The Online MHA Admissions Process: Q&A with NYU Wagner’s Assistant Director of Admissions

As you think about applying or getting started on your application to our Online Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree program, you probably have questions. Going to graduate school is a big decision, so we held a Q&A with our Assistant Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, Alana Integlia, to give you more information about the admissions process, and how to put together an application that’s ready to submit. 

What types of healthcare professionals apply to NYU Wagner’s Online MHA program? 

While it's preferred for applicants to our Online Master of Health Administration degree program have at least one year of full-time work experience in healthcare management or a healthcare-related field, we see a range, from those at the beginning of their healthcare career, to others with 10+ years of clinical experience looking to develop their leadership skills.

This online master's degree program is designed for professionals across the healthcare sector. It prepares you for leadership roles in hospitals, community healthcare clinics, health insurance companies, healthcare consulting firms, private physician and medical provider practices, nursing homes, home-health organizations, and pharmaceutical and medical device companies. If you support the advancement of healthcare organizations, our Online MHA degree program will give you the skills to take your career to the next level.  

How do you suggest applicants explain any gaps and weaknesses in their resume?

You should always address a gap in employment or educational history in your application. Be honest: there are many legitimate reasons why someone might need to take time away from work or school. We want to see your experiences as a whole, and the more detailed and honest you are, the more the readers and faculty will see you as an individual ready for the next step in their professional and academic career.

What makes a good recommendation letter? 

To start, you must submit two letters of recommendation. We would prefer one professional reference and one academic reference from a faculty member or academic advisor who is familiar with your work. If you have been out of school for more than two years, it is perfectly acceptable to submit two professional references. 

A good letter highlights elements of your application, such as your leadership, quantitative, finance, teamwork and interpersonal skills. It should highlight your strengths. The letter should be at least one page, which means a good letter can be longer, up to two pages. It signals that the reviewer knows you and is sharing details about your work, relationship with them, and skills. Also, if applicable, letters of recommendation should be on letterhead. 

What do you look for in an application essay? 

A good essay is well-organized and directly addresses the questions. We are interested in learning more about your commitment to advancing healthcare in the United States and how you will bring your experiences to bear to make an impact on the communities and organizations you aspire to serve.

It is important to answer the questions fully and also make sure you pay attention to the essay structure— don’t forget to check your spelling and grammar. Have a second set of eyes on your essay to catch anything you might have overlooked. The essays must be between 400-500 words. Remember, these essays are your only opportunity to express who you are, and why NYU Wagner’s Online MHA program is the right choice for you. 

Do I need to submit GRE or GMAT test scores?

GRE or GMAT scores are optional, but helpful if you have limited quantitative undergraduate coursework or only have quantitative coursework where you received B- or below. Your GRE or GMAT scores should be no more than five years old and transmitted directly from your testing agency. If you haven't or don't plan to take the GRE/GMAT, another option we suggest is to take a quantitative class, such as statistics, microeconomics, or macroeconomics, online or at your local community college. 

Is the Online MHA admission process different than other NYU Wagner master’s degree programs’ admission processes? 

Yes, we have a rolling admissions process for our online health administration master's degree program. Once all of your materials have been confirmed and reviewed, you will hear back from us within a two to three week period. While most master’s degree programs only have one or two open application cycles, you can apply to start our Online MHA program in the fall, spring, or summer. Whenever you are ready, you will be able to begin work on your application. 

NYU Wagner Online MHA Degree Program Application Requirements:

• At least one year of full-time experience in a US healthcare-related role is preferred. All applicants must be committed to advancing healthcare in the US
• Be currently employed in a US healthcare-related field at the time of application
• Two (2) application essays
• Resume or CV
• Two (2) letters of recommendation 
• Transcripts 
• Standardized test scores (optional)

If you have any other questions regarding admissions, please reach out to us! Our Enrollment Advisors are here to provide one-on-one application assistance about the program, online student experience, financial aid, and more.