Earning an online master of science in nursing/master of health association (MSN/MHA) dual degree enables registered nurses (RNs) to increase their earning potential and advance their nursing career. The MSN/MHA dual degree is a popular track for nurse administration and leadership career paths, allowing students to pursue two master's degrees simultaneously, saving both time and money. A dual MSN/MHA degree prepares students for careers, such as nurse administrator, chief nursing officer, and chief operating officer.
This guide explores the best MSN/MHA online degrees, including program admissions requirements, coursework, and accreditation status.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online MSN/MHA dual degree programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
At a Glance: The Top Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs
- University of Pennsylvania
- Liberty University
- Clarkson College
Featured Online MSN Programs
How Do Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs Work?
RNs with a bachelor's degree qualify for the MSN/MHA dual degree program. An MSN/MHA dual degree provides a deep comprehension of healthcare strategy, with coursework overlapping to cover both degrees.
Students gain the skills and knowledge required to deal with healthcare challenges, such as patient accessibility, quality, and costs of services. Learners deepen their understanding of nursing policy, quality, health assessment, and leadership. The program's healthcare administrative component focuses on healthcare financial operations and quality management. Required clinicals include a nurse administration practicum.
Applying to an Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Program
The MSN/MHA dual degree program requires 60 hours of coursework, which usually takes learners three years to complete. The curriculum focuses on nursing leadership and management skills, strategic marketing techniques, legal and ethical issues, and collaboration among other team members to employ healthcare best practices.
To determine if you qualify for MSN/MHA program entry, check out the school's admission requirements. Many schools include similar application materials, including the following:
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Admission Materials
Health assessment and statistics prerequisites; bachelor of science in nursing from an accredited institution; copy of undergraduate transcripts; resume or CV
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GPA Requirement
Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
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Other Requirement
Professional references; a career statement ; unencumbered RN license
Why Is Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation lends credibility to a school or a specific degree program and happens when a third-party accrediting body thoroughly reviews a college or university.
The American Association of Colleges of Nurses (AACN) often accredits graduate nursing programs. The AACN evaluates everything from the curriculum to study materials to faculty credentials. It is essential to select an accredited program for many reasons, including:
- Accreditation ensures a quality education.
- Graduates of accredited institutions gain the skills and knowledge to practice nursing at master's-level standards.
- Many institutions do not accept transfer credits from a non-accredited college or university.
- Unaccredited schools do not qualify for some types of student financial aid, such as federal loan programs.
All of the schools in our rankings list are accredited institutions.
Learn More About the Best Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs and Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs
University of Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
A member of the prestigious Ivy League, the University of Pennsylvania ranks among the country's top colleges. The school offers a dual-degree MSN-MPH that includes 10 public health classes and six nursing classes. Learners study topics like public health law and leadership development in healthcare.
Details:
- Program: MSN-MPH
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $4,654 per course
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of science in nursing; a recommended minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.8%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $109,190
Percent Online Enrollment
6%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 The Best Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
A private evangelical college based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers a dual-degree MSN-MSHA. Learners can complete the program 100% online.
MHA nurses gain nursing leadership skills along with advanced knowledge in strategic planning and business management. The program includes classes in healthcare informatics and managing population health. Enrollees also complete a class on economic analysis in healthcare.
Details:
- Program: MSN-MSHA
- Campus: Lynchburg, VA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $565 per credit
- Admission Requirements: RN license; minimum of one year RN experience; bachelor's degree in any field; minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 2.5 years
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $80,960
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 The Best Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs
Clarkson College
- Omaha, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Clarkson College offers an MSN-MHA dual-degree program. The program features a flexible online curriculum. Coursework prepares enrollees to serve as expert administrators, educators, or clinicians. Students complete a minimum of 54 credits. Classes cover topics like healthcare leadership and organizational behavior.
Details:
- Program: MSN-MHA
- Campus: Omaha, NE
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $683
- Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 3 years
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.1%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $112,440
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSN/MHA Dual Degree Programs
Is it hard to get a dual degree in nursing?
While earning a dual degree can be challenging, there are some major advantages to gaining both degrees at once. Much of the MSN/MHA curriculum is related, and the program combines a student's nurse management knowledge with general skills that healthcare leaders must learn. This results in a shorter program duration and lower costs.
What double major is best for nursing?
The double major that is best depends on your personal and career goals. If you are interested in healthcare management or leadership roles in the healthcare field, an MSN/MHA dual degree will likely be a good fit for you.
How long does it take to earn an MSN/MHA dual degree?
The time it takes to finish the program depends on several factors, such as whether you are a full- or part-time student. Many programs take 2.5-3 years to finish on a full-time schedule.
What career options are available with an MSN/MHA dual degree?
Career options for MSN/MHA dual degree graduates include a hospital or nurse administrator, director of nursing, nurse educator, or nurse manager (i.e., managing a specific department in a healthcare facility or the entire organization). Specific roles include nursing home administrators, medical practice managers, and health insurance underwriting managers.
