Key Takeaways (2026)
- Healthcare leadership demand is surging, driven by workforce shortages, system mergers, and value-based care.
- Digital health, telehealth, and health informatics roles are expanding, requiring administrators with data-driven decision-making skills.
- CAHME-accredited MHA programs are increasingly preferred because they meet employer standards for competency-based leadership training.
- Internships, residencies, and executive-format MHAs help build real-world experience that employers need immediately.
The best MHA programs can help professionals push their Healthcare Administration careers to the next level with a master’s degree. Healthcare administration professionals are in high demand, and now is a good time to pursue this degree. To help with demand, accredited colleges and universities offer this type of degree.
Our editors first ranked master’s in healthcare administration programs in July 2023. This ranking was updated January 2026.
It takes research to find a top MHA program. Best Health Degrees conducted research to find the best options out there for MHA degrees. These programs offer mentorship, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities. Here’s a look at our findings and how we chose them.
Healthcare administration roles are projected to grow 28% through 2032—far faster than the national average—making the MHA one of the strongest graduate degrees for career advancement in 2026. Employers increasingly prefer graduates from CAHME-accredited programs, which signal quality, leadership readiness, and industry-standard competencies. As hospitals and health systems face workforce shortages, digital transformation, and rising regulatory demands, MHA graduates with real internship experience, executive-track options, or flexible online pathways are uniquely positioned to step into high-impact management and operational roles.
Related:
- Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
- Fastest Master’s in Healthcare Administration
- Most Affordable Master’s in Healthcare Administration
- Preparing for Uncertainty: How an MHA Trains You for Strategic Decisions in Crisis
- Unlocking Executive Roles: How an MHA Degree Boosts Career Advancement
- From Clinical Roles to Administration: Transitioning with an MHA Degree
Why MHA Graduates Are in Demand in 2026
| 2026 Healthcare Trend | What Employers Need | How MHA Programs Prepare Grads |
|---|---|---|
| Value-based care expansion | Leaders who can improve outcomes & reduce costs | Training in quality improvement, population health, finance |
| Hospital consolidation | Administrators who can manage large, complex systems | Coursework in organizational leadership & strategy |
| Digital health transformation | Expertise in EHRs, data systems, AI tools | Informatics, analytics, digital health coursework |
| Telehealth growth | Managers to oversee virtual care workflows & billing | Telehealth operations, compliance training |
| Leadership shortages | Ready-to-step-in supervisors and managers | Internships, residencies, executive formats |
| Workforce burnout | Leaders able to improve culture & retention | HR, organizational behavior, change management |
Our Method: Ranking the Best MHA Programs in the US
Students investing in a master’s degree want to know their time, money, and energy will yield results. That’s why BHD editors feature only accredited, reputable institutions that have a proven track record of quality and return on investment. Our MHA program ranking evaluates and ranks according to five key factors: Cost, Graduation Rate, Job Placement Rate, Reputation, and Student Satisfaction. Data for our ranking methodology comes from College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Niche.
| Rank | College Name | Location | Tuition |
| #1 | University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC | $10,764 |
| #2 | Medical University of South Carolina | Charleston, SC | $17,050 |
| #3 | University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI | $36,364 |
| #4 | University of Iowa | Iowa City, IA | $10,533 |
| #5 | Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | $13,901 |
| #6 | Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | $6,885 |
| #7 | University of Alabama | Birmingham, AL | $11,380 |
| #8 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | $35,784 |
| #9 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | $10,770 |
| #10 | University of Colorado | Denver, CO | $65,00 |
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Best for Research-Driven, CAHME-Accredited Leadership Training
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Public Health offers one of the top MHA programs in the state. The degree program caters to healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers. Graduates can pursue management careers in hospitals, clinics, consulting firms, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and medical group systems, among other settings. MHA graduates must complete 60 credit hours, a 12-week internship, an an extensive research project. Students must submit their GRE scores as well as transcripts for each university attended. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
Located in the Triangle Area of North Carolina, UNC Chapel Hill is known across the globe for its pioneering teaching and research programs. The institution was chartered in 1789 and started enrolling students in 1795. It is the flagship of 17 campuses, which form the University of North Carolina system.
Pros
- Access to large medical facilities in the area
- CAHME-accredited
- Internship experience (12 weeks)
- Research opportunities
- Residential and Executive online option
Cons
- Competitive admission
- Large research project required
2. Medical University of South Carolina
Best for Clinical Integration & Executive MHA Pathways
The Master of Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina is available for students who want to make a difference in the healthcare industry. It offers both residential or executive formats (online). The residential format is a full-time program for students with little or no experience in the healthcare field. This is a 62-credit program that is on-campus. An internship session is also required before students can graduate. Students who apply for the residential MHA format must submit GRE scores. Graduates complete the program in 54 credit hours. Executive students do not need to complete the internship. However, applicants must have at least one year of experience.
