ATSU-CGHS Doctor of Health Administration program equips student to drive healthcare change
Posted: February 3, 2025
For A.T. Still University-College of Graduate Health Studies’ (ATSU-CGHS) Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) program student Javan Nelson, MHA, LNHA, pursuing his doctorate is more than just an academic endeavor – it is a vital step in his mission to expand healthcare access throughout the state of Oregon.
“My goals are multidimensional,” Nelson said, “and earning a doctorate in health administration will allow these goals to be realized. I aspire to continue my work of bringing health equity to underserved communities.”
As a licensed nursing home administrator, Nelson sought out a flexible program that would allow him to balance his professional responsibilities while advancing his education. In addition, the university’s reputation in online education made ATSU-CGHS his ideal choice.
Designed to improve and influence healthcare administration systems, the DHA degree requires 62 hours of coursework and the completion of a doctoral research project (DRP). The program’s curriculum blends the theoretical with the practical, providing a full continuum of healthcare-specific knowledge essential for industry leadership.
Maintaining his time in the program has required careful planning, but through a strict weekly schedule and reliance on his support system, Nelson has been able to balance his academic, professional, and personal commitments.
“Tanya Armistead, BA, academic advisor, ATSU-CGHS, is such a cheerleader for my success. Our program chair, Robert Clegg, PhD, MPH, MCHES, is also available if needed,” he said.
Nelson is already seeing the impact of the DHA program on his work in Oregon’s healthcare system, applying the knowledge and skills gained in real-time and gaining the tools to lead meaningful change.
“I am able to actively transform the healthcare landscape here in Oregon by advocating for a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare,” he said, adding, “Working with industry leaders has been the most incredible learning opportunity.”