Master of Health Administration - MHA
Content for the MHA is divided across five areas in which to focus course-based learning. The program is a 36-credit 12 or 24 month curriculum for learners with experience in health settings who wish to develop advanced leadership and management skills. Students will engage in five key areas of study:
- Analytical skills and knowledge.
- Management functions and skills for healthcare leaders.
- Leadership and professionalism.
- Health systems and the community.
- Innovative solutions to today's complex healthcare challenges.
- Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
Program-Level Outcomes:
1. Proficiency in Healthcare Administration and Human Resource Management: This outcome is vital for healthcare administrators as it equips them with the skills to manage healthcare facilities and the personnel within them effectively. Healthcare administrators need to understand the intricacies of human resource management to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce directly impacting patient care quality.
2. Competence in Financial Management Specific to Healthcare Settings: Financial management is critical to healthcare administration. Administrators must navigate the complex financial landscape of healthcare, including budgeting, reimbursement, and cost control. Competence in this area is essential for ensuring the financial sustainability of healthcare organizations.
3. Ability to Strategize and Market Effectively Within the Healthcare Industry: Healthcare administrators must develop strategies to adapt to the constantly changing healthcare landscape. Effective strategic planning and marketing skills enable administrators to position their organizations, attract patients, and respond to market demands while maintaining quality care.
4. Understanding of Healthcare Policy and Its Impact: Knowledge of healthcare policy is crucial for healthcare administrators to navigate the regulatory environment. Understanding policy changes, compliance, and advocacy is essential for ensuring that healthcare organizations meet legal and regulatory requirements.
5. Knowledge of Ethics and Legal Issues in Healthcare: Healthcare administrators are responsible for upholding ethical standards and ensuring legal compliance within their organizations. Understanding healthcare ethics and legal issues is fundamental for making ethical decisions and mitigating legal risks.
6. Skills in Quality Improvement and Population Health Management: Quality improvement and population health management are central to delivering high-quality patient care. Healthcare administrators must be equipped with the skills to monitor and improve healthcare outcomes while considering the needs of diverse patient populations.
7. Proficiency in Organizational Behavior and Management Theory: A solid understanding of organizational behavior and management theory is essential for effective leadership and decision-making within healthcare organizations. This knowledge helps administrators create a positive organizational culture and drive performance improvements.
8. Awareness of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Healthcare Settings: Healthcare administrators must promote equity and inclusion in healthcare delivery in an increasingly diverse society. Awareness of and addressing diversity-related issues ensures that healthcare services are accessible and culturally competent for all patient populations.
These program outcomes are carefully designed to provide healthcare administrators with a well-rounded skill set and knowledge base that are essential for successful leadership in the complex and dynamic healthcare industry. Proficiency in these areas is crucial for delivering high-quality care, maintaining financial sustainability, and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.