Verified September 2026

Most Affordable Online MHA Programs

What Are the Most Affordable Online MHA Programs?

The most affordable online MHA programs on this site start at $8,460 in estimated tuition at American College of Education, followed by Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences at $9,120 and Peirce College at $9,900. The most affordable CAHME-accredited online option is University of Phoenix's competency-based MHA at $10,800 for the program. Across 201 online programs at 172 schools, the median estimate is $25,200, so any program under that figure costs less than half the field. Check the MHA cost calculator before you compare, because residency, fees and quarter credits move the real number.

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201programs
172schools
39CAHME accredited
$25,200median estimated tuition
36median credits
A student in a white shirt taps figures into a pocket calculator held above an open laptop
Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels

What Makes an Online MHA Affordable

An affordable online MHA is one where the whole degree, not the per-credit rate, lands low. That sounds obvious, but schools publish price in at least four ways: per semester credit, per quarter credit, per six-month term and as a flat program total. A $300 rate and a $500 rate can finish in the same place once you multiply by the credits each school requires.

So every price on this page is an estimated tuition: the published per-credit rate times the program’s credits, before fees. When a school publishes a program total instead, that total is used. Where a school shows a resident and a nonresident rate, the estimate uses the resident rate, and the sections below show how much that can matter.

The set covers 201 online programs at 172 schools in 40 states. Not all of them award a degree called an MHA. There are 85 MHA-family degrees (MHA, MHSA, MSHA), 47 Master of Science programs and 63 MBAs with a health concentration, and each family prices a little differently.

Who a Low-Cost Online MHA Suits

A low-cost program suits you if you’re already working in health care and want the credential for promotion, if you’re paying out of pocket, or if your employer’s tuition benefit has a yearly cap. It also suits you if you live in a state whose public university offers an online MHA at a resident rate, because that’s where the biggest discounts sit.

It suits you less if you’re new to health care and need a school to place you in a residency. Many of the most affordable online programs end with a capstone course rather than a supervised placement. American College of Education is an exception at the low end: its 36-credit MHA includes a supervised local practicum alongside its capstone.

Most Affordable Online MHA Programs by the Numbers

Estimated tuition across the 201 programs runs from $8,460 to $116,595, with a median of $25,200. Per-credit rates run from $235 to $2,591, and the median is $685. The median program is 36 credits.

By degree family, the medians sit close together: $27,300 for MHA-family degrees, $22,500 for the MS and $26,208 for the MBA. The spread inside each family is far wider than the gap between them, which means the school matters more than the degree title when price is your filter.

Only 39 of the 201 are covered by CAHME accreditation, so the lowest-cost list and the CAHME list overlap less than you might hope. The next sections show where they do.

25 Most Affordable Online MHA and Healthcare Administration Master's Programs

How this list is ranked: lowest estimated tuition first. Estimated tuition is the school's published per-credit rate times the credits it states, before fees, or the school's own published program total, for programs that publish those figures (one program per school). Rates were read on each school's site in September 2026.

  1. American College of Education: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $8,460estimated tuition

    American College of Education (Indianapolis, IN, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (16-18 months). At $235 per credit, estimated tuition is $8,460 before fees. Required experience: supervised local practicum and capstone course (HLTH5693 Capstone Experience for Healthcare Administration).

    School's tuition wording: $235 per semester credit

    American College of Education MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of American College of Education's MHA with loans

  2. Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences: Master of Science in Health Care AdministrationMaster of Science in Health Care Administration

    $9,120estimated tuition

    Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences (Tulsa, OK, public) offers this online and on campus MS in 32 credits. At $285 per credit, estimated tuition is $9,120 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: thesis or creative component project; optional internship for credit.

    School's tuition wording: $285 per credit hour Oklahoma resident online tuition; $421 per credit hour non-resident online tuition (beginning Fall 2026), plus $25 per credit hour web course fee and $2.50 per credit hour graduate master's fee (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences's MS · Can 2026 federal loans cover Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences?

  3. Peirce College: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHCA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHCA)

    $9,900estimated tuition

    Peirce College (Philadelphia, PA, private nonprofit) offers this online and hybrid MS in 30 credits (less than 18 months). At $330 per credit, estimated tuition is $9,900 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $330 per credit limited-time rate for new students ($9,900 for the degree)

    How the Peirce College MS is structured · Monthly payment on a Peirce College MS · Peirce College school profile and CAHME status

  4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHA, Online)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHA, Online)

    $10,378estimated tuition

    Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Lubbock, TX, public) offers this online MS in 36 credits (2 years; accelerated 8-week courses). At $288 per credit, estimated tuition is $10,378 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: healthcare Administration Capstone (HPHA 5314).

    School's tuition wording: $288.29 per credit hour Texas resident tuition ($716.29 nonresident), plus fees; School of Health Professions MSHA estimate (2026-27)

    Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MS format and requirements · Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MS cost with fees and living costs

  5. University of Phoenix: Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)

    $10,800estimated tuition

    University of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (less than 12 months; 16-week terms). At $300 per credit, estimated tuition is $10,800 before fees. Required experience: capstone: Leading the Organization Through Change. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit with no additional fees ($10,800 per program)

    What the University of Phoenix MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Phoenix under 2026 limits · Compare University of Phoenix's other programs

  6. Louisiana State University-Shreveport: Online Master of Health AdministrationOnline Master of Health Administration

    $12,630estimated tuition

    Louisiana State University-Shreveport (Shreveport, LA, public) offers this online MHA in 30 credits (estimated 12 months full time). At $421 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,630 before fees. Admission tests: GMAT optional route (minimum 450) for applicants below the GPA thresholds.

