Master of Science in Healthcare Administration

Fairfield Egan’s master of science in healthcare administration (MHA) provides students the knowledge and experience to pursue a wide range of healthcare-related careers.

As an interdisciplinary course of study, the program draws upon the expertise of full-time faculty members from Fairfield Egan and Charles F. Dolan School of Business. The versatile 42-credit program complements various fields of study — from nursing to science to business. Students take courses across a variety of disciplines including economics, accounting, healthcare systems, healthcare policy, information technology, marketing, finance, management, leadership roles, and more. In the final year of the program, students have an opportunity for a practicum experience in a healthcare organization as well as complete their capstone.

Fairfield is accepting applications this fall and classes begin in Summer 2020. Admission to the program is open to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

Fairfield's MHA is currently in initial phases of accreditation with the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME).

Dear Prospective Students,

It is such a privilege to share with you information about our new Masters of Healthcare Administration (MHCA). This program is valuable to aspiring professionals because it blends the resources of two, high quality, nationally recognized, programs. Designed by the Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies, with support of the Dolan School of Business, this program will change the lives and the careers of students. The program is built on solid curriculum of core courses with opportunities for internships and practicum experiences. Distinguishing this program from others, is the exposure to faculty and professional peers that enrich the learning experience. Developing and cultivating professional relationships is the foundation of leadership and at Fairfield University, we practice what we teach!

Healthcare careers are growing at a rapid pace and Fairfield University’s Healthcare partners and alumni support an amazing network of opportunities for students. This program is uniquely positioned to advance the careers of experienced healthcare professionals, as well as, add a competitive edge to those new to the field. MHCA students have options for part time or full time course work and course are delivered in a variety of formats. Hybrid options allow students to enjoy face to face interactions without the commitment of being on campus each week, while online courses allow for flexibility. This website will give you overview of courses, faculty, program formats and important information for prospective graduate students.

Graduates of this program will benefit as Fairfield University has an impeccable reputation for preparing exceptional students and industry leaders. Our team of faculty and staff fully support students to be successful, challenge themselves and grow personally and professionally. As a healthcare professional for over 30 years, I know that this program is a much needed option for graduate students at Fairfield University.

I would be very happy to speak to you about this program and discuss your particular career goals to see this exciting program is right for you.

Sally O. Gerard, DNP, RN, CNL, CDE

Join us for a Graduate Information Session so we can answer your questions one-on-one, give you an opportunity to meet our faculty, learn about program details and introduce you to the Fairfield University community and experience.

Employment opportunities for healthcare administrators are on the rise in the state of Connecticut and nationally. Healthcare administrators may be employed in a wide variety of settings, including:

• Policy Organizations
• Insurance Organizations
• Healthcare Suppliers
• Healthcare Providers

Learn more about how the University's Career Center can support your post-graduate goals, and how Fairfield's tight-knit alumni network can build career and mentoring opportunities that last a lifetime.

Summer Term (2 credits)

Introduction to the US Healthcare System (2 cr)

Fall Semester (6 credits)

Leadership Roles for Systems Improvement (3 cr)

Research Methods for evidence-Based Practice (3 cr)

Spring Semester (6 credits)

Healthcare Finances and Reimbursement (3 cr)

Legal and Ethical Environment of Business (3 cr)

Summer Term (6 credits)

Introduction to Accounting (3 cr)

Principles of Finance (3 cr)

Fall Semester (6 credits)

Information Technology for Healthcare Improvement (3 cr.)

Managing People for Competitive Advantage (3 cr)

Spring Semester (6 credits)

Performance Management (3 cr.)

Healthcare Administration Practicum (3 cr. – 150 hours)

Summer Term (6 credits)

Healthcare Economics and Marketing (3 cr.)

Advanced Healthcare Policy (3 cr.)

Fall Semester (4 credits)

Healthcare Administration Capstone (4 cr)

Total Clinical Hours: 150
Total Credits: 42
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Appendix 7: Full-time curriculum plan

Summer Term (8 credits)

Introduction to the US Healthcare System (2 cr)

Introduction to Accounting (3 cr)

Principles of Finance (3 cr)

Fall Semester (12 credits)

Leadership Roles for Systems Improvement (3 cr)

Research Methods for evidence-Based Practice (3 cr)

Legal and Ethical Environment of Business (3 cr)

Managing People for Competitive Advantage (3 cr)

Spring Semester (12 credits)

Healthcare Finances and Reimbursement (3 cr)

Healthcare Administration Practicum (3 cr. – 150 hours)

Advanced Healthcare Policy (3 cr.)

Performance Management (3 cr.)

Summer Term (10 credits)

Information Technology for Healthcare Improvement (3 cr.)

Healthcare Economics and Marketing (3 cr.)

Healthcare Administration Capstone (4 cr)

Total Clinical Hours: 150
Total Credits: 42

Admission Requirements

Admission to the program is competitively offered to students who complete a bachelor’s degree in ANY discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a strong personal statement.

Formal Admission Process

Students seeking admission must submit:

• A completed online application.
• A non-refundable $60 application fee paid by credit card. Application fee is waived for current Fairfield students.
• A professional resume. Applicants are required to submit a current resume that includes employment and education history (submit online).
• A personal statement. Students should describe why they want to undertake graduate studies in healthcare administration (submit online).
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended demonstrating a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. All foreign transcripts must be evaluated by an approved evaluating service.
• Two recommendation forms and letters, one of which must be, preferably, from a current employer or supervisor. Recommendations are completed online. At the time of application candidates must provide the email addresses and names of their two recommenders.