The Medical University of South Carolina opened in 1824. What was once a small private college meant to train physicians has grown to become a university with six colleges and a medical center.
Pros
- Accelerated completion options (1 to 2 years)
- Access to research opportunities
- Executive and residential options
- Internship opportunities
Cons
- GRE scores required
- One year of experience required
3. University of Michigan Ann Arbor
Best for Top-Ranked Academics & High Scholarship Support
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor’s Master of Health Services Administration degree program prepares students for leadership roles in the healthcare sector. The 60-credit competency-based degree is one of the top ranked MHA programs. The program’s curriculum covers such courses as quantitative methods, healthcare financial accounting and cost-benefit analysis, the economics of healthcare, organizational theory and management, and professional development. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is one of the best learning institutions in the U.S. It ranks as the 3rd top public school and 21st top national university by U.S. News and World Report.
Pros
- 40% MHA students receive scholarship at admission
- Diverse selection of courses and curriculum
- Summer internship opportunities
- Top-ranked program
Cons
- Internship required between first and second years of program
- Prerequisite courses
4. University of Iowa
Best for Accelerated Completion & Interdisciplinary Training
The University of Iowa provides a comprehensive, patient-centered Master of Health Administration program which prepares graduates for complex administrative positions. It is among the best MHA programs as it adopts an interdisciplinary approach. This means that apart from the classwork, students have access to hands-on learning experiences, which enables them to hit the ground running once they graduate. The 60-credit program covers such topics as strategic planning, organizational policy, human resources, health analytics, financial management, and health care ethics. Students studying full-time can complete the program in as little as 21 months.
Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa is a premier public institution located alongside the Iowa River. The institution boasts of 11 colleges, and it offers more than 200 study areas. The institution has accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
Pros
- Administrative practicums
- CAHME-accredited
- Fast-paced program, finish in 21 months
- Interdisciplinary approach
- On-site visits, internships, and case studies
Cons
- Competitive admission
- 3.0 GPA required
5. Ohio State University
Best for Job Placement & Alumni Network Strength
The Master in Health Administration from Ohio State University is one of the best MHA programs in the country. This is because its curriculum is carefully curated to include theoretic teachings and practical experiences. The program covers four major areas: analytical skills, health systems and community, management function and skills, and leadership and professionalism. Students must complete an administrative residency between the first and second years of study. This, along with the mandatory internship at Ohio State University’s Medical Center, gives students hands-on experiences. Graduates of this program can work in a wide variety of settings, including consultancies, hospitals, clinics, and government agencies.
Although Ohio State University is the largest in the state, it has a low, 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The institution has accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) as well as the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).
Pros
- Career development resources and assistance
- Job placement rate of 95%
- Large alumni society
- Top-ranked university with U.S. News
- Unique clinical rotations
Cons
- Administrative residency requirements
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
6. Texas A&M University
Best for Working Professionals & Executive Track Options
Texas A&M University offers one of the best MHA programs through its Department of Health Policy and Management. The program is available in two tracks: the executive and resident tracks. The resident track is a 55-credit, which students can complete in 21 months of full-time study or 33 months of part-time study on-campus. Program applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, an updated resumé, official transcripts, and GRE scores. Students must also go through three prerequisite courses, which include an introduction to economics, statistics, and managerial accounting.
Texas A&M University opened in 1876 and went on to become the flagship of the Texas A&M University System. It was originally meant to be a military institution. The institution’s admission rate is rather competitive, as it stands at 71%.
Pros
- Access to professional relationships with Texas associations and health care providers
- Executive track for healthcare professionals
- Fast-track options
- Strong alumni network
- Two-year completion time
Cons
- Prerequisite course requirements
- Rigorous courses and curriculum
7. University of Alabama Birmingham
Best for Residency Experience & Dual-Degree Options
The Master of Science in Health Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham is for healthcare professionals with five years of work experience. It is a comprehensive program that combines distance learning, classroom-based coursework, and hands-on experience. The two-year program includes one year of residency learning and either an internship experience or studying abroad. The program covers such courses as policy-making, healthcare law, leadership development, health marketing, human resources management, and disaster management.
The University of Alabama-Birmingham started in 1969. Located in downtown Birmingham, the institution offers 140 programs in 12 academic divisions. It has accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Pros
- Cohort model
- Dual degree options (MBA, MPH, and more)
- Internship opportunities
- Paid stipend with residency
- Ranked #1 health care management graduate program in the country by U.S. News & World Report
- Study abroad options
Cons
- Demanding courses and rigor
- Internship requirement early on in program
8. Boston College
Best for Flexibility & Social-Justice-Focused Leadership
Boston College’s Master of Health Administration is one of the best MHA programs largely due to its flexibility. The online program enables students to personalize learning by generating professional plans that meet individual needs. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students with a score lower than this must submit their GRE and GMAT test scores. Students must also submit two letters of recommendation, a resumé, a personal statement, and transcripts. Applicants must go through a phone interview.
