Keiser University

Health Care Leadership

Melbourne Campus
Master Degree
Health Care Leadership
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program online.
$17,404 per semester. This program spans 3 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive a Master of Science in Health Care Leadership, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours. The length of this program is approximately 20 months.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Health Care Leadership is a Master Degree program (100% Online) offered by Keiser University in Melbourne, FL. The program takes 20 Months to complete, with tuition of $17,404 per semester.

Program Overview

This program integrates advanced leadership, management, and policy education tailored for current and aspiring health care leaders. Faculty bring both academic and professional healthcare leadership expertise, allowing students to connect classroom learning with real-world application. Interdisciplinary coursework draws on health administration, leadership, business, nutrition, exercise science, and information technology, and students may select electives aligned with career goals. The program promotes applied learning, interdisciplinary decision-making, and innovation.

Program Mission

The Master of Science in Health Care Leadership program at Keiser University empowers current and aspiring professionals to lead with integrity, innovation, and compassion within interdisciplinary teams and diverse healthcare systems. Grounded in a “Students First” philosophy and a culture of lifelong learning, the program prepares leaders to elevate organizational performance, implement strategic innovations, and lead transformative change in an evolving healthcare landscape.

What sets this Program apart

  • Goal #1: Prepare students with the knowledge and expertise to lead and manage teams in healthcare settings.
  • Goal #2: Equip students with practical leadership skills to navigate complex healthcare systems and drive organizational performance.
  • Goal #3: Empower students to create and apply innovative strategies that enhance change and address emerging trends in the healthcare industry.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space. Applications for Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

Credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcript directly from the previous institution by the end of a student’s first semester. Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum one third of a program at any time through the University. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from all former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Keiser University does not make any blanket assurances or guarantees regarding the acceptance or transferability of credits from other institutions. Each credit evaluation is conducted on a caseby-case basis in accordance with university policy.

Keiser University may accept transfer credits from a college or university recognized by the by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Coursework must be equivalent in content, level, and credit hours to the corresponding Keiser University course/s.

Qualified, accepted master’s degree seeking students may transfer a maximum of 12 graduate level credits, but no more than two-thirds of the total credit hours (whichever is less), required for the program unless otherwise specified by a programmatic accreditor.

Acceptable courses will be equivalent to a B grade or higher unless otherwise specified by programmatic requirements. Courses represented with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be transferable at the discretion of the program chair and/or appropriate program Dean.

General Requirements

  • Graduate School Application
    Submit an Application for Admission to the Graduate School
  • $55 Application Fee
    Pay the $55 Application Fee
  • Baccalaureate or Master’s Transcript
    Submission of an unofficial baccalaureate or master's transcript from an accredited school. If transcripts are in a foreign language, the student must provide proof of Foreign…
  • Official Transcript Deadline
    Failure to provide an official transcript by the end of the first semester will lead to dismissal from the program and the Graduate School.
  • Minimum 3.0 CGPA
    Minimum 3.0 CGPA
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Personal Statement (if CGPA is below 3.0)
    If CGPA is < 3.0, Keiser University’s Graduate School requires the submission of a Personal Statement. This personal statement should include an explanation regarding the factors…
  • Supplemental Documentation (Optional)
    Supplemental documentation may be included to support a prospective student’s application. Supplemental documents may include: o Letter of Recommendation o GMAT or GRE Test Scores
  • Bachelor’s Degree and Experience
    This program welcomes health practitioners, healthcare administrators, and professionals from a wide range of related disciplines. While a bachelor’s degree in a health-related…
  • Prerequisites for Major Courses
    Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. (health-related field is preferred)

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s friendly admissions counselors.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an Open House or plan a campus visit.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application and complete your enrollment profile and application.
    Apply Now
  5. 5
    Review Program Requirements
    Review the Graduate School admission requirements for your program.
  6. 6
    Upload Your Admission Documents
    In the Student Enrollment Portal, click on “My Documents” and upload the corresponding documents to fulfil the admission requirements. Then submit the Letter of Recommendation Form and your Personal Statement.
  7. 7
    Schedule Your Financial Aid Appointment
    Your admissions counselor will connect you to your dedicated Financial Aid Officer to schedule your appointment and receive assistance completing the FAFSA. Keiser University’s FAFSA school code is 015159.
  8. 8
    Class Registration
    Once you have accepted your financial aid funding plan, the registrars will schedule your courses throughout your entire degree plan from start to completion.
  9. 9
    Order Books
    Your admissions counselor will assist you in ordering your books through the online bookstore. Standard receipt is 3–5 business days unless you order priority.
  10. 10
    Attend Orientation
    Online programs offer a self-paced orientation through Blackboard, or a scheduled live session before each class start date. For campus programs, speak with your admissions counselor about orientation requirements at your location.
  11. 11
    Begin Classes
    The class week runs Monday through Sunday, midnight EST. You must log in by Wednesday of week one to confirm attendance, and participate a minimum of three logins per week in the Blackboard classroom for each course.

Program Schedule

Keiser University publishes this program as 30.0 graduate semester credit hours, approximately 20 months in length (this will vary if a student transfers in credits).

