![Healthcare worker reviewing information on a computer screen](/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree/_jcr_content/root/container_1317770635/columns/responsivegrid1/container/container/container_copy_copy/container_217117808_/image.coreimg.jpeg/1734611850748/mobile-healthcare-a.jpeg)

# Online Doctor of Health Administration

> | Program Level | Field of Study | Program Name | Average Program Length | Total Credits | Credits per Course | Estimated Cost per Course |
| -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | -------- |
| Doctoral Degree | Healthcare | Doctor of Health Administration | Varies | 54 credits | 3 credits $2,635 |

[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info?programcode=DHA)
## Doctor of Health Administration

If you’re a health professional who is seeking greater responsibility in shaping the future of the health sector, the Doctor of Health Administration can help you get there. You’ll meet the challenges inherent to today’s healthcare landscape, including economic fluctuations, burgeoning patient needs and industry-changing legislation.

Ignite Your Passion

Start when you're ready

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)
Courses

---

## Browse courses for your online health administration degree

Education should hold practical value. That’s why our courses meet rigorous academic standards and provide you with skills and knowledge immediately applicable to your career.

![Skills-aligned program icon](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/skills-aligned-learning/v4/_jcr_content/root/container_402382400/container_1191233775/container/image_copy_copy.coreimg.svg/1675875069348/misc-trophy.svg)

Look for this icon to see which skills you’ll learn in a course.

### Core Courses

### General Education Courses

### Electives

> 
18 Core Courses

Here’s where you’ll pick up the bulk of your program-specific knowledge. By the time you finish these courses, you should have the confidence and skills needed in this field.

## Doctoral degree program requirements

- The minimum credits to obtain your doctoral degree is 54 credits
- The doctoral degree program length can vary by specific program requirements
- Students may be required to complete extension courses to allow ample time to satisfy the dissertation and project requirements for their program of study.  Additional courses may require additional cost and time. 

Our doctoral support team is here to guide you every step of the way. Speak to our dedicated doctoral enrollment representative for questions on your program timeline. 

![](/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree/_jcr_content/root/container_1317770635/columns/responsivegrid1/container/container_1248973217/container_copy_copy_/container/image.coreimg.svg/1705695903891/phone-icon-white-circle.svg)

[602-544-3737](tel:16025443737)

[602-544-3737](tel:1-602-544-3737)
## Two dissertation pathways. One rigorous doctoral experience. 

University of Phoenix doctoral students may complete their DHA dissertation through one of two pathways: traditional or applied. Both follow the same curriculum, credit hours, academic rigor, faculty guidance, Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements and oral defense process. The primary difference is the type of research conducted and how the findings are communicated.  

### How do the dissertation pathways differ?

**How do the dissertation pathways differ?**

|  | Traditional dissertation | Applied dissertation |
|---|---|---|
| Typically appropriate when Typically appropriate when | Typically appropriate when The study explores problems of knowledge grounded in scholarly literature  | Typically appropriate when The study investigates a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting |
| Research focus Research focus | Research focus Research investigates problems of knowledge to advance scholarly understanding | Research focus Research explores problems of practice to generate evidence that informs professional practice and decision-making  |
| Study context Study context | Study context Research may involve organizations or professional settings, but the problem is not bounded to a single organizational context | Study context Research is centered on a defined problem of practice within a specific organizational or professional setting  |
| Final deliverable Final deliverable | Final deliverable Five-chapter dissertation manuscript | Final deliverable Applied research report, executive summary and supporting deliverables |
| Primary audience Primary audience | Primary audience Scholarly and academic audiences | Primary audience Academic or professional audiences |

Traditional dissertation

**Typically appropriate when**The study explores problems of knowledge grounded in scholarly literature

**Research focus**Research investigates problems of knowledge to advance scholarly understanding

**Study context**Research may involve organizations or professional settings, but the problem is not bounded to a single organizational context

**Final deliverable**Five-chapter dissertation manuscript

**Primary audience**Scholarly and academic audiences

Applied dissertation

**Typically appropriate when**  
The study investigates a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting

**Research focus**  
Research explores problems of practice to generate evidence that informs professional practice and decision-making

**Study context**  
Research is centered on a defined problem of practice within a specific organizational or professional setting

**Final deliverables**  
Applied research report, executive summary and supporting deliverables

**Primary audience**  
Academic or professional audiences 

![Illustration of the UOPX dissertation pathway guide](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/dissertation-comparison.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=270)

This comparison is intended as a general guide. The appropriate pathway depends on your research topic, methodology and the feasibility of your study. Doctoral faculty can help determine which pathway best aligns with your research. 

