Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Laura Williams
Elevate your career with Doctor of Health Administration Programs. Master leadership, policy, and strategic decision-making to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
The Doctor of Health Administration Programs are advanced degrees designed for healthcare professionals aspiring to leadership roles in the dynamic and complex field of healthcare management. The programs emphasize advanced strategies in healthcare policy, organizational behavior, ethics, and strategic decision-making. Students can choose the learning environment that best suits their needs in both online and on-campus formats. Doctor of Health Administration Online graduates are equipped to lead hospitals, health systems, and other healthcare organizations, ensuring operational efficiency and enhancing patient care outcomes. With a focus on blending theory and practical application, students gain in-depth knowledge of health economics, law, and emerging healthcare trends, preparing them to drive innovation and lead the future of healthcare.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Doctorate in Health Administration Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Online Doctorate in Health Administration
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Doctor of Health Administration Programs
Choosing the best Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) program can be challenging for prospective students. Multiple factors, such as the institution’s reputation, accreditation, curriculum quality, and available research opportunities, must be considered when evaluating programs. Other critical considerations include access to experienced mentors, modern healthcare management tools, affordability, and flexibility in program delivery, whether online or on campus. Each aspect contributes to finding a program that aligns with career goals and personal needs. Using a proprietary formula and methodology, FBD teams have identified some top schools offering doctor of health administration online programs. The following is the list of best programs:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Capella University | 225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402 | $15,066 | 33% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Doctor of Health Administration Program
Doctor of Health Administration Programs are designed to prepare healthcare professionals for executive leadership roles in the healthcare industry. The curriculum typically covers advanced topics in healthcare policy, organizational leadership, ethics, and strategic decision-making. Students can expect to complete around 50-60 credits, with the program usually taking 3-4 years to finish. Many programs offer both online and on-campus options to accommodate working professionals. In addition to coursework, students engage in practical applications and research projects, often culminating in a dissertation. Graduates leave with the expertise needed to manage healthcare systems, improve patient care, and influence policy and innovation in the healthcare sector.
Doctor of Health Administration Online vs. On-Campus Doctor of Health Administration
A Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) degree is offered online and on-campus, providing flexibility for different learning preferences. Online DHA programs are ideal for working professionals, allowing them to balance their studies with career and personal commitments. These programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus versions, often with interactive virtual classrooms and research opportunities. On-campus DHA programs provide face-to-face learning, networking, and direct access to faculty and resources. Both formats prepare graduates for leadership roles in healthcare management, though the choice depends on whether flexibility or in-person engagement is more critical to the student.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
In a Doctor of Health Administration program, the program structure typically includes a combination of core courses, electives, and research components designed to build advanced knowledge and skills. Students engage in comprehensive studies that culminate in a dissertation, allowing them to explore a specific area of interest within healthcare administration. This dissertation process involves identifying a research problem, conducting in-depth analysis, and presenting findings, fostering critical thinking and expertise that prepares graduates for leadership roles in the healthcare field. Some of the standard components of the doctor of health administration online programs are explored below:
Applied Doctoral Studies in Healthcare Administration
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of scholarly practice in healthcare administration. It focuses on critical thinking, research, and communication skills while applying theoretical frameworks to healthcare challenges. Students explore potential dissertation topics and gain essential resources to navigate their doctoral journey successfully.
Healthcare Financial Management and Economics
This course offers an overview of managing health enterprises, including value analysis, financial risk, and return. It covers topics like healthcare pricing, demand, production, health insurance theory, physician services markets, and the role of government in U.S. healthcare.
Healthcare Quality Management
This course prepares students to understand theories and develop, implement, and evaluate quality performance strategies in healthcare organizations. It covers quality indicators, quality assurance, measurement techniques, and continuous quality improvement, providing insights into maintaining and enhancing healthcare service standards.
Applied Research Projects in Healthcare
This course addresses real-world healthcare problems using current evidence. Students learn to integrate research skills with professional practice, exploring research methods, including quantitative and qualitative designs. The course emphasizes analyzing conceptual models, theoretical frameworks, and secondary data sources while refining topics for an applied doctoral project.
