SURVEYING PERCEPTIONS OF MBA AND MHA DEGREE OPTIONS IN A HEALTH SERVICES MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

There is a growing concern about the healthcare system in terms of its ability to accommodate the growing population. This consistent growth will be met with a need for competent healthcare management. Therefore, it is imperative that current educational programs within the field are examined to ensure that executives are being adequately trained to address the growing needs. Two types of degrees often pursued for the purposes of becoming a senior healthcare administrator are the Masters in Business Administration (MBA) with a healthcare focus and the Masters in Health Administration (MHA).
Ryerson University’s School of Health Services Management is considering the development of a Master’s degree option. Given the two potential educational options, an MBA (Healthcare focus) or an MHA, Ryerson University sought to engage key stakeholders in the health care community to determine what degree they felt would be more beneficial in preparation for those entering into the field of healthcare management.
A survey was developed and distributed to healthcare executives in Ontario within the Certified Health Executives membership and a response rate of 270 or 18.24% was obtained. Results indicated a slight preference for the development of an MBA with a Healthcare focus over the MHA Degree option. There was also a preference for part-time studies in a mixed modular and distance/on-line format to enable candidates to work full-time throughout their studies.