Master of Public Administration Health Services Management 36 credits | School of Social and Behavioral Sciences | Dobbs Ferry & Online

Health Services Management Overview
This broad, multidisciplinary program prepares students to become health services leaders in today’s rapidly changing health care environment. The program offers an accelerated Master of Science (30 credits) for experienced health care administrators and a Master of Public Administration (36) for students who are new to health services management.
Our graduates gain knowledge and skills related to research, quality management, information technology, strategic planning and other skills needed to elevate their careers and adapt to changes in the evolving health care delivery system in the United States.
Admitted students have less than four years of experience in health care, or may be entirely new to the field.

Career Opportunities
- Health services manager
- Health care executive
- Health care administrator
18% Growth
Career Outcomes
Career outcomes are expected to rise
18% through 2028*
$143K+ Salary
Average Pay
The highest 10% of earners nationally in medical and health services management is more than $182,600.*
36 Credits
Total Credits to Earn Your Degree
Classes in action research & data analysis, management information systems and health care financing
The Mercy Advantage
- Experienced faculty who are leaders in their field
- Internships allow students to gain field experience
- Program can be fully completed online
- No GRE Required
- Scheduling is designed to support professionals with multiple responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pre-requisites for this program?
There are no specific pre-requisites for this program. Applications are welcomed from graduates of baccalaureate programs in a variety of fields.
Do you offer night and/or weekend classes?
Yes. All classes meet one night or a weekly Saturday morning for 10 weeks. Most classes also have an additional hour of online work.
Will I receive career development assistance?
Yes, faculty have much experience in health care and will be available as mentors. We also have an excellent career development center.
How often do special speakers or industry professionals conduct seminars?
In addition to classes being taught by health care professionals with extensive experience, many courses have speakers from the health care field.
How quickly can I complete the program?
Usually two years. The program is designed to accommodate working students. Courses are offered on evenings and weekends. The program is arranged so that students may take two courses per quarter (including the summer session).
Program Details & Curriculum
Curriculum
The 36-credit Master of Public Administration program in Health Services Management is organized as follows:
Core Courses: 6 Credits
Advanced Core Courses: 12 Credits
Health Services Management Specialization: 12 Credits
Culminating Experience: 6 Credits
Total: 36 Credits
For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog.
Degree Requirements
- Successful completion of full curriculum (36-M.S./48 M.P.A.)
- A 3.0 cumulative GPA
Academic Program Sequence Map
Download a copy of the sequence map for:
- 2020 - 2021 Health Services Management M.P.A. Sequence Map
- 2020 - 2021 Health Services Management M.P.A. Sequence Map (48-credits prior to fall 2020)
ARCHIVE
- 2019 - 2020 Health Services Management M.P.A. Sequence Map
- 2018 - 2019 Health Services Management M.P.A. Sequence Map
Program Outcomes
- The student should be able to analyze missions, visions, data and overall organizational performance to develop programs using research techniques
- The student should be able to formulate a strategic plan for continuous improvement in a changing health care environment
- The student should be able to assess aspects of the US health care system including political, ethical, legal, financial and risk management issues related to effective health facility operations
- The student should be able to utilize written and oral communication skills in accordance with health industry standards
- The student should be able to create a plan that facilitates the acquisition of a health care information system. Facilitate the system operations in a variety of settings within regulatory guidelines
- The student should be able to develop and present an effective professional training program
- The student should be able to demonstrate the ability to utilize theoretical and applied skills obtained during the course of study in the M.P.A. program. This is done by participation in the culminating capstone experience, which includes identifying, analyzing and developing a comprehensive report on an issue facing the health care industry or health care organization
- The student should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the impact of the law and government on the complexities of health care policy and the day to day operations of health care organizations
Program Application Requirements
Each applicant must submit the following:
- Current résumé
- Two professional letters of recommendation on letterhead (letters from friends, acquaintances or clergy are welcome, but do not replace the two professional letters)
- Two - three page essay providing the reasons the student wishes to pursue a graduate degree in Health Service Management.
- Interview with the program coordinator or the program director