    School's tuition wording: $421 per credit hour; $12,624 total cost with fees

    Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of Louisiana State University-Shreveport's MHA with loans

  7. University of Arkansas Grantham: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $13,140estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas Grantham (LIttle Rock, AR, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (1-2 years). At $365 per credit, estimated tuition is $13,140 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Admin Capstone course.

    School's tuition wording: $365 per credit

    Admission rules for University of Arkansas Grantham's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover University of Arkansas Grantham?

  8. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHCA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHCA)

    $13,396estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (Fort Smith, AR, public) offers this online MS in 34 credits (five semesters including summers (as little as two years)). At $394 per credit, estimated tuition is $13,396 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents.

    School's tuition wording: $394 per credit hour in-state and border states; $633 out-of-state (plus $51.50 per credit mandatory fees and a $30 per credit MHCA program fee) (2026-27)

    How the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith MS is structured · Monthly payment on a University of Arkansas-Fort Smith MS

  9. Athens State University: Master of Science in Strategic Healthcare Management and AdministrationMaster of Science in Strategic Healthcare Management and Administration

    $14,040estimated tuition

    Athens State University (Athens, AL, public) offers this online MS in 36 credits (about 1.5 years). At $390 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,040 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Management and Administration Capstone Experience.

    School's tuition wording: $390 per credit hour (graduate distance), plus fees (2026-27)

    Athens State University MS format and requirements · Athens State University MS cost with fees and living costs

  10. Rasmussen University-Minnesota: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $14,400published program total

    Rasmussen University-Minnesota (St. Cloud, MN, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 48 credits (as few as 18 months). The school publishes a program total of $14,400. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: Starting around $14.4K estimated tuition and fees

    What the Rasmussen University-Minnesota MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at Rasmussen University-Minnesota under 2026 limits

  11. University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $14,850estimated tuition

    University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne (Fort Wayne, IN, private nonprofit) offers this online MHA in 27 credits (1 year). At $550 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. Admission tests: GRE or GMAT required only for bachelor's degrees from non-regionally accredited institutions.

    School's tuition wording: $550 per credit hour

    University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's MHA with loans

  12. William Carey University: Master of Science in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Science in Healthcare Administration

    $14,850estimated tuition

    William Carey University (Hattiesburg, MS, private nonprofit) offers this online MS in 30 credits (three or six semesters (one-year or two-year plan), including summer terms). At $495 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Administrative Practicum and Capstone (HAE 6260) with face-to-face practicum in a healthcare agency in the student's state of residence; capstone project required.

    School's tuition wording: $495 per credit hour (master's rate) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for William Carey University's MS · Can 2026 federal loans cover William Carey University?

  13. Missouri State University-Springfield: Master of Health Administration (Online)Master of Health Administration (Online)

    $14,904published program total

    Missouri State University-Springfield (Springfield, MO, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (2 years). The school publishes a program total of $14,904. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: Estimated program tuition $14,904 (estimated total with fees $20,500)

    How the Missouri State University-Springfield MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Missouri State University-Springfield MHA · All 2 programs at Missouri State University-Springfield

  14. Immaculata University: Online MBA, Health Care Management ConcentrationOnline MBA, Health Care Management Concentration

    $15,000estimated tuition

    Immaculata University (Immaculata, PA, private nonprofit) offers this online MBA in 30 credits (5 semesters (possibly less than 2 years)). At $500 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,000 before fees. Required experience: culminating real-world business scenario in the final semester.

    School's tuition wording: $500 per credit ($15,000 for the degree)

    Immaculata University MBA format and requirements · Immaculata University MBA cost with fees and living costs

  15. University of Louisiana at Lafayette: MBA in Health Care AdministrationMBA in Health Care Administration

    $15,127estimated tuition

    University of Louisiana at Lafayette (Lafayette, LA, public) offers this online and on campus MBA in 39 credits. At $388 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,127 before fees. Required experience: internship listed among online program learning experiences.

    School's tuition wording: $387.88 per credit (100% online format); $15,127 total for 39 credits

    What the University of Louisiana at Lafayette MBA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Louisiana at Lafayette under 2026 limits

  16. Culver-Stockton College: Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management TrackMaster of Business Administration, Healthcare Management Track

    $15,450estimated tuition

    Culver-Stockton College (Canton, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online MBA in 30 credits (1 year (accelerated format)). At $515 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,450 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: $515 per credit hour plus $15 per credit hour fee

    Culver-Stockton College MBA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of Culver-Stockton College's MBA with loans

  17. American Public University System: Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Business Administration, Concentration in Healthcare Administration

    $15,510estimated tuition

    American Public University System (Charles Town, WV, private for-profit) offers this online MBA in 33 credits. At $470 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,510 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $470 per credit hour; $250 per credit hour with the Preferred Military Rate

    Admission rules for American Public University System's MBA · Can 2026 federal loans cover American Public University System? · Compare American Public University System's other programs

  18. College of Staten Island CUNY: Master of Science in Healthcare ManagementMaster of Science in Healthcare Management

    $15,510estimated tuition

    College of Staten Island CUNY (Staten Island, NY, public) offers this online and hybrid MS in 33 credits. At $470 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,510 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Admission tests: GMAT or GRE required; waiver available to CSI or AACSB-school graduates with an undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher.

