2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
Choosing one of the cheapest online MHA programs can help you advance into healthcare leadership without excessive debt. All of the accredited schools in our list offer fully online master’s degrees in healthcare administration with annual tuition under $9,600.
Below the rankings, we spotlight standout programs based on meaningful data points, from tuition and graduation rates to student satisfaction and online support. We also interviewed a healthcare recruiter to provide expert insight on the real-world value of an MHA.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for Affordability: Union Commonwealth has the lowest tuition at $5,550.
- Best for Online: Liberty is most popular, with over 45,000 online grad students.
- Best for Student Satisfaction: Waldorf ranks #6 for affordability and receives the highest student rating at 4.47 out of 5.
We manually collect and verify tuition data to ensure accuracy. For full details on our selection criteria and ranking process, visit our methodology. If you're focused on career outcomes, you may also be interested in our list of the best online MHA programs by salary.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Union Commonwealth University | Barbourville (KY) | $5,550 | |
| American College of Education | Chicago (IL) | $5,640 | |
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach (AL) | $6,282 | |
| Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau (MO) | $6,318 | |
| William Woods University | Fulton (MO) | $7,875 | |
| Waldorf University | Forest City (IA) | $8,010 | |
| University of the Potomac | Multiple Locations | $8,100 | |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | Carbondale (IL) | $8,451 | |
| California Intercontinental University | Diamond Bar (CA) | $8,784 | |
| Bowling Green State University - Main Campus | Bowling Green (OH) | $8,855 | |
| University of Missouri | Columbia (MO) | $9,057 | |
| American Public University System | Charles Town (WV) | $9,100 | |
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery (AL) | $9,198 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $9,492 | |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville (KY) | $9,522 |
A Closer Look at the Cheapest Online MHA Programs: What the Data Really Tells Us
Above are the cheapest online MHA programs in the country, with annual tuition starting as low as $5,550. And while low cost is the hook, the real story is in what students get for that investment. The online schools on this list prove that you don’t have to sacrifice quality, support, or outcomes to get a degree you can afford.
Whether you value low tuition, faculty access, earning potential, or flexible formats, there’s something here that fits your priorities. And in a field as complex and fast-changing as healthcare administration, it's important to choose a program that balances affordability with meaningful training.
Let’s explore the top picks in detail — and what the numbers actually mean for your decision.
The True Cost of an Online MHA Degree
Let’s start with the numbers. The top five schools on our list — Union Commonwealth University (UCU), American College of Education (ACE), Columbia Southern University (CSU), Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), and William Woods University (WWU) — all offer full programs under $8,000 per year.
To put that in perspective, the national average for graduate tuition is at public institutions and nearly $30,000 at private ones.
But cheap tuition alone doesn’t make a program valuable. What makes these schools stand out is how they eliminate the hidden costs, too — from waiving application fees and including textbooks in tuition (CSU), to offering generous transfer credit policies (UOTP, CSU, AUM), to completely removing GRE/GMAT requirements (SEMO, Liberty, CU). That’s real money saved, and real time gained.
Online MHA programs primarily attract working adults, career changers, and mid-level professionals looking to move into senior healthcare roles. Many are paying out of pocket or relying on employer tuition assistance. Unlike full-time, campus-based students, online learners aren’t typically living in dorms or deferring other responsibilities — they’re juggling jobs, families, and real-world bills.
Over a two-year program, those savings snowball. A student at UCU could pay roughly $11,100 total, while a counterpart at an average private institution might spend nearly $60,000 — a difference of nearly $50,000. That kind of gap isn’t just budget trivia. It’s life-changing.
Knowing both annual and 2-year tuition totals allows students to budget more effectively. It answers the big question: Can I realistically afford this from start to finish?
In short, the “true cost” of a program isn’t just about tuition. It’s the full picture: How many credits do you need? How fast can you finish? What extra expenses are lurking in the fine print? And it's important to weigh long-term value against upfront costs. So, understanding the true, cumulative cost of their degree is critical.
Online, But Not Alone: Why Support Still Matters
One common worry about online grad programs is the fear of going it alone. But the data from these online schools tell a different story. UCU offers a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, among the top 12% in the country. WWU matches that, and SIUC isn’t far behind at 11:1. These are numbers you’d expect at small private colleges — not at some of the most affordable online programs in the U.S.
