Program Overview & Fit
What makes the OHSU-PSU Healthcare MBA unique?
The Healthcare MBA brings together the strengths of Oregon Health & Science University and Portland State University, combining healthcare leadership expertise with a top-ranked, AACSB-accredited business education. The program is designed for working healthcare professionals who want to lead innovation, improve outcomes, and manage complex health systems—all through a flexible online format that supports career growth.
Who is the Healthcare MBA designed for?
The Healthcare MBA is designed for experienced professionals across clinical, administrative, and operational roles who want to advance their leadership and business expertise. Most students work in hospitals, health systems, public health, life sciences, or healthcare startups and are preparing for management or executive roles. Graduates have advanced to positions such as Chief Medical Officer, Clinical Director, Nurse Manager, Program Manager, and Healthcare Administrator.
When does the next MBA cohort begin?
The next Online Healthcare MBA cohort starts in Fall 2026. Applications open on November 1, 2025, with an early application deadline of April 1, 2026.
What is the cohort model, and how does it benefit me?
In the cohort model, you advance through the program alongside a select group of peers, fostering lasting professional relationships and a supportive learning environment. This structure enhances collaboration, promotes shared expertise, and cultivates a strong sense of community among healthcare leaders nationwide—benefits that extend well beyond graduation.
Time Commitment & Flexibility
Is the Healthcare MBA fully online?
Yes. The program is delivered entirely online to accommodate working healthcare professionals. Coursework combines asynchronous modules with live virtual class sessions three times per term.
Is the Online Healthcare MBA fully asynchronous, or are there live sessions?
The program combines asynchronous coursework with three required live, synchronous class sessions per term to foster interaction, collaboration, and direct engagement with faculty and peers.
When are the live sessions held?
Live sessions are typically scheduled during the first, middle, and final weekends of each 10-week term:
- Fridays: 4–7 p.m. PST
- Saturdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. PST
The full schedule is published nine months in advance for planning flexibility.
Do I need to attend the live sessions?
Yes, participation in the three live weekend sessions each term is essential for building connections within your cohort. These sessions foster in-depth discussion, collaboration, and direct engagement with faculty and peers. Advance scheduling ensures you can easily coordinate these sessions with your professional and personal commitments.
How long does it take to complete the Healthcare MBA program?
Most students complete the Healthcare MBA in approximately 21 months (7 quarters) while continuing to work full time. The structured cohort model and flexible online delivery make it possible to balance coursework with professional and personal responsibilities while maintaining steady progress toward your degree.
Admissions & Eligibility
What are the minimum admission requirements for the Healthcare MBA?
Applicants should have at least three years of professional experience, a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a U.S. four-year baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. View the full admission requirements.
Can I apply if my GPA is below 3.0?
Yes. Applicants with a cumulative GPA below 3.0 may submit a Low GPA Petition as part of their application, explaining strategies for success in the program.
Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE?
No. The Healthcare MBA does not require GMAT or GRE scores for admission.
Do I need healthcare experience to apply?
While most applicants have at least three years of professional experience in healthcare or a related field, we welcome candidates from diverse professional backgrounds who demonstrate a strong interest in advancing leadership within the healthcare industry. Prior experience helps students contribute valuable perspectives to the cohort learning environment and engage deeply with the program’s applied curriculum.
Application Process
When should I apply for the Fall 2026 cohort?
Application Opens: November 1, 2025
Early Application Deadline: April 1, 2026
Priority Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
Final Deadline: August 1, 2026
Apply early for priority advising, early review, and to secure your seat in the upcoming cohort.
Can I start my application before all my materials are ready?
Yes. You can begin your application through the OHSU Application Portal and return to complete it as you gather transcripts and documents. Your file will not enter review until all materials are received. Applying early provides access to advising, early review, and the best opportunity to secure your place in the Fall 2026 cohort.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. The online application requires a $70 non-refundable fee payable through the OHSU Application Portal.
