A combination of factors – from an aging population and new technological advances to new healthcare regulations – have pushed the need for competent healthcare administrators across the country to an all time high.
The rapidly expanding healthcare market is full of rewarding careers for people who are looking for a place to make use of their administrative talents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for healthcare administrators is strong – they project a 17% growth through 2022. That’s much higher than the national average of growth for other occupations.
And the pay isn’t bad either – according to Payscale.com, the median salary for a Healthcare Administrator is $67,000 – though salaries vary widely depending on the size and type of practice in which you are employed.
There truly is no better time than now to join this burgeoning industry. And a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration (HCA) is a great way to give your career the boost it needs. Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration programs give you the skills to manage, direct and coordinate medical services in a variety of settings – from practices operated by groups of physicians to clinics and hospitals.
And there are many online programs that are designed for working students – they deliver academic quality as well as flexible scheduling and affordable tuition. The credentials you receive from studying online are the same as those you would receive from an on-campus program – and employers will take your training seriously.
What Are the Best Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration Degrees?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by choice, we at College Choice are here to help. We’ve sifted through program websites and numerous other publicly available sources – weighing tuition, accreditation, early career earnings and national rankings to come up with a composite score that adds up to academic excellence and a solid return on investment.
A couple things to be aware of as you peruse our ranking:
- Accreditation is super important – all schools on this list are regionally accredited so you know they’re legit.
- The average tuition listed is based on out-of-state per-credit tuition. Look closely for other fees – these vary widely from school to school.
We hope our ranking helps you find the right program!
2018 Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
1
Colorado State University - Global Campus
Overview
Founded in 2007, CSU-Global Campus is the online campus of the public Colorado State University system. Headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado, the school offers flexible, high-quality (and highly ranked) online programs to meet the educational needs of adult learners in Colorado and beyond.
Program Features
For those who want to lead healthcare and medical facilities into the future, CSU-Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and Management. With a focus on evolving technology and regulation, the curriculum builds foundational business skills in management, marketing, human resources, communication, decision-making, and finance as they apply to healthcare settings. Courses include:
- Applying Leadership Principles
- Principles of Finance for the Private Sector
- Quality and Risk Management in Healthcare
- Ethical Decisions in Healthcare Management
Details
CSU-Global’s online Healthcare Administration major consists of 15 three-credit core courses as part of a full 120-credit bachelor’s degree. CSU-Global offers monthly term starts and accelerated 8-week courses so that your course schedule can fit around your other commitments. And every class is offered every term.
2
Brigham Young Idaho
Overview
Ranked as one of the top ten Western Regional Universities (US News and World Report), Brigham Young University – Idaho (BYU Idaho)is a private university located in Rexburg, Idaho. Founded in 1888, the school is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The vast majority of its students are members of the LDS church, though admission is open to non-members as well.
Program Features
The Department of Health, Recreation and Human Performance at BYU Idaho offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that prepares students to thrive in an evolving healthcare industry. Covering a wide range of foundational business topics, the program prepares students for graduate work as well as for entry-level jobs in the administration and management of smaller healthcare facilities. Courses include:
- Project Management
- Managing Healthcare Provider Organizations
- Health Economics
Details
BYU Idaho’s online BS in Healthcare Administration consists of 62 credits of major coursework (part of the 120 credit degree) which are entirely online. This degree program also features an internship in a healthcare provider organization in which students participate as an active member of the administration team.
3
Regis University
Overview
Located in Denver, CO, Regis University is a private, Catholic (Jesuit) university that ranks among the best regional universities in the West. Comprised of five colleges, the school has been offering online undergraduate degrees since 1997. Regis seeks to provide values-centered education to both traditional and nontraditional students and their online programs rank highly nationally.
Program Features
The Hartman College for Health Professions at Regis University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that will prepare you with the necessary analytical, leadership, communication and technical skills you’ll need in a management position. The curriculum provides valuable strategies for hiring, training and evaluating staff, coordinating accreditation and managing financial operations. Courses include:
- The Evolving Healthcare System
- Health Care Health Care Informatics and Information Systems
- Project Management in the Healthcare Sector
Details
Regis University’s online BS in Healthcare Administration consists of 39 credits of required HCA coursework as part of a 120 credit degree program. Students also complete a capstone project and a hands-on internship in areas such as hospital accounting, marketing or public relations. Courses are eight-weeks long and begin in January, March, May, August, October.
