Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

Interested in earning a healthcare administration degree? Learn about affordable healthcare administration programs that fit your background and interests.
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Updated March 18, 2024

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Many schools offer online bachelor's in healthcare administration degrees that train learners for careers as healthcare administrators.

These professionals perform administrative tasks to ensure hospitals, long-term care centers, and medical offices run smoothly. They oversee budgets, coordinate work schedules, and set goals for medical organizations.

Our ranking includes some of the cheapest online healthcare administration degrees. Learn about costs, common classes, and how to become a healthcare administrator.

Popular Online Healthcare Administration Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees

#1 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $330
Out-of-State | $330

Credits to Graduate: 120

SNHU's online BS in healthcare administration meets the Association of University Programs in Health Administration's (AUPHA) curriculum standards. The program offers two concentration options: health information management and patient safety and quality. 

SNHU awards credit for relevant work experience along with transfer credits from previous training. The asynchronous eight-week classes provide more freedom to study around students' work schedules. SNHU also offers a 30% discount to active duty U.S. service members and their spouses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
145,533
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $649

Credits to Graduate: 120

FIU's online bachelor of health services administration adheres to the program standards laid out by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA). The program offers multiple annual start dates and online classes that run asynchronously to accommodate students. 

The program covers core topics in the legal aspects of healthcare and healthcare financial management. Once enrolled, students gain access to one-on-one support and financial aid. Florida residents without family contributions can qualify for 100% tuition coverage through the Golden Promise.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $179
Out-of-State | $716

Credits to Graduate: 120

In UCF's online BS in health services administration, learners explore the healthcare system, including its various organizations, challenges, and economics. Online classes at UCF run asynchronously, synchronously, or a mix of the two modes. 

To help students cover your tuition costs, UCF offers numerous financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. For online enrollees, UCF also waives several educational fees, including technology, health, athletic, and activity and service fees. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $280
Out-of-State | $371

Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter credits

Purdue's online BS in healthcare administration students complete courses in healthcare information systems and leadership and a practical capstone project to end the program. Learners can also complete an optional internship along the way. The online program features monthly start dates and asynchronous or synchronous online classes.

Purdue offers several cost-saving opportunities, including military and in-state discounts and work experience transfer credits. Program graduates looking to continue their education can pursue the accelerated master's pathway. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,730
Out-of-state
$9,700
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43,458
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

CUNY New York City College of Technology

  • Brooklyn, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $305
Out-of-State | $350

Credits to Graduate: 120

In City Tech's online BS in health services administration, existing healthcare professionals can build on their previous education and conveniently earn a bachelor's degree. To accommodate working students, the online classes run during the evenings and on weekends. Learners can also choose to take an internship as part of their elective requirements.

Applicants need an associate degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, a healthcare license, or two years of relevant work experience for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
14,277
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

University of North Florida

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $213
Out-of-State | $693

Credits to Graduate: 120

In UNF's online bachelor of health administration (BHA), students can take the general program pathway or pursue an aging services concentration. Both tracks feature asynchronous online senior-level courses and an internship at the end of the program. Graduates of the program can pursue an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway and receive discounted tuition rates. 

UNF's online programs run through 16-week terms and offer start dates each semester. For admission, applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$16,799
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,570
Out-of-state
$19,585
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
16,594
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Year:
In-State | $370
Out-of-State | $370

Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter units

Enrollees in NU's BS in healthcare administration can take classes online or on campus, studying topics like healthcare marketing, health informatics, and healthcare politics and policy. The four-week accelerated courses and eight-week capstone projects allow students to graduate in less than four years.

While all students can choose between an optional global health experience and an allied health capstone course, California residents may also choose an internship. NU offers many scholarships and financial aid programs, including tuition discounts for military service members. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota

  • Bradenton, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $112
Out-of-State | $442

Credits to Graduate: 120

Students in SCF's online BAS in health services administration develop the skills to oversee various healthcare operations and services. Courses include healthcare finance, risk management, informatics, and a capstone course that could include an internship or field observation.

