Following our list of the cheapest online healthcare administration degrees, we take a deeper dive into what sets these programs apart. These programs offer cost-effective pathways into the rapidly growing healthcare management field. By evaluating tuition costs, career outcomes, salary potential, and program structure, you can find an option that aligns with your professional aspirations.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for Affordability: California Coast University ($5,100) and Middle Georgia State University ($5,220) offer the lowest yearly tuition rates.
- Best for Salary Outcomes: New England College ($73,366, 98th percentile nationally) and Charter Oak State College ($68,718, 95th percentile) lead in post-graduate earnings.
- Best for Career Flexibility: CSU Global and Southeast Missouri State University provide business-focused degrees that translate well across industries.
- Best for Online Popularity: American Public University System (39,206 online students) stands out for its robust online infrastructure.
Manual research is conducted to verify tuition rates, ensuring accuracy. For detailed criteria, please visit our methodology page.
2025 Most Affordable Healthcare Administration Degrees Online
A Data-Driven Approach to The Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Bachelor’s Degrees
At the top of the list for affordability is California Coast University (CCU), with an exceptionally low tuition of $5,100. For healthcare administration majors seeking an affordable path to their degree, CCU’s 92% recommendation rate and strong 4.42/5 review score indicate high student satisfaction. However, the school does not report salary data or graduation rates, making it difficult to assess long-term career prospects — a helpful factor in a field where salary outcomes vary based on healthcare sector, management level, and specialization.
Middle Georgia State University (MGSU) follows closely with tuition at $5,220 and more transparency on graduate earnings ($40,111). Since salaries in healthcare administration can range significantly depending on job setting (hospitals, insurance companies, or private clinics), this figure provides a useful benchmark for assessing financial viability. Additionally, MGSU’s nearly 99% financial aid rate makes it a more accessible choice for students looking to advance into higher-paying roles through certifications or graduate degrees in health management.
Other affordable options, such as the University of West Florida (UWF) and the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), have slightly higher tuition but offer stronger retention rates (85% at UWF, 66% at UTPB) and better graduation rates. We believe these indicators suggest better institutional support for long-term career success.
Earnings Potential and Career Considerations in Healthcare Administration
For healthcare administration majors, salary potential is often a key factor in choosing a program, especially when considering how different degree types align with various career paths. Unlike clinical healthcare degrees, healthcare administration degrees prepare students for leadership roles in hospitals, insurance companies, government agencies, and long-term care facilities. However, not all programs offer the same career trajectory, and earnings can vary significantly based on the type of degree earned and the setting in which graduates work.
Looking at our rankings, schools like Charter Oak State College and New England College (NEC) stand out for high post-graduate salaries. Charter Oak students report a median salary of $68,718, placing them in the 95th percentile nationwide (the top 5%), while New England College graduates earn a median of $73,366, ranking in the 98th percentile (the top 2%). This means graduates from these programs earn more than 95% and 98% of those with similar degrees, respectively.
Each of these schools indicate a high return on investment for health administration students, despite slightly higher tuition costs ($9,870 at Charter Oak and $11,250 at NEC). These programs may be particularly appealing for students looking to enter hospital administration, healthcare consulting, or executive leadership roles. which are the fields that tend to offer the highest salaries in the industry.
Other institutions, like Columbia Southern and American Public University System (APUS), also report competitive earnings. CSU graduates earn a median salary of $50,101, while APUS students earn $60,675, ranking in the 83rd percentile nationwide. These earnings suggest that APUS graduates are positioned well within the field, likely benefiting from the university's emphasis on healthcare leadership and management.
Healthcare Administration Degree Type and Career Trajectories
Not all programs on this list are structured the same way, and that can have implications for career pathways and potential earnings.
Most schools offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in healthcare administration, which focuses on management skills and business principles applied to healthcare settings. This is the most traditional degree for students looking to become hospital administrators, health services managers, or medical office directors. However, some schools offer different degree pathways.
Here's an overview so you can better understand your options:
Business Administration with a Healthcare Focus
Schools like Southeast Missouri (BSBA in Healthcare Administration) and Shawnee State (BSBA in Healthcare Administration) integrate healthcare-specific coursework into a traditional business degree. These degrees may provide more flexibility in cross-industry management roles, allowing graduates to pursue general business leadership positions in addition to healthcare-specific jobs.
Applied Arts and Sciences Degrees
The University of Texas Permian Basin (BAAS in Healthcare Leadership) caters to students with prior technical or applied associate degrees (e.g., paramedics, medical assistants, or other allied health professionals). This degree builds on existing credentials to advance careers into supervisory roles.
Health Information and Informatics Degrees
Some programs, like University of Arkansas Grantham’s BS in Health Information Management, emphasize data management, compliance, and IT in healthcare — ideal for students interested in healthcare technology and regulatory roles.
Specialized Healthcare Administration Degrees
Some schools offer niche specializations, such as Regent University’s nursing home administration program, which aligns specifically with long-term care leadership and licensing requirements.
