Most Popular Online Associate Degrees in Healthcare Administration
Our list of popular online associate degrees in healthcare administration prepare you for entry-level roles in today’s fast-paced healthcare system. Our rankings highlight accredited schools with the most successful healthcare administration associate graduates, helping you find trusted, high-demand programs backed by strong student outcomes.
Key Takeaways:
- Pima Medical Institute ranks #1 reflecting strong student success, with over 250 graduates from its online AAS in Health Care Administration.
- Wake Technical Community College currently enrolls over 10,000 online students, another metric for gauging a school's popularity.
- Bryan University Online boasts a 94% recommendation rate.
For full details, see our methodology. We also interviewed a healthcare executive, who shared insights about the impact this degree can have.
Most Popular Online Associate Degrees in Healthcare Administration
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pima Medical Institute | 253 | N/A | $43,456 | 100% | |
| Monroe University | 103 | $42,300 | $42,432 | 95% | |
| Bryan University Online | 100 | $12,185 | $35,113 | 94% | |
| Ultimate Medical Academy | 82 | $14,250 | $28,720 | 88% | |
| Wake Technical Community College | 78 | $6,432 | $36,047 | 75% | |
| Bryant & Stratton College Online | 48 | $20,160 | $36,619 | 63% | |
| Gaston College | 29 | $8,040 | $32,171 | N/A | |
| Florida National University | 21 | $21,000 | $38,246 | 100% | |
| Community Care College | 21 | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
| Rochester Community and Technical College | 18 | $6,464 | $49,258 | N/A | |
| Columbus State Community College | 14 | $10,294 | N/A | 100% | |
| Berkeley College | 12 | $27,900 | $38,595 | N/A | |
| Randolph Community College | 11 | $8,576 | N/A | 60% | |
| Terra State Community College | 9 | $9,312 | $33,836 | N/A | |
| Laramie County Community College | 9 | $10,912 | $38,521 | N/A |
Most Popular Online Associate Degrees in Healthcare Administration: A Closer Look at What the Data Reveals
In a field where efficiency, organization, and adaptability are key, online associate degrees in healthcare administration offer a practical route to immediate employment and long-term growth. Our list of the 15 most popular online associate programs is based on the number of graduates from each school, a metric that signals trust in the healthcare job market.
If a program consistently graduates a high volume of students, that’s often a sign of strong advising, career alignment, and learner satisfaction.
We believe popularity matters. It indicates a program's maturity, online infrastructure, and institutional support. If a program consistently graduates a high volume of students, that’s often a sign of strong advising, career alignment, and learner satisfaction. That’s why our rankings prioritize graduate count, but we also want to factor in other aspects, like student recommendation rates, which is informed by over 75,000 surveys collected from real students.
Let’s explore what makes these top programs stand out and what the industry professionals have to say.
Pima Medical Institute and Monroe College Lead the Pack in Graduate Success
Pima Medical Institute tops our list with 253 graduates, thanks to its deeply integrated healthcare curriculum and smooth transfer pathways to bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It’s more than just popular — it’s effective. PMI graduates report median earnings in the top 28% nationally in this field ($38,833 a few years after graduation), and the program includes modules on project management and healthcare economics, typically reserved for more advanced degrees.
Monroe College, ranked second, also hits the sweet spot between popularity and earning potential. With graduates earning median salaries in the top 28% ($38,830) and a 90% recommendation rate from students, Monroe’s career-focused approach and proximity to major NYC hospitals give it a unique advantage. Accelerated pacing (as little as 18 months) and a well-connected alumni network strengthen its real-world appeal.
Student Satisfaction Stars: Bryan University and Ultimate Medical Academy
Bryan University Online is a standout in student experience, boasting a 4.62 out of 5 rating and a 94% recommendation rate. It delivers practical coursework like project management and EMR systems, and the accelerated format (completion in under a year) is ideal for adult learners seeking quick career transitions. It also has over 2,000 online enrollees currently, another strong data point showing school-wide popularity.
Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) shows how a mission-focused curriculum can result in strong engagement. Its A.S. in Healthcare Accounting boasts 65 graduates last year while the school achieved an 89% recommendation rate from its students. UMA’s standout features are its rolling admissions and capped class sizes. We also believe its one-on-one support services make it ideal for first-time or returning students.
Online learners frequently cite the importance of feeling guided, not isolated. For many, this support came in the form of advisors, coaches, and professors who were consistently present and responsive.
At Bryan University Online, 2024 graduate Catlyn Newsom summed it up simply: “Success coaches work alongside the professors, and they all want you to achieve your very best!” Ronnie Marie, class of 2023, echoed that sentiment: “You are walked through everything… there is always, always someone willing to help.”
Students at Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) offered similar praise. Rachel Gallow, who will graduate in 2025, wrote, “My advisor is with me every step I take… whenever I get stuck, my instructors are there to help.” Amanda Lane (2026) also noted the school’s “encouraging and helpful” staff, adding, “I couldn't have chosen a better school to prep me for my future career.”
Adrianna Taylor (UMA, 2024) called her healthcare program “lڱ-ԲԲ,” stating, “They all help you succeed. I'm a mother of 3 boys and they are so proud that I'm back at school.” That level of real-life integration speaks to the program’s accessibility and relevance.
These stories reveal how impactful a dedicated support structure can be, especially for working adults or first-generation college students navigating online schools for the first time.
Career-Driven Healthcare Administration Programs with Real-World Relevance
Top online healthcare administration associate programs increasingly emphasize practical learning, industry-recognized credentials, and career mobility.
At Wake Technical Community College, students join one of the largest online healthcare learning communities in the country. The program’s blend of technical training and interpersonal development supports paths in billing, records, and office coordination, while also preparing students for certification exams.
Bryant & Stratton College Online pairs its virtual engagement with a 90-hour internship requirement — a rare, hands-on feature for online students. Its stackable format lets learners transition from diploma to associate to bachelor’s degrees without transferring schools, reinforcing long-term academic continuity. Community Care College offers an internship as well, but it's a virtual one, directly tied to placements at major regional healthcare providers.
Columbus State Community College is notable for their employer-aligned, practice-based models. It blends online flexibility with 180 hours of in-field experience, giving students a bridge between classroom learning and on-the-ground healthcare settings.
Together, these programs demonstrate a clear trend: today’s strongest online associate degrees in healthcare administration include hands-on, workforce-ready experiences, making them well suited for students seeking both immediate employment and longer-term career growth.
“You Don’t Need a Title to Lead”: How an Associate Degree Can Launch a Healthcare Administration Career
MPH, FACC, Healthcare Executive
What are typical job titles or roles students can expect to qualify for after completing a healthcare associate degree online?
"You’re probably not hearing 'Heart & Vascular Service Line Director' every day, but that started with smaller steps.
With an associate’s degree, you could become a medical office assistant, patient access specialist, scheduler, billing coordinator, or practice administrator. These are real jobs where you’re solving problems, helping people, and learning the system from the inside. And guess what? Those jobs can lead to bigger roles in clinics, hospitals, or even public health, especially if you like building relationships and improving how care gets delivered."
How important is hands-on experience to complement online learning?
"Huge. Hands-on experience is where you build confidence. It’s like learning to drive — reading about it is one thing, getting behind the wheel is another. Shadowing in a clinic, volunteering at a hospital, or even working part-time in a medical office teaches you how a real healthcare team works, and it shows future employers you’re serious."
What courses or subjects tend to be most useful in preparing for real-world administrative tasks?
"Think practical: medical terminology, electronic health records (EHR), scheduling systems, insurance and billing, and even customer service skills. Communication classes help too because leadership starts with listening.
I started out writing newsletters, and now I lead a major service line. You never know what skills will come in handy."
Do most students use this degree to enter the workforce or as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s?