And it’s not just about academic ratios. ACE offers 24/7 virtual support and built-in tutoring, while UOTP’s 84% retention rate (top 15% nationally) signals that students feel supported enough to stick with the program. Even better, schools like American Public University System (APUS) and Liberty University offer specialized services for military-affiliated students, adding another layer of personalized assistance.
Students Speak Loudest: Who’s Getting It Right?
When you look at which schools students recommend most, the trend becomes clear: affordable programs with meaningful support win loyalty.
At Waldorf University, an incredible 94% of surveyed students said they would recommend the school, and the University of Missouri goes even further, with a 99% recommendation rate — one of the highest in the nation. Other standouts include Southeast Missouri State University (91%) and California Intercontinental University (86%), showing that even modestly priced programs can deliver exceptional student satisfaction.
At Waldorf University, an incredible 94% of surveyed students said they would recommend the school, and the University of Missouri goes even further, with a 99% recommendation rate — one of the highest in the nation.
But these numbers don’t come out of thin air. At OnlineU, we collect and verify hundreds of firsthand student reviews and survey responses from graduates. While tuition and curriculum details tell one part of the story, student feedback reveals whether a program truly supports, challenges, and delivers on its promises. We believe the people who’ve lived the experience are uniquely qualified to weigh in on what makes a school worth your time and money.
Expert Insights: What Today’s Healthcare Employers Want From MHA Graduates
Founder of Recruit Healthcare
What are the biggest advantages of earning a master’s degree in healthcare administration today?
Three advantages come to mind:
1. The first is the range of tools taught in these advanced programs. The healthcare landscape is shifting fast — with changes in policy, technology, and patient expectations. A strong MHA program should imbue graduates with not just with technical skills, but leadership training, financial acumen, and a systems-level understanding of how care is delivered across departments and populations.
2. Another advantage is access. Many executive-level roles in healthcare organizations now require or strongly prefer candidates with a master’s. So if you’re looking to move from clinical work into administration, or from mid-level management into senior leadership, an MHA can be a key that opens doors.
3. Finally, there's the network. A good graduate program connects you to peers, instructors, and industry leaders. And those relationships can be career-defining in a field that still runs largely on trust and reputation.
What types of career opportunities are available to graduates with an MHA online?
Graduates with an MHA or similar degree can pursue a wide range of careers in healthcare, from hospital and clinic administration to consulting, operations, and policy. Many manage entire health systems, lead small practices, or take roles in public health, insurance, or health tech. Over time, some advance into executive positions like COO or CEO. It’s a versatile degree that opens doors across the industry and offers real potential for growth and impact.
Are there particular healthcare sectors where demand for graduates is especially strong?
As I mentioned earlier, long-term care is growing rapidly due to the aging population, and it needs skilled administrators to manage facilities and staff. But it's not the only booming area. Public health has also gained urgency, with roles focused on community health planning, policy, and crisis response. And health tech is exploding in unseen ways. Startups and established companies alike are looking for leaders who understand both healthcare systems and technology. These sectors offer real opportunity for MHA graduates ready to step in and lead.
What leadership skills do you think are most important for success in healthcare administration today?
I'd focus on adaptability, emotional intelligence, and clear communication. Things change fast in this field, whether it’s new tech, shifting policies, or unexpected crises, and employees have to be ready to pivot. At the same time, they’re working with people under pressure, so being able to lead with empathy really matters. And of course, if you can’t communicate your vision clearly, it’s hard to get anyone on board.
How has the rise of digital health technologies shaped the competencies needed in healthcare leadership roles?
Tech is still largely seen as its own specialization, but this is quickly changing. Soon, it won't be enough to just understand patient care or operations. You'll also need a working knowledge of the tech driving it all. So healthcare leaders must be willing and able to adapt to this new reality.
Are there any certifications you recommend students pursue alongside their degree to boost their career prospects?
I recommend FACHE to someone almost daily... FACHE signals that you’re not only serious about executive leadership but also vetted by one of the most respected organizations in the field.
If you could offer one key piece of advice to someone starting an online MHA program, what would it be?
Treat your online MHA like a professional proving ground, not just a degree.
