In other cases, practicing doctors just want a better understanding of the business issues their organizations face. Universities say physicians' interest in business degrees is skyrocketing, particularly for executive-type programs that let them continue working. One sign of that interest is the burgeoning number of executive programs concentrating on healthcare. Of the 24 programs with a healthcare focus identified in the accompanying chart, just eight are at least 10 years old. For example, the University of Missouri has offered a master's of health administration since the 1960s but in an executive format only since 1991.
Physician interest is well-founded.
Executive programs require physicians to be on campus only at certain times during the year. Typically, this might be every other weekend or for a handful of 10-day sessions throughout the course of the program. Another option for working physicians is evening classes. While that reduces travel costs, it can require an increased time commitment and limit their choices to local programs. Attaining an advanced degree while working full time isn't easy.