"At Haas, the concurrent MBA/MPH degree is so thoroughly integrated that it is more like focusing your MBA in health care while gaining a broader public health perspective," says Clare Carron. That integration extends from coursework to student activities. Specialized classes like Health Care Strategy draw on case studies and speakers from the industry, but Carron says other Haas courses proved equally valuable. "Classes like Operations, Game Theory, and Information and Technology-Based Marketing are just as applicable in the health care setting."

Student-run organizations like the Haas Healthcare and BioBusiness Club draw students from all disciplines to organize and host events like the annual Business of Health Care Conference. The inaugural 2006 conference drew more than 350 people to hear and network with nationally known speakers and experts.

Distinguished faculty members like Kristiana Raube, PhD, develop personal, as well professorial, relationships with students. "The dual degree program is like a family. We trust, encourage, and support each other," says Carron.

Both students and faculty carry impressive credentials. "I had one classmate with 10 years' experience in the pharmaceutical industry and another who had advised the Bush administration on health care. They are extremely smart, but very down to earth. People at Haas have a sort of humble confidence that is very appealing."

Among the skills Carron honed at Haas is "being a devil's advocate. Learning to explore all kinds of ideas and perspectives is crucial to innovation." And innovation, Carron believes, is imperative for the health care industry. "There are so many unmet needs and so many disparate players and priorities, from the board room to the doctor's exam room. My MBA/MPH gives me insights into all sides of the issues."