Online Healthcare Administration Degrees in Florida: Compare Schools
Advance your career by earning a healthcare administration degree online in Florida. These degrees are offered in on-campus, hybrid, or online formats, with the structure of online programs allowing you more convenient access into the medical field. Discover what the best programs provide, explore online learning options, and find answers to questions about cost and accreditation below.
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Florida Online Healthcare Administration Bachelor Programs: A Comparison
Becoming a healthcare administrator involves supervising personnel and overseeing daily operations in your eventual role. Healthcare administrators are vital in treatment facilities, and their work is in high demand in states like Florida. Luckily, they also have the opportunity to work remotely, an extension of the online healthcare administration options for Floridians who prioritize flexibility in their endeavors.
Many schools in Florida offer online healthcare administration degrees, with fully online and hybrid options available. These programs fulfill the same set of learning objectives as campus-based alternatives with the same levels of quality and accreditation. The added benefits of online learning, however, include increased convenience. These advantages allow working healthcare professionals to continue accruing work experience while advancing their careers as they build new skills in assessment and evaluation. Take a look at some popular online school options below.
Florida International University
Florida International University offers an online Bachelor of Health Services Administration Program, one of the largest of its kind in the country. The 120-credit program qualifies graduates for entry-level management positions in a variety of health-related organizations or for further education at the graduate level. It features interactive technology, real-time faculty feedback, and personal success coaches. Applicants need to complete prerequisites and meet general FIU admissions criteria. Financial aid for healthcare administration students is available, and the program has start dates in fall, spring, and summer.
Duration: Five semesters
Mode: In-person or Online
Cost:
Admissions Requirements:
- Completed 60 hours of course work – OR – completed the Associate in Arts (AA) degree or its equivalent – at an accredited college or university.
- Satisfied the general University requirements for admission, including the University’s Core Curriculum requirements.
- Met the University’s lower division requirements.
- Complete the following BHSA prerequisite** courses as part of their 60 credit-hours of lower-division course work and achieve a minimum “C” required grade
Curriculum: Both the fully online and hybrid modality are available. The curriculum includes content about systems engineering and financial management of health organizations, health services research, economics, politics and legal aspects of health systems, and program planning and evaluation.
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St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg College offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Services Administration designed for those with previous training in health or human services fields. Designed to prepare you for career advancement or entry-level supervisory or managerial positions, this degree offers specialized concentrations depending on your background. The program features eight-week classes, with a final 16-week capstone course that integrates students’ career interests and professional goals. Students gain knowledge in healthcare delivery systems, policies, ethics, and strategic management. The program includes financial aid options and transfer credit evaluations.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online
Cost:
- Florida residents: $122.70/credit
- Out-of-state residents: $425.79/credit
- $7,362 (in-state) // $25,547 (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Complete the St. Petersburg College Admission Application and pay the non-refundable fee.
- Submit official, unopened (sealed) high school or GED transcripts indicating completion of standard high school diploma or equivalency.
- Submit official, unopened (sealed) transcripts from all regionally accredited college(s) and/or universities currently or previously attended.
- Students must demonstrate they are at college level in Writing, Reading, and Math either through appropriate test scores or through appropriate course completion.
- Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale in all postsecondary coursework.
- Complete sixty (60) credit hours from a regionally accredited institution on your SPC transcript; fifteen (15) credits must be transferable general education coursework.
- Must have one of the following criteria:
- Degree, certificate, or diploma in a Health Care or Human Services discipline on your SPC transcript
- Work or volunteer experience in a Health Care or Human Services field (two years is strongly recommended, a minimum of 6 months is required).
Curriculum: Students will gain a broad-based knowledge of health care delivery systems, a better understanding of health care policies, ethics and current issues, as well as effective communication, leadership and critical thinking skills. Students are responsible for securing a mentor for the capstone course, and for developing their capstone project proposal in collaboration with the mentor during the pre-capstone course. Students enroll in the pre-capstone course immediately preceding the capstone course.
University Of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration equips students with the managerial expertise necessary to navigate the evolving healthcare industry. The 120-credit program prepares graduates to effectively manage healthcare organizations and make informed decisions. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, accommodating both full-time students and working professionals. Tuition for the program is $179.19 per credit hour for in-state students and $715.80 per credit hour for out-of-state students. No prior healthcare experience is required to enroll, making the program accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Duration: Four years
Mode: Online
Cost:
- $179.19/credit (in-state) = $21,502.80 (in-state)
- $715.80 (out-of-state) = $85,896 (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Speak with a success coach.
- Completed Self-Provided Academic Record for Knights “SPARK” Form; Students who have already completed high school must submit a current official high school or home-school transcript
- Official SAT [code: 5233] or ACT [code: 0735] score
- Official GED or TOEFL/IELTS score, if applicable
- Application essay (strongly encouraged but not required)
- $30 nonrefundable application fee
Curriculum: The curriculum covers essential topics such as U.S. healthcare systems, healthcare economics, and epidemiology, preparing graduates to manage healthcare organizations effectively.
Get Answers: Healthcare Administration Student FAQs
Most students have similar questions when starting their search for the best healthcare administration program for their needs. We’ve compiled answers to the most pressing questions from prospective students like you, covering all you need to know about curriculum, costs, accreditation, and more below.
What Will I Learn in a Healthcare Admin Bachelor’s Degree Program in Florida?
A healthcare administration bachelor’s degree in Florida prepares students for leadership roles in patient-centered, evidence-based care. Programs cover organizational leadership, healthcare delivery systems, ethics, marketing, finance, and legal regulations. Schools like St. Petersburg College and the University of Central Florida start with foundational courses in science and math before progressing to advanced topics like healthcare operations, quality control, and human resource management. Hands-on learning through internships and capstone experiences further enhances real-world expertise.
