MHA vs MBA in Healthcare: Which Master’s Degree Should You Choose in 2025?

Key Takeaways

• Understand the core difference between MHA and MBA in Healthcare.

• Compare MHA vs MBA salary, scope, and future potential.

• Explore career options and job roles after MHA or MBA.

• Discover dual degree programmes, eligibility, and top universities in 2025.

• Learn which programme suits your career goals in hospital management and leadership.
  
  

The healthcare industry is seeing a huge demand of workers across the world. No, it is not just limited to doctors and nurses anymore. It is about people who manage the proper functioning of a healthcare organisation. This is exactly who you should know the various courses available to equip your skill set with managerial, behaviourial and organisational skills. Courses like Master of Health Administration and MBA in Healthcare Management are two pillars in this sector. What's the real difference between them? Which offers better ROI? Let’s break it down for you in this detailed guide by Educafic.

What is an MHA Degree?

Master of Health Administration is a professional degree that focusses on healthcare management. It teaches you the nuances of hospital operations and its holistic functioning.

Key Topics Covered:

• Health Systems & Operations

• Hospital Administration

• Healthcare Law & Ethics

• Financial Management in Healthcare

• Health Informatics
  

Are you already in the healthcare field? Do you want to get into administrative or hospital leadership roles? An MHA degree might be the right career choice.

What is an MBA in Healthcare Management?

The MBA in Healthcare Management is designed for individuals seeking to combine business fundamentals (marketing, finance, and HR) with healthcare-specific electives. 

Key Subjects Covered:

• Strategic Management

• Business Analytics

• Healthcare Finance

• Marketing for Healthcare

• Leadership & Innovation in Healthcare
  

Are you looking for corporate jobs? You can work in the in the field of pharmaceuticals, health-tech, or insurance., You can even later switch industries later to MBA in Healthcare Management that offers a better pathway. Contact our expert team to have personalised insights.

Difference Between MHA and MBA in Healthcare

MHA vs MBA Salary Comparison

Here's how the salary of MHA vs MBA professionals compares across regions:

Career After MHA MBA Degree

Jobs for MHA Graduates:

• Hospital Administrator

• Health Policy Analyst

• Public Health Programme Manager

• Quality Assurance Manager

• Health Informatics Manager
  
  

Jobs for MBA in Healthcare Graduates:

• Healthcare Business Consultant

• Product Manager in HealthTech

• Strategy Manager – Pharmaceuticals

• Insurance Claims Head

• Operations Lead – Corporate Hospitals

MHA MBA Dual Degree Programmes

Some universities offer dual degree options where you can get both MHA and MBA credentials in one programme. These are ideal if you want deep healthcare knowledge + business acumen.

Notable Programmes:

• University of Michigan – Dual MHA/MBA

• University of Alabama – Healthcare Administration & MBA dual programme

Eligibility for MHA MBA Programmes

Top Colleges Offering MHA or MBA in Healthcare

Here are top institutions offering healthcare management MHA vs MBA programmes:

Columbia University

For people interested to pursue this course in UK can go for:

Coventry University

University of New South Wales

Australia has a great demand of healthcare workers due to its constant shortage in remote regions. Why not take admissions in an MBA course that caters to healthcare administration here:

Scope of MHA and MBA in Hospital Management

The Master of Health Administration (MHA) is a great choice if you want to work directly in a hospital setting. You will perhaps work as a hospital manager or operations lead.

An MBA in Hospital Management, on the other hand, is better if you're aiming for corporate roles in healthcare startups, consulting, pharmaceutical companies, or insurance, focusing on strategy and finances.

Which is a Better Choice – MHA vs MBA in Healthcare?

It will ultimately depend on the respective person, their individual choice, personal goals, etc.

• Want to stay in the healthcare system, work in hospitals, and focus on administration? → Choose MHA

• Want corporate-level roles, more job options, or dream of becoming a Healthcare Guru? → Choose MBA in Healthcare

Now that you are aware of these two healthcare courses that are changing lives worldwide, it’s time for you to shine. Contact Educafic for detailed insights on your career goals and their expert team will help you select the best healthcare management course.

Also Read: Master of Public Health in Australia Requirments