What You Should Know About This Degree
MBAs in healthcare management and healthcare administration may be used interchangeably in some contexts, but there are important differences between the foci of the two degree programs. Healthcare management combines healthcare and business, and professionals who have an MBA in healthcare management usually oversee big-picture items such as reimbursement systems, financial planning, marketing campaigns, information technology infrastructure, and leadership elections. Professionals who pursue an MBA in healthcare administration normally manage the actual day-to-day operations of a facility.
If you’re considering an online degree program, check whether the degree has any in-person requirements. Some online degrees require students to complete internships or attend periodic on-campus sessions. You’ll want to confirm that an online program, including any travel requirements, fits your availability and budget.
After you graduate from your academic program, you’ll have to pass a certification exam before most facilities will hire you. Several agencies offer certifications and specializations, such as information technology or accounts management. If you want to work in a nursing care facility, you’ll also need a state-issued license and should confirm that a specific program complies with your preferred state’s licensing requirements.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when considering an MBA in healthcare management:
- Am I eligible for this degree? Each program has its own admission requirements, but most expect that students have completed an undergraduate degree. The degree may have to be in a business-related field, or completing some business courses within another degree program might be sufficient. If you haven’t taken business courses, some programs may admit you but require that you complete a set of foundational business courses before officially enrolling.
- Does the program offer a dual degree or concentration? There are several ways to specialize within healthcare management, and you can focus on accounting, human resources, information technology, or another area. Some programs offer dual degrees or concentrations that help with specialization.
After you’ve identified potential programs, research each one’s admission requirements and application deadlines. The information is commonly available on programs’ webpages, or you can directly contact the programs for more information.
For help paying tuition and related costs, speak with the program about financial aid and scholarship opportunities. If you already work in the healthcare field, your employer might offer tuition reimbursement.