    School's tuition wording: $470 per credit NY resident part-time; $5,545 per semester NY resident full-time; $855 per credit non-resident

    How the College of Staten Island CUNY MS is structured · Monthly payment on a College of Staten Island CUNY MS

  19. Wichita State University: Master of Health Administration (MHA), OnlineMaster of Health Administration (MHA), Online

    $15,821estimated tuition

    Wichita State University (Wichita, KS, public) offers this online MHA in 43 credits (two years at a full-time pace). At $368 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,821 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: 3-credit-hour practicum with an applied learning project, which can be completed in the student's state of residence; comprehensive exam in the final semester. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $367.92 per credit hour (online program tuition; in-state rate regardless of residency), plus College of Health Professions course fees of $92-$127 per credit hour (2026-27)

    Wichita State University MHA format and requirements · Wichita State University MHA cost with fees and living costs · All 2 programs at Wichita State University

  20. Charter Oak State College: Master of Science in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Science in Healthcare Administration

    $15,870estimated tuition

    Charter Oak State College (New Britain, CT, public) offers this online MS in 30 credits. At $529 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,870 before fees. Required experience: HCA 695 Health Administration Masters Capstone (business plan presentation and final project).

    School's tuition wording: $529 per credit (graduate tuition), plus student services and technology fees (2026-27)

    What the Charter Oak State College MS asks of applicants · Loan gap at Charter Oak State College under 2026 limits

  21. University of the Potomac: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $16,200estimated tuition

    University of the Potomac (FALLS CHURCH, VA, private for-profit) offers this online, on campus and hybrid MS in 36 credits (typically 2 years; accelerated option). At $450 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,200 before fees. Required experience: capstone Project in Healthcare Systems (HLTH 690).

    School's tuition wording: $450 per credit (domestic master's degree)

    University of the Potomac MS credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of University of the Potomac's MS with loans · University of the Potomac school profile and CAHME status

  22. Salve Regina University: Master of Science in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Science in Healthcare Administration

    $16,260estimated tuition

    Salve Regina University (Newport, RI, private nonprofit) offers this online MS in 30 credits (average 18-24 months). At $542 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,260 before fees. Required experience: capstone course HCA-547 Application of Healthcare Management Theory; 120-hour internship required for combined bachelor's/master's students and students without healthcare experience.

    School's tuition wording: $542 per credit (M.S. in healthcare administration) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Salve Regina University's MS · Can 2026 federal loans cover Salve Regina University?

  23. William Woods University: Master of Health Administration (MHA)Master of Health Administration (MHA)

    $16,500estimated tuition

    William Woods University (Fulton, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online MHA in 30 credits (5-week terms). At $550 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,500 before fees. Required experience: capstone course (HLT 598) with a critical paper on a current health administration issue.

    School's tuition wording: $550 per credit hour (total tuition $16,500)

    How the William Woods University MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a William Woods University MHA

  24. Texas State University: Master of Long-Term Care Administration (MLTCA)Master of Long-Term Care Administration (MLTCA)

    $16,566estimated tuition

    Texas State University (San Marcos, TX, public) offers this online master's in 33 credits. At $502 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,566 before fees. Required experience: administrator-in-Training (AIT) internship (LTCA 5681 taken twice, 12 credit hours).

    School's tuition wording: $502 per credit hour; $1,506 per course; $16,566 per program

    Texas State University master's format and requirements · Texas State University master's cost with fees and living costs · Texas State University school profile and CAHME status

  25. University of Southern Indiana: Master of Health Administration (MHA)Master of Health Administration (MHA)

    $16,740estimated tuition

    University of Southern Indiana (Evansville, IN, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (1-2 years (accelerated or standard pace, 7-week terms)). At $465 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,740 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $465 per credit hour (bundled MHA rate) (2026-27)

    What the University of Southern Indiana MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Southern Indiana under 2026 limits

Most Affordable Online Programs With One Rate for Every State

How this list is ranked: lowest estimated tuition first. Estimated tuition is the school's published per-credit rate times the credits it states, before fees, or the school's own published program total, for programs that publish those figures (one program per school). Rates were read on each school's site in September 2026. Only programs whose published rate doesn't change with your state of residence are included, so the figure is what an out-of-state student pays.

  1. American College of Education: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $8,460estimated tuition

    American College of Education (Indianapolis, IN, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (16-18 months). At $235 per credit, estimated tuition is $8,460 before fees. Required experience: supervised local practicum and capstone course (HLTH5693 Capstone Experience for Healthcare Administration).

    School's tuition wording: $235 per semester credit

    American College of Education MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of American College of Education's MHA with loans

  2. Peirce College: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHCA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHCA)

    $9,900estimated tuition

    Peirce College (Philadelphia, PA, private nonprofit) offers this online and hybrid MS in 30 credits (less than 18 months). At $330 per credit, estimated tuition is $9,900 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $330 per credit limited-time rate for new students ($9,900 for the degree)

    Admission rules for Peirce College's MS · Can 2026 federal loans cover Peirce College? · Compare Peirce College's other programs

  3. University of Phoenix: Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)

    $10,800estimated tuition

    University of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (less than 12 months; 16-week terms). At $300 per credit, estimated tuition is $10,800 before fees. Required experience: capstone: Leading the Organization Through Change. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit with no additional fees ($10,800 per program)

    How the University of Phoenix MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a University of Phoenix MHA · University of Phoenix school profile and CAHME status

  4. Louisiana State University-Shreveport: Online Master of Health AdministrationOnline Master of Health Administration

    $12,630estimated tuition

    Louisiana State University-Shreveport (Shreveport, LA, public) offers this online MHA in 30 credits (estimated 12 months full time). At $421 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,630 before fees. Admission tests: GMAT optional route (minimum 450) for applicants below the GPA thresholds.

