Featuring 33 credit hours delivered in 8-week terms and five annual start dates, it caters to working adults seeking roles in healthcare management. Multiple admission pathways and a curriculum tailored to the healthcare sector ensure practical skill development for career advancement.
- Online MBA in Health Admin
- No GMAT/GRE required
- 5 annual start dates
- 33 total credit hours
- 8-week course terms
- AACSB accredited program
- Multiple admission pathways
- Flexible admission requirements
- No undergraduate business degree needed
- Comprehensive healthcare curriculum
Touro University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - touro.edu
Master's - MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Management
Concentration: Healthcare Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
Touro University's MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Management equips professionals with advanced skills for leadership in hospitals, insurance, pharmaceuticals, and medical practices. The 33-credit, 13-course program emphasizes balancing organizational efficiency with patient care, typically completed in two years with evening and Sunday classes at the Mid-Manhattan campus. Small class sizes and practitioner-led instruction enhance learning, supported by on-site career services. This master's-level program may require an entrance exam such as the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the university.
- Master's in Healthcare Management
- 13 courses, 33 total credits
- Typical two-year completion
- Mid-Manhattan campus location
- Small class sizes
- Evening and Sunday schedules
- Experienced practitioner faculty
- On-site career center support
- Affordable tuition
- Suitable for healthcare/business professionals
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu
Master's - MBA/MSHA
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a hybrid MBA/MSHA dual degree that prepares healthcare leaders through a 33-month curriculum combining business acumen with health services administration. Students engage in a distinctive 9-12 month administrative residency, receiving a stipend while gaining hands-on experience under expert preceptors. This program emphasizes financial strategy, organizational behavior, and healthcare management, taught by faculty from both business and health disciplines. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the school. Ideal for professionals aiming to innovate in healthcare operations.
- 33-month dual degree program
- On-campus and blended delivery
- Health services administration focus
- 9-12 month administrative residency
- Stipend during residency
- Faculty from business and health professions
- Expertise in healthcare management
MBA in Healthcare Management Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?
Most MBA in Healthcare Management programs take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.
Core Courses in an MBA in Healthcare Management
The curriculum for a MBA in Healthcare Management MBA specialization blends business leadership with healthcare industry expertise through courses such as:
- Healthcare Economics & Policy
- Hospital & Healthcare Systems Management
- Healthcare Analytics & Decision-Making
- Insurance & Risk Management in Healthcare
- Digital Transformation & AI in Healthcare
- Healthcare Law & Regulatory Compliance
- Public Health & Community Healthcare Strategies
- Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations
Many programs also incorporate healthcare consulting projects, including real-world hospital case studies, public health initiatives, and health policy reform analysis. Some students complete internships with major healthcare systems, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies to gain hands-on experience before graduation.
What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Healthcare Management?
An MBA in Healthcare Management MBA specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare administration. Standard job titles include:
- Hospital Administrator – Manages healthcare facilities and ensures regulatory compliance.
- Chief Medical Officer (CMO) – Oversees quality of medical operations and patient care.
- Healthcare Consultant – Advises organizations on healthcare policies and operational improvements.
- Pharmaceutical Project Manager – Leads business strategy for drug development and commercialization.
- Insurance & Risk Manager – Ensures healthcare organizations’ compliance and financial risk mitigation.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for MBA in Healthcare Management graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and McKinsey, healthcare professionals with an MBA typically earn:
- Hospital Administrator – $120,000 – $180,000
- Chief Medical Officer (CMO) – $200,000+
- Healthcare Consultant – $110,000 – $160,000
- Pharmaceutical Project Manager – $115,000 – $170,000
- Insurance & Risk Manager – $100,000 – $150,000
Take the Next Step Toward a Leadership Role in Healthcare
An MBA in Healthcare Management provides the expertise needed to optimize healthcare operations, lead policy initiatives, and improve patient care delivery. Whether you want to manage hospitals, develop healthcare policies, or innovate in digital health, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.
Explore top-ranked MBA in Healthcare Management programs today and start advancing your career.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Healthcare Administration & Management. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
- McKinsey & Company. (2023). Future of Healthcare Leadership Report. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/