Find your perfect college degree
Why Enroll in a Master’s in Healthcare Program?
If you’re interested in a master’s in healthcare administration careers, read on. We’ll discuss the benefits of earning master’s degrees in healthcare. Then, we’ll discuss the best universities offering master’s degrees in healthcare. By the time you finish reading, you’ll want to pursue a master’s degree in healthcare, too.
But what’s a master’s degree in healthcare in the first place? This is a post-baccalaureate degree that prepares working professionals for leadership roles in the industry.
As such, applicants to master’s degree programs must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant or related field. Many programs also consider applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. Other admission requirements include:
- Professional work experience, as stated in a current resume or curriculum vitae
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement about your interest in the program or essays with prompts
- GRE/GMAT scores, if required
Did you know that master’s degrees in health professions are among the top three most popular? In the 2021-2022 academic year, about 147,000 master’s degrees in healthcare were granted. This is 17% of the total number of master’s degrees awarded in that year.
Furthermore, the number of master’s degrees in healthcare graduates increased by 75% from the 2011-2012 to the 2021-2022 periods. Think of it: From 84,100 to 147,000 graduates in ten years. The numbers are still on the rise, too.
The increasing popularity of these master’s degrees is due to an aging population. As more people age, the need for healthcare services to manage chronic diseases increases. The increase in the overall population also means a higher demand for healthcare professionals.
What can you expect in the courses? Every program has its specific curriculum, including course descriptions, sequence, and outcomes. The curriculum will also depend on the field of healthcare, such as nursing or healthcare administration.
But a typical curriculum consists of these major components:
- Core courses
- Concentration courses
- Electives
- Internship, practicum, and capstone project
Master’s degree programs in healthcare feature rigorous academics and challenging internships. Graduation rates fall between 70% and 90% despite these aspects.
The main reason is that earning these master’s degrees is well worth it. Six-figure salaries, positive impact, and career growth opportunities make it so.
Pros of a Master’s Degree in Healthcare
We must first emphasize that earning a master’s degree in healthcare has its challenges. For one thing, candidates must meet rigorous degree requirements. These include meeting minimum grade requirements on their courses and completing an internship and a capstone project.
Another thing is that the cost of attendance can be significant. The cost of attendance for every program varies based on the type of institution, field of healthcare, and delivery format, among other factors. However, on average, tuition and fees range from $30,000 for a public college to $120,000+ for a private college.
Note, too, that STEM programs like healthcare are more expensive than non-STEM programs. Candidates usually pay more for specialized equipment, books and supplies, and training.
However, with proper planning and financial management, these challenges are easier to overcome. Start by choosing a master’s degree that will boost your career advancement. Then, make an admission-to-graduation plan, including applying for financial aid and finding other funding sources.
You’ll enjoy the benefits of pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare on your first day. However, you must make a deliberate effort to cultivate positive relationships with your peers and professors. Then, you should take advantage of the growth opportunities coming your way, whether it’s for learning new skills or for mentoring.
With that said, here are the main benefits that come from pursuing and earning a master’s degree in healthcare.
Expand your professional network.
Your peers and professors, alumni, resource speakers, and mentors are your best sources. Studies have shown that networking boosts your career growth opportunities and personal satisfaction.
Improve your knowledge and skills relevant to your profession.
You’ll study advanced principles and best practices in your profession. Let’s say that you’re studying healthcare administration. You’ll be more knowledgeable about healthcare management and policy. Your soft skills, such as communication, improve, too.
Gain practical experience through internships and immersions.
You can apply what you learned in the classroom in real-world settings. Networking and mentorship opportunities are also present during internships. Your job is to keep your eyes open to the possibilities.
Increase in earning potential.
In general, master’s degree holders earn more ($1,737) than bachelor’s degree holders ($1,493) in median weekly wages. Many healthcare occupations requiring a master’s degree earn six-figure median annual wages, too.
For example, master’s in healthcare administration careers include medical and health services managers. These professionals earn median wages of $110,680 per year (May 2023). The highest earners rake in more than $216,750 per year. Even the lowest earners take in $67,900 annually, which is higher than the median for all occupations ($48,060 per year).
Improve your job security and stability.
The healthcare industry is among the fastest-growing industries, thanks to increasing demand for healthcare services. This means you can enjoy job security and stability with a master’s degree.
Plus, you can work in a wide range of settings. Hospitals, government agencies, nonprofits, consulting firms, and insurance companies are popular.
The bottom line: You’ll get an excellent return on investment with a master’s degree in healthcare.
Healthcare Master’s Programs for High-Demand Careers
All information about projected job growth (2023-2033) and median annual wage (May 2023) are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
University of Southern California – Master of Healthcare Administration
The Executive MHA program prepares candidates for success in master’s in healthcare administration careers. Mid- to senior-level health professionals are welcome to apply. Candidates tackle a rigorous curriculum designed for professionals aspiring for C-suite roles. The curriculum features classroom lessons and on-the-job residencies with an emphasis on reforming health systems.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
Graduates become medical and health services managers, among other careers.
