Howard University Launches New Masters and Doctoral Programs For Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

In 2024, Howard University's College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences will launch a Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree programs. 

“These two programs are the beginning of greater healthcare initiatives to come from the college that will address healthcare needs on a global level,” said Gina S. Brown, Ph.D., dean of CNAHS as cited in Howard University's The Dig.

Healthcare professions are expected to continue to grow, making it a resilient industry with strong career prospects. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states the projected growth rate for healthcare administrators is 28% from 2022-2032. The projected growth rate for Nurse Practitioners is 45%

In the fall of 2024, The MHA program will offer paths for candidates interested in healthcare, pharmacology and insurance management, director or executive paths. Students can also choose a healthcare consultant path.

The American College of Healthcare Executives explains that there is a great need for more racially and ethnically diverse administrators in healthcare leadership positions. In 2019, 89% of hospital CEOs identified as white. When patients from underrepresented groups do not see diverse representation across the organizational hierarchy, they may be less likely to trust health care providers and follow through with medical recommendations. Howard's introduction of the Master of Health Administration program will contribute to developing more racially and ethnically diverse candidates for healthcare leadership positions. 

Howard University's online Doctor of Nursing Program (DNP) will launch in January and is designed to accommodate the demands of practicing nurses schedules. The two tracks are for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) with a master's degree: a generic DNP and a psych-mental health nurse practitioner-DNP.

Assistant Provost for Digital and Online Learning and Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, and Assessment (CETLA), Morris Thomas, Ph.D. explained that he's excited that Howard is participating in innovative approaches like digital and online learning. He states, "When specifically considering the healthcare profession, these new online programs will increase access to many learners who cannot complete a traditional in-person program at Howard University, ultimately expanding our reach."