4
Concordia University
Overview
A small, private, Lutheran-affiliated liberal arts university, Concordia University – St. Paul has been making a big name for themselves in online learning. Established in the late nineteenth century, the school is a member of the ten-school Concordia University System. Concordia is also home to a top ranking online bachelor’s program (US News and World Report).
Program Features
Concordia University – St. Paul offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that is designed to give students the knowledge and skills to become leaders in any health care field. Students will gain practical experience and confidence as they explore current trends and events in the healthcare industry, and evaluate the various business principles that shape and affect these trends. Courses include:
- Epidemiological Foundation
- Healthcare Finance
- Ethics and Decision Making
Details
Concordia – St Paul’s online Bachelor’s in Health Care Administration program consists of 40 credit hours of required coursework as part of a 120 credit Bachelor’s degree. Courses are in asynchronous format (no live lectures) so you can participate on your own schedule. The ten required courses are seven weeks in length.
5
Southern New Hampshire University
Overview
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is private, non-profit regional university which currently ranks as the most innovative school in the country (US News and World Report 2017). Students can access their programs at their traditional campus in Hookset, NH, at one of their five regional centers, or through one of their accredited online programs.
Program Features
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that focuses on healthcare as it relates to business, technology, quality management, ethics and policy. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills to develop careers in leading healthcare organizations such as hospitals, physician offices, care facilities and other healthcare organizations. Students may choose from two concentrations in:
- Healthcare Information Management
- Patient Safety and Quality
Details
Students in SNHU’s online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program are able to complete their undergraduate degree at their own pace, over six 8-week terms per year. SNHU has a generous transfer policy (up to 90 credits), and the school also offers a 30 percent tuition discount for active-duty service members and their spouses.
6
Indiana Wesleyan University
Overview
Located in Marion, Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University is a regionally accredited, evangelical, Christian university (affiliated with the Wesleyan Church denomination). The school ranks among the top 30 regional universities in the Midwest (US News and World Report) and has been pioneering adult education since 1985. The school currently enrolls over 10,000 students in their acclaimed online courses and education centers.
Program Features
The Devoe School of Business at Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that will help you integrate a biblical framework into the practices of a healthcare administrator. The curriculum stresses ethical standards in decision-making and strategy development as well as creating appropriate communication strategies to achieve organizational goals. Courses include:
- Healthcare Management and Leadership
- Human Resource Management
- Technology and Information Systems for Healthcare
Details
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration is comprised of 48 credits of required HCA major coursework as part of a 120 credit Bachelor’s program. Students generally take classes sequentially, one at a time, and the program has three start dates throughout the year. Students may earn a maximum of 40 hours of credit through a prior learning assessment.
7
Liberty University
Overview
Established by evangelical Christians in 1971, Liberty University is a private, Christian university located in Lynchburg, VA. The University has invested heavily in its online programs (currently enrolling around 100,000 students) which have consistently garnered national acclaim – US News and World Report ranks their online Bachelor’s program in the top 100 nationally.
Program Features
Liberty University’s School of Business offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration in which students explore the necessary administrative and financial principles for making informed decisions in the healthcare field. With a focus on commitment, service, and learning, the curriculum hones skills for furthering organizational excellence, strategic planning, and proven business management techniques. Courses include:
- Legal & Ethical Issues in Healthcare
- Management of H.R. & Health Professionals
- Research & Evidence-Based Practices
Details
Students in Liberty’s online Bachelor of Healthcare Administration take 57 credit hours of core coursework in the Healthcare Administration major as part of a 120 credit Bachelor’s degree. Courses are delivered in 8 week terms year round. Liberty University has a generous transfer policy and students with work or military experience also have the opportunity to earn additional credit toward their degree through a variety of options.
