Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management)
Hours: 33 On-Campus Online
About
The Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management) at Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum tailored for aspiring leaders in the healthcare field. Designed to accommodate busy schedules, the program is available both on campus and online, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional commitments.
Students gain a solid foundation in core business principles while developing specialized knowledge in healthcare management. With a strong focus on strategic leadership and effective decision-making, the program equips graduates to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic healthcare industry successfully.
Why pursue a Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management) program offers a cost-effective and flexible path to advanced business education. Open to students from all academic backgrounds, it requires no prerequisite foundation courses, regardless of undergraduate major. The curriculum focuses on practical, industry-relevant skills and is delivered through accelerated 8-week courses, enabling students to complete the program efficiently. With rolling admissions and multiple start dates throughout the year, students can begin their studies whenever it best fits their schedule. This flexible structure and a strong emphasis on real-world application equip graduates for leadership roles in the healthcare industry.
Who is this program for?
This program is ideal for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the healthcare sector. It is particularly well-suited for those interested in the business aspects of healthcare and eager to influence healthcare policy, administration, and operations.
- Aspiring healthcare leaders
- Business professionals transitioning to healthcare
- Graduates with a healthcare or related background
- Professionals seeking specialized healthcare knowledge
- Individuals interested in healthcare policy and administration
Real-World Applications
Students gain practical experience by engaging in project-based assignments and industry-relevant case studies that reflect real-world challenges. The faculty, with extensive backgrounds in healthcare management, enriches the learning experience by incorporating real-life examples that highlight the complex issues facing today’s healthcare organizations.
In addition to traditional coursework, the program emphasizes the development of critical problem-solving and decision-making skills, which are key competencies for effective healthcare leadership. Graduates are well-equipped to navigate the modern healthcare landscape's regulatory, legal, and operational complexities.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates the latest trends and innovations in healthcare and business management into the curriculum, ensuring a forward-thinking and relevant educational experience. Faculty members stay actively engaged in professional development and closely monitor emerging advancements, allowing them to bring current methodologies, technologies, and best practices into the classroom.
The program strongly emphasizes advanced business strategies, providing students with a solid foundation in healthcare management while cultivating the strategic thinking required to lead in a technology-driven, highly regulated industry.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on learning is a key component of the Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management) program, offering students experiential opportunities that bring academic concepts to life. Students gain valuable real-world exposure to healthcare operations and leadership through internships, research projects, and healthcare conferences.
Each course features applied learning projects that challenge students to address real-world scenarios in healthcare management. Case studies and simulations further enhance the experience by examining critical issues such as ethical decision-making, patient rights, and risk management. This practical, experience-driven approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to navigate healthcare leadership's complex and continually evolving landscape.
What You’ll Learn:
- Analyze healthcare research methods
- Apply leadership to healthcare settings
- Evaluate healthcare statistical data
- Conduct systematic healthcare reviews
- Deliver professional healthcare presentations
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive online and on-campus formats
- Projects with real-world applications
- Flexible scheduling with 8-week terms
- Case studies in healthcare management
- Practical leadership exercises
The program features a comprehensive core curriculum that covers fundamental business disciplines, including finance, accounting, marketing, and organizational management. Building on this strong foundation, students engage in specialized coursework that develops focused expertise in healthcare management.
Experienced industry professionals teach these courses and address various healthcare topics, from global health challenges to health promotion initiatives. By graduation, students will have acquired the business acumen, leadership capabilities, and industry-specific knowledge necessary to thrive in a wide range of healthcare settings.
HHP 610G: Global Health
This course explores global health issues, focusing on solutions to worldwide health challenges. It covers biological and social factors, at-risk populations, health disparities policies, and international health assessment methods.
HHP 630G: Administration in Health Care
This course explores global health issues, focusing on potential solutions to worldwide health challenges. It covers major health issues and biological and social factors, identifies at-risk populations, and examines policies addressing health disparities. Students will also learn about assessment methods in global health, preparing them to understand and address international health inequalities.
HHP 811: Health Promotion Programming
This course covers health promotion programs' design, delivery, and evaluation. Students will explore frameworks for creating effective wellness initiatives and develop skills to assess their impact on community health.
Discover the full Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-prepared to pursue a variety of career paths within the healthcare industry. The rigorous integration of business and healthcare coursework equips students for impactful leadership roles, strengthening their potential for career advancement within their current organizations and across the broader healthcare landscape.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators oversee the daily operations of hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their key duties include managing budgets, streamlining patient care workflows, and ensuring compliance with healthcare laws and regulations.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants offer strategic advice on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their recommendations help enhance patient outcomes and streamline operations.