    School's tuition wording: $421 per credit hour; $12,624 total cost with fees

    Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA format and requirements · Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA cost with fees and living costs

  5. University of Arkansas Grantham: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $13,140estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas Grantham (LIttle Rock, AR, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (1-2 years). At $365 per credit, estimated tuition is $13,140 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Admin Capstone course.

    School's tuition wording: $365 per credit

    What the University of Arkansas Grantham MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Arkansas Grantham under 2026 limits

  6. Athens State University: Master of Science in Strategic Healthcare Management and AdministrationMaster of Science in Strategic Healthcare Management and Administration

    $14,040estimated tuition

    Athens State University (Athens, AL, public) offers this online MS in 36 credits (about 1.5 years). At $390 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,040 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Management and Administration Capstone Experience.

    School's tuition wording: $390 per credit hour (graduate distance), plus fees (2026-27)

    Athens State University MS credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of Athens State University's MS with loans

  7. University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $14,850estimated tuition

    University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne (Fort Wayne, IN, private nonprofit) offers this online MHA in 27 credits (1 year). At $550 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. Admission tests: GRE or GMAT required only for bachelor's degrees from non-regionally accredited institutions.

    School's tuition wording: $550 per credit hour

    Admission rules for University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne?

  8. William Carey University: Master of Science in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Science in Healthcare Administration

    $14,850estimated tuition

    William Carey University (Hattiesburg, MS, private nonprofit) offers this online MS in 30 credits (three or six semesters (one-year or two-year plan), including summer terms). At $495 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Administrative Practicum and Capstone (HAE 6260) with face-to-face practicum in a healthcare agency in the student's state of residence; capstone project required.

    School's tuition wording: $495 per credit hour (master's rate) (2026-27)

    How the William Carey University MS is structured · Monthly payment on a William Carey University MS

  9. Immaculata University: Online MBA, Health Care Management ConcentrationOnline MBA, Health Care Management Concentration

    $15,000estimated tuition

    Immaculata University (Immaculata, PA, private nonprofit) offers this online MBA in 30 credits (5 semesters (possibly less than 2 years)). At $500 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,000 before fees. Required experience: culminating real-world business scenario in the final semester.

    School's tuition wording: $500 per credit ($15,000 for the degree)

    Immaculata University MBA format and requirements · Immaculata University MBA cost with fees and living costs

  10. University of Louisiana at Lafayette: MBA in Health Care AdministrationMBA in Health Care Administration

    $15,127estimated tuition

    University of Louisiana at Lafayette (Lafayette, LA, public) offers this online and on campus MBA in 39 credits. At $388 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,127 before fees. Required experience: internship listed among online program learning experiences.

    School's tuition wording: $387.88 per credit (100% online format); $15,127 total for 39 credits

    What the University of Louisiana at Lafayette MBA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Louisiana at Lafayette under 2026 limits

  11. Culver-Stockton College: Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Management TrackMaster of Business Administration, Healthcare Management Track

    $15,450estimated tuition

    Culver-Stockton College (Canton, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online MBA in 30 credits (1 year (accelerated format)). At $515 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,450 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: $515 per credit hour plus $15 per credit hour fee

    Culver-Stockton College MBA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of Culver-Stockton College's MBA with loans

  12. American Public University System: Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Business Administration, Concentration in Healthcare Administration

    $15,510estimated tuition

    American Public University System (Charles Town, WV, private for-profit) offers this online MBA in 33 credits. At $470 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,510 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $470 per credit hour; $250 per credit hour with the Preferred Military Rate

    Admission rules for American Public University System's MBA · Can 2026 federal loans cover American Public University System? · American Public University System school profile and CAHME status

  13. Wichita State University: Master of Health Administration (MHA), OnlineMaster of Health Administration (MHA), Online

    $15,821estimated tuition

    Wichita State University (Wichita, KS, public) offers this online MHA in 43 credits (two years at a full-time pace). At $368 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,821 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: 3-credit-hour practicum with an applied learning project, which can be completed in the student's state of residence; comprehensive exam in the final semester. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $367.92 per credit hour (online program tuition; in-state rate regardless of residency), plus College of Health Professions course fees of $92-$127 per credit hour (2026-27)

    How the Wichita State University MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Wichita State University MHA · All 2 programs at Wichita State University

  14. Charter Oak State College: Master of Science in Healthcare AdministrationMaster of Science in Healthcare Administration

    $15,870estimated tuition

    Charter Oak State College (New Britain, CT, public) offers this online MS in 30 credits. At $529 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,870 before fees. Required experience: HCA 695 Health Administration Masters Capstone (business plan presentation and final project).

    School's tuition wording: $529 per credit (graduate tuition), plus student services and technology fees (2026-27)

    Charter Oak State College MS format and requirements · Charter Oak State College MS cost with fees and living costs

  15. University of the Potomac: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $16,200estimated tuition

    University of the Potomac (FALLS CHURCH, VA, private for-profit) offers this online, on campus and hybrid MS in 36 credits (typically 2 years; accelerated option). At $450 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,200 before fees. Required experience: capstone Project in Healthcare Systems (HLTH 690).

    School's tuition wording: $450 per credit (domestic master's degree)

    What the University of the Potomac MS asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of the Potomac under 2026 limits · University of the Potomac school profile and CAHME status

10 Most Affordable CAHME-Accredited Online Programs

How this list is ranked: lowest estimated tuition first. Estimated tuition is the school's published per-credit rate times the credits it states, before fees, or the school's own published program total, for programs that publish those figures (one program per school). Rates were read on each school's site in September 2026. Only programs covered by CAHME accreditation are included.

