This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

Saleema Karim, Ph.D.
Interim chair

The overall purpose of the Department of Health Administration is to provide top quality education, research and service related to the organization and administration of health care services. Education in health administration at the university began in 1949 with the establishment of a graduate curriculum in hospital administration. Early graduates received a certificate; the master’s degree was awarded beginning in 1955.

These early efforts grew and developed into the Department of Health Administration, established in 1972. The department now includes three major programs: Master of Health Administration; Doctor of Philosophy in Health Services Organization and Research; and Master of Science in Health Administration. The latter program, aimed at mid-career professionals, was among the first to offer a health administration degree in a hybrid format (periodic on-campus sessions complemented by online learning in between). The department also cooperates with the school of law at the University of Richmond to offer dual-degree programs in health administration and law (M.H.A./J.D.). In 2001, a dual-degree program was established with the VCU School of Medicine (M.H.A./M.D.). Both master’s programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education. The Department of Health Administration also has a major research program and is involved in a wide range of public service activities.