"Both! Some students take this degree and jump right into the workforce. Others use it as a stepping stone. What matters is that either way, you’re learning what you like, getting your foot in the door, and building your future one step at a time. You don’t have to have it all figured out right now."
I always tell students- you don’t need to be a doctor to make a difference in healthcare.
How does this degree compare to a certificate in healthcare administration?
"Good question. A certificate can get you in the door faster. It’s usually shorter and more focused on one skill set. But a degree gives you more depth and can open more doors long-term. Employers often see a degree as proof that you can stick with something hard and learn new things."
What technical skills are most in demand?
"If you know how to use Epic, Cerner, or Athenahealth, you’re ahead of the game. Understanding how to schedule appointments, work with insurance and billing systems, and use EHRs to manage patient records — those are golden. And it’s okay if you don’t know them yet, you’ll learn. What matters most is your willingness to keep learning."
What advice would you give to someone using this degree to transition out of clinical work?
"Start with what you already know. You’ve seen the frontlines [and] you know how healthcare really works. Now, use that insight to lead from a different seat.
You don’t need a title to lead. You already understand patients and teams. [Now] build on that with business and operations knowledge. I always tell students- you don’t need to be a doctor to make a difference in healthcare."
Final Takeaways
The healthcare field is evolving rapidly and so are the paths into it. These popular online associate degrees reflect a growing demand for skilled professionals who understand both the human and operational sides of care.
Whether you're a first-time college student, a working parent, or transitioning out of clinical work, the right associate program can position you to lead, support, and grow within healthcare systems that need you.
From personalized advising to built-in internships, these programs are designed to build practical skills and career momentum. Who knows? Maybe one day you'll be looking at our list of the best online bachelor's in healthcare administration or even our list of the best online doctoral programs in healthcare administration.
Student Reviews of Online Healthcare Administration Programs
I have found that UoP was the right fit for me. One class for 5 weeks makes it so much easier to be able to balance life and school. I would definitely recommend UoP to anyone that is interested in furthering their career or just taking classes to further yourself within your career. I have found myself graduating one day and started my bachelor's the next because I know that UoP will be there to help you if you need anything.
Review Date: 8/4/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have found that UoP was the right fit for me. One class for 5 weeks makes it so much easier to be able to balance life and school. I would definitely recommend UoP to anyone that is interested in furthering their career or just taking classes to further yourself within your career. I have found myself graduating one day and started my bachelor's the next because I know that UoP will be there to help you if you need anything.
Review Date: 8/4/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience has been AMAZING! Since the being of the program I have been greeted with encouragement by my instructors but also my school administrators! I really enjoy my program and I would love to spread the word to others that are looking to further their education.
Review Date: 4/15/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
They want to make sure that the students attending UMA thrive and succeed! They provide helpful tools and have assistance available for the students if they needed! They work together as a whole and give great support for their students to make their journey easier and they are equipped for the career that they have chosen!
Review Date: 5/6/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I really love going to UMA it's very easy great staff my advisor is with me every step I take she reach out to me and whenever I get stuck my instructors or there to help every all I would recommend that anyone attend UMA. I can't wait till I graduate in 2025 and even then I still will have UMA to thank for not letting me give up on my dreams.
Review Date: 10/31/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at UMA has been exceptional. My teachers are truly invested in my education. Ensuring that I receive the knowledge that I need to become successful in my future career. The whole UMA staff has been phenomenal since I started back in September.
Review Date: 1/23/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school has such a wonderful staff and students. Even though I am online I feel at home with this school. I was struggling at my last school with staying in school and when I applied to this one it changed my mind about online schools. I couldn't ask for a better school and staff backing me.
Review Date: 5/21/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall I love Ultimate Medical Academy! I made the dean list with gpa of 4.0! My instructor and advisor have been so helpful. UMA provides plenty of resources for students to use as well as resources for things in their community. I am going to recommend everyone to this academy.
