This course introduces students to the structure, financing, and delivery of health care in the United States. Topics include the history of U.S. health care, key stakeholders, payment models, insurance systems, and the evolving policy landscape. Students develop foundational knowledge to analyze health system challenges and opportunities.

An in-depth examination of quality management frameworks and improvement methodologies in health care settings. Students explore quality measurement, patient safety principles, regulatory standards, and evidence-based strategies for transforming care delivery at the system and unit levels.

Foundations of project management tools and methodologies applied to health care operations. Students learn planning, scheduling, risk management, and team coordination techniques using industry-standard frameworks. Practical exercises develop skills for managing complex health system initiatives.

Explores strategic planning processes and program development methodologies in health systems. Students examine frameworks for analyzing organizational environments, setting priorities, designing initiatives, and evaluating outcomes. Cross-listed with MPH 4000 — check the MPH course catalog for any prerequisites if registering through MPH.

Examines population health strategies and managed care models shaping contemporary health system performance. Topics include value-based care, risk stratification, social determinants of health, care coordination, and the business models of managed care organizations. Cross-listed with MPH 6042.

Develops a framework for ethical decision-making and professional conduct in health administration. Students examine organizational ethics, conflicts of interest, leadership integrity, and the responsibilities of health care managers toward patients, staff, and communities.

An intensive two-session workshop using the DiSC behavioral assessment to help students understand their own work style and how it interacts with others. Students develop actionable strategies for improving team collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution in health care settings.

A focused practicum on leadership communication skills for health administrators. Covers executive presence, persuasive messaging, active listening, and communicating across organizational levels. This course runs as 3 Tuesday sessions following the conclusion of MHA 2003.

The culminating experience of the MHA program. Students complete an applied research or consulting project addressing a real-world health system challenge, demonstrating integration of their graduate learning. Open only to students completing their degree requirements in December.

An applied learning experience in a health care organization. Students gain hands-on administrative experience under the supervision of a health system mentor and the MHA program faculty. Credit hours are determined by the scope and duration of the placement. Contact the MHA program to arrange your internship placement.