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Master in Health Administration

book_2 Learning Mode: Hybrid

Program Overview

The CAHME-accredited Master in Health Administration (MHA) Hybrid program at MUSC prepares emerging and advancing healthcare leaders through a flexible blend of online coursework and in-person learning experiences. Ideal for recent graduates and working professionals, this healthcare administration degree builds expertise in leadership, finance, operations, quality improvement, strategy, and digital health. Students benefit from face-to-face engagement, executive-level faculty, and access to MUSC’s academic health system while developing skills in data-driven decision-making and AI in healthcare. Graduate ready to lead innovation across health systems and beyond.

Application Timeline

Fall 2026
Jul 1, 2025 – Jul 15, 2026

To Apply:
Click "Request Information" and a member of our team will help you get started on the application

Ranked #16 health care management program

U.S. News & World Report, 2025

100% post-graduation employment rate

As reported by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) for the year 2023-24.

100% retention rate

As reported by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) for the year 2023-24.

100% of graduates would choose MUSC's MHA program again

As reported by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) for the year 2023-24.

Success you can measure

These numbers showcase what sets MUSC’s MHA program apart: national reputation, measurable results and career impact in health care management.

Learning Experience

A blended format that pairs weekly on‑campus engagement with online convenience, ideal for learners seeking structure, connection, and immersive, hands‑on leadership development.

Inside the Program

An MHA from MUSC

The MUSC Master in Health Administration (MHA) is a CAHME‑accredited graduate program that develops transformational, evidence‑driven health care leaders. Designed for early‑ and mid‑career professionals, it offers an accessible, affordable, and flexible pathway to advanced leadership education.

Students build core competencies in leadership, finance, operations, quality, strategy, and digital health, applying learning directly to real‑world challenges. The MHA follows one standardized, CAHME‑accredited curriculum delivered in two formats, online and hybrid. All students complete the same coursework, learn from the same expert faculty, and achieve the same outcomes.

Grounded in MUSC’s mission, the program emphasizes applied, competency‑based learning and predictable pacing. As part of the ACHE Higher Education Network, it aligns with national standards for health care management education.

Students also develop the skills to understand and lead the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and data‑informed tools in health care settings. With support from faculty, professional networks, and access to MUSC’s health system and research enterprise, graduates are prepared to drive innovation, strengthen health systems, and help shape the future health care workforce in South Carolina and beyond.

The Master in Health Administration - Hybrid

At a Glance

  • Format: Hybrid (In-person Mondays + Online)
  • Course Length: 7-week accelerated courses
  • Enrollment: Rolling (three starts per year)

The hybrid MHA blends the energy of weekly on‑campus class meetings with the convenience of online coursework. This structure supports steady academic progress while giving students regular opportunities to connect with faculty and classmates.

During weekly in‑person sessions, students participate in:

  • Live case discussions
  • Scenario‑based activities
  • Team‑based projects and presentations
  • Interactive problem‑solving grounded in real healthcare challenges

Between class meetings, structured online coursework reinforces key concepts and prepares students for the next on‑campus session.

Students deepen competencies across leadership, finance, operations, quality, strategy, and digital health while learning from faculty who bring real‑world health care administration experience to the classroom. The format appeals to learners who value structure, accountability, and human connection, but still benefit from partial online flexibility.

Throughout the program, hybrid students also explore data analytics, performance measurement, and AI‑enabled tools transforming healthcare operations and strategy.

Leadership Identity Development

Weekly on‑campus engagement creates natural opportunities to practice and refine leadership presence. Through discussion, presentation, and group work, students strengthen strategic communication, team collaboration, and decision‑making in complex environments.

Faculty feedback and peer interaction help students develop their personal leadership style and influence.

Community & Connection

The hybrid MHA fosters a supportive learning environment centered around meaningful human interaction. Weekly in‑person sessions allow students to build relationships with classmates, faculty, and health care leaders.

These connections often grow into professional networks, mentorship relationships, and long‑term partnerships that support ongoing career growth.

