Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration
Hours: 30 Online
About
Fort Hays State University’s Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration is designed to provide professionals with the skills and expertise needed to lead in today's complex healthcare environments. This interdisciplinary program offers a robust curriculum with core public health policy, healthcare administration, and data analysis coursework. Students can engage with real-world health issues online and gain practical skills applicable to various healthcare settings.
This program emphasizes developing advanced leadership skills and policy knowledge essential for managing healthcare organizations. Students will have the opportunity to participate in service-learning projects, field experiences, and research activities that align with their career goals, preparing them to tackle emerging challenges in public health administration.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration at Fort Hays State University?
The MPS in Public Health Administration at FHSU stands out for its interdisciplinary and flexible curriculum. Students can tailor their coursework based on career interests, whether focusing on healthcare management, health policy, or data analysis. Our Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration allows students to pursue research-driven projects, hands-on learning experiences, and service-learning opportunities.
Moreover, the program's emphasis on practical skills, such as budgeting, strategic planning, and data analysis, ensures graduates can make immediate contributions to their organizations. Combining a comprehensive core curriculum and specialized electives gives students a competitive edge in healthcare.
Who is this program for?
The Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration is designed for professionals who want to enhance their skills and advance their careers in healthcare management. This program offers flexibility to tailor coursework based on individual career goals, making it suitable for various individuals. If you're passionate about leading healthcare organizations, influencing health policy, or improving public health outcomes, this program is for you.
- Healthcare professionals seeking leadership roles in public health administration
- Individuals interested in health policy and program management
- Graduates of public health, health sciences, and related disciplines
- Social workers and educators specializing in healthcare management
- Professionals looking for a flexible, comprehensive master's degree program
Learning Outcomes
The Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration equips students with the skills and knowledge to tackle today's public health challenges. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare management, public health policy, and data analysis. By integrating theory with real-world applications, students gain the ability to lead, analyze, and implement effective public health initiatives.
Analyze Public Health Policies and Issues
Graduates can critically evaluate current public health policies and issues and understand their impact on healthcare organizations and the public. This includes assessing regulations, interpreting health policy trends, and developing strategic responses to emerging public health challenges.
Implement Healthcare Management Strategies
Students will develop effective strategies for managing healthcare organizations and programs. This includes strategic planning, organizational leadership, and the application of management principles to improve efficiency and quality in healthcare delivery.
Conduct Data Analysis for Decision Making
Graduates will apply quantitative and qualitative data analysis to inform healthcare decision-making. They will learn to interpret healthcare data, conduct epidemiological assessments, and utilize statistical tools to evaluate health outcomes and improve healthcare programs.
Develop and Manage Budgets
Students will gain practical skills in creating and managing budgets for healthcare programs and organizations. They can conduct financial analysis, develop budgetary strategies, and allocate resources efficiently to meet organizational goals.
Real-World Applications
This program prepares students for real-world applications through service-learning projects, field experiences, and research-driven activities. Students engage in projects addressing public health challenges, such as health disparities and health promotion strategies. Students learn to implement effective health policies, manage healthcare budgets, and analyze data to improve public health outcomes by working directly with healthcare organizations.
Additionally, students participate in fieldwork and internships where they can apply their knowledge in healthcare settings. These hands-on experiences help develop essential skills like strategic planning, financial analysis, and team management.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The curriculum incorporates the latest advancements and trends in public health administration through lectures, workshops, and applied projects. Students explore emerging issues such as telehealth, healthcare policy changes, and data analytics in healthcare. They also participate in workshops on leadership development, strategic planning, and innovative public health solutions.
Research projects encourage students to explore healthcare access, health promotion strategies, and policy evaluation. By integrating cutting-edge trends, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in healthcare.
Hands-on Activities
Fort Hays State University emphasizes experiential learning throughout the MPS in Public Health Administration. Students engage in fieldwork, research projects, and service-learning activities that directly address healthcare challenges. Workshops on data analysis, financial management, and healthcare policy provide practical skills that students can apply immediately in their careers.
The program also offers opportunities to participate in internships and collaborate with healthcare organizations on projects that have real-world impact. These hands-on experiences allow students to gain valuable healthcare management and policy insights.
What You’ll Learn:
- Analyze current public health policies and issues
- Implement effective healthcare management strategies
- Conduct comprehensive data analysis for healthcare decisions
- Develop and manage healthcare budgets
- Evaluate healthcare organization performance and quality
How You’ll Learn:
- Flexible curriculum with online option
- Engage in hands-on fieldwork and applied projects
- Work closely with faculty experts in public health policy and administration
- Network with healthcare professionals through workshops and conferences
- Participate in service-learning projects that address real-world public health issues
The Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration begins with a core curriculum focused on research methodology, professional ethics, and interdisciplinary studies. These foundational courses provide essential skills for conducting research, understanding healthcare systems, and developing professional competence in healthcare administration.
In this program, students delve into advanced topics such as health policy, epidemiology, program evaluation, and data analysis. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications through courses on health promotion, health disparities, global health issues, and public health ethics, preparing students to lead in various healthcare settings.
HHP 602G: Public Health
This course explores key public health issues in the 21st century, focusing on current challenges and achievements. Designed for students of various majors, it covers topics such as analytical methods, biomedical foundations, social factors, environmental issues, medical care, and future trends.