  1. University of Phoenix: Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)

    $10,800estimated tuition

    University of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (less than 12 months; 16-week terms). At $300 per credit, estimated tuition is $10,800 before fees. Required experience: capstone: Leading the Organization Through Change. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit with no additional fees ($10,800 per program)

    University of Phoenix MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of University of Phoenix's MHA with loans · All 3 programs at University of Phoenix

  2. Wichita State University: Master of Health Administration (MHA), OnlineMaster of Health Administration (MHA), Online

    $15,821estimated tuition

    Wichita State University (Wichita, KS, public) offers this online MHA in 43 credits (two years at a full-time pace). At $368 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,821 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: 3-credit-hour practicum with an applied learning project, which can be completed in the student's state of residence; comprehensive exam in the final semester. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $367.92 per credit hour (online program tuition; in-state rate regardless of residency), plus College of Health Professions course fees of $92-$127 per credit hour (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Wichita State University's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover Wichita State University? · Compare Wichita State University's other programs

  3. University of North Carolina Wilmington: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $17,033published program total

    University of North Carolina Wilmington (Wilmington, NC, public) offers this online MHA in 48 credits (as few as 15 months). The school publishes a program total of $17,033. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: practicum required for students without qualifying healthcare experience; no residency or full-semester internship. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $17,033 total tuition and fees (NC residents); $63,865 (out-of-state) (2026-27)

    How the University of North Carolina Wilmington MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a University of North Carolina Wilmington MHA · University of North Carolina Wilmington school profile and CAHME status

  4. Auburn University at Montgomery: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) OnlineMaster of Healthcare Administration (MHA) Online

    $17,388estimated tuition

    Auburn University at Montgomery (Montgomery, AL, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (2 years; as few as three semesters). At $483 per credit, estimated tuition is $17,388 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Admission tests: GMAT not required for applicants meeting the undergraduate GPA threshold. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $483 per credit hour for Alabama residents, $531 for non-residents, plus technology and online fees

    Auburn University at Montgomery MHA format and requirements · Auburn University at Montgomery MHA cost with fees and living costs

  5. American Public University System: Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHA)Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHA)

    $18,800estimated tuition

    American Public University System (Charles Town, WV, private for-profit) offers this online MS in 40 credits. At $470 per credit, estimated tuition is $18,800 before fees. Required experience: situational Experiences for Healthcare Administrators (HCAD698, 4 semester hours) and Healthcare Administration Capstone (HCAD699). CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $470 per credit hour; $250 per credit hour with the Preferred Military Rate

    What the American Public University System MS asks of applicants · Loan gap at American Public University System under 2026 limits · Compare American Public University System's other programs

  6. Texas State University: Executive Master of Healthcare Administration (EMHA)Executive Master of Healthcare Administration (EMHA)

    $20,080estimated tuition

    Texas State University (San Marcos, TX, public) offers this online MHA in 40 credits (accelerated, asynchronous online). At $502 per credit, estimated tuition is $20,080 before fees. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $502 per credit hour; $1,506 per course; $20,080 per program

    Texas State University MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of Texas State University's MHA with loans · Texas State University school profile and CAHME status

  7. Austin Peay State University: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $22,386estimated tuition

    Austin Peay State University (Clarksville, TN, public) offers this online MHA in 42 credits (about 18 months full time; part-time plan available with program director approval). At $533 per credit, estimated tuition is $22,386 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: two required 2-day residencies (first weekend of the program and final semester); capstone course with individual and group presentations. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $533 per credit hour in-state (hours 1-10; $105 per hour above 10) plus $91.20 per credit hour program service fee; $821 per credit hour out-of-state; E-Rate for out-of-state students taking all courses online (2026-27)

    Admission rules for Austin Peay State University's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover Austin Peay State University?

  8. Appalachian State University: Master of Health Administration (MHA)Master of Health Administration (MHA)

    $23,506estimated tuition

    Appalachian State University (Boone, NC, public) offers this online MHA in 46 credits (2 years full time; 3 years part time). At $511 per credit, estimated tuition is $23,506 before fees. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $511 per credit hour (NC residents)

    How the Appalachian State University MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Appalachian State University MHA

  9. Radford University: Master of Healthcare Administration (M.H.A.)Master of Healthcare Administration (M.H.A.)

    $24,840estimated tuition

    Radford University (Radford, VA, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (15 months full time; part-time option). At $690 per credit, estimated tuition is $24,840 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: HADM 770 practicum (required with under one year of healthcare experience) or HADM 780 capstone. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $690 per credit hour in-state; $710 out-of-state (includes fees) (2025-26)

    Radford University MHA format and requirements · Radford University MHA cost with fees and living costs

  10. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences: Master of Health AdministrationMaster of Health Administration

    $25,041estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Little Rock, AR, public) offers this online MHA in 51 credits (as little as 21 months). At $491 per credit, estimated tuition is $25,041 before fees. Required experience: full-time 10-week summer residency, or a management project for students working full time in health care. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $491 per credit hour (2025-26)

    What the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences under 2026 limits

15 Most Affordable Online Programs That Award the MHA Degree Itself

How this list is ranked: lowest estimated tuition first. Estimated tuition is the school's published per-credit rate times the credits it states, before fees, or the school's own published program total, for programs that publish those figures (one program per school). Rates were read on each school's site in September 2026. Only degrees titled Master of Health (Care) Administration, Health Services Administration or an equivalent are included; MBAs and MS degrees are left out.

  1. American College of Education: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $8,460estimated tuition

    American College of Education (Indianapolis, IN, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (16-18 months). At $235 per credit, estimated tuition is $8,460 before fees. Required experience: supervised local practicum and capstone course (HLTH5693 Capstone Experience for Healthcare Administration).

