What Is An MHA Degree?

What Is An MHA Degree?An MHA degree, or Master of Health Administration degree, is a master’s level professional degree in health administration that leads to the management of hospitals and other organizations in the healthcare industry. Students enrolled in MHA programs are typically graduates of health disciplines from institutions such as medical school who are looking for a better understanding of management issues in healthcare. Similar to a Master of Business Administration degree, an MHA program prepares individuals for leadership positions. A health administration degree can be earned through a wide variety of programs, and many online MHA programs are now offered for individuals with constraints due to time or location.

How To Find The Top MHA Programs

One of the most reputable lists of the best MHA programs is published by U.S. News & World Report. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the following schools as being among the top places to earn a Masters in Healthcare Administration degree: the University of Michigan, the University of Minnesota and the University of North Carolina. Among the factors that set top programs apart are the experience of faculty members, the curriculum offered and the employment rate after graduation.

As online and distance education has become more popular, many institutions are now offering online MHA programs. Among the best online MHA programs are the accredited programs offered by the University of Phoenix and Walden University. Most accredited programs require applicants to have a four year undergraduate degree and a specified number of years of experience in the healthcare industry. Most programs do not require applicants to hold an undergraduate degree in a certain major, although majors in science and business fields are certainly helpful background.

Careers and Salaries For Individuals With MHA Degrees

An MHA degree is a great way for an individual in the healthcare industry to expand his or her career options. MHA salaries can vary depending on job location and job title, but typically start at an average of $85,000 per year. An MHA degree is an excellent way to pursue career development opportunities within the healthcare industry because it allows individuals to learn more about management and administration skills specific to the industry. These skills are required before individuals can successfully handle a leadership position. Additionally, many management opportunities within the healthcare industry require an MHA degree as a prerequisite. Many individuals within the healthcare industry get personal satisfaction from expanding their knowledge and skills relevant to their job.