MHA Program FAQs

What makes the Master of Health Administration program from Ohio University unique?

Students in Ohio University’s Master of Health Administration online program are all mid-career, experienced professionals who are eager to share their knowledge with fellow students. In fact, over 75% of the MHA students have up to 6 years of health care experience, and more than 40% have over 11 years of relevant experience. Often, when you enroll in an online course, you must visit the campus at least once to complete some coursework. Unlike some MHA degree programs, Ohio University's Master of Health Administration program is 100% online; you will never need to travel to the campus to complete your degree. Every lesson is extended through application to real or simulated workplace situations. Our students tell us the practical application of theory makes for a highly meaningful educational experience.

What are the qualifications for admission to the MHA program at Ohio University?

To qualify for the online MHA program, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution. A minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) is required, as well as 2 years of current work experience in a U.S. health field. You must demonstrate competency in statistics and financial accounting as well as excellent English writing skills. Exceptional applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will be considered on an individual basis. Please contact your Enrollment Advisor at 1-877-823-1113 for more information.

Do I need to take the GRE, GMAT or other standardized tests?

The MHA online program from Ohio University is designed for experienced health professionals. Our Admissions Committee will look at your entire background – your undergraduate work, your work experience and success, your references and your reasons for pursuing the program. The Committee is looking for evidence of your ability to succeed in the program and the health care administration field. A GMAT or GRE score may not be necessary, but if you've previously completed either of these exams you're welcome to include them with your application.

When can I begin the program?

There are three start dates each year – Fall, Spring or Summer. Please contact your Enrollment Advisor at
1-877-823-1113 to discuss application deadlines for each term.

How much time will my studies take?

Most students spend about 15 to 20 hours per week on related work. In some courses, you will feel very well prepared and spend less time, while in others you may need more time to master new concepts. The Ohio University Master of Health Administration is designed knowing every student is different. You will spend part of your study time online and part of it working offline on your own. Your faculty and your peers will help keep you on track.

When I graduate, what will my diploma read?

Your diploma will read "Master of Health Administration." Although the program solely utilizes an online learning environment, your diploma will not say “online.” You will receive the same diploma that on-campus students will receive.

How much does the program cost?

Click here for the most current information on tuition and fees.

Does Ohio University offer financial aid?

U.S. citizens and permanent residents have access to federally funded loans through Ohio University’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (OSFAS). For further information, visit www.ohio.edu/financialaid. Our school code is 003100. To learn more about these and other options, contact your Enrollment Advisor at 1‑877‑823‑1113.

How do I stay in contact with my classmates and faculty during the program?

Through discussion forums, e-mail, and on online chats, you will be engaged in exciting collaborative learning within your assigned student group. You may contact faculty members via e-mail to get answers to your questions. Our online students report they enjoy individual attention from professors. They also tell us they develop deeper relationships with their classmates than they would in a traditional class that meets just once a week. Often, professors and classmates alike become your career-long professional contacts.

What computer skills do I need?

We purposely chose a very user-friendly learning platform. As long as you feel comfortable navigating the Internet, using e-mail, and working in Microsoft Office, you should feel at ease participating in this program. Please refer to the Computer Requirements page for specific information on the required hardware and software.

I am interested in taking some of the courses, but I do not want a full masters in health administration degree. Could I enroll in a few of the courses without being admitted?

No, you must enroll in the program to take any of the online classes.

Can I take some classes on campus and some online?

No, your admission will be to the online program only.

I have taken some graduate courses. Can I transfer those credits to this program?

Transfer credits are not accepted due to the structure of the MHA program.

How quickly can I complete this MHA program?

It is possible to complete the program in as few as two years. Upon evaluation of your transcript, prerequisites may be required. Please contact your Enrollment Advisor at 1-877-823-1113 for more information. Starting in Fall 2012, Ohio University and all state institutions in Ohio will be changing from a quarter system to a semester system. Ohio University has pledged that the total cost of the MHA online program will not increase as a result of this shift. The MHA online curriculum has been adapted to ensure completion of the program in as few as two years.

How many credits and courses do I take each term?

Starting in the Fall term 2012, each fifteen week semester will consist of two seven week terms, called term A and term B with one week in between them. Students will take two 3 credit classes each semester: the first in term A and the second in term B. Starting in Fall 2012, Ohio University and all state institutions in Ohio will be changing from a quarter system to a semester system. Ohio University has pledged that the total cost of the MHA online program will not increase as a result of this shift. The MHA online curriculum has been adapted to ensure completion of the program in as few as two years.

Is all the coursework online?

Yes, all the coursework for the Master of Health Administration program is entirely online. No campus visits are required.

Can I take a break from the MHA program?

In an extreme emergency, you may be able to re-enter in a subsequent term and graduate later. If a problem develops, please speak with your Student Services Program Coordinator as soon as possible about your situation.

What kind of people am I going to be working with?

Your fellow students will be mid-career, working professionals with at least two years of current experience in the U.S. health field. They can be caregivers like physicians; registered nurses; or occupational, physical, speech and hearing, mental health, or other therapists. They can also be from the business side of health care administration, such as financial managers, industry suppliers, or consultants.
 Current students include hospital CEOs, nursing home administrators, health system CEOs, physicians' practice managers, staff and administrative nurses, physical therapists, diagnostic supplies sales managers, and hospital department directors, to name a few.

How well respected is Ohio University and how is it accredited?

Ohio University has been offering degrees for over 200 years and has an excellent reputation. It is accredited by the regional accrediting agency, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Ohio University has been cited for superior academic quality and value by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review’s Best Colleges, and Peterson’s Guide to Competitive Colleges.

Whom do I talk to if I have more questions or if I want to apply?

Please call your Enrollment Advisor at 1-877-823-1113. Your Enrollment Advisor will help you determine if the program suits your individual goals and needs, guide you through the application process, and ensure you meet all application deadlines.