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $17,404
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12+ credits)$17,404.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$13,053.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$8,702.00
Less than half time (3 to 5.99 credits)$4,351.00

An education fee of $750.00 per semester is charged for all graduate-level programs. One-time charges upon enrollment are an application fee of $55.00 and a registration fee of $145.00.

Financial aid

Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Curriculum

To receive a Master of Science in Health Care Leadership, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours. The length of this program is approximately 20 months. NOTE: Courses in the master’s program are 8 weeks in length, and students are scheduled for 1 or 2 courses concurrently.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
LDR501Foundations of Leadership3
HSM691Quality Management in Health Care3
HSM692Strategic Mgt. of Health Services Org.3
HSM693Corporate Compliance in Health Care3
HSM694Global Health3
HSM695Healthcare Finance3
HSC761Health Informatics3
LDR508Leadership and Ethics3
Graduate Elective One3
Graduate Elective Two3

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s MS in Healthcare Leadership are prepared to pursue leadership and executive roles across healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, health systems, long-term care facilities, and healthcare consulting organizations. This graduate degree supports healthcare professionals by strengthening their ability to lead teams, manage compliance, implement quality improvement initiatives, and develop strategic plans that improve organizational performance and patient outcomes.

Career Pathways in Healthcare Leadership

  • Healthcare administrator
  • Hospital department director
  • Health systems manager
  • Medical and health services manager
  • Clinical operations director
  • Quality improvement director
  • Compliance and risk management officer
  • Health informatics manager
  • Long-term care administrator
  • Patient care services director
  • Healthcare consultant
  • Health policy analyst

While Keiser University provides employment placement assistance, it cannot promise or guarantee employment.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s MS in Healthcare Leadership prepares experienced healthcare professionals and emerging leaders for advanced careers in health administration, clinical management, and health systems strategy. With flexible online delivery and a curriculum grounded in the real challenges of modern healthcare, this program aligns with your professional goals and the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Whether you’re looking to step into a director role, advance within your current organization, or build the credentials for an executive career in healthcare, Keiser provides the advanced education and practical insight needed to make a lasting impact.

Campus Address

Melbourne Campus
900 South Babcock Street
Melbourne, FL 32901

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

Images

Healthcare Leadership, MS
Healthcare Leadership, MS
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Top Questions About Earning a Master’s in Healthcare Leadership

Can I complete the MS in Healthcare Leadership online at Keiser University?
Yes. The Master of Science in Healthcare Leadership at Keiser University is available fully online, allowing working healthcare professionals to advance their education without interrupting their careers. Students receive the same quality instruction, faculty support, and academic resources across all delivery formats.
Who is this program designed for?
The MS in Healthcare Leadership suits a wide range of professionals, including clinical practitioners ready to transition into administration, current healthcare managers seeking formal graduate credentials, and professionals in public health, compliance, or health informatics looking to advance into leadership roles. The program is designed for working adults and structured to fit a professional schedule.
What is the difference between this program and an MBA in Health Services Administration?
Both degrees prepare graduates for leadership roles in healthcare. The MS in Healthcare Leadership focuses specifically on health systems, healthcare policy, quality management, compliance, and health informatics, building deep expertise in the operational and strategic dimensions of healthcare delivery. The MBA in Health Services Administration provides a broader business foundation that also covers marketing, finance, and general management principles alongside healthcare-specific coursework. The right choice depends on whether you want a narrower healthcare focus or a broader business credential with a healthcare specialization.
What careers can I pursue with an MS in Healthcare Leadership?
Graduates can pursue roles such as healthcare administrator, hospital department director, health services manager, clinical leader, quality improvement director, compliance officer, health informatics manager, healthcare policy analyst, and healthcare consultant. Positions exist across hospitals, health systems, clinics, long-term care facilities, government health agencies, and private sector organizations.
Can I receive credit for courses completed at another institution?
Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include: Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses. Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval. Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs. Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis. Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution. Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean. Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Yes. Online students can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including scholarships and tuition assistance programs. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ.
How long does the MS in Healthcare Leadership take to complete?
The program can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on your course load, credit transfer, and schedule. Contact the admissions team for a personalised timeline.
What is health informatics, and why is it included in this program?
Health informatics is the application of data, technology, and information systems to manage and improve healthcare delivery. It is a core competency for today’s healthcare leaders, who must be able to analyse patient data, manage electronic health records systems, and leverage data analytics to drive quality improvement and operational decisions. The Health Informatics course in this program prepares graduates to work effectively in a technology-driven healthcare environment.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify, which can affect total tuition cost. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions counselor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs. For the latest tuition information, please view the University Graduate Catalog
What makes Keiser's healthcare leadership program different?
Keiser’s MS in Healthcare Leadership is specifically designed for working professionals, with an online format, an 8-week term structure, and a focused 30-credit-hour curriculum that delivers advanced healthcare management expertise efficiently. The program covers the full spectrum of healthcare leadership competencies from finance and compliance to quality improvement and health informatics in a format designed to fit around a demanding professional schedule.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Health Care Leadership at Melbourne Campus.
Health Care Leadership