Master’s in Health Administration, MHA after BPT

Are you a physiotherapy graduate and wondering about your next step? Perhaps you’ve thought about pursuing a management degree but didn’t know which course would suit you best. Well, if you’re a physiotherapy graduate with an eye on a management career, this article is tailor-made for you! We’ll be delving into the Master’s of Healthcare Administration (MHA) course, giving you insights to decide if MHA after BPT is a good career path for you.

What is MHA? 

MHA or Master’s in healthcare administration program is designed to teach you how to manage healthcare organizations, including hospitals. Through MHA coursework, you will study many of the core principles of operating a business. This degree enables you to take leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

MHA vs. MPH: The Key Differences

Before we jump into the details of MHA, let’s distinguish it from Master’s in Public Health (MPH). MHA graduates primarily handle the business side of healthcare organizations and work alongside healthcare professionals to expand the organization’s operations and reach. On the other hand, MPH graduates often engage with government, non-profit organizations, and multinational companies to implement public health policies and design health programs for employees.

Read my article about the Master’s in public health, MPH after physiotherapy here.

What are some of the colleges in India that offer MHA programs? 

Here is a list of some of the colleges in India that offer MHA courses.

• Tata Institute of social sciences (TISS), Mumbai
• Manipal Academy of higher education, Manipal
• Indian Institute of health management research (IIHMR), Jaipur 
• Amity University, Gurugram

Can I pursue MHA after BPT?

Absolutely! Pursuing MHA after BPT is a viable option. To be eligible, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from any recognized Indian university, which includes BPT, with a minimum aggregate of 50%. Admission criteria may vary slightly among colleges; some consider final year scores, while others conduct their entrance exams followed by interviews.

What will I study during MHA Course? 

The MHA program typically spans two years, including one or two internships and a dissertation at the end. During your studies, you’ll cover subjects like General Management in Healthcare, Organizational Behavior, Accounts and Financial Management, Healthcare Analytics, Administration of Clinical and Non-Clinical Services, Hospital Planning, and Management, among others.

In the MHA course, you will embark on an enriching journey of learning that covers various essential aspects of healthcare administration and management. Here’s a summary of what you can expect to explore:

• Deep Exploration of Healthcare Administration and Management Principles Throughout the course, you’ll delve deeply into the fundamental principles that govern healthcare administration and effective management. Understanding these principles is crucial for successful leadership roles within healthcare organizations.
• Health Information Systems One significant aspect of the MHA program is studying health information systems. These systems are vital in securely storing and efficiently processing patient information. Mastering this technology is essential for maintaining patients’ confidentiality and improving overall healthcare services.
• Public Relations and Marketing in Healthcare As an MHA graduate, you’ll gain valuable insights into public relations and marketing strategies within the healthcare domain. This knowledge will enable you to help healthcare organizations maintain a positive public image and attract more patients to their facilities.
• Healthcare Quality Management In the pursuit of providing high-quality healthcare services, MHA graduates focus on healthcare quality management. This involves implementing strategies to enhance the effectiveness of healthcare services and continuously improving patient satisfaction over time.
• Healthcare Financial Analysis Handling complex finances is a crucial skill you’ll develop during the MHA course. Understanding the financial aspects of healthcare organizations ensures effective resource management and sustainable growth.

Job titles after MHA 

• Health administrator/ hospital administrator  
• Clinical manager 
• Health service manager 
• Healthcare consultant 
• Insurance administrator 
• Medical records manager 

What is the starting Salary? 

For MHA graduates in India, the average starting salary hovers around 10 LPA (lakhs per annum). The starting package may vary based on your educational background and the specific job you are applying for. Many MHA careers offer structured growth paths and opportunities to work in corporate settings.

Pros of pursuing MHA after BPT (physiotherapy) 

Why should you consider MHA after BPT? Here are some compelling reasons:

• Non-Clinical Career: MHA opens doors to diverse non-clinical opportunities, especially if you’re not keen on pursuing clinical roles after physiotherapy.
• Higher Average Starting Salary: MHA graduates often enjoy better starting packages compared to working as a physiotherapist, although it depends on your educational background and job role.
• Career Growth: As an MHA graduate, you’ll find structured career paths and professional growth in corporate environments.

Cons of pursuing MHA after BPT (physiotherapy): 

Despite the numerous advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

• Limited Use of Physiotherapy Background: Your MHA career might not heavily utilize all the knowledge from your physiotherapy background.
• Confusion Around MHA Roles: The interdisciplinary nature of MHA can lead to role confusion, especially when overlapping with graduates from other fields like MPH or MBA in Hospital Management.
• Disinterest in MHA Course Subjects: If you weren’t a fan of management subjects during your physiotherapy studies, carefully weigh your interest before committing to MHA.

Is MHA the Right Choice for You? 

Ultimately, the decision to pursue MHA after BPT hinges on your interests and aspirations. Carefully evaluate the pros and cons discussed, considering how MHA aligns with your career goals. Take the time to explore your options and make an informed decision that will shape your future path. I wish you the best of luck as you embark on this exciting journey of career exploration and growth!