As healthcare grows more complex, physicians are increasingly asked to lead teams, guide strategy, and make decisions that shape entire systems. Yet the business, financial, and organizational knowledge required to do this well is rarely taught in medical training.
The Kelley Physician MBA fills that gap. You earn the full rigor of a top-ranked MBA and learn how to apply it to the business of medicine. Physician MBAs bring intimate clinical experience and the business acumen to match—equipping them to redesign care, strengthen performance, and influence culture.
By combining the Kelley Physician MBA with your clinical expertise, you’ll be prepared to lead change—not just react to it. Explore MBA courses for physicians.
If you believe better patient care and outcomes depend on physician leadership, your future is at the Kelley School of Business.
Is an MBA worth it for physicians?
Absolutely. Physicians are increasingly involved in decisions that affect quality, operations, financial performance, and strategy. An MBA provides the business and leadership training needed to navigate this complexity with confidence. Graduates gain tools to manage budgets, improve operations, lead teams, and drive innovation—skills rarely taught in medical school but critical for long-term leadership success.
How is the Kelley Physician MBA different from other programs?
Every class, case study, and project is grounded in healthcare—not generalized business. You’ll learn the full spectrum of MBA concepts and then apply them to the clinical and organizational challenges you face. Just as important, you’ll learn alongside other physicians who share your professional responsibilities, challenges, and ambitions.
Can I continue to practice medicine while earning my MBA?
Yes. The program is intentionally designed for working physicians. Our blend of online coursework and monthly in-person sessions allows you to balance clinical responsibilities while developing the leadership and business skills that elevate your impact.
How long does it take to complete the Physician MBA?
The program takes 21 months to complete. You’ll progress through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds strategic, financial, and operational expertise—with immediate on-the-job application in your current role.
What business skills do physicians learn in this MBA?
Physicians master key disciplines such as finance, strategy, operations, leadership, and marketing—all within a healthcare context. You’ll learn how to analyze performance data, evaluate strategic options, lead teams, influence culture, and manage organizational change across departments and systems.
What is the learning experience like in the Physician MBA?
You’ll learn in an engaging, cohort-based environment where every assignment connects to real healthcare challenges. Executive coaching, leadership residencies, and peer collaboration make the experience both practical and transformational, helping you grow as a leader while building a powerful network of physician peers.
Meet with our admissions staff, faculty, and alumni at an online info session to learn more.
“Unfortunately, this knowledge isn’t taught in medical school, and we need more Physician MBAs to fix the U.S. healthcare system. I got so much more out of it than I ever expected.”
Gagan Pawar, MD, MBA’22CEO at Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. in Ventura County, California
Medical director at the Kansas City Heart Rhythm Institute
“Kelley was my top choice. The Physician MBA Program has all the necessary ingredients I wanted in terms of course selection, professors, and teaching style. I’m very glad I made this decision.”
CMO at Broward HealthPoint, an affiliate of Broward Health of south Florida
“Executive coaching is very important because you can discuss specific situations that help you grow. These experiences change the way you approach challenges to be more confident but also more at peace.”
System VP and Physician Executive for all Service Lines, Advocate Midwest
“The best part of the Kelley Physician MBA Program is working and learning alongside physician peers, which is missing in a fully online program. Zoom cannot replace three-dimensional human interaction.”
See firsthand how physicians across the United States are transforming healthcare with the business skills they developed with the Kelley Physician MBA.