An MBA/MHA dual degree program equips students with the skills needed for leadership roles in both business and healthcare. Graduates can pursue positions within the healthcare industry, such as healthcare executives, financial managers, and strategic planners.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health services managers earn a median salary of $110,680 annually, while financial managers earn about $156,100. MBA/MHA programs typically take about two to three years to complete and are designed to fast-track students into high-demand fields quickly. The average cost of a master’s program, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, ranges between roughly $12,500 and $30,000 but can vary significantly depending on the institution and whether the program is online or in-person.​
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best MBA/MHA Dual degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 18 Accredited MBA/MHA Dual Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Intelligent Score: 99.35In-state: $7,019
Out-of-state: $34,198
In-state: $10,552
Out-of-state: $10,552
SAT: 1280-1490
ACT: 28-33
In-State: $586
Out-of-State: $1,602
On-Campus
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
96
University of Minnesota School of Public Health
Intelligent Score: 98.8In-state: $13,318
Out-of-state: $31,616
In-state: $17,580
Out-of-state: $17,580
SAT: 1240-1460
ACT: 25-31
In-State: $1,107
Out-of-State: $1,455
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
60
The Ohio State University
Intelligent Score: 98.72In-state: $10,615
Out-of-state: $32,599
In-state: $11,560
Out-of-state: $11,560
SAT: 1210-1430
ACT: 26-32
$1,050 - $1,859
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
60
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Intelligent Score: 96.40In-state: $34,627
Out-of-state: $51,815
In-state: $16,793
Out-of-state: $16,793
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
In-State: $468
Out-of-State: $1,142
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
58-59
Baylor University
Intelligent Score: 95.15In-state: $44,544
Out-of-state: $44,544
In-state: $33,408
Out-of-state: $33,408
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$2,421
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
87
University of Pittsburgh
Intelligent Score: 94.64In-state: $18,628
Out-of-state: $32,656
In-state: $23,530
Out-of-state: $23,530
SAT: 1243-1420
ACT: 28-32
In-State: $1,634
Out-of-State: $2,769
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
73
Saint Louis University
Intelligent Score: 94.23In-state: $46,400
Out-of-state: $46,400
In-state: $21,420
Out-of-state: $21,420
SAT: 1160-1370
ACT: 25-31
$1,250
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
92
Tulane University
Intelligent Score: 94.20In-state: $83,890
Out-of-state: $83,890
In-state: $50,674
Out-of-state: $50,674
SAT: 1370-1510
ACT: 31- 33
$1,686
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
54
University of Utah
Intelligent Score: 93.69In-state: $7,412
Out-of-state: $26,017
In-state: $6,666
Out-of-state: $6,666
SAT: 1130-1350
ACT: 22-29
$1,070
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
78-81
Xavier University
Intelligent Score: 92.63In-state: $42,230
Out-of-state: $42,230
In-state: $12,060
Out-of-state: $12,060
SAT: 1060-1250
ACT: 22-28
$704/credit
On-Campus
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
97
Georgia State University
Intelligent Score: 91.68In-state: $7,158
Out-of-state: $22,389
In-state: $7,164
Out-of-state: $7,164
SAT: 1030-1260
ACT: 20-26
In-State: $499
Out-of-State: $1,308
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Intelligent Score: 91.61In-state: $7,019
Out-of-state: $34,198
In-state: $10,552
Out-of-state: $10,552
SAT: 1280-1490
ACT: 28-33
In-State: $936
Out-of-State: $1,746
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
51
University of Scranton
Intelligent Score: 90.41In-state: $46,684
Out-of-state: $46,684
In-state: $11,580
Out-of-state: $11,580
SAT: 1100-1280
ACT: 23-28
$965
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
62
Weber State University
Intelligent Score: 89.52In-state: $5,090
Out-of-state: $15,272
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $556
Out-of-State: $1,644
On-Campus
Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
81
Texas Woman's University
Intelligent Score: 88.96In-state: $94
Out-of-state: $77
In-state: $48
Out-of-state: $48
SAT: Considered (not required)
ACT: Required
In-State: $322
Out-of-State: $733
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
57-72
University of Houston at Clear Lake
Intelligent Score: 85.84In-state: $8,449
Out-of-state: $20,665
In-state: $8,539
Out-of-state: $8,539
SAT: 1120-1310
ACT: 22-28
In-State: $697
Out-of-State: $1,231
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
Webster University
Intelligent Score: 85.50In-state: $28,500
Out-of-state: $28,500
In-state: $13,500
Out-of-state: $13,500
SAT: 1078-1260
ACT: 20-27
$752
On-Campus
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
63-66
Stetson University
Intelligent Score: 83.33In-state: $49,140
Out-of-state: $49,140
In-state: $17,927
Out-of-state: $17,927
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,075
On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
54
How to Choose an MBA/MHA Dual Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your area of study is a crucial first step in pursuing an MBA/MHA dual degree. This decision shapes your career path and influences the skills and knowledge you will acquire. Start by identifying your career goals and interests, whether they lie in business management, healthcare administration, or a combination of both. Research the specific curricula of programs to ensure they align with your professional aspirations. Consider the faculty expertise, available resources, and networking opportunities that each potential program offers. Understand how the dual degree integrates the disciplines and the potential for interdisciplinary learning.
Research schools and programs
Begin by compiling a list of accredited programs that offer this dual degree. Look into each school’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, and resources such as libraries, career services, and internship opportunities. Evaluate program formats, including online, in-person, and hybrid options, to see which suits your schedule and learning style. Investigate the school’s reputation and alumni network, as these can impact job prospects and professional connections. Consider tuition and other costs associated with the program to ensure it will fit into your budget. Also, review admission requirements, costs, and financial aid options.
Prepare for tests and applications
Start by reviewing the requirements, such as the GMAT or GRE, which are often necessary for business and healthcare management programs. Schedule your test dates early to ensure you have ample time to study and retake the test if needed. Gather your academic transcripts, update your resume, and request letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to your qualifications. Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your goals and motivations. This comprehensive preparation ensures your application showcases your strengths and readiness for a rigorous dual degree program.
Select your program
Limit your final selection to programs with regional or national accreditation so you can be sure to choose a program that has met rigorous accreditation criteria. Research each program’s curriculum to ensure it offers the courses and specializations that align with your ambitions. Consider program length and delivery format — online, on-campus, or hybrid — to match your lifestyle and learning preferences. Review faculty credentials and the school’s reputation in both business and healthcare management. Look into the program’s networking opportunities, internships, and job placement rates.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Start by exploring federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Research scholarships, grants, and fellowships specific to business and healthcare administration programs. Many schools offer assistantships or work-study opportunities that can offset costs. Additionally, consider employer tuition reimbursement programs if you’re currently employed. Understanding the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, will help you budget effectively.
What Can You Expect From an MBA/MHA Dual Degree Program?
An MBA/MHA dual degree program prepares students for leadership roles in both the business and healthcare sectors. Students can expect to learn advanced business management principles, including finance, marketing, and operations, along with specialized healthcare administration topics like healthcare policy and ethics. This combination equips graduates to handle complex challenges in healthcare organizations and hospitals.
Typically, the dual degree program takes about two to three years to complete, though accelerated options may shorten this timeframe. Students should be prepared for rigorous coursework and may need to fulfill requirements such as in-person labs or residencies to gain practical experience. The program often culminates in a capstone project or internship, providing real-world application of learned skills. Overall, this dual degree opens doors to executive-level positions, offering a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between business acumen and healthcare expertise.
Potential courses you’ll take in an MBA/MHA dual degree program
- Healthcare Financial Management. Covers financial principles and practices specific to healthcare organizations. Students learn about budgeting, financial reporting, and strategic financial planning, equipping them to make informed financial decisions in a healthcare setting.
- Healthcare Policy and Ethics. Students explore the legal, ethical, and policy issues in healthcare. The course examines healthcare regulations, patient rights, and moral dilemmas, preparing students to navigate complex ethical and policy challenges in their careers.
- Strategic Management. Focuses on strategic planning and decision-making in business. Students learn to develop and implement strategies to achieve goals and lead organizational change.
- Organizational Behavior in Healthcare. Students study the behavior of individuals and groups within healthcare organizations. The course covers topics such as leadership, team dynamics, and organizational culture, helping students to manage and lead effectively in a healthcare environment.
- Marketing for Healthcare Services. Delves into marketing principles tailored to the healthcare industry. Students learn about market research, consumer behavior, and strategic marketing planning, enabling them to effectively promote healthcare services and manage public relations.
MBA/MHA Dual Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an MBA/MHA dual degree program?
To apply to an MBA/MHA program, you typically need to submit an application along with official transcripts from all previous academic institutions. Many programs require standardized test scores like the GMAT or GRE, although some may offer waivers based on professional experience. Additionally, you’ll probably need to provide letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the dual degree. It’s a good idea to talk to an admissions counselor before applying to ensure you meet all specific requirements and deadlines and to gain insight into the program’s fit for your career objectives.
How much does an MBA/MHA dual degree cost?
The cost of an MBA/MHA dual degree varies widely depending on factors like the institution, program format, and location. On average, tuition for master’s programs ranges from about $12,500 at public institutions to $30,000 or more at private colleges and universities. However, it’s crucial to consider additional expenses beyond tuition, such as textbooks, accommodation, transportation, and potential lost income if attending full-time. Online programs may offer savings on commuting and accommodation but could still require technology fees or residency components, impacting overall expenses.
How long does it take to earn an MBA/MHA dual degree?
The time it takes to earn an MBA/MHA dual degree varies based on factors like enrollment status and program structure. Full-time students typically complete the program in two to three years, while part-time enrollment may extend it to four years or more. Online programs often offer flexibility or accelerated options but may still adhere to similar timelines. The total number of required credits also influences program length, with most dual degree programs comprising 30 to 60 credits. However, variations exist between institutions. Prospective students should consult program details for accurate estimations of completion time.