Is an interview required for admission?
Yes. Qualified applicants are invited to a virtual interview with our admissions team after their full application and materials have been reviewed.
Who can I contact if I have questions about the application?
Email for program-related questions or for technical issues with the application portal.
International Applicants
Can international students apply?
We welcome applicants with degrees from institutions around the world and accept international-credential holders into the Healthcare MBA. However, this program cannot sponsor F-1 or J-1 student visas under current U.S. immigration regulations. Applicants who require U.S. visa sponsorship to study in the United States are not eligible for admission. International applicants may still apply if they do not require visa sponsorship.
What if my degree is from outside the United States?
Applicants with international degrees must submit a World Education Services (WES) ICAP evaluation to verify degree equivalency to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Applicants are responsible for all associated fees.
Do I need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores?
Applicants whose degrees were earned in countries where English is not the primary language of instruction must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
- Paper-based: 625
- Internet-based: 106
- Computer-based: 263
Send results directly to OHSU using code 4865 (Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine).
Program Format & Curriculum
What technology or equipment do I need for the online Healthcare MBA?
You’ll need a reliable high-speed internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone for live class sessions. The program uses a secure, user-friendly learning platform accessible on most modern browsers and devices. OHSU's Teaching and Learning Center Help Desk is available to assist with setup, access, and troubleshooting throughout your studies.
Who teaches the courses in the Online Healthcare MBA?
Courses are taught by a mix of experienced university faculty and practicing industry professionals. You’ll learn from faculty who bring academic rigor and research-based instruction, alongside healthcare leaders and practitioners who contribute real-world perspective and applied case studies. This combination ensures both scholarly depth and practical relevance for working professionals.
Is the Healthcare MBA accredited?
Yes. The Healthcare MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.
Tuition, Costs & Financial Aid
What is the tuition for the Healthcare MBA program?
Tuition is set annually. For the most current tuition and fee schedule, visit the Tuition & Financial Aid page.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Eligible students can apply for federal financial aid and explore tuition assistance programs through their employers. Visit OHSU Financial Aid for details.
Does my employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many healthcare organizations provide tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing graduate education. We recommend checking with your HR department for details.
What financial guidance and debt counseling resources are available for Healthcare MBA applicants?
OHSU offers personalized financial education and debt counseling to help Healthcare MBA applicants and students make informed decisions about funding their graduate education. Through the Educational Debt Counseling & Financial Management program, you can access free one-on-one advising, budgeting tools, and loan repayment strategies tailored to healthcare professionals.
Career Outcomes & ROI
What types of roles do graduates pursue after completing the Healthcare MBA?
Graduates of the online Healthcare MBA advance into executive, clinical, and operational leadership roles across hospitals, health systems, clinics, government, and healthcare startups. Common career outcomes include positions such as Chief Medical Officer, Medical Director, Chief Nursing Officer, Director of Operations, Clinic Director, and Program Manager. Many alumni also move into specialized or academic roles such as CRNA, Surgeon, Associate Professor, Pharmacist, Consultant, or Healthcare Administrator.
What return on investment (ROI) can I expect from the Healthcare MBA?
Graduates of the Healthcare MBA report significant professional growth, including promotions, expanded leadership responsibilities, and higher earning potential. Alumni hold roles such as Chief Medical Officer, Director of Operations, Senior Pharmacist, and Program Manager across hospitals, health systems, and healthcare startups.
Are there networking or alumni opportunities?
Yes. The cohort model encourages strong peer networks and sustained professional connections. Students gain ongoing access to the Healthcare MBA alumni community across healthcare sectors nationwide. In addition, there is an in-person community networking event each fall and spring that brings current students, alumni, and faculty together for career conversations and relationship building.
Still Have Questions?
Our admissions team is here to help you navigate requirements, deadlines, and the application process for the Fall 2026 Healthcare MBA cohort.