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)
### The dissertation journey: step by step

Both dissertation pathways follow the same five-phase process for developing and completing doctoral research. The activities and deliverables within each phase vary based on the pathway.

1. 1. Identify the problem
2. 2. Refine the study
3. 3. Develop the framework
4. 4. Finalize the design
5. 5. Analyze, communicate findings
1. Identify the problem
#### 1. Identify the problem

Establish a strong foundation for your research by identifying a meaningful problem of knowledge or practice and start drafting your research plan.  

![A doctoral student works to identify a problem for his traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-one-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Identify a research problem grounded in scholarly literature and draft your research plan.  

![A student and faculty member discuss a problem of practice for an applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-1-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Identify a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting and draft a research plan aligned with that context.

![Your faculty will serve as your guide throughout the dissertation process](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-1-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=600)

Faculty guide you as you establish alignment among your research problem, purpose, research questions, study design, conceptual framework and the feasibility of your proposed study.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)2. Refine the study
#### 2. Refine the study

Continue developing your study by refining key research elements, validating alignment and confirming your research is ready to move forward.

![A student refines her study for her traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-2-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Refine your research problem, purpose statement and research design while strengthening the scholarly foundation for your study within existing literature. 

![Doctoral students discuss their applied dissertation studies](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-2-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Refine your applied research plan while validating organizational alignment, research feasibility and ethical readiness. 

![Your faculty will serve as your guide as you work on your dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-illo-2.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Faculty guide you as you refine your study and confirm it’s aligned, feasible and ready for the next phase.  

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)3. Develop the framework
#### 3. Develop the framework

Strengthen the conceptual foundation for your study by synthesizing research and demonstrating why your research problem matters.

![A student develops the framework of her traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Develop your literature review and theoretical framework by synthesizing scholarly research related to your research problem.

![A student develops a concept manuscript for an applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Develop a concept manuscript that positions your problem of practice within broader professional, disciplinary and systemic contexts.

![A doctoral student wears a backpack and carries a laptop](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Both pathways strengthen the conceptual foundation for rigorous doctoral research while preparing you to conduct ethical research through Human Subjects Protection training.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)4. Finalize the design
#### 4. Finalize the design

Finalize your research design by preparing your study for ethical review, required approvals and data collection.

![A student finalizes the design of a traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Complete your dissertation proposal, obtain the necessary approvals and prepare your study for IRB review before beginning data collection.

![A student works on a laptop, finalizing the design of her applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Complete your applied research methods package and prepare your study for IRB review and implementation within the approved research setting.

![A student prepares a study for ethical review](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Working with your dissertation committee, you'll finalize your research design and prepare your study for ethical review and data collection.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)5. Analyze, communicate findings
#### 5. Analyze & communicate findings

Analyze your findings, communicate your research and complete the final requirements of your doctoral study. 

![A student defends her traditional dissertation before the dissertation committee](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Complete your dissertation manuscript, interpret your findings and defend your research before the dissertation committee.

![A student meets with a doctoral committee, defending his applied dissertation research](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Complete your applied research report, executive summary and dissemination plan before defending your research and communicating findings to scholarly, professional and organizational audiences. 

![A student makes her oral defense](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Complete your doctoral journey by demonstrating the quality and impact of your research through a successful oral defense. 

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)
### Dedicated doctoral support

Questions about our dissertation pathways? The College of Doctoral Studies has a dedicated team of enrollment representatives and academic counselors who are ready to answer all your questions.

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)
![A UOPX enrollment representative who is dedicated to serving doctoral students](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-support-mobile.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=600)

Tuition

---

## Paying for school

Tuition is based on number of credit hours per course. Courses are typically 3 credits, but can range from 1-6 credits. Costs do not include savings opportunities like transfer credits and scholarships.

[Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#doctoral)
![Tuition Guarantee](/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree/_jcr_content/root/container_1317770635/columns/responsivegrid1/container/container_tuition_co/container_copy_copy__299803467/container_copy/container_copy/image.coreimg.svg/1723922780213/tuition-guarantee-logo.svg)

### Doctoral cost per course

$2,635 / course

Cost breakdown
Cost per credit 

Credits per course

Resource fee

**$810**

x3

+ $205

---

Estimated cost per course

$2,635

![An illustration showing a couple pushing a stroller with a dollar sign and clock in the background](/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree/_jcr_content/root/container_1317770635/columns/responsivegrid1/container/container_tuition_co/container_copy_copy__299803467/container_copy/container_963571863/image.coreimg.jpeg/1725901044961/price-transparency-illustration.jpeg)

**What affects the overall cost of my program?**

Your full program cost can vary by: 

- **Savings opportunities.** With our Tuition Guarantee commitment, you can count on fixed, affordable pricing for your entire postgraduate degree program. You can apply for the Doctoral Scholarship, which offers up to $3,000 for new students and alumni pursuing their doctoral degree at University of Phoenix.
- **California Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF).**If you’re a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for STRF which is currently $0 per $1,000 of institutional charges. The STRF assessment is nonrefundable.
- **Required textbook for DHA/715.**If purchased through the University Bookstore, a new book costs $17. You may also purchase the book from other sources or potentially borrow it at no charge through a library.

**Earn your doctoral degree faster and for less with eligible savings opportunities:**

[Explore doctoral degree scholarships](/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships.html)
---

[Learn about cost of attendance](/tuition-financial-aid/cost-of-attendance.html#doctoral)
### Other ways to save on time and tuition

Because we believe everyone deserves an affordable education, we work hard to help our students achieve one. Here’s a few ways you can save time, save money and avoid starting from scratch. 

#### Transfer credits

Your prior eligible college credits can lower your cost and help you graduate sooner. As a transfer-friendly university, we accept eligible credits from 5,000+ accredited institutions. 

[Transfer your credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)
#### Employer tuition benefits

Are you employed? Check to see if your employer has an alliance agreement with us for education benefits. This can help you save money while gaining skills that could apply to your job.  

[Check employer benefits](/tuition-financial-aid/employer-tuition-benefits.html)
#### Military savings

If you’re an active-duty service member in the U.S. Armed Forces or an eligible spouse or dependent, you may be eligible for a lower, military tuition rate and can save on tuition.  

[Get military savings](/military.html)
#### We can help you get started

Chat with an experienced advisor who can guide you through tuition, financial aid, scholarships, transfer credits and more.

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)PreviousNext
1. View 1
2. View 2

![A man strides forward while holding a tablet in one hand](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/financial-aid/financial-aid-v2/_jcr_content/root/container_copy_copy__1914292621/container/container/image.coreimg.png/1734107823778/financial-aid-illustration.png)

Budget & borrow

## How to pay for college

Paying for school can be intimidating, but we’re here to help you make sense of it. Our finance advisors can walk you through your options like federal financial aid and savings opportunities to minimize your debt. Plus, we can help you figure out your financial plan.

[Explore federal financial aid](/tuition-financial-aid/federal-financial-aid.html)
Careers & Outcomes

---

## What can you do with a Doctor of Health Administration?

Discover where your degree might take you and make informed choices about your future.

**A DHA can help prepare you to be a:**

- Health care administrator
- Health information administrator
- [Health information management director](/career-guides/healthcare/health-information-management-director.html)
- Hospital plan administrator
- Public health director

Our practitioner doctorate prepares you for leadership in your profession. [How is this degree different from a PhD?](/online-doctoral-degrees/phd-vs-practitioner-doctorate.html)

![](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/start-app/master/_jcr_content/root/container_copy_copy_/columns_259273357/responsivegrid0/container/image.coreimg.png/1686235629698/stephen-paskel-kids-wide.png)

## Ready to get started?

Start your application for free or request additional information.

[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)
## What you’ll learn

When you earn your online degree, you’ll be equipped with a concrete set of skills you can apply on the job. You’ll learn how to:

- 
Integrate the Scholar Practitioner Leader (SPL) Model throughout the doctoral journey and beyond.