    School's tuition wording: $235 per semester credit

    American College of Education MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of American College of Education's MHA with loans

  2. University of Phoenix: Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based)

    $10,800estimated tuition

    University of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (less than 12 months; 16-week terms). At $300 per credit, estimated tuition is $10,800 before fees. Required experience: capstone: Leading the Organization Through Change. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $300 per credit with no additional fees ($10,800 per program)

    Admission rules for University of Phoenix's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover University of Phoenix? · Compare University of Phoenix's other programs

  3. Louisiana State University-Shreveport: Online Master of Health AdministrationOnline Master of Health Administration

    $12,630estimated tuition

    Louisiana State University-Shreveport (Shreveport, LA, public) offers this online MHA in 30 credits (estimated 12 months full time). At $421 per credit, estimated tuition is $12,630 before fees. Admission tests: GMAT optional route (minimum 450) for applicants below the GPA thresholds.

    School's tuition wording: $421 per credit hour; $12,624 total cost with fees

    How the Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA

  4. University of Arkansas Grantham: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $13,140estimated tuition

    University of Arkansas Grantham (LIttle Rock, AR, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (1-2 years). At $365 per credit, estimated tuition is $13,140 before fees. Required experience: healthcare Admin Capstone course.

    School's tuition wording: $365 per credit

    University of Arkansas Grantham MHA format and requirements · University of Arkansas Grantham MHA cost with fees and living costs

  5. Rasmussen University-Minnesota: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $14,400published program total

    Rasmussen University-Minnesota (St. Cloud, MN, private for-profit) offers this online MHA in 48 credits (as few as 18 months). The school publishes a program total of $14,400. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: Starting around $14.4K estimated tuition and fees

    What the Rasmussen University-Minnesota MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at Rasmussen University-Minnesota under 2026 limits

  6. University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $14,850estimated tuition

    University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne (Fort Wayne, IN, private nonprofit) offers this online MHA in 27 credits (1 year). At $550 per credit, estimated tuition is $14,850 before fees. Admission tests: GRE or GMAT required only for bachelor's degrees from non-regionally accredited institutions.

    School's tuition wording: $550 per credit hour

    University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's MHA with loans

  7. Missouri State University-Springfield: Master of Health Administration (Online)Master of Health Administration (Online)

    $14,904published program total

    Missouri State University-Springfield (Springfield, MO, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (2 years). The school publishes a program total of $14,904. No GRE or GMAT required.

    School's tuition wording: Estimated program tuition $14,904 (estimated total with fees $20,500)

    Admission rules for Missouri State University-Springfield's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover Missouri State University-Springfield? · All 2 programs at Missouri State University-Springfield

  8. Wichita State University: Master of Health Administration (MHA), OnlineMaster of Health Administration (MHA), Online

    $15,821estimated tuition

    Wichita State University (Wichita, KS, public) offers this online MHA in 43 credits (two years at a full-time pace). At $368 per credit, estimated tuition is $15,821 before fees. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: 3-credit-hour practicum with an applied learning project, which can be completed in the student's state of residence; comprehensive exam in the final semester. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $367.92 per credit hour (online program tuition; in-state rate regardless of residency), plus College of Health Professions course fees of $92-$127 per credit hour (2026-27)

    How the Wichita State University MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Wichita State University MHA · Compare Wichita State University's other programs

  9. William Woods University: Master of Health Administration (MHA)Master of Health Administration (MHA)

    $16,500estimated tuition

    William Woods University (Fulton, MO, private nonprofit) offers this online MHA in 30 credits (5-week terms). At $550 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,500 before fees. Required experience: capstone course (HLT 598) with a critical paper on a current health administration issue.

    School's tuition wording: $550 per credit hour (total tuition $16,500)

    William Woods University MHA format and requirements · William Woods University MHA cost with fees and living costs

  10. University of Southern Indiana: Master of Health Administration (MHA)Master of Health Administration (MHA)

    $16,740estimated tuition

    University of Southern Indiana (Evansville, IN, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (1-2 years (accelerated or standard pace, 7-week terms)). At $465 per credit, estimated tuition is $16,740 before fees.

    School's tuition wording: $465 per credit hour (bundled MHA rate) (2026-27)

    What the University of Southern Indiana MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at University of Southern Indiana under 2026 limits

  11. National Louis University: Master in Health Services Administration (MHA)Master in Health Services Administration (MHA)

    $16,830published program total

    National Louis University (Chicago, IL, private nonprofit) offers this online, on campus and hybrid MHA in 30 credits (approximately 12 months). The school publishes a program total of $16,830.

    School's tuition wording: $16,830 for the degree

    National Louis University MHA credits, tests and tuition · Total cost of National Louis University's MHA with loans · Compare National Louis University's other programs

  12. University of North Carolina Wilmington: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)

    $17,033published program total

    University of North Carolina Wilmington (Wilmington, NC, public) offers this online MHA in 48 credits (as few as 15 months). The school publishes a program total of $17,033. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: practicum required for students without qualifying healthcare experience; no residency or full-semester internship. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $17,033 total tuition and fees (NC residents); $63,865 (out-of-state) (2026-27)

    Admission rules for University of North Carolina Wilmington's MHA · Can 2026 federal loans cover University of North Carolina Wilmington? · University of North Carolina Wilmington school profile and CAHME status

  13. Western Connecticut State University: Master of Health Administration (Online)Master of Health Administration (Online)

    $17,280estimated tuition

    Western Connecticut State University (Danbury, CT, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (part-time study; must be completed within six years). At $480 per credit, estimated tuition is $17,280 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Required experience: optional MGT 588 Healthcare Administrative Residency elective (3-6 semester hours).