Boston College, founded in 1863, was the first private institution of higher education in Boston City. Its programs are selective, rigorous, and take only the best and brightest.
Pros
- Access to research opportunities
- Diverse selection of courses and electives
- Fast-track options
- Focus on social justice
- Full- or part-time, online, asynchronous pathways
Cons
- Interview required for admission
- More costly than other MHA programs
9. University of Florida
Best for Applied Research & Full-Time/Part-Time Flexibility
The Master of Health Administration from the University of Florida aims at preparing students for leadership roles in the healthcare field. The 57-credit hour program takes about two years. Students need to go through 10-12 weeks of supervised internship after the first year of study. Applicants are required to have an undergraduate degree, a cumulative score of 3.0 on their undergraduate studies, a minimum GRE score of 300, and a GMAT score of 500. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation and go through an interview while signing up for what is considered one of the best MHA programs.
The University of Florida (UF) was founded in 1853. The institution awards professional, doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees in its 23 schools and colleges.
Pros
- Dynamic classroom experiences
- Full- or part-time tracks
- Multiple research facilities and access
- Networking opportunities
- Top-ranked research institution
Cons
- 10-12 weeks of supervised internship requirement (year one)
- Stringent admission requirements, including interview
10. University of Colorado Denver
Best for Multiple Degree Pathways (MSA/MBA/EMBA) & Small Cohorts
The University of Colorado Denver offers a Master’s of Science in Health Administration through its Business School Alliance for Health Management. The school offers three pathways to completion, the MSA, MBA in Health Administration, and the EMBA in Health Administration. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. GMAT test scores are optional.
The University of Colorado-Denver is one of the top public universities. It is part of the University of Colorado System. The Master’s of Science in Health Administration program is among the best MHA programs alongside the nursing and physical therapy program. The U.S. News & World Report ranks it among America’s Best Graduate Schools.
Pros
- CAHME-accredited
- Three degree pathways (MSA, MBA in Health Administration, EMBA in Health Administration)
- 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio for the program
- GMAT/GRE optional
- Complete in two years or take up to five
Cons
- Tuition different for out-of-state students
Other Schools with MHA Programs to Consider
Not every school made our list of universities with top MHA programs. But there are many more out there. If you are still looking for a program check out these accredited schools:
- Columbia University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- Rush University
- Saint Louis University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- University of Miami
- University of Missouri
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Southern California
- University of Utah
- University of Washington
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Xavier University
Career Outcomes + Salary by Role (2026 Data)
| MHA Career | Median Salary | Job Growth | Work Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hospital Administrator | $120,000+ | High | Hospitals |
| Clinical Operations Manager | $110,000 | High | Hospitals/Specialty Clinics |
| Healthcare Consultant | $105,000–$150,000 | High | Consulting firms |
| Practice Manager | $98,000 | Moderate | Medical groups |
| Policy Analyst | $90,000 | Moderate | Government/NGOs |
Frequently Asked Questions
It is! MHA degrees can lead to high-paying jobs, and plenty of them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 28% growth in jobs for health administrators through 2032. This is about 54,700 job openings for medical and health services managers each year for the next 10 years. The projected job growth makes getting an MHA worth it for students.
Here are 10 potential career paths and roles you can pursue with an MHA degree:
• Clinical Operations Manager
• Healthcare Administrator/Manager
• Healthcare Consultant
• Health Information Manager
• Health Policy Analyst
• Healthcare IT Manager
• Hospital CEO/Executive Director
• Long-Term Care Administrator
• Managed Care Executive
• Public Health Administrator
Most full-time MHA programs are two years. The exact length depends on factors such as the program structure (full-time or part-time), credit requirements, and whether the student is attending classes on-campus or through online formats.
The average pay–reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics–for health services and medical managers (administrators) is $117,960/year. The lowest 10% make less than $69,680/year and the highest make over $219,080/year. Hospitals and government facilities pay the highest wages.
GPA for admission to Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) programs varies among schools. However, competitive programs look for a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. You won’t find many programs with low GPA requirements, so it’s important to keep your undergraduate grades as high as you can before applying to an MHA program.
The difficulty of an MHA degree can vary based on your personal strengths and the structure of the program. Students report the most challenging courses are in financial management, healthcare law, and health information systems. But the level of difficulty is subjective, and many students find the curriculum manageable with dedication and effective time management.
It depends on your career goals and interests, as well as the industry you want to work in. An MBA is good for a broader business focus, while an MHA specializes in healthcare administration. Students should consider their industry preference and desired skills for effective decision-making in either business or healthcare management. This will help you choose between an MBA or MHA. And remember, there are MBA programs with health administration concentrations.
Some students report that getting admitted is the hardest thing about an MHA program. It’s important to meet the requirements for admission before applying. These include:
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
• Competitive test scores
• Extracurricular involvement
• Internships or volunteer work
• Letters of recommendation
• Research or projects in Healthcare Administration
• Statement of purpose
• Strong GPA (3.0 or better)