Q: How many credit hours are needed to complete the program?

A: The number of credit hours needed to complete the program varies from student to student. Most students finish the program with 58 credit hours.

Q: Must you maintain a "B" average to stay in the program?

A:  If a student's grade point average falls below a "B" average (3.0), the student is placed on probation for a semester until they can bring the average above a "B".  

Q: How many hours of electives are required?

A: Students are required to complete 6 hours of electives.   

Q: How many people are currently enrolled in the program?

A: Currently there are 120 individuals enrolled in the HCA program.

Q: How is an advisor assigned?

A: Advisors are assigned to students once they have been accepted to the program. The HCA faculty will attempt to match each student to an advisor with common interests. 

Q: How helpful is this program if you have no experience? (What can you expect?)

A: This program is very helpful to students with no experience because they are in classes with individuals that have a wide range of experience. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship. 

Q: What are some of the success stories from students that have gone through the program?

A: Many of our MHA graduates have gone on to become CEO and CFO's of hospitals. Other graduates go on to work for well respected healthcare organizations in the top levels of administration. 

Q: How and when do we apply for traineeship funds and internships?

A: Students typically apply for traineeship funds at the beginning of a semester. If a student is interested in an internship, they need to meet with their faculty advisor one to two semesters before they would like to do the internship.

Q: Can you work full-time and participate in an internship?

A: Most students that work full-time do not participate in an internship because of conflicts with work. However, talk to your advisor about your interest in an internship because occasionally the department is notified of internships with flexible hours.

Q: Is it important to take classes in sequence?

A: It is extremely important to take classes in sequence. Students who do not take classes in sequence miss out on the full learning experience and often cannot keep up with course work.

Q: Is financial aid available?

A: Yes! Contact Heidi Miller the Financial Aid office at 713-794-2315 for more information.

Q: Is financial aid available for certificate students?

A: Unfortunately, certificate students are not eligible for financial aid.

Q: How long does it take someone who works full-time to complete the program?

A: A part-time student can complete the program in 3 years. A full-time student should be able to complete the program in 2 years.

Q: How many leveling or prerequisite courses are required?