Learners can specialize in management, nursing, emergency management, gerontology, nutrition, or leadership through electives. SCF's online courses run asynchronously through five-week sessions. You need at least 60 undergraduate courses with a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission, including the necessary prerequisites. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,365
Out-of-state
$2,365
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,424
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

Weber State University

  • Ogden, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $492
Out-of-State | $1,455

Credits to Graduate: 120

Learners can pursue WSU's online BS in health administration through in-person, independent study, or online courses. Certified by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration, the program covers topics in reimbursement, financial administration, and human resource development in healthcare. Students also complete an internship and senior seminar capstone. 

For admission into the major, learners must first complete the general education requirements and program prerequisites. Since WSU charges a flat-rate tuition for course loads of 11-18 credits, enrollees can save money by taking on more credits each semester.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,329
Out-of-state
$15,745
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,880
Out-of-state
$17,459
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
29,774
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#10 Most Affordable Online Healthcare Administration Degrees of 2024

The Pennsylvania State University

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $632-$678
Out-of-State | $632-$678

Credits to Graduate: 120

Penn State's online BS in health policy and administration allows learners to complete their courses asynchronously and accelerate their program by taking heavier course loads. A member of the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA), Penn State helps prepare students for policy-related healthcare careers. Along with courses in policy, management, and strategic planning, learners complete a 320-hour internship.

To ease the program's financial burden, Penn State offers many scholarships and financial aid opportunities, including options for unemployed students, military students, and veterans. The school also offers flexible payment plans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,400
Out-of-state
$25,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,189
Out-of-state
$39,248
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
88,914
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

At CollegeChoice, we use reliable data to rank schools based on their academic quality, affordability, and return on investment. When determining a program's value, we consider metrics such as median student debt, graduation rate, and average student earnings after enrolling.

Still curious about how we rank schools? You can learn more about our ranking methodology here.

Did You Know…
In September 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) ranked medical and health services managers sixth on its list of the 20 fastest-growing occupations for 2022–2032.

Why Get a Degree in Healthcare Administration?

Earning your healthcare administration degree online offers many valuable advantages. Key benefits include:

  • Convenient opportunities to train for entry into a career with faster than average growth potential in between 2022 and 2032
  • Easy access to top-rated online programs based at schools outside your area
  • Significant cost savings relative to what you would pay for traditional face-to-face education
  • Flexible study scheduling that suits busy lifestyles
  • The ability to work while earning your degree, which eases the financial burden of higher education

How Much Does a Healthcare Administration Degree Cost?

Online bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration cost an average of $51,090, according to EducationData.org. However, the cost varies by school, program format, institutional affiliation, and residency status.

In-state students tend to pay less than out-of-state students, and public universities usually cost less than private and nonprofit colleges. Online learners may save money by not commuting to campus regularly or paying for campus housing. Some programs offer online students in-state tuition rates no matter where they live.

Additional Online Student Fees

Many colleges and universities waive fees for in-person activities and services. However, online learners should budget for extra costs, like books, graduation fees, or technology fees. The latter covers access to a virtual classroom platform, a school email address, a video conferencing account, and technical support.

Online students can save money by buying used or digital books. Learners should also budget for miscellaneous expenses, like fees for official transcripts.

How Much Do Healthcare Administration Majors Make?

Many healthcare administration careers pay above-average salaries. For example, medical and health services managers make a median annual wage of $104,830, more than twice the median annual wage for all occupations of $46,310. Find out each state's median annual salary for medical and health services managers.

Median Annual Salary for Medical and Health Services Managers, by State
State Median Annual Salary
Alabama $82,160.00
Alaska $116,920.00
Arizona $102,940.00
Arkansas $80,330.00
California $131,880.00
Colorado $120,820.00
Connecticut $109,990.00
Delaware $127,950.00
District of Columbia $133,050.00
Florida $101,700.00
Georgia $113,060.00
Hawaii $117,330.00
Idaho $102,560.00
Illinois $105,940.00
Indiana $96,460.00
Iowa $95,380.00
Kansas $96,280.00
Kentucky $94,180.00
Louisiana $98,760.00
Maine $99,680.00
Maryland $127,390.00
Massachusetts $127,020.00
Michigan $100,090.00
Minnesota $102,560.00
Mississippi $80,950.00
Missouri $100,100.00
Montana $96,700.00
Nebraska $99,220.00
Nevada $101,880.00
New Hampshire $132,970.00
New Jersey $127,760.00
New Mexico $108,050.00
New York $138,010.00
North Carolina $102,910.00
North Dakota $106,210.00
Ohio $99,890.00
Oklahoma $95,580.00
Oregon $124,730.00
Pennsylvania $103,790.00
Rhode Island $128,670.00
South Carolina $98,690.00
South Dakota $104,940.00
Tennessee $98,860.00
Texas $102,940.00
Utah $99,660.00
Vermont $103,790.00
Virginia $107,020.00
Washington $129,870.00
West Virginia $101,770.00
Wisconsin $110,010.00
Wyoming $100,230.00
Source: BLS

Courses in Healthcare Administration Programs

Schools offering online healthcare administration degrees may use a synchronous or asynchronous format. Synchronous classes include real-time virtual lessons. Learners who prefer built-in accountability of scheduled class times may like this option. Asynchronous classes let learners watch recorded lectures at any time, a benefit to self-disciplined students needing the extra flexibility.

Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. Master's degrees in healthcare administration require around 60 credits. Some healthcare administration programs let students select a track or concentration. These specializations align with specific healthcare administration careers.

Learn more about three common classes for students seeking a healthcare administration degree.

  • Software Programs for the Healthcare Administrator

    Enrollees explore patient record-keeping software programs, billing software programs, and employee scheduling programs. Students compare the pros and cons of these programs, learning how to keep patient records secure and prevent data breaches. Learners may need to register for free trials of the programs or buy access.
  • Ethics in the Healthcare Administration Field

    Students develop an ethical framework for evaluating healthcare dilemmas by examining case studies about common issues in the industry. Learners then debate the best course of action. Coursework covers laws that protect employees and patients and how to lead medical organizations to comply with these laws.
  • Financial Planning for Healthcare Administrators

    Degree-seekers discover how to create and oversee budgets for clinics and hospitals. The class covers medical coding and insurance basics, budgeting basics, and the line items in a budget. Coursework also covers budgeting basics for a specific department, then expands to budgeting for an entire organization.

How to Become a Healthcare Administrator

Becoming a healthcare administrator begins with earning an accredited bachelor's degree. When a school or program earns accreditation, it passes quality assessments from third-party organizations. The Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education accredits healthcare administration programs.

Learners can build their resumes during their studies through internships at a local medical office. When creating a resume, learners should list their related professional experience and professional references.

Healthcare administrators can commit to lifelong learning by joining a professional organization. The Health Care Administrators Association is a leading professional organization in this field.

Questions About Healthcare Administration

What careers are in healthcare administration?

Graduates with a healthcare administration degree may work as medical billers or coders, clinical office managers, healthcare administrators, medical staff directors, or healthcare hiring managers.

Healthcare administration requires at least a four-year bachelor's degree for entry-level and mid-level roles. Advanced roles may require a master's degree, which can take two additional years.

The BLS projects jobs for medical and health services managers to increase 28% from 2022-2032, which is much faster than average.

Majoring in healthcare administration does not require clinical healthcare degrees like nursing, sonography, or pre-medicine. Yet, healthcare administration requires statistics and basic accounting skills. Healthcare administrators need these skills to create and balance budgets, evaluate standards of care, and make plans to implement quality improvement measures.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by College Choice. Page last reviewed March 13, 2024.

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