Why choose MUSC’s hybrid MHA?

  • Weekly on‑campus sessions that strengthen connection and hands‑on learning
  • CAHME‑accredited curriculum taught by expert, practice‑experienced faculty
  • Access to MUSC Health and Charleston’s rich health care ecosystem
  • Real‑world projects that build confidence and leadership readiness
  • Predictable pacing designed to support working professionals

Curriculum 

Standard

The standard hybrid Master in Health Administration curriculum consists of 49 credits and is designed to be completed in eight semesters. Below is the standard plan of study outlining the structured progression of coursework as you advance through the program.

Year 1, Fall
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP600 Introduction to Healthcare Administration
1
Term 2
HAP737  Organization Theory & Behavior 3
Semester Total 4
Year 1, Spring
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP721 Health Care Delivery Systems 3
Term 2
HAP704
Health Policy 3
Semester Total 6
Year 1, Summer
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP710 Managing Healthcare Operations, Quality, & Projects 3
Term 2
HAP746 Strategic Management & Marketing 3
Semester Total 6
Year 2, Fall
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP740 Human Resource Management 3
Term 2
HAP712 Quantitative Methods & Evidence-Based Design in Healthcare 3
Semester Total 6
Year 2, Spring
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP726 Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations I 3
Term 2
HAP705 Health Economics 3
Semester Total 6
Year 2, Summer
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP729 Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations II 3
Term 2
HAP724 Epidemiology, Population Health, & Quality 3
Semester Total 6
Year 3, Fall
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP735 Health Law & Risk Management 3
Term 2
HAP750 Digital Transformation in Healthcare 3
Semester Total 6
Year 3, Spring
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP790 Healthcare Administration Capstone 3
Term 2
HAP795 Healthcare Administration Practicum 6
Semester Total 9
Curriculum Total 49

Accelerated

The standard hybrid Master in Health Administration curriculum consists of 49 credits and is designed to be completed in five semesters. Below is the standard plan of study outlining the structured progression of coursework as you advance through the program.

Year 1, Fall
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP600 Introduction to Healthcare Administration
1
HAP737 Organization Theory & Behavior
3
Term 2
HAP721 Health Care Delivery Systems
3
HAP704 Health Policy
3
Semester Total 10
Year 1, Spring
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP710 Managing Healthcare Operations, Quality, & Projects 3
HAP746 Strategic Management & Marketing
3
Term 2
HAP740 Human Resource Management
3
HAP712 Quantitative Methods and Evidence-Based Design in Healthcare
3
Semester Total 12
Year 1, Summer
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP726 Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations I 3
HAP705 Health Economics 3
Term 2
HAP729
Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations II 3
HAP724 Epidemiology, Population Health, & Quality 3
Semester Total 12
Year 2, Fall
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP735 Health Law & Risk Management 3
HAP750 Digital Transformation in Healthcare 3
Term 2
HAP790 Healthcare Administration Capstone 3
Semester Total 9
Year 2, Spring
Course ID Course Title Credits
Term 1
HAP795 Healthcare Administration Practicum 6
Semester Total
6
Curriculum Total 49

Experiential Learning

Students in the hybrid MHA students benefit directly from Charleston’s vibrant health care ecosystem. The Healthcare Administration Practicum (HAP 795) allows them to apply program competencies within real organizations, including MUSC Health and regional partners.

Common practicum experiences include:

  • Operational and process improvement initiatives
  • Quality and patient safety projects
  • Strategic planning and business development efforts
  • Population health and community‑focused initiatives

Students with substantial prior health care administration or leadership experience may qualify to waive the practicum, reducing total program requirements to 43 credit hours.

Whether completed or waived, the practicum ensures that all hybrid students demonstrate real‑world competence and professional readiness.

Engage with our community

Participate in campus and online events, virtual forums, alum gatherings and attend national conferences like ACHE, fostering mentorship, networking and shared growth.

Your path to admission

Discover key information about application steps and required documentation to help you move forward with confidence.