8
University of Central Florida
Overview
The largest university in the United States (by undergraduate enrollment), the University of Central Florida is a public research university located in Orlando, Florida. With an original mission of supporting the growing U.S. space program at the Kennedy Space Center, the school now offers over 200 innovative and highly ranking programs both on campus and online. Their online Bachelor’s program ranks at #36 nationally (US News and World Report).
Program Features
The University of Central Florida offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration which delivers the necessary skills to plan, direct and coordinate the delivery of health care in an efficient manner. The undergraduate program will also prepare students for an advanced degree in Health Services Administration or other related disciplines. Courses include:
- US Health Care Systems
- Health Care Finance
- Organization and Management for Healthcare Agencies
Details
UCF offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration as well as a minor in Health Services Administration. Courses are taught in a blended learning environment, with a mix of online and face-to-face components, although students can complete the degree entirely online. The program is certified by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration.
9
Trevecca Nazarene University
Overview
A private, Christian liberal arts college in Nashville, Tennessee, Trevecca Nazarene University is one of eight colleges in the United States that are affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene denomination. In line with their mission to provide Christian education for leadership and service, the school has developed a robust online program to help working adults complete undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Program Features
Trevecca Nazarene University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that focuses on developing fundamental business and healthcare management competencies. The curriculum is taught from a biblical foundation and closely aligns with the requirements from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education and the Association of University Programs in Health Care Administration. Core courses include:
- Culture and Ethics of Health Care
- Legal Aspects of Healthcare Management
- Health Regulations and Policy
Details
Trevecca Nazarene University’s online BS in Healthcare Administration is offered 100% online. Students can complete the 24 credits of coursework (part of a 120 credit Bachelor’s program) `in as few as 18 months. Lectures are delivered asynchronously, so students can work at any time. Applicants should have completed at least 40 credit hours from an accredited institution for admission.
10
Saint Joseph's College
Overview
A private, nationally ranking, Catholic liberal arts college, Saint Joseph’s College is situated on the shores of Sebago Lake in Standish, Maine. The only Catholic college in Maine, the school emphasizes personalized, career-focused education both on-campus and online. St Joseph’s has been delivering distance education courses since the 1970s, providing nontraditional learners with high-quality programs.
Program Features
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that prepares students for administrative positions in a wide range of healthcare organizations. The program delivers the necessary foundation for success as a health care manager or administrator in many healthcare organizations as well as preparation for graduate work. Courses include:
- Human Resource Management
- American Healthcare Systems
- Ethics in Health Administration
Details
Saint Joseph’s offers their BS in Healthcare Administration in a flexible online format that allows you to study at your own schedule, with no on-campus residency required. The degree consists of a total of 128 credits (including 21 credits of core Healthcare Administration coursework), and students have considerable flexibility in designing individualized programs of study to meet specific career needs.
11
Jackson State University
Overview
A nationally ranked historically black university (HBCU) located in Jackson, Mississippi, Jackson State University (JSU)is a public research institution and the fourth largest HBCU in the country. The first university in the state to establish a School of Public Health, Jackson State aims to produce technologically advanced, diverse, ethical, global leaders.
Program Features
Jackson State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that is designed to prepare students for entry-level management positions in health care and position them for long-term career growth. The program curriculum offers graduates a sound theoretical and practical education, along with opportunities for direct field experience. The Health Care Administration program also prepares students to advance their educational career in graduate school at the graduate level. Courses include:
- Healthcare Research and Evaluation
- Health Management Information Systems
- Healthcare Policy and Politics
Details
Jackson State University Online has designed the coursework in the HCA major to be manageable for working adults. Students can take JSU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration (122 credits) completely online at JSU, or transfer a maximum of 62 credits from another accredited institution.