Don't just log in, complete assignments, and log out. Instead, ask questions, connect with classmates like future colleagues, and share insights like you're already at the executive table. The students who get the most out of an online program are the ones who treat it like practice for their career.
Bottom Line: Affordability With Impact
A master’s in healthcare administration can open doors to leadership roles across hospitals, public health systems, and the fast-growing health tech sector. The schools on this list prove that it’s possible to find high-quality, accredited online MHA programs with tuition well below the national average.
Our team at OnlineU manually verifies tuition data and we also collect student satisfaction metrics so that prospective students can make informed, confident decisions. We also gather direct insights from industry experts because we believe that the voices of students and their employers are essential in evaluating what truly makes a program worthwhile.
With tuition as low as $5,550, the opportunity to pursue your online master's degree in healthcare administration has never been more accessible.
FAQs About Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Master's Degrees
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for an Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration?
The cost of an MHA degree can vary greatly depending on several factors:
- Type of program (online vs. in-person)
- Type of institution (private, public, or for-profit)
- Student’s location, which determines whether they pay the in-state or out-of-state tuition rate
The (NCES) reports that the average graduate school tuition across programs for 2021-2022 was lowest for public schools at $12,596, and highest for private schools at $29,931.
In comparison, our list of the most affordable schools for online MHA programs shows tuition rates that are significantly lower, ranging from $5,550-$9,522 per year, which translates to $11,100- $19,044 for the total cost of a two-year program. However, the degree completion time can vary between two and four years depending on the student’s number of transfer credits and whether they are enrolled part- or full-time in the program.
Students can often save money by pursuing an MHA degree online since on-campus fees are not included in the tuition rate; however, online students may be charged technology or distance learning fees. Some schools offer an exclusive per-credit rate for online students or the same per-credit rate regardless of their location, allowing out-of-state online students to pay the same rate as in-state students. Additionally, many online programs are designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, so students can still earn an income while pursuing their degrees.
How Can I Pay for an Online MHA Program?
MHA students should first submit a FAFSA application for federal financial aid and determine whether they are eligible for institutional aid in the form of grants or scholarships by contacting their school’s financial aid office. If you are currently working, you may consider asking your employer if they offer tuition reimbursement programs to help offset the cost of a graduate degree.
You can also lower the overall cost of an MHA program by applying to schools where you qualify for the reduced, in-state per-credit tuition rate or exclusive per-credit rate for online students. Several schools on our list provide rates specific to online students.
MHA students may be eligible for several scholarships offered by outside organizations, such as the (AUPH). They sponsor several scholarships, including:
- : Awards $5,000 to a graduate student with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Is an Online Master's in Healthcare Administration Worth the Cost?
Deciding whether to pursue a graduate degree is a personal decision that involves many factors, such as your current financial circumstances. You might also weigh your future job satisfaction and the potential return on investment (ROI). ROI is calculated by weighing the total cost of education against the long-term financial benefits of earning your degree. Considering ROI as a metric, earning an online MHA degree is often worth it because graduates can significantly increase their salary potential and career advancement opportunities compared to those with just a bachelor’s degree in the field.
According to the BLS, MHA graduates are qualified for higher-paying positions in the field, with the top 10% of healthcare managers earning . The federal agency also notes that a master’s degree is prevalent among healthcare management professionals and that employers may prefer to hire candidates with more advanced credentials.
Graduates are prepared to enter a job market that is estimated to grow by 29% in the next decade, which is much faster than the average growth rate of 3% for all U.S. occupations. Individuals with a healthcare administration degree can work in various facets of hospital administration that may interest them, ranging from human resources to marketing and finance.
Overall, we think that an online MHA is worth the cost, particularly when considering the affordability of top programs, such as those listed in our ranking above. With annual tuition fees as low as $5,550 at Union College - KY and generous financial aid packages, these programs offer excellent value. Additionally, the flexibility and accessibility of online programs allow students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, making an online MHA a smart investment for career advancement in the healthcare sector.