- 
Cultivate a leadership identity that reflects a mature and strategic understanding of the dynamics of diverse health sector environments.

- 
Develop doctoral research that identifies and addresses opportunities for improvements in health sector contexts.

23%Growth

According to the [Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm), job growth for medical and health services managers is projected to be**much faster than average**between ((edu.BLSyears)).

((edu.BLSdisclaimer))

Admissions

---

## Apply for free – no application fee, no obligation.

Starting your degree is a big decision — and we want you to feel great about it. That’s why we remove obstacles from your application.

- No GMAT/GRE
- No admissions essay or letter of intent  

- No academic or professional references  

- We’ll request transcripts at no cost to you, when possible, and we accept eligible credits from over 5,000 accredited institutions.
[Explore admission requirements](/admissions.html)
[Embedded content](https://www.youtube.com/embed/3ohc3WEqbos?rel=0&controls=1&fs=0&modestbranding=1&cc_load_policy=1)

×  

How to enroll at University of Phoenix

## Receive 1-on-1 support

You have a support team of real people you can lean on. And our academic counselors, who are with you every step of the way, have earned a 5-star rating from 90% of our surveyed students.[1] Start a conversation with an enrollment representative today.

[1] Transactional Survey, August 2021-22 (18,645 respondents)

![Gabriel G., Enrollment Representative](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/enrollment_rep/mobile-er/master/_jcr_content/root/container_copy/image_copy_copy.coreimg.png/1682456796086/gabriel-enrollment-rep-mobile-rnd.png)

**Call or chat with us 7 days a week.**

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)
![G. Galindo - Enrollment Representative](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/enrollment_rep/desktop-er/master/_jcr_content/root/container_copy/container/image_copy.coreimg.png/1675270998383/g-galindo-enrollment-rep.png)

Gabriel G., Enrollment Rep

## Receive 1-on-1 support

You have a support team of real people you can lean on. And our academic counselors, who are with you every step of the way, have earned a 5-star rating from 85% of our surveyed students.[1]

[1] Transactional Survey, September 2022-August 2023 (23,739 respondents)

Start a conversation with an enrollment representative today.

**Call us at 844-937-8679 or chat with us 7 days a week.**

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)
Doctoral Student Experience

---

### Integrated dissertation from day one

Once your program starts, you’ll begin your dissertation with support from practitioner faculty, a dissertation committee and a peer team. You’ll also have a resource repository to help you complete it with confidence. 

[Browse resources](https://www.phoenix.edu/research/resources.html#students)
### Explore and inquire with the Research Hub

Our Research Hub is a community of researchers who exemplify the highest standards of academic excellence and research innovation. Browse publications or view our centers and Career Institute®.

[Go to Research Hub](/research.html)
### Drive change with actionable learning

Our programs incorporate lifelong learning, social and workplace contribution, and the ability to exert positive influence. You’ll learn how to become an aspiring leader who can impact decision-making and drive change. 

[Explore our learning model](/research/resources/the-scholar-practitioner.html)
### Connect with your scholarly community

Your success is important to us. We host events to support your research, doctoral studies and networking. Join us for our Doctoral Journey Colloquium, Research Summit or an upcoming workshop or webinar.

[Browse events](/research/events.html)
![Phoenix provides support and resources for busy students](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/student-experience/doctoral/_jcr_content/root/columns_copy_copy_co/responsivegrid1/image.coreimg.jpeg/1671733083497/student-experience-balance.jpeg)

Faculty Spotlight

---

## Professionals dedicated to you

Your success is a top priority for our deans and faculty members. They bring an average of ((edu.facultyExperience)) years of experience and hands-on perspective to the classroom, and help bridge the gap between academics and industry knowledge.

![Christopher Wilson](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/site/quote/faculty-healthcare/v2/_jcr_content/root/teaser_copy_copy_cop.coreimg.png/1695387350648/christopher-wilson-faculty.png)

> 
I’m the grittiest person. And so are our students.