Here are some dissertation topics for students in online Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) programs:
- Health policy analysis and development
- Healthcare management strategies
- Patient safety and quality improvement
- Telehealth implementation and outcomes
- Health disparities and access to care
- Leadership in healthcare organizations
- Financial management in healthcare systems
- Public health interventions and evaluations
- Ethical issues in health administration
- Technology integration in healthcare delivery
To understand more about Ph.D. programs, students can refer to the Guide to Ph.D. Programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Graduating with a Doctor of Health Administration equips professionals with the expertise needed for leadership roles in the healthcare sector. This program deepens understanding of healthcare governance, policy development, and strategic management. Graduates sharpen their research capabilities and critical thinking, positioning them to implement impactful changes. The curriculum prepares them to assume key positions within healthcare organizations, government, and nonprofit sectors, enabling them to design solutions that enhance healthcare services and drive systemic improvements. The Doctor of Health Administration program equips students with the skills and experiences necessary to become distinguished professionals, including the ability to:
- Lead and manage healthcare organizations effectively
- Analyze and influence healthcare policies and regulations
- Apply advanced research methods to address healthcare challenges
- Implement strategies for quality improvement and patient safety
- Integrate ethical principles into healthcare decision-making
- Utilize financial management and economic principles in healthcare
- Foster organizational innovation and change
- Develop interdisciplinary collaboration and leadership within diverse teams
- Advocate for equitable and accessible healthcare delivery
- Communicate complex information to diverse stakeholders
Areas of Specialization for Doctor of Health Administration Students
Specialization in the Doctor of Health Administration program allows students to customize their learning experience by focusing on a specific area of interest within healthcare administration. This tailored approach helps students develop expertise in a particular domain, aligning with their career goals. Specializations provide deeper insights into key aspects of healthcare, enabling students to apply advanced knowledge and strategies to address complex challenges, ultimately positioning them for leadership roles in their chosen field. Here are a few examples of Doctor of Health Administration program specializations:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Leadership and Management | This specialization prepares students to lead healthcare organizations effectively. It focuses on developing strategic decision-making, operational management, and leadership skills, enabling professionals to drive organizational success, improve healthcare delivery, and lead teams through change and innovation. | Healthcare Administrator Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations Manager Program Director |
| Health Policy and Advocacy | This specialization equips students to influence healthcare policy and drive systemic change. It focuses on analyzing, developing, and advocating for effective healthcare policies, empowering professionals to navigate complex regulations, and promoting equitable, patient-centered care at local, national, and global levels. | Health Policy Analyst Advocacy Director Legislative Affairs Manager Public Health Consultant |
| Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety | This specialization focuses on improving healthcare outcomes through effective quality management and safety protocols. Students learn to analyze data, implement quality improvement initiatives, and develop strategies to enhance patient safety, ultimately fostering a culture of excellence in healthcare delivery. | Quality Improvement Manager Patient Safety Officer Healthcare Auditor Clinical Risk Manager |
| Healthcare Financial Management | This specialization prepares students to navigate the financial complexities of healthcare organizations. It emphasizes budgeting, financial analysis, and economic principles, enabling professionals to make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and ensure the financial sustainability of healthcare services while improving operational efficiency. | Healthcare Financial Analyst Budget Manager Revenue Cycle Director Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
| Public Health Administration and Emergency Management | This specialization trains students to address public health challenges and manage emergencies effectively. It emphasizes disaster preparedness, response strategies, and public health policy, equipping professionals to lead initiatives that promote community health and resilience in crises. | Public Health Director Emergency Management Coordinator Disaster Recovery Manager Health Program Manager |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Health Administration Programs
Full-time and part-time Doctor of Health Administration programs cater to varying student needs and schedules. Full-time programs often allow for a quicker path to graduation, typically completing the degree in three years, while part-time options enable students to balance work and study over a longer duration. Additionally, accelerated Doctor of Health Administration programs are available for those seeking an intensive, fast-tracked education. Each format offers flexibility, allowing students to choose the pace that best aligns with their professional and personal commitments.
Accelerated Doctor of Health Administration Programs
Accelerated Doctor of Health Administration programs are designed for professionals seeking to fast-track their education and advance their careers. These programs typically condense the curriculum, allowing students to complete their degrees in a shorter time frame, often while balancing work commitments. By offering intensive coursework and flexible scheduling, accelerated Doctor of Health Administration programs help students gain essential leadership, policy analysis, and healthcare management skills more efficiently. This enables graduates to promptly apply their expertise in dynamic healthcare settings, enhancing their career prospects. Here are a few universities that offer accelerated doctor of health administration online programs:
Requirements for Getting into a Doctor of Health Administration Program
Admission requirements for Doctor of Health Administration programs differ across universities. While some institutions may prioritize applicants with extensive professional experience, others may accept those holding only a bachelor’s degree. Each university has distinct criteria, so prospective students must review admission guidelines thoroughly. Understanding the specific qualifications and expectations of their desired program helps applicants ensure they meet the necessary standards for acceptance into the Doctor of Health Administration of their choice.Some of the standard admission requirements for doctor of health administration online programs are:
- Educational background: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in health administration or a related field.
- Professional experience: Some programs may require several years of relevant experience in healthcare management or administration.
- Minimum GPA: A competitive GPA from previous academic work, often 3.0 or higher.
- Letters of recommendation: Typically from academic or professional references.
- Statement of purpose: A personal statement outlining goals, career aspirations, and reasons for pursuing the DHA.
- Resume/CV: Detailing relevant professional experience.
- GRE/GMAT scores: Some programs may require standardized test scores, though many waive this requirement.
- Interview: A formal interview may be part of the selection process.
No GRE Doctor of Health Administration Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test to assess graduate school candidates’ verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It is a standardized benchmark for evaluating applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. However, many universities are increasingly waiving the GRE requirement due to concerns about accessibility and the test’s ability to predict success in graduate programs. Institutions recognize that holistic admissions processes, considering other factors like experience and motivation, may better identify qualified candidates. National University[3] and Morehouse School of Medicine [4]are examples of universities that offer Doctor of Health Administration Programs.
How to Ensure a Doctor of Health Administration Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that Doctor of Health Administration Programs meets high academic and professional standards. It guarantees students a quality education recognized by employers and other institutions. Programmatic accreditation, like that from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)[5], further strengthens the value of a Doctor of Health Administration degree by verifying that the program aligns with industry requirements. Accreditation also aids students in securing financial aid and facilitates easier transfer of credits. Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand more about accreditation, read the Guide to College Accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Doctor in Public Administration Students
Free online health administration courses provide an excellent opportunity for students to gain foundational knowledge in healthcare management and leadership. These courses cover essential topics like healthcare policies, operations, and ethics, allowing students to enhance their understanding of the field. While they offer flexibility and valuable learning experiences, it’s important to note that these courses are not accredited, meaning they do not count toward formal degree requirements. However, they remain useful for personal and professional development in healthcare administration. Here are a few free courses students pursuing doctor of health administration online programs can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Medication Safety: Handling and Administration[6] | This course focuses on best practices to ensure the safe handling and administration of medications in healthcare settings. It covers key aspects such as error prevention, proper documentation, risk management, and patient safety protocols. This course is essential for healthcare professionals to minimize risks and promote safe medication use. | Alison |
| Medical and Clinical Administration[7] | This course provides essential healthcare administration skills, covering clinical governance, patient confidentiality, staff communication, financial management, and quality assurance. The course enhances leadership and quality improvement abilities while preparing professionals for healthcare management roles. It also addresses healthcare legislation and recent developments, ensuring effective patient care and a well-rounded administrative skillset. | Alison |
| Medical Office Administration[8] | This course focuses on enhancing professionalism and communication skills in medical office settings. The course provides comprehensive training in essential office procedures and emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving techniques to address administrative challenges effectively. It equips learners with the skills needed to manage medical office operations efficiently. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for a Doctor of Health Administration Degree
As the cost of doctoral programs increases, those pursuing a Doctor of Health Administration degree should explore diverse funding methods to manage expenses. Seeking financial support is essential for covering tuition, associated fees, and other living costs. With careful research and effective planning, students can ease the financial burden and focus on their academic objectives. A well-thought-out strategy for finding financial aid, loans, and employer benefits can make completing a Doctor of Health Administration more feasible. Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:
Scholarships are financial awards granted to students based on academic achievement, talent, or other criteria. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them an essential resource for reducing educational costs. Schools, organizations, or private entities can offer them, providing vital support to help students achieve their academic goals.
Grants
Grants are financial awards given to students or researchers to support educational pursuits or specific projects, often based on need or merit. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making them a valuable resource for offsetting tuition and other educational expenses. They can come from various sources, including government agencies, foundations, and educational institutions.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships allow students to work part-time at their university while pursuing advanced degrees. Students receive stipends and often tuition waivers in exchange for their assistance in research, teaching, or administrative tasks. These positions provide valuable professional experience and enhance academic growth.
Student Loans
Student loans are financial resources that enable students to cover educational expenses, including tuition, fees, and living costs. Borrowers repay these loans over time, typically with interest. While they can ease immediate financial burdens, it’s crucial to understand repayment terms and interest rates to manage debt effectively post-graduation.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps students qualify for financial aid by assessing their financial needs. Completing the FAFSA annually is vital for accessing grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to support education costs.
Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs provide students with part-time employment opportunities, allowing them to earn money while completing their degree. These jobs are often related to the student’s field of study, helping to reduce educational costs and gain valuable work experience while focusing on academic goals.
Fellowships
Fellowships financially support students or professionals pursuing advanced study, research, or specialized training. Typically awarded based on academic merit or specific project proposals, fellowships often include stipends, tuition coverage, and sometimes additional resources. These opportunities enhance professional development while contributing to significant academic or community projects.
Fully Funded Doctor of Health Administration
Fully funded doctor of health administration online programs offer comprehensive financial support, covering tuition and fees and often providing stipends for living expenses. These programs frequently include teaching or research assistantships, health benefits, and additional resources to alleviate financial concerns. This support allows students to concentrate on their studies and research, fostering an environment for academic achievement, professional development, and collaboration, ultimately enabling students to make significant contributions to the healthcare administration field.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating from a Doctor of Health Administration Program
Graduates of doctor of health administration online programs often find opportunities for advancement into executive and leadership roles within healthcare organizations. Their expertise in healthcare management, policy, and organizational leadership makes them well-prepared to oversee complex systems and drive strategic initiatives. Salaries for doctor of health administration graduate online programs can vary based on experience, location, and organization size, but typically offer high earning potential due to the advanced responsibility and expertise required in these positions. Some of the specific job roles that students can expect to be employed in include:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical and Health Services Managers[9] | Communication skills, decision-making skills, detail-oriented, interpersonal skills, proficiency in HRIS software and hardware management. | $110,680 | 29% (much faster than average) | Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare executives or administrators, oversee healthcare services’ planning, direction, and coordination. They manage facilities or specific departments, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, preparing budgets, and supervising staff. Their responsibilities include setting policies, improving efficiency, and adapting to changes in healthcare regulations and technology, with roles varying depending on the size and scope of the facility. |
| Nursing Home Director[10] | Analytical skills, communication skills, business skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills | $133,715 | No Data Available | A Nursing Home Director oversees the daily operations of a nursing home, ensuring high-quality care for residents while meeting business goals. Responsibilities include developing strategic plans, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The director also leads improvements to enhance the facility’s care and services. |
| Health Information Management Manager[11] | Communication skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, and interpersonal skills | $106,876 | No Data Available | A Health Information Management Manager oversees the development and implementation of standardized policies for data quality management. They analyze financial trends, ensure compliance in coding and documentation, and assess areas of risk. The role includes managing document imaging software, overseeing scanning and retrieval, and collaborating with staff to optimize data accuracy and efficiency. |
| Epidemiologists[12] | Business skills, collaboration skills, communication skills, critical thinking skills, decision-making skills, instructional skills, and leadership skills | $81,390 | 19% (much faster than average) | Epidemiologists are public health professionals who study the causes and patterns of diseases and injuries to reduce health risks. They conduct research, analyze data, and develop strategies for disease prevention. Their work involves managing public health programs, communicating findings to policymakers and the public, and writing grant proposals to support research efforts. Epidemiologists play a key role in identifying risk factors, improving health outcomes, and guiding public health policies and education. |
Certifications and Licensing for Doctor of Health Administration Graduates
Certifications for Doctor of Health Administration graduates can significantly enhance their expertise and career prospects. By earning certifications, graduates demonstrate specialized knowledge in healthcare management, policy, or leadership, positioning them as experts in their field. These credentials can improve job opportunities, salary potential, and professional credibility. Certifications also help DHA graduates stay updated with industry trends and best practices, allowing them to drive innovation and improvement within healthcare organizations. Here are a few examples:
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)[13]
The Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) credential is designed for healthcare finance professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in financial management, healthcare economics, and business skills. It demonstrates a strong understanding of healthcare financial practices, positioning individuals for leadership roles and improving their ability to navigate complex healthcare financial environments.
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) [14]
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) certification is the only accredited credential in healthcare quality and is highly valued by employers. Many job postings for healthcare quality leadership roles prefer or require CPHQs. Research shows CPHQs perform at higher competency levels, aspire to be thought leaders, and often hold higher positions like director, executive director, or vice president. The certification enhances credibility and career prospects within the healthcare quality field.
Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM) [15]
The Certified Healthcare Access Manager (CHAM) credential is designed for professionals in healthcare access management, demonstrating expertise in patient access services, including registration, admissions, and revenue cycle management. The CHAM certification validates leadership skills and knowledge in managing healthcare access operations, improving efficiency, and enhancing patient experiences. This credential is highly valued by employers, often leading to advancement into management roles in healthcare organizations.
Additional Resources for Doctor of Health Administration Graduates
Doctor of Health Administration graduates can develop their expertise through advanced certifications and continuing education workshops. Keeping up with the latest healthcare research and trends through academic journals is crucial. Professional associations, networking events, and mentorship programs offer valuable opportunities for career growth. Participating in online forums and attending industry conferences provides diverse insights, enhancing their leadership abilities and overall impact in healthcare administration and management roles. Here are some resources to consider for graduates of doctor of health administration online programs.
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Public Health Association | The American Public Health Association (APHA) is a leading organization dedicated to improving public health and promoting health equity. It advocates for policies, supports research, and provides education on key public health issues. APHA also connects professionals through conferences, resources, and a wide network for advancing public health. |
| Healthcare Administration Alliance | The Healthcare Administration Alliance (HCA) is a professional organization that connects healthcare administrators, executives, and students. It aims to enhance knowledge and skills in healthcare management through networking opportunities, educational resources, and mentorship programs. HCA also promotes best practices, leadership development, and professional collaboration to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. |
| National Rural Health Association | The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) comprises a diverse membership of individuals and organizations dedicated to improving rural health. Aiming to change stereotypes of rural communities, NRHA’s Faces of Rural Campaign highlights the innovation, diversity, and evolving culture in rural America, showcasing the strength and resilience of these communities. |
| American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management | The American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) focuses on the professional development of its members by providing various resources, including publications, conferences, seminars, and networking opportunities. AAHAM also promotes professional certification and benchmarking to enhance skills necessary for success in the healthcare sector. |
FAQs About Doctor of Health Administration Programs
What is a Doctor of Health Administration?
A Doctor of Health Administration is a professional doctoral degree designed to prepare healthcare leaders for executive roles in managing hospitals, healthcare systems, and public health organizations. The program emphasizes leadership, policy development, strategic decision-making, and healthcare management to address the complexities of modern healthcare environments.
How long does it take to complete a Doctor of Health Administration Program?
Is a Doctor of Health Administration degree worth it?
What can I do with a Doctor of Health Administration degree?
Can I work while pursuing my online Doctor of Health Administration degree program?
Does a Doctor of Health Administration offer on-campus programs?
Are there opportunities for networking and professional development?
Citations:
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)
Alison- Medication Safety: Handling and Administration
Alison- Medical and Clinical Administration
Alison- Medical Office Administration
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Medical and Health Services Managers
Salary.com- Nursing Home Director
Salary.com- Health Information Management Manager
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Epidemiologists
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)