Hospital Operations Manager
Hospital operations managers coordinate departments to improve efficiency and patient care. They manage resources, track performance, and implement strategies aligned with the hospital’s goals, requiring strong leadership in fast-paced settings.
Clinical Program Director
Clinical program directors develop and manage patient care programs, oversee budgets, and ensure compliance with regulations and organizational goals. They collaborate with clinical and administrative teams to deliver quality care.
Healthcare Policy Analyst
Healthcare policy analysts assess the effects of current and proposed policies on healthcare systems and patient care. They research, analyze data, and produce reports to guide government and organizational decision-making.
MBA applications are accepted year-round, with admissions processed on a rolling basis. Typically, application review takes up to four weeks. To secure admission for the upcoming semester, applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least 30 days before classes begin. Early submission helps avoid delays in the admission process. The FHSU Graduate School and MBA Committee will review only complete application packages, which must include the following:
- A paid graduate application
- Current resume
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework (in English)
- Two (2) letters of recommendation (must be signed and on letterhead to be official)
- Personal statement from students indicating reasons for seeking a Master of Business Administration degree, including professional and/or career goals and pertinent past work experience.
- Other requirements as specified by the Fort Hays State University Graduate School - Apply through the FHSU Graduate School.
- Please do not include a photograph on any application materials. Applications with photographs will not be reviewed.
- All application materials should be sent to the FHSU Graduate School via email at gradschool@fhsu.edu or mail:
Graduate School
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the FHSU Graduate School at 785-628-4236 or gradschool@fhsu.edu or Sarah Patterson, MBA Graduate Coordinator, at 785-628-5696 or gradcoordinator@fhsu.edu.
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 $11,817.18* (on-campus) or $12,396.78* (online) during their time as a student.
*These prices are based on calculating the GR resident/regional tuition rate for on-campus students or the FHSU Online GR tuition rate plus the tuition rate for the MBA by the number of hours needed (24 MBA and 9 graduate concentration courses) to complete this program. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year. The program coordinator is available to discuss how these programs can help students explore their interests and prepare for a variety of rewarding career opportunities.
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 a variety of programs that complement the Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management), addressing the diverse career goals of its students. These programs provide additional opportunities to explore healthcare, business, and public service within the university’s extensive academic portfolio.
- M.S. in Health and Human Performance (Exercise Science)
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration
- Master of Professional Studies (Public Health Administration)
Graduates can pursue positions as healthcare administrators, clinic managers, policy analysts, and executives in various healthcare organizations, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Yes, the program offers online and on-campus options to accommodate working professionals and those with demanding schedules.
The program has 8-week sessions, allowing for an accelerated completion timeline. Full-time students can complete the program within 12 to 18 months.
The program is affiliated with organizations such as the American Healthcare Association and the American College of Healthcare Executives, enhancing professional development and networking opportunities.
Information about the Department of Health and Human Performance
The Department of Health and Human Performance at FHSU offers specialized, in-demand degree programs that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Supported by a dedicated faculty and staff, students are encouraged to address community needs and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.
The department is committed to preparing students for fulfilling and rewarding careers that align with their personal and professional goals. Emphasizing practical learning experiences, flexible academic options, and close mentorship from experienced faculty, the programs equip students to succeed in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more. By joining this community, students become part of a network of accomplished alumni and embark on a career path that fosters both personal satisfaction and professional achievement.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities. For more information about the following student organizations, please contact the Department of Health and Human Performance.
- 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 active involvement in campus, community, and professional activities, members develop valuable leadership skills and enhance their professional growth.
- HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club offers students an excellent opportunity to stay engaged in departmental activities, connect with classmates, and take part in university events. The club fosters a strong sense of community within the Department of Health and Human Performance while encouraging involvement and collaboration among students.
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes provides students with the opportunity to integrate their faith with a passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event Fields of Faith, where FHSU students worship and serve alongside members of the Hays community. FCA welcomes all students interested in Christianity, regardless of their involvement in FHSU athletics.
- Pre-Professional Healthcare Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club fosters a sense of community among students pursuing careers in fields such as Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Athletic Training, Pre-Physician Assistant, and Pre-Chiropractic. The club supports professional development by offering resources and activities designed to strengthen students’ applications for graduate healthcare programs and future careers. Membership is open to any FHSU student interested in entering a professional healthcare or related field.
- MBA
- On-Campus
- Online