Eligibility Requirements

All applicants must:

  • Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution.
  • Demonstrate a strong overall academic record with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale in coursework relevant to the proposed area of graduate study. Applicants with a GPA below a 3.0 are still encouraged to apply and may be asked to provide additional materials, such as letters of recommendation, or to participate in admissions interviews, to gauge their potential for success.
  • Be proficient in Microsoft Excel

Minimum Abilities

At MUSC, we actively support all students to ensure their success in both academic and clinical settings. To support this goal, the university outlines the essential qualities and functional abilities required for participation in its educational programs. These include a range of observational, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral skills necessary for safe and effective practice.

View the full list

Application Process

The following process outlines how and when your materials will be reviewed.

  1. Submit the MUSC application.
  2. Submit all supplemental materials, if not included within the application.
  3. Once all materials have been received and verified, your application will be reviewed. Applicants are typically notified of their application evaluation and admissions decision within two to four weeks after all applications materials have been received.

Application Requirements

  1. MUSC Application: All applicants must submit an MUSC application
  2. Supplemental Materials: Applicants will need to submit the following supplemental materials.
    1. Official transcripts from all institutions attended
    2. Letters of recommendation: While references are not required at the time of application, applicants may be asked to provide the names and email addresses of three professional references who can comment on the applicant’s professional background, academic capabilities and motivation. Personal references will not be accepted, and recommendation forms will be sent electronically for completion.

All information above must be received by the deadline to be considered for admission to the program. Without all materials, applications will be incomplete. It is the applicant's responsibility to review the progress of their application to ensure that all application materials have been submitted.

International Applicants

MUSC’s MHA degree program is unable to admit international students requiring an F-1 visa. Applications will only be accepted from U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or those holding other valid nonimmigrant visa classifications that allow participation in lawful study while in the United States.

Please contact the MHA Student Services Coordinator, Mia Bradley, at bradlmia@musc.edu should you need clarification or have any questions about your eligibility.

Funding your path forward

Explore scholarships, financial aid options and institutional resources designed to support your educational investment with confidence.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition and fees listed below are per semester unless otherwise noted.

Fee Type Fee
Application Fee (per application) $100
Matriculation Fee (upon applicant acceptance) $500

Full-time

Tuition/Fee Type Fall Spring Summer Annual
In-State Tuition $8,525 $8,525 $8,525 -
Out-of-State Tuition $12,828 $12,828 $12,828 -
Program Fee $745 $745 $745 -

Part-time

Tuition/Fee Type Fall Spring Summer Annual
In-State Tuition (per credit hour) $970 $970 $970 -
Out-of-State Tuition (per credit hour) $1,694 $1,694 $1,694 -
Part-Time Student Fee $861 $861 $861 -
Program Fee $618 $618 $618 -

Cost of Attendance

Item Year 1 Year 2 Est. Total
Direct Costs
In-State Tuition $25,575 $17,050 $42,625
Out-of-State Tuition $38,484 $25,656 $64,140
Fees $2,535 $1,790 $4,325
Health Insurance $3,780 $3,780 $7,560
In-State Total Direct Costs $31,890 $22,620 $54,510
Out-of-State Total Direct Costs $44,799 $31,226 $76,025
Indirect Costs
Housing/Food $24,882 $18,096 $42,978
Personal $2,640 $1,920 $4,560
Transportation $2,970 $2,160 $5,130
Books/Required Expenses $6,510 $3,560 $10,070
Total Indirect Costs $37,002 $25,736 $62,738
In-State Total Costs $68,892 $48,356 $117,248
Out-of-State Total Costs $81,801 $56,962 $138,763

Disclaimer: The Estimated Total listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.

Scholarships

MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall.

View scholarship opportunities

Program Outcomes

Our graduates consistently achieve high employment and board exam success, backed by a strong foundation in health administration principles.

Graduation Rates

Visit our CAHME program profile to learn more about the graduation rate, median time to graduation and more for our program.

