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Online Master of Healthcare Administration

about the master of healthcare administration

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) at Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is a fully online graduate degree that prepares students for leadership and management roles in healthcare organizations. Designed for working professionals and those seeking to advance their careers, the program combines healthcare administration with business, communication, finance, and leadership coursework. Graduates are equipped to lead teams, improve operations, and navigate the evolving healthcare industry.

Is the MHA Right for You?

The MHA is designed for professionals who want to advance into leadership roles or build the business and management skills needed to lead healthcare organizations.

This program may be a good fit if you:

  • Want to advance into healthcare leadership or management.
  • Work in healthcare and are ready to expand your business and leadership skills.
  • Prefer the flexibility of a fully online graduate program.
  • Want to prepare for careers in hospitals, clinics, public health, or other healthcare organizations.
  • Are seeking a graduate degree that can help support career advancement and professional growth.
mssu student

Healthcare Administration Careers

A Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) prepares graduates for leadership and management careers across the healthcare industry. Graduates of Missouri Southern State University's MHA program often work in:

  • Hospital Administrator
  • Medical Practice Manager
  • Assisted Living Facility Manager
  • Long-Term Care Administrator
  • Healthcare Operations Manager
  • Healthcare Executive

Talk with a faculty advisor about where a Master of Healthcare Administration from MSSU can take you.


Curriculum & courses

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) is a 30-credit-hour graduate program consisting of 10 courses. The curriculum combines healthcare administration with business, leadership, and organizational management topics to prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

Program Format, Location & Schedule

  • Format: 100% online
  • Location: Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), Joplin, Missouri
  • Schedule: Full-time and part-time options available
  • Time to Degree: As few as 24 months
  • Program Length: 30 credit hours (10 courses)
  • Tuition: $11,250 in-state | $20,550 out-of-state (program total)
mssu drone shot

Admissions & How to Apply

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in healthcare leadership and management. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and meet the program’s admission requirements.

How to apply:

  1. Complete the online application for admission to Missouri Southern State University.
  2. Pay the non-refundable application fee.
  3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
  4. Submit an updated resume or CV.
  5. Submit GMAT or GRE scores, if applicable.

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Admissions & Tuition Information

Voices of Southern: Healthcare Administration Spotlight

Explore MSSU’s online Master of Healthcare Administration and hear about the new Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center opening Fall 2026.

Listen Here


Liana Figueroa, May 2023 Grad

Why I Chose MSSU

"The Healthcare Administration program at Missouri Southern prepared me for my role as Practice Manager at Mercy Hospital. The practical, hands-on classes covered leadership, operations, and healthcare policy. Through case studies, an internship, and interactive coursework, I gained experience in managing healthcare operations and improving patient care. Professors with real-world experience made a significant impact. I'm grateful for the education and support that have been key to my success as a healthcare leader."
student holding textbook

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions? Contact Us

Dr. Thomas (Dusty) Deringer
Assistant Professor, Graduate Program Director
Office: Health Science Building 151A
Phone: 417-625-3053
Email: deringer-d@mssu.edu