If you are a healthcare professional seeking to build a career in management, pursuing higher education is a worthwhile step. During your research, you may come across various programs, such as the Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare, the Master of Health Administration (MHA), or the Master of Science in Healthcare Management (MSHCM), which can be confusing.
In this blog, we will discuss the differences between an MHA and an MBA in Healthcare, examining their career impact, curriculum, learning outcomes, and tuition fees. We will also explore different MBA programs offered on the upGrad website. This will help you in making an informed decision for your career.
Choosing Between an MHA and an MBA in Healthcare: Which Degree Aligns With Your Career Goals?
An MBA in Healthcare Management can be beneficial if you are interested in gaining foundational business knowledge and healthcare-focused education. However, a Master’s in Healthcare Administration is suitable if you are interested in a healthcare-focused curriculum.
| Features | MHA | MBA in Healthcare | upGrad MBA (Alternative) |
| Focus | Healthcare policies and regulations | Business basics with healthcare management | General MBA with leadership skills |
| Flexibility | Mostly on-campus | Online/hybrid | Online with on-campus immersion option |
| Career prospects | Hospital Administrator, Clinical Manager | Healthcare Consultant, Pharma Manager | Consultant, Operations Manager |
Career Focus and Industry Fit
upGrad’s MBA courses are designed for working professionals. They are a good fit for:
- Individuals who wish to learn more about leadership roles.
- Individuals who want to keep their options open in case they are switching industries.
The MHA course is suitable for:
- Individuals who are focused on a career in healthcare settings.
- Individuals who want to learn the regulations and policies of healthcare.
Also read: In-Demand Healthcare Management Jobs for Degree Holders
Curriculum and Learning Outcomes
MBA program curriculum includes diverse subjects such as:
- Fundamentals of Business
- Management and Leadership
Learning outcomes of the MBA program are:
- Operations Manager
- Clinical Manager
MHA program curriculum includes diverse subjects such as:
- Principles of Economics
- Healthcare Finance
Learning outcomes of the MHA program are:
- Hospital Administrator
- Hospital CEO
Time, Cost & Format Considerations
The upGrad MBA programs can be cost-effective and save your precious time.
- They can be completed in 12-18 months.
- They cost around USD 9,500 – USD 10,000 (approx).
MHA programs are:
- Primarily available in an on-campus format.
- Online MHA can cost around USD 27,000 (approx).
Also read: Pursue an MBA in Healthcare Management
Career Paths Outlook
Career paths for MBA professionals can range from:
- Starting with executive roles in Finance or Healthcare institutions.
- Can have an edge in roles requiring strategic leadership skills.
Diverse Career Opportunities After an MHA:
- Starting with Clinical Management roles.
- Faster progression to leadership roles, such as a Hospital CEO.
Who Should Choose What?
You should choose an MBA in Healthcare Management if you are:
- Interested in sharpening your business skills in a broad spectrum.
- Interested in keeping your options open in other industries.
You should choose a Master’s in Healthcare Administration if you are:
- Committed to a career in healthcare.
- Interested in understanding healthcare regulations and operations.
Also read: How Long Does it Take to Earn an Online MBA in the US? Timeline and Tips
MHA vs MBA in Healthcare – Long-Term Career Impact and Industry Trends
Deciding between an MHA and an MBA in Healthcare can be challenging, as they are similar yet have their differences. To find a better fit, you need to determine your career goals.
- Industry trends: Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries, and it requires skilled professionals. Both courses enable professionals to tackle challenges that the healthcare industry faces.
- Rise of AI technologies: Healthcare organizations are adapting to the latest AI tools to ease the workload and automate some tasks. Both degrees can provide knowledge of digital tools, but an online degree can have an edge here, as it uses digital tools throughout.
- Skills: The rising healthcare costs and managing healthcare regulations are two main focus areas for healthcare leadership roles. Anyone possessing skills to understand healthcare finance and healthcare policies stands a better chance of a bright future.
You can consider hybrid options or talk to alumni or industry experts to get a better idea of what aligns with your career goals.
Also read: Explore the Top Online MBA Programs: Specialize in Finance or Healthcare Management
How upGrad’s Healthcare MBA Bridges Business Acumen and Healthcare Leadership
upGrad USA offers online MBA courses that prepare you for leadership roles in your future career. Listed below are some of our best courses:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Golden Gate University: This 15-month course can be completed in online mode or in blended format with campus classes in San Francisco. Key highlights of this program are:
- The course has WASC accreditation.
- Up to 70% scholarship for selected students.
- Option to choose from 4 specialization options.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Liverpool Business School: This course can be completed in 18 months in an online or hybrid format. Students can attend classes at the UK campus. Key highlights of this course are:
- The course is recognized by World Education Services (WES).
- Opportunity to work on a research project for 4 months.
- Guidance from Thesis Supervisors and industry mentors.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) from O.P. Jindal Global University: This fast-track course can be completed in just 12 months. It is available in online mode with live and recorded classes. Key highlights of this course are:
- The course has recognition from the Institution of Eminence by the MoE, Government of India.
- Access to more than 120 hours of live sessions.
- Option to choose from 7 specializations.
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FAQs on MHA vs Healthcare MBA Program
Ans: MHA provides a healthcare industry-specific curriculum. While an MBA with Healthcare provides general business knowledge, it also includes some healthcare industry knowledge. So, MHA can be more valuable for healthcare professionals.
Ans: MHA courses can take around 2-3 years to complete. An MBA in Healthcare can take around 1-2 years. The duration depends on the program delivery mode, university policy, and curriculum.
Ans: Usually, MHA programs are affordable than MBA in Healthcare programs. This can vary depending on the university chosen and the delivery format.
Ans: No, usually MHA and MBA in Healthcare programs don’t require any work experience. But it can vary depending on the selected university policy. Mostly, they require a Bachelor’s degree for eligibility.
Ans: MHA can offer better opportunities for executive roles in Healthcare as they have a healthcare-focused curriculum. But, this can depend on other factors such as university reputation, curriculum, and personal skills.