Employment Rates

Visit our CAHME program profile to learn more about post-graduation employment for our program.

Program Faculty

Eric Richardson, Ph.D., MBA, MPH, PHR, SHRM-CP, CHHR

Dunc Williams, MHA, Ph.D.

Associate Professor
MUSC College of Health Professions

Cory Robinson, Ph.D., MHA, PMP, FACHE

Chief Administrative Officer, MUSC Health
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Healthcare Leadership & Management

Living in Charleston

Charleston offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. With top-rated dining, scenic waterfronts and endless outdoor activities, the city offers an unmatched quality of life for residents, striking a balance between work and leisure.

Discover Charleston

Guided by Purpose & Principles

MUSC's values-driven program cultivates leaders who act with integrity, lead with purpose and devise solutions that enhance community health.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Graduates of the Master in Health Administration (MHA) program will be able to:

  • PLO 1. Evaluate healthcare data, trends, delivery models, and environmental factors to inform strategic and operational decisions that improve quality, access, and cost-effectiveness across the continuum of care.
  • PLO 2. Analyze and interpret financial, operational, quality, and safety data—including key performance indicators and evidence-based benchmarks—to support evidence-based decision-making and continuous performance improvement.
  • PLO 3. Assess internal and external environmental factors, including legal, ethical, economic, and regulatory considerations, that influence strategic management and policy direction within healthcare organizations.
  • PLO 4. Develop innovative, evidence-based strategies to address organizational challenges, lead change management initiatives, and advance quality, access, and cost-effectiveness in healthcare delivery.
  • PLO 5. Design and implement communication strategies that integrate evidence, adapt to varied stakeholder needs, and achieve intended organizational and leadership outcomes.
  • PLO 6. Evaluate and apply emerging digital technologies—including data analytics and artificial intelligence tools—to enhance healthcare delivery, inform decision-making, and address associated ethical, organizational, and operational considerations.
  • PLO 7. Demonstrate continuous self-awareness and professional growth through reflective practice, accurate self-assessment, incorporation of feedback, and alignment of ongoing development with long-term career goals.

Vision

The Master in Health Administration (MHA) program envisions a future in which healthcare leaders are prepared to change what’s possible in the management and delivery of health services. By anticipating the evolving needs of healthcare systems and the jobs of tomorrow, the program seeks to be a leader in preparing agile, innovative, and evidence-informed professionals who drive health transformation, strengthen organizations, and improve the health of communities in South Carolina and beyond.

This vision guides curriculum design, competency development, and learning experiences that prepare graduates for emerging leadership roles across evolving healthcare systems.

Mission

The Master in Health Administration (MHA) program develops transformational healthcare leaders who, grounded in evidence-based practice, strengthen the management and delivery of health services. We educate early- and mid-career professionals to lead across a wide range of healthcare organizations in South Carolina and beyond. Guided by our core values and in partnership with MUSC’s mission, we are committed to empowering healthy communities, driving innovation and health transformation, and reshaping the future healthcare workforce.

Values

At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:

  • Compassion: We act with kindness, empathy and dignity.
  • Collaboration: We achieve common goals through teamwork and partnerships.
  • Innovation: We drive transformation by embracing new ideas, discoveries and practices.
  • Integrity: We do the right thing and commit to accountability in words, actions and use of resources.
  • Respect: We value everyone and their many perspectives to build trust and a sense of belonging.

Stories worth sharing

Stay connected with success stories of students, alumni and faculty driving health care forward through leadership, innovation and service.

Accreditation & Recognition

Earn a nationally recognized, CAHME-accredited Master in Health Administration (MHA) that provides the credibility, rigor, and preparation needed to lead confidently in healthcare administration.

The Master in Health Administration program at the Medical University of South Carolina is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), the only organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to accredit individual academic programs offering professional master’s degrees in healthcare management. CAHME accreditation signifies that the program meets or exceeds nationally established standards for graduate education in healthcare leadership and management.

The MHA program’s CAHME accreditation profile, including graduation and employment rates, may be viewed here