MBA in Public Administration
Public administration is a field that is related to public health, though this type of degree is more about connecting the leaders of a facility to the staff members and public to ensure needs are met, rather than preventing disease and studying population. Still, many of the skills used in these careers are similar, as administrators still serve as a link between groups of people.
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in public administration is not specific to the healthcare field, but this kind of degree can lead to management positions in health-related facilities, such as:
- hospitals
- nursing homes
- health insurance firms
- medical manufacturing companies
- clinics
- out-patient care facilities
The public administration concentration allows students to learn skills related to human resources, ethics, communication, budget analysis, public health, and policy making. Essentially, a student’s job is to take the theory of policy and implement it in real life for clients, patients, and members of the staff.
My Degree and What It’s Good For
Many MBA programs require that students have experience in their field before they apply to the program. Students can work in a general public administration position, but for the best experience, look for an entry-level position in healthcare public administration, as this best prepares them for a future career in the field. Students can even participate in tuition assistance programs with some employers; if they are offered, these funds could allow students to get their MBA in public administration at no cost to them.
Although MBA in public administration degrees are not specialized to healthcare, this could be a positive thing. Studies show that most people change their career field at least three or four times in a lifetime, so if students decide at a later date that they want to work in another field, they have a strong business administration background, preparing them to work in fields other than healthcare.
My Earning Potential
For students interested in using their MBA in public administration to work in a health-related facility, you have the potential to earn a salary between $62,170 and $104,120. This will depend on your experience, education, and a variety of other factors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides salary information for related careers in this field. Some of them include:
- hospitals: $87,040
- outpatient centers: $74,130
- physicians’ offices: $74,060
- home health services: $71,450
- nursing care facilities: $71,190
There are many positions available to those with a degree in public administration. Instead of a healthcare-related career, students may be more interested in working on the government side, helping to implement policies and working in public service.
Online MBA Degrees in Public Administration
Ashford University – MBA in Public Administration
Benedictine University – Dual MBA/MPA
Northcentral University – MBA in Public Administration
Strayer University – MBA in Public Administration
Best Online MPH (Master of Public Health) Degrees
Public health is the science of preventing disease and promoting health at the population level. Programs prepare students to become leading public health professionals capable of addressing current global public health problems. By clicking on the logos below, you can receive more information regarding your degree and school of choice.


Our blog addresses the professional and educational development of Master of Public Health (MPH) students. 




