Health Administration Dalhousie University

Overview

Our rigorous, CAHME-accredited Master of Health Administration (MHA) programme allows you to cultivate a career in healthcare management and administration, playing a transformative role in improving healthcare for the communities we serve.

The only one of its kind in Atlantic Canada and one of only three MHA programmes in Canada, we are the only programme that accepts students from all disciplines—with or without health administration experience. We create blended cohorts, with experienced nurses, surgeons, dentists and pharmacists learning alongside recent graduates from a full range of backgrounds to create rich learning environments. In addition, our graduate program incorporates interprofessional education, which means you'll get to work closely with students from other health programs, preparing you for today’s collaborative care team models.  

Your curriculum is designed by leaders in international health systems research, informed by innovative best practices across the sector and will be mapped to Canada's preeminent health leadership framework, LEADS in a Caring Environment, enabling a seamless transition to health systems across the nation.

During your programme you will be mentored by a serving healthcare leader, to review your goals, help you overcome challenges and discuss your career progression. The programme includes a bespoke placement, arranged for you, with a senior health leader. 

Many MHA students select our programme for its unique and well-established residency component. During a 4-month job placement (or part-time equivalent), students gain real-world experience, career insight, workplace references, a network of contacts and one or more mentors. It’s impossible to overstate the value of the experience. Most students receive a stipend for their residency work. Placements can be anywhere in Canada. It’s a chance to test out a new career direction. For some students, their residency leads directly to employment. 

Taken full-time, the programme lasts 16 months, from September through to the following December. 

Careers:

The Master of Health Administration programme boasts a solid record of graduate employment across Canada and selectively in other countries where Canadian health management expertise is valued. In recent years, more than 80% of our students have been employed within three months of graduation.

Possible careers include: 

• Director

• Clinic Operations Manager 

• Clinical Manager

• Health Promotion and Research Analyst 

• Health Services Manager

Programme options

• Residency: During a 4-month job placement, you will gain real-world experience, career insight, and build your professional network. 

• Thesis: Under the direct supervision of exceptional faculty, you will enhance your research skills and build a publication record. 

Accreditation

CHE, & CAHME Accreditation

• The programme aligns with the requirements for Certified Health Executive designation and meets the international gold standard for health administration accreditation.