The new program blends Northwood’s free-enterprise emphasis with specialized coursework to help professionals lead system-level change as the industry faces unprecedented transformation.
As the health care industry faces unprecedented transformation, Northwood University is thrilled to announce the launch of the Master of Business Administration in Health Leadership & Innovation through the DeVos Graduate School of Management:
“Northwood University is leveraging our reputation as America’s Free Enterprise University to shape the next generation of health care leaders—equipping professionals with business acumen, advanced technology expertise, and exceptional leadership skills to transform and guide health care organizations,” explained Dr. Lisa Fairbairn, Dean of the DeVos Graduate School of Management at Northwood University. “The new MBA in Health Leadership & Innovation is designed to help graduates use data-driven insight and entrepreneurial thinking grounded in the values of personal responsibility, earned success, and free enterprise to lead change in one of the most complex sectors of the global economy.”
That reality is reshaping what advanced business education needs to look like. Health care organizations are no longer asking whether change is coming, but who is equipped to lead it responsibly. The program, approved by the Higher Learning Commission, positions professionals to lead system-level change with integrity, strategic insight, and ingenuity.
Program Design and Delivery
A Flexible, Online MBA for Working Professionals
The 33-credit MBA in Health Leadership & Innovation is designed for students interested in a healthcare career or working professionals who aspire to advance their education or careers. It will be delivered online and will include a capstone practicum or research project to solve real-world challenges in partnership with health care organizations, startups, and nonprofits.
By integrating health leadership with our free-enterprise philosophy, this program reflects Northwood’s commitment to preparing ethical, entrepreneurial professionals who improve lives through innovation and responsible management. It also ensures graduates will be immediately poised to make high-impact decisions that improve outcomes, reduce costs, and advance innovation across health care systems.
Dr. Kristin Stehouwer, Academic Vice President and Provost
The MBA is part of Northwood’s broader initiative to expand graduate offerings aligned with 21st-century needs. Programs that blend leadership, innovation, and real-world application are no longer optional—they are essential.
Leadership and Program Development Expertise
Created in Collaboration with National Health Care Leaders
The program was developed in collaboration with Dr. George E. Kikano, a nationally recognized physician executive with more than three decades of leadership in academic medicine, health system transformation, and community health. Dr. Kikano joined Northwood University in 2025 as an executive director to lead health care management curriculum innovation.
“Northwood is uniquely positioned to educate business-minded, values-driven leaders who will reimagine how health care is delivered. Through this business-first, innovation-driven MBA program, graduates will gain the knowledge and agility to lead across technology, policy, and practice—building a future where innovation and human-centered care go hand in hand.”
Dr. George E. Kikano
As the industry continues to evolve, the demand for leaders who can think strategically and act decisively will only grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 29% from 2023 to 2033, creating strong demand for graduates who understand both business strategy and health care dynamics. Northwood’s MBA in Health Leadership & Innovation directly addresses this need, preparing students for executive and entrepreneurial roles in hospitals, health systems, financial management, digital health, public health, and related industries.
Application Timeline and Partnership Opportunities
Preparing Graduates for Immediate Impact
The goal is not simply to understand the system but to influence it responsibly and effectively. The first cohort of the MBA in Health Leadership and Innovation will begin in August 2026. To apply or request more information, visit the program’s page.
In addition, health organizations interested in partnering with Northwood University to recruit new talent, upskill existing employees, and close skill gaps fast can reach out to Northwood Career Services by email or by cell.
