Master of Healthcare Leadership and Innovation
Lead Change. Drive Innovation. Transform Healthcare.
The Canadian healthcare system is changing fast, and the future needs leaders who can think critically, act ethically, and innovate boldly. With a Master of Healthcare Leadership and Innovation (MHLI) from Cape Breton University, you’ll gain the knowledge, leadership skills, and systems-thinking perspective needed to shape tomorrow’s healthcare.
Delivered at the Shannon School of Business at CBU, experienced faculty will prepare you to address complex healthcare challenges with confidence. Whether you’re a practicing professional, an aspiring leader, or looking to change careers and make a difference, this program equips you with the advanced skills employers are looking for. You’ll learn to navigate healthcare systems, embrace innovation and digital tools, and lead diverse teams towards advancing patient care and and better health outcomes. The MHLI is built around real-world application. Students will complete a Master’s project or Internship, working directly with healthcare organizations, policymakers or research institutes. These experiences allow you to apply your learning in professional settings, building confidence, networks, and career-ready skills.
Our campus on Cape Breton Island provides a supportive and inspiring setting for your graduate studies. Surrounded by natural beauty and a welcoming community, you’ll have the space to focus on your academic growth, personal leadership, and professional goals.
What is the tuition for this program?
These numbers are an estimate for planning purposes only. These numbers include tuition & fees for the entire MDM program. Please review the Student Finance Hub for more information.
| TOTAL YEAR(S) | TOTAL CREDITS | NS STUDENTS | OTHER PROVINCE STUDENTS | INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS | |
| Master of Healthcare Leadership & Innovation | 16 months | 36 | $17,402.04 | $18,948.84 | $34,678.84 |
Why study at CBU?
At CBU, it’s just as rewarding to study here as it is to live here. You’ll benefit from small class sizes, approachable faculty, and a collaborative teaching philosophy that values interdisciplinary learning. Studying at CBU will allow you to focus on Canadian healthcare systems within a global context. Students will gain insights into local, national, and international healthcare practices, while also exploring areas like Indigenous health, digital health, and policy reform.
Shannon School of Business
At the Shannon School of Business (SSOB), you’ll join a dynamic learning environment where world‑class faculty, small class sizes and strong community connections empower you to lead with purpose. As part of Cape Breton University, the SSOB offers specialized graduate education grounded in real‑world experience, close ties to local industry, and a commitment to innovative economic and community development. With accomplished faculty who have shaped business locally and globally, the SSOB delivers a personalized, high‑impact learning experience designed to prepare the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators.
Program Delivery & Structure
The MHLI program is offered in-person on CBU’s campus with both full-time (16-months) and part-time study options available. During the final semester, students choose to pursue either a research‑driven Master’s project or a hands‑on internship, each designed to provide authentic experience in real‑world environments.
What skills will I gain from this program?
- Advocate for evidence-based healthcare, grounded in global and Canadian health systems
- Use systems thinking to analyze complex healthcare issues and lead strategic interventions
- Leverage data and analytics to improve patient safety and organizational efficiency
- Evaluate and apply cutting-edge research to decision-making and policy development
- Navigate healthcare policy and law, including federal and provincial funding models
- Demonstrate ethical leadership and teamwork in diverse, interprofessional healthcare settings
- Communicate effectively with patients, teams and external stakeholders to influence change
Possible Career Paths
- Hospitals and healthcare organizations
- Health policy and government agencies
- Non-profits and community health initiatives
- Digital health and innovation startups
- Research institutes and consulting firms
Related Contact
Have a question? Email ssobgradstudies@cbu.ca
Related Faculty & Staff
Cynthia Vokey
Director, MBA and Other Graduate Programs
Shannon School of Business
Cynthia_Vokey@cbu.ca
902-574-1051
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