Created in 1987, the college brings together strong programs that once were offered by other Penn State colleges. The college is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach incorporating the behavioral, social, and biological sciences. It encompasses many levels of analysis, from individual development to management and policy issues in the delivery of health care. This integrated approach can help prepare you for a leadership role in the health care system of the 21st century. The program provides an excellent academic foundation for today's health care executive and offers a strategic advantage in this highly competitive industry.
Career opportunities are as diverse and flexible as our students' interests and experiences.
Although you are responsible for your career and the direction it will take, our faculty's industry ties will support your efforts. Course work focuses on health policy and administration and business administration with additional emphases on strategic decision-making, marketing, financial management, communication skills, human health and illness, epidemiology, managed care, health care financing, health care technology, health policy, and the health service system's structure. During the first year of the program, students take a core set of courses in the MBA program and one MHA course each semester. During the second year of the program, students are required to take an additional 15 credits in health administration and 12 credits of electives that may be selected in any combination from business or health administration. Students will also be expected to participate in periodic professional seminars to prepare them for the internship experience and to determine an area of professional emphasis.