12
Grand Canyon University
Overview
Located in Phoenix, AZ, Grand Canyon University is a private, for-profit, Christian liberal arts university that is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Originally founded by Arizona Southern Baptists, the school now offers undergraduate and graduate (including doctoral) programs through its eight colleges to both traditional students and working professionals
Program Features
Grand Canyon University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that provides the conceptual and analytical foundation required to manage operations within modern healthcare organizations. Students will examine the structure of various healthcare organizations and how to implement new processes while learning how to work within, and collaborate with other, healthcare organizations. Courses include:
- Spirituality and Christian Values in Healthcare and Wellness
- Healthcare Systems and Transcultural Health care
- Healthcare Administration and Management
Details
Courses in Grand Canyon University’s online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration are 100% online and delivered in seven or eight-week terms with multiple start times throughout the year. The 120 credit program includes 54 credits of major coursework – students can transfer up to 90 credits into the program.
13
University of Northwestern Ohio
Overview
Located in Lima, Ohio, the University of Northwestern Ohio is a private, entrepreneurial, nonprofit university. The school specializes in professionally focused programs for on-campus students and online for nontraditional students. Known worldwide as a leader in the Automotive, Diesel, and High-Performance industries, the school’s five colleges offer over 60 programs of study that encompass the business, professional, corporate and technological communities.
Program Features
The University of Northwestern Ohio offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that provides a solid foundation in the core disciplines of healthcare administration and management. Students will be prepared to work across the healthcare continuum by acquiring the management, knowledge, and skills needed in the industry. Courses include:
- Public Health and Epidemiology
- Health Information and Technology
- Healthcare Financing and Accounting
Details
The University of Northwestern Ohio’s online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration is a 2+2 program, designed specifically for the school’s Medical Assisting Technology and Medical Office Management students to transfer into. Students with Associate degrees in health-related areas from other institutions may also transfer into the program.
14
Concordia University
Overview
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Concordia University Portland is a private, non-profit Christian liberal arts university open to students of any faith. The school, which is a member of the nationwide Concordia University System and the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, has more than 3,500 students enrolled in 28 undergraduate and four graduate degree programs on campus and online.
Program Features
Concordia University Portland offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration designed for working professionals who want to move ahead in the healthcare industry. The curriculum prepares students to step into healthcare middle management positions with a solid management foundation they can build upon to move into upper management and executive positions during their careers. Courses include:
- The Nation’s Health
- Healthcare Law & Ethics
- Healthcare Finance & Accounting
Details
Students in Concordia Portland’s Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration program take 54 credits of core coursework and also choose two specializations. Additionally, The Concordia HCA program includes an intensive internship in your area of study, giving you the real-world experience today’s employers are looking for.
15
Reinhardt University
Overview
A private, comprehensive liberal arts university located in the town of Waleska, Georgia, Reinhardt University ranks among the top regional universities in the South (US News and World Report). The school has programs in more than 40 fields of study including undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs and offers adult-focussed programs through an off-campus center in Alpharetta, Georgia and online.
Program Features
Reinhardt University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that prepares students for success in public or private healthcare administration. The curriculum addresses local, state and national mandates and will provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare delivery system in the United States as well as the skills and knowledge to function as a professional manager in the field. Courses include:
- Advanced Concepts in Healthcare Administration
- Public Health Administration
- Healthcare Law, Regulations, and Ethics
Details
Reinhardt’s online Bachelor of Health Administration degree is a 48-credit program that is part of a 120 credit bachelor’s program. Students can complete the program in as little as 16 months, and the school offers three start dates throughout the academic year in January, May, and August.
16
Purdue University Global
Overview
Purdue University Global, which is based in Fort Lauderdale, FL, may have a bit of a checkered history as a for-profit university, but in recent years, the school’s online programs have been garnering national respect, with programs listed in prestigious rankings such as the US News and World Report. In 2016, Purdue’s University Global online bachelor’s programs ranked among the top 150 in the country.
Program Features
Purdue University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that is designed to prepare students for a career in healthcare administration. Graduates will be ready to take on industry updates and innovations and meet the need for well-prepared health care managers across the country. The curriculum provides a solid foundation in the core disciplines of health care administration and management as well as real-world experience. Courses include:
- Healthcare Policy and Economics
- Information Technology and Systems for Healthcare
- Operational Analysis and Quality Improvement
Details
Students at Purdue University Global take 60 courses in the Healthcare Administration major as part of a 180-credit Bachelor of Science degree. Purdue Global offers multiple start dates throughout the year for added flexibility. Students also have the option of enrolling in a dual-degree program in which students earn credit for their bachelor’s and master’s degrees simultaneously.