**Christopher Wilson**Faculty of the Year 2020, College of Health Professions  
University of Phoenix

[Read his story](/blog/2021/04/uopx-faculty-christopher-wilson.html)
Accreditation

---

## Accredited for 45+ years

Since 1978, University of Phoenix has maintained institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC),[hlcommission.org](https://www.hlcommission.org/). Learn more about the value of University of Phoenix accreditation and how it benefits our students.

[Learn more](/about/accreditation.html)
[Higher   
Learning Commission Accreditation Status](https://cdn2.yoshki.com/badgeframe?34)

## Doctorate degree-related articles

- [What is a Doctoral Candidate vs. Doctoral Student](/articles/online-college/what-is-a-doctoral-candidate-vs-doctoral-student) — University Life | April 26, 2023 • 7 minutes

- [Dissertation Help Workshops](/blog/dissertation-help-workshops-can-jump-start-your-doctoral.html) — University Life | September 28, 2022 • 5 Minutes

- [Differences in MD, PhD,. Professional Doctorate](/articles/online-college/differences-between-md-phd-and-professional-doctorate) — Online Degrees | June 22, 2023 • 8 minutes

## Frequently asked questions about this doctoral program

1. Admissions
2. Online Learning
3. Program Length
4. Graduation and Outcomes
Admissions
### What are the admission requirements for this doctoral degree?

To be eligible for a doctoral degree program, you must meet the following criteria:

- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or have a valid visa if you’re living in the U.S.
- You have earned a graduate degree from a regionally or an approved nationally accredited — or candidate for accreditation — college or university or equivalent graduate degree earned at a recognized foreign institution
- You have a minimum 3.0 GPA on graduate degree posted transcripts
- You are currently employed or have a record of past employment or access to a work environmentYou have access to a research library
- You have a signed University hardware/software agreement
- You have not previously been expelled from a higher education institution
- You will complete all required forms for admission and submit an official graduate degree posted transcript

[Learn more about admission requirements](/admissions.html).

### Do I need a master’s degree in a specific field to apply?

No specific master’s degree field of study is required to start a doctoral degree. You must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on graduate degree posted transcripts from an accredited institution.[Learn about transferring credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html).

### How do I apply?

Sign up for a University account to start the process. Complete your program application in about 20 minutes.[Apply now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info).

### Are standardized tests (GMAT/GRE) required for admission?

We have an open admissions policy that allows you to apply without standardized test scores, so GMAT/GRE test results are not required.[What is required for admissions?](/admissions.html)

### Is there an application fee?

No, application to University of Phoenix is free. We strive to remove barriers for new students that might interrupt higher education goals, including fees for application.[Explore costs and tuition](/tuition-financial-aid.html).

Online Learning
### What kind of support is provided during the dissertation process?

As part of your doctoral studies you can receive a customized support system for doctoral students, including:

- Doctoral-dedicated graduation team
- Dissertation support
- College of Doctoral Studies resource repository

[Learn more about doctoral studies](/online-doctoral-degrees.html).

### Can I work full-time while completing my online doctoral degree?

One of the most convenient aspects of the University of Phoenix online learning model is that you choose the days and times to participate in class each week. You do need to meet the minimum participation requirements by posting substantive contributions to the classroom on three of seven days each week. While there are due dates for assignments, when you do the work for those assignments is up to you.[Find out more about learning online](/student-resources/going-to-class.html).

### Is academic advising available to online students?

Academic advisors are available 6 am to 7 pm, 5 days a week to provide guidance and support throughout your educational journey.[Sign up to connect with advisors](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info).

Program Length
### How long does it take to earn a doctoral degree?

The doctoral degree program length can vary by program expectations. Course extensions, research proposals, and research and dissertation can all impact the duration and cost of doctoral studies. That's why our doctoral support team is here to guide you every step of the way. Review your selected program for details. If you have questions,[explore doctoral program details](/online-doctoral-degrees.html)or speak to our dedicated doctoral enrollment representatives: 602-544-3737

### Can I shorten the time it takes to finish my degree?

You can apply up to 27 doctoral-level credits you’ve earned from accredited institutions toward your professional doctoral degree, which may help you finish your degree sooner.[Learn more about transfer credits.](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)

Graduation and Outcomes
### Will my diploma specify that the degree was earned online?

No, a University of Phoenix diploma does not indicate that the degree was earned online. The diploma only shows that the degree was earned in a specific field of study. We also offer continued opportunities after you graduate.[Explore alumni benefits](/alumni.html).

### Are career services available for online students?

As a doctoral student you have access to the[CDS Alumni Mentor Program](/doctoral-studies.html), a comprehensive program designed to strengthen your connection to our doctoral alumni. Mentorship can help you create a game plan for the year ahead and even begin to build your doctoral network. Mentorship can also help you move through your career discovery process.

You will also have access to webinars and presentations geared to support you after graduation.[Learn more in doctoral student resources](/research.html#students).

While widely available, not all programs are available to residents of all states. Please check with a University Enrollment Representative.

```html
<script type="application/ld+json">{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@graph": [
    {
      "@type": "CollegeOrUniversity",
      "@id": "https://www.phoenix.org/#organization",
      "name": "University of Phoenix",
      "url": "https://www.phoenix.edu/",
      "sameAs": [
        "https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix",
        "https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/",
        "https://x.com/uopx"
      ]
    },
    {
      "@type": "WebPage",
      "@id": "https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html#webpage",
      "url": "https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html",
      "name": "Online Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) | University of Phoenix",
      "description": "The official page for the online Doctor of Health Administration degree program. Advance your healthcare career with doctoral-level expertise in health policy, governance, and organizational leadership.",
      "isPartOf": {
        "@id": "https://www.phoenix.org/#organization"
      },
      "about": {
        "@id": "https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html#program"
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "EducationalOccupationalProgram",
      "@id": "https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html#program",
      "name": "Doctor of Health Administration",
      "alternateName": [
        "DHA",
        "Doctorate in Health Administration"
      ],
      "description": "A professional doctoral program designed for healthcare leaders. It emphasizes the application of theoretical knowledge to solve complex real-world healthcare challenges through a focused research dissertation.",
      "educationalCredentialAwarded": "Doctor of Health Administration (DHA)",
      "programType": [
        "Doctoral Degree",
        "Professional Doctorate"
      ],
      "provider": {
        "@id": "https://www.phoenix.org/#organization"
      },
      "url": "https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html",
      "educationalProgramMode": [
        "Online"
      ],
      "numberOfCredits": 54,
      "timeOfDay": "Courses offered in 8-week online sessions",
      "keywords": [
        "Doctor of Health Administration",
        "DHA",
        "Healthcare Executive Leadership",
        "Health Systems Governance",
        "Healthcare Policy Research"
      ],
      "occupationalCategory": [
        "11-9111.00 - Medical and Health Services Managers",
        "Chief Executive Officer (Healthcare)",
        "Health Policy Consultant"
      ],
      "programPrerequisites": [
        {
          "@type": "EducationalOccupationalCredential",
          "credentialCategory": "MasterDegree",
          "description": "A master's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution is required for admission."
        }
      ],
      "about": [
        {
          "@type": "DefinedTerm",
          "name": "Scholar-Practitioner-Leader",
          "description": "A specialized doctoral model that encourages students to apply research to their professional field while developing leadership presence."
        }
      ],
      "hasCourse": [
        {
          "@type": "Course",
          "name": "Health Care Policy and Governance",
          "courseCode": "DHA/712",
          "description": "Examination of the influence of policy on health care delivery systems and leadership."
        },
        {
          "@type": "Course",
          "name": "Health Care Economics and Finance",
          "courseCode": "DHA/714",
          "description": "Advanced study of economic principles and financial management in healthcare organizations."
        },
        {
          "@type": "Course",
          "name": "Strategic Planning and Healthcare Organizational Behavior",
          "courseCode": "DHA/716"
        },
        {
          "@type": "Course",
          "name": "Doctoral Dissertation",
          "courseCode": "DOC/722",
          "description": "The research phase where students contribute original work to the field of health administration."
        }
      ],
      "learningOutcome": [
        "Apply leadership theories to the governance of health systems.",
        "Synthesize current health policy to drive organizational decision-making.",
        "Conduct original research to address systemic gaps in healthcare delivery.",
        "Integrate ethical and legal standards into healthcare executive practice."
      ]
    }
  ]
}</script>
```