Skip to Content Skip to Footer
WesternU Logo

What are you looking for?
hollywood
WesternU / College of Health Sciences / Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) / Professional Networking & Student Activities

Professional Networking & Student Activities

The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program at Western University of Health Sciences offers students unparalleled opportunities to connect, grow, and lead within the healthcare industry. Through a blend of professional association involvement, mentorship, and experiential learning, students build the relationships and skills that define successful healthcare leaders.

Professional Networking Opportunities

WesternU MHA students become members of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)—an international network of more than 48,000 healthcare leaders representing hospitals, healthcare systems, and related organizations. Membership opens doors to 76 regional ACHE chapters, offering access to education, local networking events, and career development programs.
As part of their coursework, students participate in ACHE Choice Programs and Cluster Offerings, including:

  • Attendance at the ACHE Congress on Healthcare Leadership (HA 5109)
  • Four-day onsite intensives in premier locations (HA 5107)

These experiences connect students with senior executives and peers nationwide, helping them establish a strong professional network early in their careers.

Pathway to FACHE Certification

Participation in ACHE-sponsored activities earns students credits toward the prestigious Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE®) credential—the gold standard in healthcare management. Upon graduation, WesternU MHA students will have earned the eligibility credits needed to begin the process of FACHE certification, positioning them for professional distinction and leadership advancement.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of the MHA curriculum. Students complete a 160-hour supervised field training course (HA 5996), gaining real-world exposure to healthcare administration. These experiences provide valuable insight into management, operations, and leadership in diverse healthcare environments—including opportunities in aging services management and other specialized fields.

Professional & Peer Mentorship

Mentorship is central to professional growth in healthcare leadership. In partnership with ACHE, the MHA program connects students with seasoned executives through the ACHE Leadership Mentoring Network and local chapter programs.
Additionally, WesternU fosters a peer mentorship program that pairs new students with experienced peers, alumni, and faculty mentors. This community-driven model promotes collaboration, guidance, and personal growth throughout the student journey—and beyond graduation.