    School's tuition wording: $480 per credit tuition for part-time graduate students (same for residents and non-residents, online or on-ground), plus per-credit university fees (2026-27)

    How the Western Connecticut State University MHA is structured · Monthly payment on a Western Connecticut State University MHA

  14. University of West Florida: Master of Healthcare Administration (Online)Master of Healthcare Administration (Online)

    $17,363estimated tuition

    University of West Florida (Pensacola, FL, public) offers this online MHA in 45 credits (24 months full time (estimated)). At $386 per credit, estimated tuition is $17,363 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. No GRE or GMAT required. Required experience: healthcare Administration Capstone (HSA 6947); Internship in Health Administration (HSA 6944), waivable after portfolio review.

    School's tuition wording: $385.85 per credit hour in-state ($494.22 out-of-state with waiver; $1,144.43 full out-of-state)

    University of West Florida MHA format and requirements · University of West Florida MHA cost with fees and living costs

  15. Auburn University at Montgomery: Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) OnlineMaster of Healthcare Administration (MHA) Online

    $17,388estimated tuition

    Auburn University at Montgomery (Montgomery, AL, public) offers this online MHA in 36 credits (2 years; as few as three semesters). At $483 per credit, estimated tuition is $17,388 before fees. That is the resident rate; the school publishes a different rate for nonresidents. Admission tests: GMAT not required for applicants meeting the undergraduate GPA threshold. CAHME accredited.

    School's tuition wording: $483 per credit hour for Alabama residents, $531 for non-residents, plus technology and online fees

    What the Auburn University at Montgomery MHA asks of applicants · Loan gap at Auburn University at Montgomery under 2026 limits

All 201 Most Affordable Online MHA Programs

Filter by format, accreditation, admission tests and state; tick up to three programs to compare them side by side.

201 programs

Program facts come from each school's own pages, reviewed September 2026. Estimated tuition is the published per-credit rate times the stated credits, before fees, or the school's published program total; "resident rate" means the school charges nonresidents more. CAHME status comes from CAHME's accredited-program list.

The Most Affordable Online MHA Programs Compared

These are the lowest estimates in the set, with the rate each school publishes and whether CAHME covers the program.

Program Degree Credits Published rate Estimated tuition CAHME
American College of Education MHA 36 $235 per semester credit $8,460 No
Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences MS 32 $285 per credit, Oklahoma resident $9,120 No
Peirce College MS 30 $330 per credit, limited-time rate $9,900 No
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MS 36 $288.29 per credit, Texas resident $10,378 No
University of Phoenix (Competency Based) MHA 36 $300 per credit, no additional fees $10,800 Yes
Louisiana State University-Shreveport MHA 30 $421 per credit $12,630 No
University of Arkansas Grantham MHA 36 $365 per credit $13,140 No
Rasmussen University MHA 48 Starting around $14.4K tuition and fees $14,400 No
Wichita State University MHA 43 $367.92 per credit, same for all states $15,821 Yes

Two things jump out. Peirce’s $330 rate is labelled a limited-time rate for new students, so confirm it holds for your start term. And LSU Shreveport publishes a total cost with fees of $12,624, so you know the all-in number before you apply.

Resident vs Nonresident Rates Change the Ranking

Public universities often charge online students by residency, and the gap can be bigger than the whole cost of a lower-cost school. The estimates above use resident rates. Here is what the same programs charge if you live elsewhere.

Program Resident rate Nonresident rate
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center $288.29 per credit $716.29 per credit
Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences $285 per credit $421 per credit
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith $394 per credit (in-state and border states) $633 per credit
Indiana University-Bloomington $753.83 per credit $1,434.35 per credit
University of North Carolina Wilmington $17,033 total with fees $63,865 total

UNC Wilmington is the sharpest case. For a North Carolina resident it’s one of the most affordable CAHME-accredited online MHAs anywhere. For everyone else it’s $63,865, far above the $25,200 median for online programs.

Other schools flatten the gap. Wichita State charges $367.92 per credit as its online in-state rate regardless of residency. Colorado State University Global charges $675 per credit with no out-of-state tuition and no fees. The University of West Florida sits in between: $385.85 in-state, $494.22 out-of-state with a waiver, and $1,144.43 at the full out-of-state rate. East Tennessee State offers an $835.50 eRate for out-of-state students who take all their courses online, against $1,513 otherwise. If you don’t live in the school’s state, look for those words: eRate, waiver, or same rate for all states.

Fees and Quarter Credits: Where Low Rates Hide Cost

Per-credit fees add up on long programs. Wichita State’s $367.92 rate comes with College of Health Professions course fees of $92-$127 per credit hour. Arkansas-Fort Smith adds $51.50 per credit in mandatory fees and a $30 per credit program fee. Oklahoma State adds a $25 per credit web course fee and a $2.50 graduate fee.

Per-course fees work the same way. University of Phoenix’s standard online MHA lists $698 per credit plus a $195 per-course resource fee, or $2,289 per course. Its competency-based version, at $300 per credit with no additional fees, is a different price structure at the same school.

Quarter credits are the other trap. A school on a quarter calendar counts more credits for a degree, so its per-credit rate looks low beside semester schools. Purdue Global’s MHCA is 52 quarter credits at $485 each, an estimated $25,220. Walden’s MHA is 53 quarter credits at $545 per quarter hour plus a $185 per-quarter program fee, an estimated $28,885 before that fee. Compare those totals to semester programs, never the rates.

