What is the difference between the MHA, MBA and MPH degrees?
The Master of Health Administration (MHA) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) have some similarities, but are also very different. While the MHA is focused specifically on the health care industry, the MBA is more general in nature.
Students pursuing an MBA degree will be exposed to general business management concepts in the areas of accounting, corporate finance, general marketing, international business and entrepreneurship.
In contrast, the American College of Healthcare Executives has noted that "the preparation of healthcare mangers requires not only the financial strength and analytic strengths traditionally associated with MBA programs, but also specific healthcare knowledge and leadership skills to effectively manage complex relationships, guide programmatic decisions and ensure quality care for a community."
The Master of Public Health is yet another degree to compare with the MHA and the MBA. The MPH degree is primarily intended for higher level practitioners of public health services.
If you would like more information about the MHA, MBA or MPH degrees, please talk to your advisor or visit the Business Advisement Center.