Administrative degree options outside pharmacy for pharmacists interested in administrative careers in the health care field

A variety of challenges facing the health care system in general and the profession of pharmacy in particular creates a need for pharmacists who have completed advanced education and training in administration. Some may choose to look outside academic pharmacy for graduate degree programs in administration. Four types of administrative degrees - MBA, MHA, MPA, and MPH - are described. A list of factors to be considered by a person thinking about pursuing graduate education in this area is presented and discussed. The admission process is described as it may typically occur for such programs in order to familiarize pharmacists with what criteria are likely to be used. An informed evaluation of the alternatives available will help students select the program best suited to their career goals.