Online Master of Science in Health Care Administration and Policy

Arizona State University’s Master of Science in health care administration and policy immerses you in the intricate workings of health care systems and policies, preparing to address their multifaceted challenges with expertise. This program goes beyond theoretical analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of how policies directly impact patient care, access and outcomes. Through a curriculum blending population health, economics, analytics and leadership, you'll develop the skills needed to navigate and innovate within the health care landscape.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 11

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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Prepare to address the critical and complex needs of the health care system

In this health care administration and policy master’s, you'll immerse yourself in transforming the health care landscape, focusing not on the benchwork of sciences but on revolutionizing how health care policies and systems serve populations. You'll explore ways to increase access to health care, particularly for vulnerable and rural communities, and tackle pressing issues like health equity. By blending studies in population health, health economics, policy and data analytics with leadership and systems thinking, you'll gain the skills to enact meaningful change.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

If you're someone who naturally questions how things could be better, possesses an entrepreneurial mindset and thrives on creative and innovative thinking, this health care administration and policy master’s could be your calling. It's designed not just for those eyeing administrative roles but for anyone with a passion for health care or seeking to make a significant impact within the system. Whether you're already navigating a career in health care, from administration to clinical roles, or considering a pivot into this vital field, your drive to advance and innovate makes you an ideal candidate.

This program is also a strategic choice for those contemplating medical school. It offers a unique gap-year opportunity to gain insights into the broader context of health care delivery, policy's role in health outcomes and the potential of informatics to enhance decision-making and health results. Your ability to articulate a vision for your future in health care and how this program aligns with your goals is key, regardless of your background in health care or specific undergraduate degree.

What you can do with a health care administration and policy master’s

Upon graduation, you'll be equipped for a variety of impactful roles across the health care sector. Imagine leading teams as an advanced clinical leader, managing health programs or making big decisions as a health care administrator. Your skills in improving quality will be essential for bettering patient care. You may even start your own health care business, bringing new ideas to the field.

While some candidates may initially view this program as a precursor to medical school, students commonly realign their career trajectories towards health care administration or quality improvement upon exposure to the curriculum. As a graduate, you're not just getting a degree; you're preparing to make a real difference in health care, whether it's in managing teams, improving services or innovating.

Professional licensure and certification

ASU academic programs are designed to prepare students to apply for applicable licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet education requirements for license or certification in another state. If you're planning to pursue professional licensure or certification in a state other than Arizona, it's strongly recommended that you visit our professional licensure page for contact information of the appropriate licensing entity to seek information and guidance regarding licensure or certification requirements.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Health care administration master’s courses

Throughout this program, you’ll study topics such as health economics, law, policy, finance and biostatistics. You’ll also take courses that cover management techniques, health care administration and process engineering. Additionally, you’ll have the option to tailor your coursework to your interests with a nine-credit focus area of your choice: health policy and advocacy, health systems management, or performance improvement in health care.


The jobs you’ll be prepared for

After completing this program, you'll be well-prepared for a diverse range of roles within the field of health care. Whether you aspire to lead as an advanced clinical leader, drive quality improvement initiatives as a senior practice and program manager or navigate the complexities of health care administration, this program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel. You'll also be equipped to explore opportunities in health care consulting, process improvement and even entrepreneurship, leveraging your expertise to innovate and shape the future of health care delivery. With a firm foundation in policy analysis, leadership and systems thinking, you'll be ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and communities alike. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Learn from innovative thinkers who value patient-centered care

The College of Health Solutions faculty displays a high level of research expertise, focused on creating a better future for all. Our faculty are lifelong learners dedicated to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve. Some of their research focuses on:

  • Discovering the impact of the environment and policy on food security and community health.
  • Exploring mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  • Harnessing big data to improve patient outcomes.
  • Incorporating advanced technology to monitor and promote healthy lifestyles.
  • Using state-of-the-art cognitive, behavioral and neuroscience techniques to study the components of human communication.

Learn from innovative thinkers who value patient-centered care

The College of Health Solutions faculty displays a high level of research expertise, focused on creating a better future for all. Our faculty are lifelong learners dedicated to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve. Some of their research focuses on:

  • Discovering the impact of the environment and policy on food security and community health.
  • Exploring mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  • Harnessing big data to improve patient outcomes.
  • Incorporating advanced technology to monitor and promote healthy lifestyles.
  • Using state-of-the-art cognitive, behavioral and neuroscience techniques to study the components of human communication.

How to apply

Applicants to the Master of Science in health care administration and policy program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Health Solutions.

An educational institution that partners with leading health care organizations

In the College of Health Solutions, students learn and prepare to become the health workforce of the future. Faculty and students also collaborate to research solutions to pressing global health challenges. Partnerships with the medical community offer students access to professional resources and networking opportunities with Mayo Clinic, Banner Health, HonorHealth, Dignity Health and more.

6,500+


students.

250+


Barrett honors scholars.

160+


faculty members.

$14.5 million


in research expenditures.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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