Projected job growth: 29%
Median Annual Wage: $110,680
Johns Hopkins University – Master of Public Health
Candidates can choose between online, part-time, onsite, and full-time enrollment. Time-to-completion varies from 11 months to four years. Candidates tackle a rigorous curriculum that enables them to tackle public health issues effectively. There’s a strong emphasis on evidence-based, multidisciplinary approaches.
The curriculum consists of didactic courses and a capstone project. Concentrations are available. Graduates become part of a reputable school’s extensive alumni network worldwide.
Many become epidemiologists who investigate the causes and patterns of diseases.
Projected job growth: 19%
Median Annual Wage: $81,390
Other possible jobs include policy analyst and biostatistician.
University of San Diego – Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics
Candidates choose between the on-campus and online programs. The 30-unit rigorous curriculum can be completed in 20 months. Both newbies and veterans in healthcare informatics are welcome to apply. Candidates develop the programming and analytical skills that employers look for.
There’s also the option of earning an MS in Healthcare Data Analytics degree. Whatever your choice, you can complete an optional practicum.
Graduates can pursue careers as health information technologists and medical registrars.
Projected job growth: 16%
Median Annual Wage: $62,990 (Highest earners take in more than $107,650 per year)
University of Central Florida – Master of Science in Nursing
Nursing is among the highest-paid healthcare careers that require a master’s degree for career growth. UCF’s MS in Nursing program offers affordable tuition and flexible schedules. But it’s also a challenging program that prepares candidates for leadership roles.
Candidates choose from three tracks:
- Nursing and Health Care Simulation
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Leadership and Management
Graduates can pursue jobs as nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. These are advanced practice registered nurses who can provide primary and specialty healthcare services.
Projected job growth: 40%
Median Annual Wage: $129,480
Southern California University of Health Sciences – Master of Science (MS) in Genetic Counseling
This is a full-time online program that features online classes and in-person practicum. Graduates meet the board certification and licensure requirements for genetic counselors.
The program emphasizes whole-person wellness and professional development among candidates. Experiential learning courses are its prominent feature. These include in-person patient interactions and advocacy too.
Genetic counselors enjoy among the highest-paid master’s degree healthcare careers. But theirs is a challenging job, too. Dealing with families faced with genetic congenital disabilities isn’t an easy job.
Projected job growth: 16%
Median Annual Wage: $95,770
Springfield College – Master of Science (MS) in Occupational Therapy
Candidates in the MSOT program engage in classroom lectures, lab sessions, and fieldwork experiences. The curriculum features theory and practice throughout the program. Courses include OT theory, evaluation and treatment methods, case management, and more. Candidates also gain research and teaching skills.
Flexible schedules are available for working professionals. Candidates must complete two full-time fieldwork requirements. Candidates can choose from more than 300 affiliated sites for their fieldwork.
Upon graduation, you can take the board exam and secure your license as an occupational therapist. This is among the highest-paying healthcare jobs with a master’s degree, too.
Projected job growth: 11%
Median Annual Wage: $96,370
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center – MPAS (Master of Physician Assistant Studies)
Candidates in the full-time program can complete it in 30 months. Classes start in May every year, and graduation is usually in December. The curriculum consists of didactic courses and clinical training.
Candidates start with four semesters of didactic courses and bedside demonstrations. Then, they engage in four semesters of clinical experience.
Known for its affordable costs, the MPAS program attracts disadvantaged individuals.
What healthcare jobs require only a master’s degree? Physician assistant jobs are among them.
Projected job growth: 28%
Median Annual Wage: $130,020
James Madison University – Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology
This program is available in both residential and online delivery formats. In both cases, candidates prepare for success as speech-language pathologists.
The residential program is a full-time program that can be completed in five semesters or two years. The online program features a cohort learning model. Candidates gain an in-depth understanding of speech-language pathology. Courses must be taken in sequence.
Full-time candidates can apply for graduate assistantships. Graduates become eligible to take the certification exam for speech-language pathologists.
Projected job growth: 18%
Median Annual Wage: $89,290
Northwestern University – Master of Science (MS) in Marriage & Family Therapy
This is a terminal degree program that features a well-rounded curriculum. Graduates become licensed as marriage and family therapists after a post-graduate supervised practice.
Candidates must have a strong passion for marriage and family therapy to thrive in the rigorous program. There’s a choice between on-campus and online formats. Candidates in both formats complete 20 courses and a clinical internship with at least 400 hours of therapy sessions.
Marriage and family therapists enjoy these benefits.
Projected job growth: 16%
Median Annual Wage: $58,510 (Highest earners take in over $104,710 per year)
Bradley University – Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The on-campus and online program features an intensive 60-credit curriculum. Candidates prepare for success in the National Counselor Examination. The program is notable for its emphasis on neuro-counseling.
When you secure your license, you become part of the growing army of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors.
Projected job growth: 19%
Median Annual Wage: $53,710 (Highest earners can take in over $89,920 per year)
Conclusion: Stay Covered and Informed
Earning a master’s degree in your preferred healthcare field brings many benefits. Expanding your network, improving your competencies, and gaining practical experience are a few of the ways in which you can do this.
Increased competitiveness for promotions and increase in income are its best benefits. When you consider the fact that job stability can be yours, earning a master’s degree becomes a must.
Additional Resources:
