Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Laura Martinez
Advance your career with a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management, offering flexible learning, expert faculty, and the skills to lead in the healthcare industry.
A Ph.D. in Healthcare Management emphasizes rigorous research methodologies, requiring students to contribute substantially to the body of knowledge in healthcare administration. The program’s core involves conducting original research that contributes novel insights or solutions to challenges within healthcare management. Ph.D. holders often pursue academic careers, becoming professors, researchers, or administrators in universities and research institutions. Graduates of an online Healthcare Management Ph.D. program are well-equipped for leadership positions in healthcare organizations, driving strategic initiatives, policy development, and quality improvement. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of healthcare management professionals is subjected to an increase of 28 percent, with an average median pay of $110,680 [1].
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
Find the Best Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Programs
Aspiring students should choose the appropriate online Healthcare Management Ph.D. programs to enhance their career prospects. They must assess the quality of faculty, institution, curriculum, and other factors. Ensuring that the program aligns with their career goals and provides comprehensive research and professional development resources is crucial. Based on several critical components and proprietary methodology, the teams at FBD have compiled the following list of the best Ph.D. in healthcare management:
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
Virginia University of Lynchburg | 2058 Garfield Avenue Lynchburg, VA 24501 | $9,168 | 26% |
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 Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Program
A Ph.D. in Healthcare Management is a rigorous and advanced academic program that prepares individuals for leadership roles in healthcare research, academia, policy development, and organizational management. The program generally requires an average of 60-85 credit hours. This includes laboratory work, seminars, topic-specific courses, lectures, and thesis-related credits. Formal coursework typically constitutes 24-30 credit hours and is offered in on-campus and online learning modes, allowing students to choose the format that aligns with their needs. The curriculum is designed to provide candidates with a deep understanding of healthcare systems, policy issues, research methodologies, and leadership strategies. An online Ph.D. in Healthcare Management provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education, preparing individuals to contribute significantly to advancing healthcare knowledge and practice. Graduates are equipped to lead, research, teach, and shape the future of healthcare systems with a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in this vital field.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
A Ph.D. in Healthcare Management is a rigorous and comprehensive program to prepare scholars for advanced research, leadership roles, and contributions to the evolving healthcare field. The program prioritizes the development of advanced research skills, ensuring scholars are adept in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Most programs offer similar courses in Healthcare Management Ph.D. degrees, with a few variations that students can anticipate:
Coursework
In the coursework phase of a healthcare management program, students engage in a comprehensive and structured curriculum that spans foundational, specialized, and elective courses. Foundational courses cover essential topics such as healthcare policy and administration, economics, research methods, and leadership dynamics. Upon completion of coursework, students undergo comprehensive exams to demonstrate their mastery of foundational knowledge in healthcare management.
Preliminary exam
The preliminary exam in a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management program is a significant assessment designed to evaluate a candidate’s readiness for the research-intensive phase of their doctoral studies. Preparation for the preliminary exam involves comprehensive coursework, integrating theoretical concepts into the exam preparation process. Successful completion of the preliminary exam signifies a candidate’s readiness to advance to the dissertation phase of the Ph.D. program.
Research and Laboratory
In the Ph.D. in Healthcare Management program, the research and lab work is a crucial phase where candidates dive into hands-on research and practical applications in the healthcare management field. This part of the program aims to develop advanced research skills and critical thinking, preparing scholars to make meaningful contributions to the constantly evolving field of healthcare management. This includes hands-on experiences like collecting data through surveys, interviews, or observational studies, followed by learning data analysis techniques.
Dissertation
The dissertation phase in the Ph.D. in Healthcare Management program is the top of a candidate’s academic journey, embodying a comprehensive exploration and scholarly contribution to the field.
Based on the preliminary exam’s literature review, candidates seamlessly integrate existing research and theories into their dissertations. This literature review sets the stage for the research questions, enriching the scholarly foundation of the study. Implementing the research plan involves meticulous data collection and rigorous analysis, with candidates applying advanced research skills acquired during the program to extract meaningful conclusions. The peak of the dissertation phase is the oral defense, where candidates present and defend their research findings before a committee.
Fieldwork
During fieldwork, candidates actively observe and sometimes participate in the daily operations of healthcare organizations. This firsthand experience provides valuable insights into the complexities and challenges healthcare managers face.
Some common topics for individuals to consider when pursuing their Ph.D. in healthcare management include:
- Epidemiology and Public Health
- Financial Management in Healthcare
- Global Health Management
- Health Law and Ethics
- Healthcare Diversity and Inclusion
- Healthcare Human Resources Management
- Healthcare Information Systems
- Healthcare Leadership and Management
- Healthcare Marketing and Communication
- Healthcare Organizational Behavior
- Healthcare Policy and Regulation
- Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety
- Healthcare Risk Management
- Patient-Centered Care
- Quality Improvement in Healthcare
To understand more about doctorate programs, refer to the Guide to Ph.D. Programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
A healthcare management doctoral degree equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. It prepares them to take on executive positions where they can contribute to strategic decision-making and organizational development. Graduates can pursue roles in academia, research institutions, healthcare consulting, policy analysis, and leadership positions within healthcare organizations. Some of the skills that graduates can typically learn throughout their studies include the ability to:
- demonstrate advanced research skills, including the ability to design and conduct original research studies in healthcare management;
- demonstrate critical thinking skills to assess and analyze complex issues in healthcare management;
- demonstrate understanding of healthcare management, incorporating insights from various fields such as economics, policy, and organizational behavior;
- demonstrate leadership capabilities, fostering the ability to make informed and strategic decisions in healthcare settings;
- demonstrate communication skills to effectively convey research findings, engage in scholarly discourse, and present complex ideas to diverse audiences;
- demonstrate understanding of statistical methods and data analysis techniques relevant to healthcare research;
- demonstrate the impact of policy changes on healthcare organizations and patient outcomes;
- demonstrate knowledge of ethical dilemmas in healthcare management, considering the moral implications of decisions;
- demonstrate learning of global perspective on healthcare challenges, understanding the cultural, economic, and social factors influencing healthcare systems worldwide;
- demonstrate designing and delivering educational content in healthcare management.
Areas of Specialization for Healthcare Management Ph.D. Students
Specializations in healthcare management provide Ph.D. students with focused expertise, enhancing their understanding of specific areas within the field. This targeted knowledge equips them with the tools to tackle complex challenges, conduct in-depth research, and develop innovative solutions. By delving deeply into specialized topics, students gain a nuanced perspective, preparing them to address real-world issues effectively. Ultimately, these specializations empower future healthcare leaders to make informed decisions and drive positive change in the industry. Here are some specializations in Ph.D. in healthcare management online degree programs that individuals can explore:
Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
---|---|---|
Healthcare Information Management | The Health Information Management specialization equips students with the technical skills to manage health information effectively. It also helps them gain a deep understanding of the ethical and regulatory dimensions, preparing them for pivotal roles in optimizing the use of information systems in healthcare delivery. | Various roles as Health Information Manager, Medical Records Supervisor, Health Data Analyst, Health Information Technician, Health Informatics Specialist, and more. |
Healthcare Finance | Healthcare Finance specialization imparts technical expertise and cultivates a deep understanding of the ethical, regulatory, and operational dimensions of financial management specific to healthcare. Graduates understand how to tackle financial challenges unique to this industry and contribute to the overall success of healthcare organizations. | Various roles as Healthcare Financial Analyst, Hospital Finance Manager, Revenue Cycle Manager, Healthcare Auditor, Health Economics Specialist, and more. |
Healthcare Administration | The Healthcare Administration specialization provides knowledge crucial for fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, enhancing organizational effectiveness, and improving patient care. Students learn to assess and enhance the quality of healthcare services, focusing on patient safety, risk management, and continuous quality enhancement. | Various occupations include Healthcare Administrator, Hospital Executive, Clinic Manager, Health Services Manager, Healthcare Consultant, and so on. |
Healthcare Ethics and Compliance | Students gain insights into the complex web of laws and regulations governing healthcare organizations, ensuring they operate within legal boundaries. This includes examining healthcare privacy regulations, anti-discrimination laws, billing practices, and other legal considerations specific to the healthcare industry. It covers risk management strategies as students learn to identify potential legal and ethical risk areas within healthcare organizations. | Various occupations as Healthcare Ethics Officer, Compliance Specialist, Risk Management Analyst, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Healthcare Compliance Auditor, etc. |
Human Resources in Healthcare | This specialization prepares individuals to navigate the complexities of managing human capital within the healthcare industry. Students delve into recruitment and retention practices, learning to attract and retain skilled professionals in the highly competitive healthcare labor market. | Various occupations as Healthcare HR Manager, Recruitment Specialist, Employee Relations Coordinator, Training and Development Manager, Compensation Analyst, and more. |
Health Information Systems | The Health Information Systems specialization addresses the role of information systems in enhancing patient engagement and promoting health equity. Students explore how technology can be leveraged to empower patients, improve communication between healthcare providers and patients, and address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. | Various occupations as Health IT Manager, Clinical Informatics Specialist, Health Information Systems Analyst, EHR Implementation Specialist, Health Data Integration Manager, and so on. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Programs
On average, completing Healthcare Management Ph.D. programs online in the United States may take four to six years of full-time study. During the initial two years, students typically focus on completing coursework, while the remainder is dedicated to writing and defending the dissertation. The program duration varies depending on the time required for individual components. Coursework generally comprises 42-45 hours. Factors such as passing the qualifying exam, defending the thesis proposal orally, departmental approval of the written thesis, and the oral defense of the dissertation collectively influence program length. Accelerated formats may enable completion in less than four years, while part-time study might extend beyond six years.
Accelerated Healthcare Management Ph.D. Programs
Students can fast-track their Ph.D. programs in various ways, which will help them complete the program in a shorter duration. Many institutes providing Ph.D. programs follow a trimester-based or quarter-based system to offer their coursework. However, an online accelerated doctoral program might not necessarily follow this schedule. Classes will be conducted throughout the years, not just in specific periods, including summer classes. Through such fast-tracking of curriculum, students can complete their required coursework in a year rather than two or three years in a traditional program. An accelerated online Ph.D. in Healthcare Management will help those working individuals seeking to enter the job market quickly or have other commitments like health, family issues, etc.
Requirements for Getting into a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Program
Ph.D. programs are often highly competitive, with rigorous scrutiny applied to candidate selection due to the advanced nature of the degree. Prospective students must thoroughly understand the admission requirements for Healthcare Management Ph.D. programs to better prepare for their application process. While a master’s in Healthcare Management is typically a prerequisite for enrollment, it’s not always mandatory; applicants with relevant master’s degrees may also be considered. However, candidates holding a master’s in Healthcare Management generally possess a competitive advantage. Admission criteria may vary among institutions, but common requirements across the United States include:
- Graduate admission form and fee
- A minimum of 3.0 CGPA
- Official Transcripts of prior university-level degree
- GRE scores (not mandatory in many colleges)
- Statement of purpose
- Sample of written work of around 15-25 pages on an average
- Two or three letters of recommendation are typically required
- Resume or curriculum vitae
No GRE Ph.D. in Healthcare Management
Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores reflect the academic abilities of students pursuing advanced degrees. The GRE scores are central to applying to a doctoral degree program. However, many colleges across the United States have been increasingly waiving off this requirement of GRE scores or making it optional to submit them. Here are a few colleges that provide a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management no gre:
How to Ensure an Online Healthcare Management Ph.D. Program is Accredited
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)[4] is primarily recognized for accrediting undergraduate and master business programs. However, some universities offering Ph.D. in healthcare management may still pursue ACBSP accreditation for their business schools. Conversely, for Ph.D. programs in healthcare management housed within schools of public health, accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)[5] may be more pertinent.
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)
For more understanding of accreditation, refer to the Guide to College Accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Students
Free online courses provide students with invaluable opportunities to expand their knowledge and skill sets without financial barriers. These courses offer flexibility, allowing learners to study at their own pace and convenience. They cover diverse topics, empowering students to explore new interests and supplement their formal education. Additionally, certificates from reputable platforms enhance resumes and demonstrate commitment to lifelong learning. Here are a few free Healthcare Management courses that those pursuing a doctoral degree can explore:
Course | Description | Provided by |
---|---|---|
Leading Healthcare Quality and Safety [6] | This course equips healthcare practitioners with essential skills to lead patient safety and quality improvement initiatives. Participants delve into foundational concepts, utilize tools for analysis, and apply systematic approaches such as the Plan-Do-Study-Act model. The course integrates global perspectives and insights from key industry leaders. | Coursera |
Health in Numbers: Quantitative Methods in Clinical & Public Health Research [7] | The course covers sample survey techniques, ensuring participants are well-versed in various quantitative methods. This includes outcomes measurement, measures of associations between outcomes and determinants, various study design options, considerations for addressing bias and confounding, probability and diagnostic tests, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, power and sample size determinations, life tables, survival methods, and regression techniques (both linear and logistic). | Harvard University |
Managing Health and Safety in Healthcare [8] | This course offers a comprehensive overview of safety management practices tailored for healthcare settings. Participants learn about occupational safety and health, including safety statements, safe work systems, hazard types (biological, physical, and chemical), and principles of prevention, making it suitable for diverse healthcare environments. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management
The costs of online Healthcare Management Ph.D. programs vary across the United States, with tuition fees consistently rising. This trend poses challenges for prospective students looking to enroll. Financial strain can deter individuals from pursuing advanced degrees, impacting accessibility and participation rates in higher education programs. Here are some potential funding opportunities students could explore to help alleviate some of these high costs:
Scholarships provide financial aid for education, easing the burden of tuition fees and expenses. They reward academic excellence, talent, and merit, enabling deserving students to pursue their dreams. Scholarships come from various sources, including universities, organizations, and governments, fostering access to education and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
Grants offer financial assistance without the repayment requirement, supporting educational pursuits and alleviating financial strain. These funds can come from government agencies, private foundations, or educational institutions, catering to diverse needs such as tuition, living expenses, or research endeavors, thereby promoting equitable access to education.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer valuable opportunities for graduate students to gain practical experience, mentorship, and financial support simultaneously. These positions often involve teaching, research, or administrative duties within the university, providing hands-on training and valuable skills for future careers. Additionally, assistantships frequently include tuition waivers or stipends, easing the financial burden of graduate education.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form of college financial aid in the US. It assesses eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs based on family income and assets.
Fully Funded Ph.D. in Healthcare Management
Finding a fully funded Healthcare Management Ph.D. can be a challenging task. While there are exceptional programs that offer financial support to doctoral candidates, fully funded opportunities are limited and highly competitive. Many Ph.D. programs in healthcare management may provide partial funding, fellowships, or assistantships, but securing comprehensive financial support to cover tuition, stipends, and other expenses is not guaranteed.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management
Graduating online Ph.D. in Healthcare Management opens doors to diverse career paths and lucrative salaries. Professionals in this field command competitive compensation packages due to their expertise in navigating complex healthcare systems. The demand for skilled leaders in healthcare administration ensures plentiful opportunities across various sectors, promising rewarding career trajectories. With a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management, students can aspire to advanced roles such as:
- Public Health Leader
- Policy Research Analyst
- Leading Medical Education
- Healthcare System Strategist
- Healthcare Innovator
- Healthcare Consultant
- Health Researcher
- Health Policy Expert
- Health Economics Specialist
- Global Health Leader
- Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
- Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Getting a Ph.D. in Healthcare Management equips students with special skills and knowledge, opening doors to many exciting jobs, including:
Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Medical and Health Services Managers [1] | Analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, leadership skills, and technical skills. | $110,680 | 28% (much faster than average) | Medical and Health Services Managers implement policies, goals, and procedures for their departments or facilities. This involves hiring, scheduling, and evaluating staff, monitoring compliance with state and federal guidelines, and developing comprehensive reports and budgets. |
Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars [9] | Analytical skills, detail-oriented, integrity, interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills. | $62,990 | 16% (much faster than average) | Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars are meticulous in validating the integrity of patient data and upholding the privacy, security, and confidentiality of patients’ health information. They possess a comprehensive understanding of quality assessment practices, patient outcome tracking, and adherence to privacy regulations, which is essential. |
Health Human Resource Managers [10] | Communication skills, decision-making skills, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, and organizational skills. | $136,350 | 5% (faster than average) | Health Human Resource Managers are integral in the recruitment, interview, selection, and hiring processes, contributing to the organization’s ability to attract and retain qualified healthcare professionals. One of their key responsibilities is to supervise specialists and support staff within the human resources department, ensuring the accurate and timely completion of tasks. |
Public Health Social Worker [11] | Communication, compassion, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills. | $55,350 | 7% (faster than average) | Public Health Social Workers serve as advocates, addressing local, state, and national issues on behalf of their clients. Beyond individual interventions, these professionals may engage in macro social work, developing or enhancing social programs, services, and conditions that benefit entire communities. |
Health Education Specialists [12] | Analytical skills, communication skills, instructional skills, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills. | $59,990 | 7% (faster than average) | Health Education Specialists create and implement wellness programs, recommending strategies to encourage healthy behaviors among employees. This may involve designing incentives, such as wellness challenges, or suggesting changes to the work environment to support employee health, such as establishing smoke-free areas. |
Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Graduates
Graduates of a PhD in healthcare management benefit from specialized training, equipping them with advanced leadership and strategic skills vital for navigating the complex healthcare landscape. Their expertise enables them to drive innovation, improve patient outcomes, and shape healthcare policies, fostering positive change within organizations and communities. Here are a few professional certifications that Healthcare Management Ph.D. students can pursue:
Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) [13]
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) certification enhances professional credibility. It opens doors to advanced career opportunities in healthcare quality management, making it a valuable asset for those dedicated to ensuring excellence in healthcare delivery.
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) [14]
The Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) certification demonstrates professionals’ commitment to excellence in healthcare financial management. This credential enhances career opportunities, empowering individuals to contribute significantly to healthcare organizations’ financial success and sustainability. It is a valuable asset in healthcare finance, showcasing expertise and dedication.
Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®)[15]
The Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS®) certification is valuable for professionals in health information management, compliance, information security, and privacy management within healthcare organizations. Earning this certification demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of privacy and security in managing healthcare information, making individuals assets in an industry prioritizing safeguarding sensitive data.
Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) [16]
The Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) certification enriches career prospects and signifies a commitment to advancing ethical practices and regulatory compliance in the healthcare industry. Whether in compliance departments, legal teams, or other healthcare management positions, CHC-certified professionals are crucial in cultivating a culture of compliance and accountability within their organizations.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Graduates
Ph.D. in healthcare management graduates can benefit from a wide range of resources to advance their knowledge in healthcare management. These resources provide access to cutting-edge research, industry insights, and networking opportunities. By leveraging such resources, students can deepen their understanding of complex healthcare issues, stay informed about emerging trends, and build connections with professionals across the field, enhancing their academic and professional development. Some professional organizations that students of the Healthcare Management doctoral program can join are:
Title/Resource | Description |
---|---|
American College of Healthcare Executives | The American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) prioritizes individual development and advocates for policies supporting effective healthcare leadership and management. Engaging in research and publication initiatives, ACHE contributes to the evolving body of knowledge in healthcare management, fostering continuous improvement and innovation within the industry. |
Health Care Administrators Association | The Health Care Administrators Association (HCAA) offers excellent educational opportunities, including online learning and mentorship from industry leaders. Through its Employer Education Task Force, HCAA provides personalized videos to assist members in promoting the transition to a self-funding model, ensuring comprehensive support for employer education initiatives. |
Healthcare Financial Management Association | The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) strongly emphasizes professional certifications to acknowledge and validate expertise in healthcare financial management. Additionally, HFMA produces publications such as journals and newsletters, serving as valuable references for members aiming to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in healthcare finance. |
Medical Group Management Association | The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) offers networking opportunities, research initiatives, and practice resources, solidifying its role as a comprehensive resource. This fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and operational excellence within medical practice management. MGMA’s membership includes individuals from diverse healthcare settings, such as private practices and academic medical centers. |
American Health Information Management Association | The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) emphasizes the development of standards and best practices to promote interoperability, accuracy, and security in health information. Through research initiatives, publications, and networking opportunities, AHIMA serves as a cornerstone, offering a comprehensive platform for continuously advancing health information management practices and standards. |
FAQs About Ph.D. in Healthcare Management Programs
Do I need a master’s in Healthcare Management before joining a Ph.D. program?
A master’s in Healthcare Management is not always required before joining a Ph.D. program. While some programs may prefer candidates with prior experience or a related master’s degree, others accept applicants with strong academic backgrounds and relevant research interests, offering advanced study and specialization opportunities.
Is there any practical exposure given during Ph.D.?
Why should you do an online Healthcare Management Ph.D. program?
Are healthcare management professionals in high demand?
What can I do after a doctorate in Healthcare Management?
Is an online Healthcare Management degree worth it?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Medical and Health Services Managers
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
Leading Healthcare Quality and Safety- Coursera
Health in Numbers: Quantitative Methods in Clinical & Public Health Research-Harvard University
Managing Health and Safety in Healthcare- Alison
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Health Human Resource Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Public Health Social Worker
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook of Health Education Specialists
Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)