Student Reviews of Online Healthcare Administration Programs
Attending the University of Phoenix has been a rewarding and enriching experience. The flexibility of the online learning format allowed me to balance my education with full-time work and personal responsibilities which made returning to school a realistic and achievable goal. The instructors were knowledgeable, supportive, and brought real-world experience into the virtual classroom, which added depth to the learning experience. I appreciated the emphasis on collaboration, critical thinking, and... Read More
Review Date: 5/14/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It has been Great so far !!! I love how organized and caring the University of phoenix has been in my journey. The professors are very caring and care about your ability to understand the material. I was nervous at first with online learning but I have all the necessary support to help me succeed. They all have been Awesome!
Review Date: 5/3/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was looking for a college that resonate with my lifestyle, I couldn't stop taking care of my children and stopped working so when I look for accreditation college University of Phoenix was the only school that I found that was convenient for my lifestyle so I recommend anybody if you going through anything sickness or taking care of other people that have children and a job that's under men please consider University of Phoenix
Review Date: 4/21/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Horrible! STAY AWAY!
The flex program is not flexible. You have to submit work every 14 days so if you complete everything but the paper for each assessment, you have to turn it in within the 14days because doing research does not count.
Finical aid is ridiculous. I’m now waiting a month for them to process paperwork and send the finical aid money. They are bugging me for payment but they can’t be bothered to process paperwork in a timely manner. It’s hours on hold over the phone, weeks for response... Read More
Review Date: 7/31/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I found the program to be both convenient and user-friendly. The system was easy to navigate, which made managing assignments, accessing materials, and staying on track with deadlines feel very manageable.
One of the key strengths of the program was the accessibility of academic resources. The online library and supporting tools were straightforward to use and provided a wide range of information that supported my coursework. Whether I needed scholarly articles, books, or research databases,... Read More
Another highlight was how well the program aligned with my current role in my secular job. The curriculum provided opportunities to apply what I was learning in real time, which helped reinforce new knowledge and skills. This connection between academic content and practical application added significant value to my professional development. The flexibility in scheduling also allowed me to balance work, school, and personal commitments effectively.
Overall, I feel the program was thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of working professionals, and I would recommend it to others who are seeking a flexible and impactful educational experience.
Review Date: 7/31/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Love University of Phoenix. I didn't like the group assignments as I work full time and it's hard. Not my favorite. Then again, great school, great professor's, great learning experience. I would do it all again, maybe for my doctorate. I can do it!!!
Review Date: 8/14/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, I found the program to be both convenient and user-friendly. The system was easy to navigate, which made managing assignments, accessing materials, and staying on track with deadlines feel very manageable.
One of the key strengths of the program was the accessibility of academic resources. The online library and supporting tools were straightforward to use and provided a wide range of information that supported my coursework. Whether I needed scholarly articles, books, or research databases,... Read More
Another highlight was how well the program aligned with my current role in my secular job. The curriculum provided opportunities to apply what I was learning in real time, which helped reinforce new knowledge and skills. This connection between academic content and practical application added significant value to my professional development. The flexibility in scheduling also allowed me to balance work, school, and personal commitments effectively.
Overall, I feel the program was thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of working professionals, and I would recommend it to others who are seeking a flexible and impactful educational experience.
Review Date: 7/31/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This has been the best experience of my educational career, and I will recommend UOPX to all my employees who want to pursue it in the future. To have a school that cares is hard to find, and to have professors reach out to you and make sure your ok is priceless.
Review Date: 6/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I’ve graduated from UOPX three times and I’d do it three more times! The program is awesome although it was online. The staff are extremely supportive and work with you hand in hand as if you’re in a classroom setting. The only thing I would change is adding more programs but, besides that, I’d recommend this school to anyone.
Review Date: 4/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am genuinely grateful for my experience at the University of Phoenix. The flexible learning environment and the practical approach to education have equipped me with valuable skills and knowledge that I apply every day in my professional life. The faculty is knowledgeable and supportive, and the curriculum is designed to prepare students for real-world challenges, making the learning experience engaging and relevant.
However, I have encountered a challenge in the job market that I feel compelled... Read More
This situation has been frustrating, as I am genuinely passionate about the roles I apply for and eager to contribute my expertise to any organization. While I appreciate the value of my education, it seems that some employers are hesitant to see how my qualifications can benefit their teams.
Overall, I love the University of Phoenix and the education I received, but I hope that employers can recognize the potential in candidates like me who are eager to bring their knowledge and experience to the workplace, rather than viewing us solely through the lens of our qualifications.
