The Master of Health Administration (MHA) Program in Health Policy and Administration

Our professional Master of Health Administration degree provides students the requisite knowledge, skills, and values for administrative positions in the increasingly complex health care sector.

Penn State's Department of Health Policy and Administration prepares students for leadership positions in health care organizations, the nation's second largest and fastest growing industry. Master of Health Administration (MHA) graduates become executives in hospitals, health systems, skilled nursing facilities, insurance companies, consulting firms, home health agencies, federal regulating agencies, medical group practices, health maintenance organizations, public health agencies, mental health agencies, and clinics.

The MHA program prepares students for the complexities they will face in managing organizations that plan, finance, and deliver health care. The curriculum emphasizes strategic thinking, financial management, communication, and a broad understanding of the U.S. health care system. Areas of study include health law, epidemiology, insurance, government programs, ethics, managed care, long-term care, health care technology, marketing, and strategic planning.

Industry Ties

Faculty members possess strong ties to health care leaders. They have experience in the field and serve on advisory boards and committees of leading agencies and health care organizations. Many alumni hold top executive positions and maintain working relationships with the department.

Residency

Students are required to complete a ten-week residency in a health care practice setting. For full-time students, this is completed during the summer between their first and second years of academic study.

Apply to the MHA Program

Two separate applications are required for admission

  1. Penn State Graduate School
  2. HPA MHA Application

Additional Information about the MHA Program