17
Champlain College
Overview
Ranked among the top 100 regional universities in the North, Champlain College is a private, undergraduate college located near Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont. The school has attracted career-minded students since its inception and has greatly extended the reach of its programs through online programs – with its online bachelor’s program earning national recognition (US News and World Report).
Program Features
Built for students already working in healthcare, Champlain College Online offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that challenges students to build on existing knowledge. The curriculum builds familiarity with relevant laws and regulations that govern the healthcare industry, as well as the latest health information technologies, and best practices in improving individual and organizational performance. Courses include:
- Navigating the US Healthcare System
- Managing Behaviour in Organizations
- Health Finance and Economics
Details
Courses in Champlain College’s online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration program are focused, relevant, and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms. The program is designed to be manageable for working students and provides highly applicable learning outcomes from the outset. Champlain also has a generous transfer policy which allows students to transfer up to 90 credits into the program, with the potential to earn credit for professional experience and training.
18
Capella University
Overview
Based in Minneapolis, MN, Capella University is a regionally accredited (HLC), for-profit institution that specializes in online learning for non-traditional students. The school offers over 150 graduate and undergraduate specializations and certificate programs with over 1600 online courses. Capella prides itself on being competency-based, meaning that all coursework is directly applicable to professional and standards.
Program Features
Capella University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration with a specialization in Leadership that equips students with the skills to drive change and transform systems. This online degree program builds knowledge and skills in health information management, financial management, leadership, and communications with a focus on health care. Courses include:
- Developing a Health Care Administration Perspective
- Ethics in Health Care
- Health Care Regulation and Compliance
Details
Capella’s competency-based, online Healthcare Administration program consists of 180 quarter credits total – with 42 credits of core courses, 36 quarter credits of Leadership Specialization courses and a 6-credit capstone project. Courses are either 5 or 10 weeks in length, and the school offers multiple start dates throughout the year as well as a generous transfer policy. Students may transfer up to 135 credits into the program.
19
Colorado Christian University
Overview
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in the city of Lakewood, Colorado, Colorado Christian University is a private, interdenominational Christian, liberal arts university. Founded in 1914, the school currently offers a number of undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online, in line with its mission to “cultivate knowledge and love of God in a Christ-centered community of learners and scholars.”
Program Features
Colorado Christian University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that develops an understanding of critical healthcare issues including ethical considerations and quality of life. Coursework lays a foundation for improving patient outcomes and employee productivity with a comprehensive knowledge of statistics and informatics. The curriculum also focuses on recent laws and regulations affecting health care, and fiscal concerns affecting efficient delivery of care. Courses include:
- Health Care Delivery Systems
- Health Care Administration and Management
- Role of Spirituality and Ethics in Health Care
Details
Colorado Christian University’s online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration is a 120 credit hour degree program (students can transfer in up to 90 credits). Students can complete the 36 credits of coursework in the HCA major over four semesters, and online courses typically run for five weeks with weekly assignments that students complete around their schedule.
20
New England College
Overview
Situated in the idyllic New England town of Henniker, New Hampshire, New England College is a small, private liberal arts college which has greatly expanded its reach through online education. The school has developed an impressive online presence – several programs have ranked nationally – which provides quality, affordable education to students who are unable to attend their courses on campus.
Program Features
New England College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration that builds foundational knowledge of administrative and patient care concepts. The curriculum will familiarize students with organizational theory, as well as the varied and complex administrative roles within the healthcare industry. Students will also learn about recent laws and regulations that govern the delivery of healthcare services. Courses include:
- Issues in Ethics for Healthcare Administrators
- Marketing for Healthcare
- Cultural Diversity in Healthcare
Details
New England College has a generous transfer policy that allows students to transfer up to 90 credits into the 120–credit online Bachelor’s of Healthcare Administration. The HCA major requires 52 credits of coursework (4 credits per course) which are delivered in 7-week terms. The school also offers multiple start dates for added flexibility.