CAHME-Accredited vs Unaccredited Programs at the Low End

CAHME accredits graduate healthcare management programs and builds its criteria around measurable, competency-based standards. Its list covers MHA, MBA, MHSA, MPH and MS programs, so a low-cost MS or MBA can carry it too. It’s a review of the health management program itself, separate from the university’s own accreditation.

The most affordable CAHME-accredited online programs cost more than the most affordable programs overall, but not by as much as you’d guess:

Check status on the current list before you commit. Six schools, including AdventHealth University, which runs an online MHA at $700 per credit, appear on CAHME’s list with a probation flag. Use the CAHME checker to confirm any program, or browse the full CAHME-accredited MHA programs list.

Choosing a program without CAHME is a reasonable trade if you’re already employed in health care and want the credential for promotion. If you’re new to the field, the CAHME programs above also tend to build in more structured practice: Wichita State’s practicum and applied project, Austin Peay’s residencies and Radford’s practicum for students with under a year of healthcare experience.

What You Study in a Low-Cost Online MHA

Most of the most affordable programs end in a capstone course: University of Arkansas Grantham’s Healthcare Admin Capstone, Athens State’s Healthcare Management and Administration Capstone Experience, and Charter Oak State College’s HCA 695 capstone, built around a business plan presentation. Concentrations exist even at the low end. The University of Southern Indiana, at an estimated $16,740, offers Leadership, Health Informatics and Aging Services. Oklahoma State offers Administration and Leadership and Entrepreneurship. Across the set you’ll see concentrations such as Health Care Compliance and Privacy, Quality and Patient Safety, Population Health Management, Long-Term Care Administration and Health Informatics and Analytics.

Where the low-cost and expensive programs differ is the experiential piece. William Carey University’s $14,850 program requires a face-to-face practicum in a healthcare agency in your state of residence. Hofstra’s online MHA, at an estimated $87,648, requires an internship of about 300 hours you can complete where you live. Plenty of mid-priced programs end with a capstone course only.

What an Affordable MHA Leads to

The job is the same whatever you paid. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says medical and health services managers typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation, and that advancement to top executive positions may require a master’s degree. It reports a median annual wage of $123,860 in May 2025. That’s why a low-cost MHA makes the most sense for people already in the field, who need the master’s to move up rather than to get in the door. See healthcare administration careers and whether an MHA is worth it for more on outcomes.

How to Choose the Right Low-Cost Program

  • Price the whole degree. Multiply the rate by the credits, then add per-credit and per-course fees. Missouri State’s $14,904 tuition becomes an estimated $20,500 with fees.
  • Check your residency rate. If you’re out of state, look for a single rate for all states, an eRate or a waiver, as Wichita State, Colorado State University Global and East Tennessee State offer.
  • Convert quarter credits. Compare Purdue Global’s 52 quarter credits and Walden’s 53 on total cost, not rate.
  • Decide on CAHME. Phoenix, Wichita State, UNC Wilmington and Auburn Montgomery all offer it at $17,388 or less at the right residency.
  • Read the entry rules. Phoenix’s $10,800 program needs three years of healthcare leadership experience. LSU Shreveport accepts three years of professional work experience in place of a higher GPA.
  • Look for the placement. If you need hands-on experience, favor programs like William Carey or American College of Education that build a practicum into the price.

You can also sort by format and budget with the program matcher, or start from the full online MHA programs list if price isn’t your only filter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Affordable Online MHA With CAHME Accreditation?

University of Phoenix's Online Master of Health Administration (Competency Based) at $300 per credit with no additional fees, or $10,800 for the program. It asks for three years of leadership or management experience in a healthcare environment within the past 10 years, so it isn't open to career starters. For them, Wichita State's online MHA at an estimated $15,821 is the lowest CAHME option that doesn't list an experience minimum.

Do Online MHA Programs Charge Out-of-State Tuition?

Some do and some don't. UNC Wilmington lists $17,033 total tuition and fees for North Carolina residents and $63,865 for out-of-state students. Colorado State University Global charges $675 per credit with no out-of-state tuition, and Wichita State charges its online in-state rate regardless of residency.

Is a Low-Cost MHA Worth Less Than an Expensive One?

Price alone doesn't tell you. Phoenix's $10,800 competency-based MHA and NYU's online MHA at an estimated $116,595 are both covered by CAHME. What changes with price is format, networking and residency: NYU requires a 2.5-day in-person immersion in New York City, for example.

Are There Affordable Online MHA Programs With No GRE?

Yes. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (estimated $10,378 at the Texas resident rate), Rasmussen University (about $14.4K) and Missouri State (estimated program tuition $14,904) all waive or skip the test. See the MHA no-GRE list for the full set.

Can Military Students Pay Less for an Online MHA?

At some schools. American Public University System lists $470 per credit hour with a $250 Preferred Military Rate, and the University of Louisville lists a $250 per credit hour military rate for its CAHME-accredited online MSHA.

What Does Estimated Tuition Leave Out?

Fees, books and any travel for required on-campus sessions. Missouri State shows the gap plainly: estimated program tuition of $14,904, and an estimated total with fees of $20,500.

Related Program Lists

Sources

  1. Official program, tuition and admissions pages of each school listed, reviewed September 2026
  2. Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), accredited and certified programs
  3. U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2022-23 completions and institutional characteristics
  4. CAHME: accredited and certified programs
  5. CAHME: accreditation
  6. BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Medical and Health Services Managers

Every program on this site was checked against the school's own website. Accreditation comes only from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) list, and graduate counts from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS). Sponsored listings are labeled and never change which programs we list or how we rank them. How we verify programs