Next Application Date
April 15 for Fall Term
Credits
41
Pacing
Full-time
Format
Online
Type of Program
Doctoral
Advance Your Expertise in Health Systems Executive Leadership
If you are ready to step into a top-level leadership role in health care, this program is designed for you. Built for nurses with at least two years of management or leadership experience, it prepares you to lead hospital and health care systems with confidence, vision, and measurable impact. You will complete a leadership practicum or residency under the guidance of a senior-level mentor, gaining real-world executive insight while applying advanced systems thinking, financial and policy analysis, and organizational leadership skills.
A central component of your training is a system-level practice change project—an in-depth investigation of a critical clinical concern or issue. Through this rigorous project, you will translate evidence into practice, build expertise in a specialized area, and develop a foundation for ongoing scholarship and innovation. By graduation, you will be ready to take on executive responsibilities, influence health policy, and drive transformation across health care organizations. This program is ideal if you want to expand your scope of influence, impact patient outcomes on a larger scale, and position yourself as a strategic leader in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Eligibility
Requires at least two years of management or leadership experience in nursing.
Important Application Dates
The Health Systems Executive Leadership has one application cycle per year. You can start the program fall (August).
Application deadline
April 15
Class start
Fall Term
What to Expect in Your Classes
This program offers 19 total courses, totaling 41 credits. All coursework is delivered in a 100% online format, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere. Classes run for 15 weeks, allowing you to complete the program in two years. Students will study full-time.
- Total Courses 19
- Credit Hours 41
- Format Online
- Class Lengths 15 weeks
- Time to Completion 2 years
- Pace Options Full-Time
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Plan Your Education With Confidence in Cost
The Health Systems Executive Leadership current tuition rates are listed for in-state and out-of-state students. To support students in financing their education, the University of Pittsburgh offers a range of financial aid options and payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition costs while completing your studies.
2026-27 tuition rates are pending approval by the Board of Trustees, expected in July 2026.
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