The median salaries used in the graph above and mentioned throughout my analysis are based on proprietary salary data. As the graph shows, these variations in degree type can influence salary potential and career mobility. For example, students in health information management or IT-focused degrees may see higher earning potential in data-heavy roles, while those in Nursing Home Administration or Applied Leadership tracks may be preparing for industry-specific licensure rather than broad healthcare management.
The Verdict: What Matters Most?
Ultimately, the best program depends on a student's priorities. If cheap tuition is the top concern, CCU and MGSU lead the rankings. Finding the best online healthcare administration program likely means balancing affordability, support, and career-focused options.
Large schools like Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU; 135,584 distance learners) and APUS (39,206 distance learners) offer strong online learning infrastructure but have higher student-faculty ratios (24:1 at APUS, 28:1 at CSU), which may limit personalized support. If direct faculty interaction matters to you, smaller programs like Aspen University (5:1) and Trine University (8:1) provide more instructor engagement due to their low student-to-faculty ratios.
Specializations can also shape your career path:
- MGSU offers concentrations in Practice/Clinical Management, Long-Term Care Administration, and Sports & Fitness Management.
- UNOH’s 2+2 model lets you earn an associate degree before moving into a bachelor’s.
- Regent stands out with its faith-based approach and a focus on nursing home administration.
- Shawnee State and CSU Global offer tracks in Public Health and Long-Term Care Administration, ideal for roles in government, senior care, or health policy.
Understanding these differences helps you find the best fit for your career goals. By considering tuition, student support, career outcomes, and program offerings together, students can make an informed decision tailored to their financial and professional goals.
FAQs for Affordable Online Healthcare Administrations Degrees
Is an Online Degree in Healthcare Administration Worth It?
An online bachelor's in healthcare administration can be a valuable investment, especially for those interested in leadership roles within the healthcare industry. The field offers , with medical and health services managers earning a median salary of $110,680 per year.
Even entry-level administrators often earn six figures, working in diverse settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. Additionally, jobs in this field are expected to grow by a whopping 29% though 2033, creating approximately 61,400 openings per year.
One of the key advantages of this degree is its industry-specific focus on healthcare operations, management, and finance — subjects well-suited for online learning. The online format can also provide greater affordability and flexibility compared to traditional programs.
To determine if healthcare administration is a good fit, consider your skills, career goals, and financial situation. Professionals in this field often possess strong decision-making, critical thinking, and communication skills. The role typically involves coordinating teams, evaluating operations, guiding staff, and working with healthcare information systems. So, if you’re drawn to leadership, enjoy problem-solving, and want to contribute to healthcare without direct patient care, an online bachelor's in healthcare administration can be a smart and rewarding choice.
What Courses Are Included in an Online Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?
A bachelor's in healthcare administration online includes courses that blend business management principles with healthcare-specific policies, technology, and ethics. These programs focus on preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare facilities, covering critical topics such as healthcare operations, finance, and regulations.
Common courses include the following:
- Contemporary Issues in Healthcare, where students analyze real-world case studies on industry challenges and policy debates.
- Healthcare Information Systems introduces the technology used for patient records and data security.
- Healthcare Policy and Economics examines how financial factors and legislation impact healthcare delivery, while Insurance and Managed Healthcare provides hands-on training in medical billing, coding, and insurance claims.
- Finally, Medical Law and Ethics explores legal responsibilities and ethical decision-making in patient care.
These courses ensure graduates are well-versed in healthcare management, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate this growing field effectively.
How Can I Fund an Online Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration?
Funding an online bachelor's in healthcare administration requires careful planning, but students have multiple options to reduce costs.
Tuition varies widely, but online programs can lower expenses by eliminating costs for housing and transportation. Considering the strong earning potential I mentioned above, this degree clearly offers a solid return on investment.
The best funding sources include grants, scholarships, and work-study programs, as they don’t require repayment. Federal student loans are also preferable to private loans due to lower interest rates. To access financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Students majoring in healthcare administration can also apply for industry-specific scholarships. For this field, a good place to start is looking into the AHIMA Foundation Merit Scholarship and the Medical Group Management Association Scholarships. Prospective students should also consult their school's financial aid office for additional funding opportunities.
Student Reviews of Online Healthcare Administration Programs
Staff has been great with getting me signed up and making it easy. Love that I can take classes one at a time. Classes have been great, they keep you engaged weekly and professors are also really good about staying in contact with students or finding ways to easily get in communication with them.
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The classes are really accommodating for a working person. The classes are relevant to my everyday work and I know that my education will aide me in my future career endeavors. I have been able to apply relevant information from classes to my everyday in my current employment
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great school, with great teachers, and it’s really convenient to have the classes all online so I can do my homework around my work schedule. They’re all really helpful too, whenever I had to reach out to them for anything. It’s been a great experience so far.
