https://publicadministrationdegrees.smu.edu/master-of-healthcare-administration/
Lead Faculty and Academic Director: Amanda Taffy
General Information
A Master of Healthcare Administration (M.H.A.) is a specialized graduate degree designed to prepare professionals for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. The program emphasizes leadership, data analytics, strategy, innovation, and healthcare policy—making it ideal for those aiming to thrive in hospitals, health systems, public health agencies, and related sectors including consulting services. Delivered online with flexibility in mind, the curriculum combines asynchronous work with live evening virtual sessions, encouraging collaboration through writing, research, analysis, and project‑based assignments. The program also features two required on‑campus immersion experiences—one early in the program and one culminating in the capstone phase—designed to foster deep learning and professional networking.
Students will:
- Develop leadership and management skills specific to healthcare systems, including strategic planning and operational improvement.
- Navigate the complex regulatory and compliance frameworks unique to healthcare environments.
- Apply healthcare‑focused data analytics to improve decision‑making and system effectiveness.
- Understand healthcare policy, analytics, and innovation within evolving delivery systems.
- Communicate and collaborate effectively with healthcare stakeholders at all levels.
Admissions Requirements
A prospective student must submit undergraduate transcripts, resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement with his/her application. If English is not the applicant’s native language, they must submit English language proficiency test scores. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Coursework and Format
Coursework is shaped around collaborative and immersive learning rather than traditional testing formats. This approach emphasizes real-world problem solving and active engagement.
- Live evening classes (virtual)
- Self-assessments
- Written assignments
- Individual and group projects
- Simulations
- Two on-campus immersions