After more than a decade as a nurse, Trish N. was ready to take the next step in her healthcare journey. She’d seen it all — long nights in acute care hospitals, fast-paced days at ambulatory surgery centers, and even staffing shifts across departments in large health systems. What she wanted next was a way to make a bigger impact, and that’s where West Coast University’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program came in.
“I’ve been a nurse since 2012, the same year I had my baby,” Trish shared. “I got my vocational nursing license and started working at Kindred Hospital. That gave me a strong foundation — I saw how critical patients can get, and how important our role is in helping them recover, or sadly, sometimes not.”
Building on a Strong Foundation in Clinical Care
With over 10 years of hands-on experience, Trish had developed a passion not only for patient care but for understanding the systems that support healthcare delivery.
“I started in long-term acute care, then moved into ambulatory surgery, which was fast paced. I liked seeing patients recover quickly after surgery and go home to their families. That was very rewarding,” she said. “But I also started noticing how each facility operated differently—some were more efficient, some had more complaints, delays, or issues. That got me interested in the management side.”
That curiosity sparked something deeper — a desire to lead, influence, and improve the healthcare system from the inside.
Taking the Leap into an MHA Program
During the pandemic, Trish received a message about WCU’s online MHA program. At first, she thought it might be spam. But after researching, she took a leap of faith.
“I wasn’t sure if it was real, but I thought — why not give it a try? I didn’t even know a program like this was out there for someone like me. But I applied, and I got accepted.”
Despite having earned a bachelor’s degree in Vietnam, Trish was nervous about returning to school — especially in a new country and in a new language.
“I was excited but scared,” she said. “It had been over 10 years since I’d been in school, and everything had to be in APA format, professional writing, with proper grammar and layout. But I learned. I asked for help when I needed it, and I stayed up until 2 a.m. sometimes to get my work done.”
A Program Designed for Working Professionals
One feature of the online MHA program at West Coast University is its flexibility — designed for working healthcare professionals to balance jobs, families, and education.
“If I can do it, anyone can,” Trish said. “The school has a great system. The professors, even the dean, were supportive. If I was a little late for an assignment, I’d get a gentle reminder. They motivate you and guide you.”
Over the course of the two-year program, Trish explored ethics, leadership, healthcare finance, and more.
“You start with topics like ethics, which are so important in healthcare. Then you move into business topics, IT, and management. By the end, you’re thinking about the whole healthcare system — not just your department.”
From Student to Educator and Leader
After graduating in 2024, Trish found a role that was directly tied to her MHA degree.
“Now I’m working as a clinical instructor for an LVN program,” she said proudly. “I get to pass on what I’ve learned and continue growing. I’m still learning too, building confidence and communication skills.”
Looking ahead, Trish isn’t stopping anytime soon.
“I want to do more. I want to see change in the medical field. We need more leadership in healthcare — people with a good heart, with passion. People who can guide others and help teams work together toward something bigger.”
Trish believes the MHA program at WCU helped her put fuel in the tank for that next phase of her journey.
“It’s like you fill up your gas tank with knowledge and now the engine is ready to go. You just have to turn the key.”
Advice for Future MHA Students
For anyone considering enrolling in WCU’s Master of Health Administration program, Trish’s message is clear:
“Don’t hesitate. If you have the desire to lead and make a difference in healthcare, this program gives you the tools. You can work while going to school, and time goes by fast. Before you know it, you’re done — and you’re ready.”
Interested in Becoming a Leader in Healthcare?
West Coast University’s online MHA program is designed for working professionals who want to make a greater impact in the healthcare field. Learn from experienced faculty, gain practical leadership skills, and graduate prepared to take on management roles across the healthcare industry.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
Call
Info Session