When you enroll in a healthcare administration program in Florida you can expect to:
- Develop skills in organizational leadership and strategic planning.
- Build a working knowledge of the key processes and procedures that govern healthcare delivery in the U.S.
- Examine contemporary social, political, and ethical problems in health science.
- Receive expert training in healthcare marketing, finance, and legal regulation.
- Gain hands-on experience through individualized internship placements and capstone experiences.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for Healthcare Administration Programs in Florida?
Common requirements and admissions criteria for these programs bear resemblance to similar four-year healthcare degree programs, but with a few notable differences. Prospective applicants should be prepared to submit the following items:
- Evidence of a high school diploma or GED
- Official SAT or ACT scores
- Official TOEFL or IELTS test scores (international applicants only)
- Transcripts for any previous college-level credits earned
Applications with transcripts indicating a 2.0 GPA or higher often receive greater consideration. In addition, some schools prefer applicants who possess a relevant associate degree or a substantial amount of transfer credits. The programs at State College of Florida and Florida International University offer good examples of what you can expect, including possible course prerequisites in subjects like statistics, economics, and accounting.
How much do Florida healthcare administration bachelor’s degrees cost?
The cost of a healthcare administration bachelor’s degree in Florida depends on factors like school type, learning format, and residency status. Private universities generally have higher tuition than public institutions, which often charge out-of-state students more. While online programs can sometimes be more affordable, pricing varies by school. For example, Florida International University’s 120-credit program costs $11,929 for in-state students and $18,952 for out-of-state students, while University of Central Florida’s 120-credit program costs $21,502 for in-state students and $85,896 for out-of-state students. Many programs in Florida offer financial aid options for healthcare administration students. Also, be sure to check out our guide on the most affordable online healthcare administration programs.
What type of accreditation should a Florida healthcare administration degree have?
A Florida healthcare administration degree should have institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accreditation for online colleges and healthcare education in general ensures overall academic quality and credibility. Additionally, some programs hold specialized accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). While not mandatory, programmatic accreditation adds extra credibility and can enhance job prospects after graduation.
How much time does it take to complete a healthcare admin bachelor’s degree program in Florida?
Most students complete a healthcare administration bachelor’s degree in Florida within two to four years, depending on factors like enrollment status and transfer credits. Full-time students and those in accelerated online healthcare administration programs can graduate faster, especially if they bring in prior credits. Schools like St. Petersburg College and Florida International University offer pathways for students with an associate degree, reducing completion time to two years. Traditional students without transfer credits typically follow a standard four-year timeline.
Ranking the Best Online Healthcare Administration Programs in Florida
Selecting the right school can seem daunting, so we’ve done the work for you. Here, we’ve ranked the top schools for future healthcare administration students like you. Our methodology pulls from self-reported data from the schools themselves, and we’ve determined the best of the best by accounting for accreditation, costs, online formats, and more. Uncover which schools made their way onto our list by continuing on.
City College-Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Why We Selected City College-Fort Lauderdale:
- The program offers flexible online learning options, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace.
- The program may provide opportunities for employer partnerships, enhancing job prospects and networking opportunities.
- The program's focus on specialized career tracks in healthcare administration can lead to job placement guarantees or high placement rates.
Program Details
- AccreditationABHES
- Average In-State Tuition$13,680
- Average Institutional Aid$3,000
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
- % of Students Receiving an Award40%
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Why We Selected Florida International University:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in multicultural healthcare settings.
- The FIU BHSA program provides networking opportunities through a dedicated HSA Alumni Network.
- Students benefit from intensive internships offering hands-on experience in real-world healthcare environments.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,721
- Average Institutional Aid$3,956
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
- % of Students Receiving an Award62%
- Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
St Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
Why We Selected St Petersburg College:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in areas like Clinical Documentation Improvement and Public Relations.
- All associate degrees in health from SPC transfer to this program, providing a cost-effective path to a bachelor's degree.
- The final semester includes a capstone course that integrates career interests with professional goals under mentorship.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$1,943
- Average Institutional Aid$2,330
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- % of Students Receiving an Award44%
- Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, Florida
Why We Selected Saint Leo University:
- The program offers a senior-year internship for practical experience in healthcare environments.
- Faculty includes experienced medical professionals and administrators, providing real-world insights.
- Courses incorporate an international perspective, enhancing global understanding of healthcare management.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$23,990
- Average Institutional Aid$14,901
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course82%
- % of Students Receiving an Award36%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Why We Selected University of Central Florida:
- Students who select UCF online courses exclusively may qualify for reduced campus-based fees.
- The program offers a mandatory internship, often leading to full-time employment opportunities.
- Graduates are eligible for certifications through the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,478
- Average Institutional Aid$2,404
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
- % of Students Receiving an Award73%
- Student/Faculty Ratio30/1
Santa Fe College
Gainesville, Florida
Why We Selected Santa Fe College:
- The program offers a Money-back Guarantee, ensuring student satisfaction with their education.
- High clinical placement rates are achieved through partnerships with major healthcare facilities like UFHealth.
- The program provides diverse clinical experiences across various healthcare settings, enhancing practical skills.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$1,872
- Average Institutional Aid$2,157
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
- % of Students Receiving an Award60%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Why We Selected Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale:
- Keiser University offers financial aid to qualified students, enhancing affordability.
- The program provides flexible learning options, including online, on-campus, and hybrid formats.
- Students can transfer up to 12 credits, accelerating their degree completion.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$20,800
- Average Institutional Aid$5,006
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course48%
- % of Students Receiving an Award69%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
