5 Insider Secrets for MHA Applicants

Making the decision to pursue a Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree is a big step, and completing the application can seem like a daunting process at times. It’s important that you emphasize your strengths as a future MHA student in your application, but what are the best ways to effectively communicate this to admissions officers? Luckily, the folks at the George Washington University have spilled the secrets to help you put together the strongest possible application. By keeping these secrets in mind, you can position yourself for success.

Secret #1: People from a variety of backgrounds can excel in health administration.

Although many MHA-trained professionals work in a hospital setting, it is not necessary to have hospital experience in order to be accepted into an MHA program. Students with diverse work experience bring a unique perspective to an MHA program and may contribute to novel approaches to health administration. In fact, MHA@GW students come from a variety of backgrounds such as military, government, medical, pharmaceutical, insurance/HMO, consulting NGOs, among others.

Secret #2: You don’t have to be in a leadership position when you apply for a program.

The reasons people choose to pursue an MHA degree vary greatly, but many students are compelled by a strong desire to create positive changes in the health care system. While we would all love to write an admissions essay about our many leadership accomplishments in health care, this is likely not the case for many prospective students. You may not have had the opportunity to create systematic improvements and direct teams of employees yet. However, if you have the ambition to become a leader in health care, you may have what it takes to succeed in an MHA program.

Secret #3: Admissions committees look for applicants who express passion and enthusiasm.

MHA programs value passion. They look for people who are movers and shakers and are genuinely excited about improving the lives and health of others. Prospective students can communicate their enthusiasm in their statement of purpose. This short essay is your opportunity to tell MHA admissions officers about your specific interests and your overall ambition.

Secret #4: MHA programs care about your goals for the future.

MHA programs like to admit students who are goal-oriented. It is important to think about your future career objectives and communicate how getting an MHA is integral to your career trajectory. In both your statement of purpose and your interview with admissions officers you should explicitly outline your future plans. Whether your goal is to advance in a current job or pursue an entirely new position in a different sector of health care, let people know that you are thinking about how to best use the knowledge you will gain during your MHA program after you graduate.

Secret #5: MHA programs value diversity.

Admissions committees want to bring together a diverse student body that simulate the real world and provide diverse points of view. In your application, highlight your unique qualities and experience — this will position you as a valuable addition to an MHA program and help make you more memorable.

Summing it all up: Key points to remember

Taking the plunge and applying to MHA programs can be scary, but the application process can be a lot more manageable if you keep these secrets in mind. As you complete the application process, remember:

• Diverse work experience can be a strength.
• Ambition to become a leader in health care is key to success.
• Communicate your passion for creating positive change.
• Emphasize your career goals and how an MHA is important to your future.
• Leverage your unique background,

Don’t forget — you can always reach out to admission counselors at MHA@GW for more information and advice!