Review Date: 7/10/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at the University of Phoenix has been truly transformative, and I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a flexible, supportive learning environment. The online platform allowed me to balance my coursework with other responsibilities, and the interactive nature of the classes keeps me engaged and connected with my peers and instructors. I thoroughly enjoy the diverse range of courses offered at UOPX. Each course offers valuable insights into various disciplines and encourages critical... Read More
Review Date: 6/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Very easy to enroll in. Very easy to navigate online classes. Staff is great and always there to lend a hand. Will help you find what your financial need so you can be successful wonderful all around scholarship opportunities and more I promise you want regret
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am very pleased with my experience so far. Everyone has been excellent and answered any questions I have. The courses have been easy to navigate and understand. The professors that I have had so far, have been great and super helpful. I would recommend University of Phoenix.
Review Date: 5/1/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been in the online Health Care Administration program for a year and a half now and it has been amazing. The flexibility this degree offers works well with the work life balance. I currently am working fulltime as a Clinical Nurse Manger and my schooling flows well with my schedule. Everyone that I have reached out to in the business office to my professors have always been very responsive and detailed also responding in a timely manner. I really like how all my professors have given us students... Read More
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Returning to the University of Phoenix has been a truly rewarding experience. This time around, I find myself more engaged, more focused, and genuinely enjoying the learning process. The structure of the courses, the accessibility of the resources, and the encouragement from both peers and faculty have made a major difference in my academic journey.
What stands out the most is the staff, they truly seem invested in your success. From instructors to support personnel, there’s a consistent effort to... Read More
I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my education in an environment that feels both professional and personal. I would definitely recommend the University of Phoenix to anyone looking for flexibility, support, and a renewed sense of purpose in their academic goals.
Review Date: 7/17/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hello, This college is not a very good school. They really don't give a care about where you are when it comes to the disputes, and I believe this college is based on just funding alone. I would not consider this school, I have received my associate degree at another University. They have always taught me how to do PowerPoint presentations and I never made below a c. This was crazy when I had a instructor that was always talked about how her grade appeals. This really made me realized this is not... Read More
Review Date: 10/21/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have used Phoenix for 2 degrees Associate & Bachelor's which I found very helpful with raising kids & working at the same time. The online sessions were easy to complete and navigate. I found resources that were handy a readily when readily needed. I
Review Date: 4/21/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am so perplexed by the negative reviews. The online courses are as expected, meaning, you must self-motivate to get it done! All my instructors so far have been nothing but supportive and willing to help. I have one year left and I would recommend the online programs to anyone. Being able to self-direct is key and if you can't do that, you will fail.
Review Date: 8/16/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I tried to get a degree from Ashworth to better my life, and do better for myself and my family. I ended up having to take care of my injured grandfather for nine months, and then help him with a severe burn that he got for another six months. During this time, my grandfather and I ended up getting Covid multiple times. When I asked Ashworth for an extension on my degrees due to everything that has been happening, I was denied any extension. I was told when I signed up with this program that if anything... Read More
Review Date: 1/4/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
As a working mother, I thought school wouldn't be possible for me while still getting to spend time with my family. Pressure global not only made it possible, but easy as far as balancing my school life, work life, and family time. Bring able to not only achieve my dream, but to show my kids that anything is possible, has meant the world to me. Pressure global made it all possible. You're never too old or too busy to go back to school
Review Date: 1/5/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, I would recommend SLU. I have graduated with my AA in Criminal Justice & my BS in Health Care Administration. Overall, my professors have been understanding and accommodating with the different life events that occurred during my duration of coursework. I really like how the coursework is posted in advance so that you can plan ahead and that instructors do not grade too harshly (although some do). I liked how there weren't any proctored exams either!
Review Date: 5/16/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
None at this time. Financial aid is a nightmare and there is nothing out there to help single mothers attend college while working. I would not attend this school in the future or recommend anyone to attend as a new student. ……………………………………………………. ………
Review Date: 5/17/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I can’t say enough good things about this school. My advisor was great and very knowledgeable and my instructors even more so! Everyone was super helpful and answered all my questions. All of the schoolwork can easily be translated into real world skills and often times I found myself studying exactly what I was being tasked to do at work! 10/100 could not be better!!
Review Date: 4/6/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was extremely happy with the excel trac program. It made going back to school and a full time working mother of 2 possible. I was able to apply a great deal of my real life experience which made the material matter I wish there was an excellent Trac for the masters in heathcare admin because I would definitely pursue it.
Review Date: 6/21/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
During my time here at ECPI University I have grown so much . The flexibility of scheduling and the small class size so you can actually have a one on one with your professor’s helped me a lot as well . Everything that I learned during school I am currently using in the field as I landed a job in my field of study.
Review Date: 7/10/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I believe that Purdue only employs the best, most knowledgeable instructors. They are always available to help every step of the way. I enjoyed every assignment submitted because this coursework is built on "real life" scenarios, and not once felt like a waste of time or energy!
Review Date: 9/6/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was able to complete 60 credit hours in less than a year with Purdue University Global. All of my professors were excellent and were very thorough in their teaching and grading. I would highly recommend PG for anyone wanting to complete their bachelors on their own time frame with excellent teaching.
Review Date: 12/29/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No