Review Date: 4/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After researching various options to complete my degree, I chose the University of Phoenix's Competency-Based path because the curriculum is flexible enough to accommodate my professional and personal schedule. The support and coaching from the entire team kept me motivated and accountable for completing the required coursework. They were true to their word, as the coursework is relevant and applicable to my job.
Review Date: 4/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall the school is very good in the professor are nice when it comes to the administration it suck they only care about self I have been going through something in it’s like you reach out to the administrators for help they seems to be concern but deep down inside they are not I probably have less then six months on my last class in all they keep saying is try to come up with some money remind you I’m not working had to use my disbursement for medical bills but it’s ok I’m going to try to finish... Read More
Review Date: 5/14/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
During my capstone class, my final assignment grade was MA. My final class grade was MA. All of my class grades were MA. Five days after that last grade was posted, it was changed to NM. I got a message from the instructor that my comp 3 grade was changed after consulting with the program chair, stating a video presentation was required. I had submitted a video presentation. It stated the voice over presentation did not meet the standard. The rubric did not state that the student needed to be seen... Read More
Review Date: 6/6/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience was okay except for in the financial aid side. Several of my loans were sent back without prior notification. This caused me much distress as the loan was not used due to expenses of attending school. My education was useful. I will benefit from the education.
Review Date: 6/11/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
Classes are very informative. Lectures are very interesting in your performance and good team building with the rest of the students. I also love how much it has helped me build my moral status and confidence in my career. Each classes work with your schedule and makes it easy to learn.
Review Date: 6/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience with this school was positive, the professors were very responsive, providing adequate guidance. They responded to questions and provided timely feedback on assignments. The advisors reached out to check in even when I brushed them off. They were interested in how I was doing personally and academically. On the few occasions I called, I was able to reach a live person. The subject matter provided is applicable to my career, overall a positive experience. In this school you get what... Read More
Review Date: 6/12/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
A great university everyone should be proud of! They made me who I I’m today. Thanks Purdue Global University. Professors are great listeners! I enjoyed all the discussion engagements because they allowed students to have an opportunity to express themselves. I would recommend all those interested to apply to the institution because they will never go wrong.
Review Date: 10/31/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Many mixed reviews about UoP. I may be in a different position than most others. I enrolled in the MHA program for self growth, not for career advancement. I am currently finishing the MHA program, capstone project. I have taken 11 on line courses and have to say have learned a great deal, even though I have been in healthcare leadership for 35+ years. The learning experience has been fun as I have been able to study on my own time and not be tied to a strict program that requires class attendance.... Read More
Review Date: 5/5/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Purdue global is the best online University for anyone to attend to begin their masters or their bachelors degree. I recommend the school. You take two classes and then you’re done in no time. Advisers and professors are always there to help you out no matter what. They give you a lot of ways or reaching them and so much resources to achieve your goals and finish assignments. I almost gave up in my masters program until my advisor stepped in and turned everything around for me in a positive way.... Read More
Review Date: 4/25/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
At first, like many, I was very skeptical about taking online classes. I had finished my bachelors at a traditional 4yr school so online courses didn't really seem like they would be helpful. Boy was I wrong! CSU-global is organized, professors are attentive, and the learning experience is a lot better than the traditional in a class setting. A week's worth of work: 1 discussion post (must always have scholarly articles for support), two responses to classmates, and typically a 5pg paper. I'm working... Read More
Another awesome perk
1. Resume Review- you literally submit your resume a professor reviews it and send you the edits you need to make
2. Internship: You can interchange a class for a course! great opportunity
3. Financial aid is responsive, organized
4. THE PRICE!!! You're not being charged an arm and a leg to further your education.
5. Scholarship opportunity- honestly haven't taken advantage of this but they do have excellent opportunities
This is only my 4th class with the school, so I will edit my review as I progress with my education. I wanted to post this review because as I was searching for the right college, I stumbled upon this site, which prevented me from starting a lot sooner. If you see the trend in the bad reviews its really just because of the work, why would you expect it to be easy? If something is just handed to you, is it worth earning? Stay committed, and think what will be the ROI if I go to this school.
Review Date: 7/10/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes