MHA Frequently Asked Questions

How is an MHA different from an MBA?

In both degrees, students develop the advanced management and financial skills necessary to run a large company. An MHA is focused exclusively on health care and is a better fit for students that know they want to work in this industry. At the Bloomberg School, our MHA is an inter-disciplinary degree where students take classes within the School of Public Health, and the Carey School of Business. All courses have a healthcare focus and students learn more about the application and interworking of the healthcare system than those who pursue a healthcare-focused MBA.

Can I take electives?

Because of the heavy course load in the first year and the number of extra seminars, field trips and activities planned for MHA students, there is not much of an opportunity for electives. Students have the opportunity to take electives during the second year of their program without having to incur additional costs.

How do I find an administrative residency?

The MHA program has relationships with several hospitals, hospital systems, healthcare consultant firms, and other healthcare-related organizations that regularly bring our students on for their administrative residency. Some students seek out other organizations to work in during their placement. We assist all students with securing positions.

Does my administrative residency have to be in Maryland?

No. The Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area has a high density of hospitals and healthcare-related organizations, but students are welcome to pursue and choose residencies in other cities and states.

When do students interview for their administrative residency?

Students typically interview between January and March of their first academic year.

Will I receive a graduate degree before I begin my Administrative Residency?

No, students will not receive their degree until successfully completing the Administrative Residency component.

What work experience is necessary?

Work experience is not a requirement for the MHA Program. Some students entering the MHA program may have some work experience while others apply directly after graduating from college. However, we do encourage applicants to gain as much experience in health care as possible. Those experiences do not have to be paid opportunities. The Admissions Committee will review your resume and essays for evidence of leadership, community service and any prior exposure to the healthcare industry as a volunteer, intern or paid part-time work experience. It is recommended that applicants identify and emphasize their health care experience, leadership experience and potential during the application process.

What prerequisites should I have?

No additional coursework is required to apply to the MHA. Students who are admitted and have not completed a microeconomics course will be required to complete a microeconomics course before matriculating. There are several low-cost options that we can recommend (Coursera or EdX) that can be completed over the summer.

Can I work full- or part-time while attending the MHA?

The structure of the program makes maintaining a full-time position prohibitive. TA positions are available to MHA students in their second year, provided they can maintain their full-time administrative residency.