Healthcare Administration, MHCA
Gain practical leadership skills from esteemed faculty in our flexible master of healthcare administration program, preparing you to lead confidently in a variety of healthcare settings.
About Our Master of Healthcare Administration
Valpo’s master of healthcare administration (MHCA) program teaches students to think critically, communicate effectively, and manage teams with confidence. You’ll learn to improve patient safety, clinical processes and health outcomes while recognizing and respecting the diverse needs of patients and communities. Throughout the program, you’ll gain the skills needed to uphold and carry out organizational policies in any healthcare setting.
At Valpo, our master’s degree in healthcare administration (MHCA) offers a comprehensive exploration of the field, providing the perspective of a healthcare administration professional.
Our coursework ensures a well-rounded education that equips you to excel and make a meaningful impact in your future healthcare administration career, covering critical subjects such as:
- Financial management in healthcare
- Healthcare information systems
- Healthcare management and leadership
- Healthcare policy and ethics
- Quality improvement in healthcare
Course Requirements
| Course | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Administration 501 | Understanding Healthcare Organizations | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 517 | Leadership and Team Building in Healthcare Administration | 2 |
| Healthcare Administration 601 | Financial Management in Healthcare | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 602 | Managing and Analyzing Healthcare Information | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 650 | Managing People and Human Resources | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 665 | Population, Community, and National Health | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 672 | Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare | 3 |
| Healthcare Administration 675 | Organizational and Government Policy in Healthcare | 3 |
| Interprofessional Education 640 | Applications in Quality Improvement, Patient Safety, and Population Health | 3 |
| Interprofessional Education 518 | Global Health Issues | 3 |
| Interprofessional Education 710 | Leadership in Quality and Patient Safety | 1 |
| Master of Business Administration 505 | Marketing Management and Consumer Expertise | 3 |
| Internship | Healthcare Administration Internship | 3 Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Total | 39 Credits |
All international students are required to take GRD-500.
Outside the classroom, students gain practical experience through a structured internship in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or healthcare organizations. Students benefit from:
- Direct exposure to healthcare operations
- Mentorship from experienced healthcare executives
- Real-world problem-solving opportunities
The healthcare administration internship totals 240 hours (3 credits at 80 hours per credit).
The career outlook for those interested in healthcare administration is on the rise. This promising career field shows to be growing year-over-year.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over the next decade, the number of jobs in health management and other healthcare administration-related careers is projected to grow by 23%, a much faster rate than the national average for all occupations (3%).
Careers with a master of healthcare administration:
- Hospital CEO: Lead healthcare facilities and drive organizational success
- Healthcare director: Manage healthcare departments and improve patient care
- Healthcare consultant: Optimize healthcare operations and implement solutions
Through Valpo’s MHCA program, you’ll master essential skills to excel in healthcare administration and leadership:
- Strategic planning
- Team leadership
- Healthcare policy
- Financial management
- Quality assurance
In Valpo’s MHCA program, you’ll receive comprehensive career support to help you take the next step in your healthcare career:
- Career Counseling: One-on-one guidance from experienced healthcare professionals.
- Networking Opportunities: Connections with industry leaders and public health organizations.
- Job Portal Access: Exclusive access to healthcare administration job opportunities.
- Resume Development: Professionals assistance in crafting a compelling resume.
- Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and feedback sessions.
- Alumni Network: Engagement with successful graduates in the public health field.
Admission to the master of healthcare administration (MHCA) graduate program is decided by the following criteria for fall and spring start dates:
- A completed graduate studies application form.
- Official transcripts of all previous undergraduate and graduate work. Applicant must have maintained a 2.75 grade point average in all previous coursework.
- Two letters of reference, at least one of which needs to be from an employer or academic adviser.
- An essay indicating reasons for studying healthcare administration.
Please note:
- A non-native English speaker is required to have a minimum TOEFL (iBT version) 82 or IELTS 6.5.
How much do professionals with a master of healthcare administration earn?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for medical and health services managers is $115,160. Depending on the industry, the mean annual wage can jump as high as $124,180.
How long does it take to complete the master of healthcare administration?
The curriculum has both online and on-site components and is designed so that full-time students can complete the degree in 24 months (or sooner dependent on credits taken per semester). Part-time students will typically complete the program in approximately 36 months.
What are the requirements for international students?
International applicants must complete an application profile, write a reflective essay, provide recommendation letters, provide transcripts and credential evaluations from a NACES member institution, demonstrate English proficiency, provide proof of financial support, provide a passport copy, and pay the application fee before the deadline.
A Flexible 4+1 Degree Pathway
Bella Ravotto ’22, ’23 MHCA, shares about her experience pursuing Valpo’s 4+1 pathway, which offers undergraduate students in healthcare leadership the opportunity for early entry into the MHCA program – earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years.
College of Nursing & Health Professions
Program Rankings and Highlights
healthcare administration
Meet Our Faculty
Professors. Mentors. Friends. At Valparaiso University, you will work on real-life problems alongside faculty leaders with decades of experience and a true desire to do what’s best for you.
graduate studies
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