HHP 610G: Global Health
This course examines key global health issues and potential solutions, designed for students from various majors. Topics include biological and social aspects of health issues, at-risk population groups, policies addressing health inequalities, and assessment methods for global health.
HHP 630G: Administration in Health Care
This course explores organizational principles in health services management, emphasizing the evolution of healthcare organizations. It analyzes provider partnerships and how leaders adapt to environmental changes, featuring case studies and scenarios for students to develop solutions to key issues.
Discover the full Certificate in Consumer Health course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the MPS in Public Health Administration are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in healthcare management and public health policy. The program equips students with strategic leadership skills, advanced knowledge of healthcare systems, and the ability to analyze data for informed decision-making. Graduates can pursue careers in various settings, including public health agencies, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and private consulting firms.
Public Health Administrator
Public health administrators oversee public health programs and initiatives. They manage budgets, lead strategic planning, and coordinate teams to address health disparities and improve population health outcomes. They are critical in developing policies and implementing programs that benefit communities.
Healthcare Program Manager
Healthcare program managers are responsible for efficiently operating healthcare programs within hospitals, clinics, and nonprofit organizations. They oversee staff, coordinate project activities, and implement strategic initiatives to ensure the quality and effectiveness of healthcare services. They often specialize in areas like health promotion or chronic disease management.
Health Policy Analyst
Health policy analysts evaluate healthcare policies and regulations to provide recommendations for improving health outcomes. They research and analyze legislative trends and work with government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations to shape health policy. Their work often influences public health legislation and program funding decisions.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study patterns and causes of diseases in populations. They collect and analyze health data to identify disease outbreaks, assess health risks, and develop disease prevention and control strategies. Epidemiologists work in public health agencies, research institutions, and hospitals, providing insights that guide public health interventions.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants advise organizations on strategic planning, policy implementation, and data analysis to enhance efficiency and quality. They work with hospitals, insurance companies, and government agencies to streamline operations, improve patient outcomes, and ensure regulatory compliance. Their expertise is crucial for organizations navigating the complexities of healthcare systems.
Fort Hays State University values ambition, dedication, and a genuine interest in making a difference. The Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration requires applicants to meet the following criteria:
Bachelor's Degree
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Ideally, this degree should be in public health, healthcare administration, or a related field. Still, applicants from all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
GPA Requirement
A minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 undergraduate credit hours is expected. This ensures applicants have the foundational knowledge to excel in the program's rigorous curriculum.
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a 1-2 page personal statement describing their career goals, interest in public health administration, and relevant experiences. This statement is crucial in assessing the applicant's motivation, understanding of the field, and alignment with the program's goals.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation are required. One should come from an academic source (professor or advisor) and the other from a professional reference (supervisor or mentor). These letters provide insights into the applicant's academic potential, leadership skills, and work ethic.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (Online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs complementing the MPS in Public Health Administration. These programs provide additional expertise and specialization opportunities for those interested in healthcare and public health.
- Master of Professional Studies in Gerontology
- Master of Science in Health and Human Performance
- Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance
- Certificate in Community Health
- Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management
Public health administration manages and oversees programs, policies, and initiatives to improve community health and well-being.
Public health administrators are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating public health programs, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with health policies and regulations.
An MPS in Public Health Administration or MBA in Healthcare Management is ideal for those seeking leadership roles in the healthcare industry.
Yes, the program is offered online, and the coursework is flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal responsibilities.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Department Information
The Department of Health and Human Performance provides specialized, in-demand degrees that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to helping you address the needs of the community and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.
We strive to prepare you for a fulfilling and rewarding career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Our programs emphasize practical learning experiences, offer flexible academic options, and foster close-knit mentorship from our experienced faculty. With opportunities in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more, you will be equipped to pursue your career aspirations. Join our network of accomplished alumni and embark on a path that leads to both personal satisfaction and professional success.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Phi Epsilon Kappa - Delta Theta Chapter: The Delta Theta chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa, a national honor society, recognizes FHSU students pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management. Through Phi Epsilon Kappa, you will gain leadership skills by engaging in campus, community, and professional activities. To get involved, contact Mrs. Jessica Phelan.
- HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club is ideal for students wanting to stay involved with departmental activities, meet classmates, and participate in university events. This club fosters a sense of community within the department. For more information, contact Mrs. Anita Walters.
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers students the chance to combine their faith with their passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event, Fields of Faith, which allows FHSU students to worship and serve alongside the Hays community. All students interested in Christianity are welcome to join, regardless of their participation in FHSU athletics. To get involved, contact Mr. Drew Gannon.
- Shooting Sports Club: The Shooting Sports Club welcomes all students and faculty interested in shooting sports as a recreational or competitive activity. The club promotes responsible use and ownership of firearms and emphasizes community service. Members have earned national awards and have even appeared on ESPN-U. For more information, contact Dr. Duane Shepherd or visit the Shooting Sports website.
- Pre-Physical Therapy Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences for students preparing for physical therapy school. This club brings together students interested in professional development to strengthen their applications for physical therapy programs and beyond. Membership is available to any FHSU student interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or related fields. For more information, contact Dr. Luke Kriley or visit the Physical Therapy RSO website.