Review Date: 7/29/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UMA is a great school to attend for us busy moms! The work is easy and UMA has so much to offer to help guide you through your time at UMA.The courses are informative and doable. As an online student, UMA has provided so much for me such as a laptop. Enrolling into this school is one of the best decision I’ve made this far for me and my family.
Review Date: 7/30/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The school is amazing. They meet your every need. Such as if you need help with class, or need a counselor to talk to about your problems. UMA welcomes you in as family and that’s the dope part about it. They literally motivate you, call to check on you and make sure you’re on top of things. I wish in the past I would have came to UMA. This college is so amazing I love it with all my heart. I’m so glad I’m apart of the family.
Review Date: 8/20/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Appreciate the contact to keep you on track. Easy way to use academic services. How easy it is to get in contact wit your instructors. The use of the Uma library. The live chat feature. The person phone calls to help keep you on track. Then if you have a support team of family and friends is even better.
Review Date: 9/3/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Everyone involved with my journey at the University of Phoenix helped me. The instructors were always available if I had questions or needed tutoring to complete work to graduate. I loved that no matter the class sizes, the instructors still had time to do one one if needed.
Sincerely, Sandy Willis
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been to many schools and the day I found UMA was the day my life changed. The staff here cares and it shows they are family without having the same DNA. As a child i was diagnosed with a learning disability and nothing stayed in my head. I took math before at another school and didn't have a clue on how to do any of it, so I even had to stop going, but here I passed math with an A. I have never been so happy and proud to go to school. Suffering from depression Janelle NEVER left my side days... Read More
Review Date: 5/21/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Bryant and Stratton College online program offers a flexible and convenient way for students to earn their degree without having to attend classes on campus. The online program provides access to a variety of courses and degree programs that are designed to meet the needs of working adults.
The online platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate. I had access to all the necessary resources, including course materials, lectures, and assignments. The online program also offers virtual tutoring, career... Read More
The faculty members at Bryant and Stratton College are knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated to helping students succeed in their academic and professional pursuits. They provide personalized attention and support, making sure I received the help needed to achieve my goals.
Overall, Bryant and Stratton College online program is an excellent option for students who want to earn their degree in a flexible and convenient way. The program offers high-quality education, personalized support, and a wide range of courses and programs, making it a great choice for anyone looking to advance their career or pursue their educational goals.
Review Date: 5/4/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
All around a good program! I feel being able to do school online, you can still focus on your current job and other activities. All the instructors were nice to work with and felt the work was laid out nice. I would improve when having an assignment due with revisions instructors would grade faster so you are not rushed to get it done the next week.
Review Date: 10/18/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
After stumbling onto a TikTok I encountered one of my best decisions. Choosing UMA has returned me back to school and has given me so many personal tips from the classes i’ve taken so far. All in all I feel welcome here even though I can’t see my advisor I know him.
Review Date: 12/9/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I absolutely love UMA. It is a school that cares about their students. They're staff is excellent. The course work is amazing. There is a lot of information that you are given to be able to succeed in your career of choice. Student advisors in admissions is wonderful.
Review Date: 8/22/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UMA has been such a blessing for me. Everyone on the staff has been so helpful and encouraging. The courses can be tough but there are so many resources for students to reach out to that there is no way you can fail unless you just don't try. Thank you so much UMA for helping me to reach my career goals!
Review Date: 4/17/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UMA is by far one of the most best schools around to enroll into. The instructors, advisors and classmates are all friendly and helpful. The courses are easy to understand and your provided with everything you need right at your finger tips. If you have never heard of your attended UMA please join today there are numerous of different career to choose from in the medical field with an early graduation date.
Review Date: 7/31/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I LOVE this school! This has been the best experience ever! There is always someone available to help you with whatever you need! My instructors have been very good with emailing me back very quickly! I also enjoy the discussion boards very helpful and insightful to read information from your fellow classmates!
Review Date: 5/9/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No