The Winona State University Healthcare Leadership & Administration program has earned national recognition for helping students make a smooth transition from undergraduate to graduate study. Forbes Advisor named Winona State the Best Online Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration program for Dual Graduate Studies, highlighting the program’s innovative approach to allowing students to begin master’s-level coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree.
Forbes Advisor reviewed 167 healthcare administration programs nationwide, evaluating factors such as affordability, return on investment, and student outcomes. Winona State’s approach to helping students advance their education without putting their careers on hold helped the program stand out among its peers.
The Winona State Healthcare Leadership & Administration program is designed for working healthcare professionals who have earned an associate degree and are ready to take the next step in their careers. Many students enter the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program after completing an associate degree, making it an attractive option for transfer students seeking a flexible and career-focused degree completion pathway.
“This recognition is an honor because it validates the hard work of our faculty, staff, students, and healthcare partners who have helped shape a high-quality Healthcare Leadership & Administration program,” said Kimberly Radtke, undergraduate program director for the Winona State Healthcare Leadership & Administration program.
Designed for Transfer Students and Working Adults
The Healthcare Leadership & Administration program was intentionally designed to meet the needs of adult learners balancing professional, family, and educational commitments. Flexible program options allow students to continue working in healthcare while building the leadership, management, and operational skills needed for career advancement.
Students can typically complete their bachelor’s degree in two to three years if they transfer in credits from an associate degree program, all the while remaining connected to their current workplaces and communities.
“Our program was intentionally designed with adult learners in mind, providing both flexibility and accessibility while also maintaining a high-quality academic experience,” said Radtke.
Earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Through Dual Graduate Studies
A distinguishing feature of the program is its dual graduate studies pathway, which allows qualified students to begin master’s-level coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree.
“Rather than viewing undergraduate and graduate education as two separate steps in the educational journey, we have designed a model that provides a pathway between the two programs,” said Joshua Pearson, graduate program director for the Winona State Healthcare Leadership & Administration program.
The student-centered approach extends beyond the classroom and into the structure of the program itself. Rather than requiring students to complete one degree before considering the next, the program creates a seamless pathway between undergraduate and graduate education, allowing learners to progress more efficiently toward their academic and professional goals.
Preparing Healthcare Leaders for a Growing Industry
Healthcare organizations increasingly need professionals who understand not only patient care environments but also leadership, operations, communication, and organizational effectiveness. Winona State’s Healthcare Leadership & Administration program helps prepare graduates for leadership opportunities across hospitals, clinics, long-term care organizations, community health systems, and other healthcare settings.
Students gain knowledge and skills that support career growth in healthcare administration, healthcare management, patient services leadership, clinic operations, and other supervisory and management roles.
Learn More About Healthcare Leadership & Administration at Winona State
For students seeking an online healthcare administration degree, a healthcare leadership degree completion pathway, or an opportunity to continue directly into graduate study, Winona State offers a flexible and student-centered approach designed to support working professionals.
The Forbes Advisor recognition reflects the university’s commitment to creating accessible pathways that help transfer students, adult learners, and healthcare professionals achieve their educational and career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I earn a healthcare administration bachelor’s degree after completing an associate degree?
Yes. Many students enter Winona State’s Healthcare Leadership & Administration BAS program after earning an associate degree, allowing them to transfer previous coursework toward their bachelor’s degree.
What is dual graduate studies?
Dual graduate studies allows qualified students to begin master’s-level coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree, creating a more streamlined pathway between undergraduate and graduate education.
Is the program designed for working adults?
Yes. The program was intentionally designed for working healthcare professionals who need flexibility while balancing career, family, and educational commitments.
What careers can a healthcare leadership and administration degree prepare me for?
Graduates pursue opportunities in healthcare administration, clinic operations, healthcare management, patient services leadership, long-term care administration, and other healthcare leadership roles.
About Winona State University
Founded in 1858, Winona State University is a comprehensive, regional public university with campuses in Winona and Rochester. The oldest member of the Minnesota State system, Winona State offers more than 80 undergraduate, pre-professional, licensure, graduate and doctorate programs in five colleges: Business, Education, Liberal Arts, Nursing & Health Sciences, and Science & Engineering.
Winona State is ranked 1st among Minnesota State Universities and tied for 29th across the entire Midwest region (U.S. News and World Report, 2026-27). It has been named among the “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review for 23 consecutive years.
The University generates $447.9 million in economic impact for the region per year. The university’s mission is to enhance the intellectual, social, cultural and economic vitality of the people and communities it serves: a community of learners improving our world. For more information, visit winona.edu.
