Administrative Fellowship Program

The Hartford HealthCare (HHC) Administrative Fellowship Program is a paid position sponsored by Jeffrey Flaks, Hartford HealthCare President and CEO, and supported by our Senior Executive Leadership team.

About Hartford HealthCare

Hartford HealthCare is transforming healthcare across Connecticut and beyond with 44,000 dedicated colleagues and a bold vision for access, affordability, health equity, and excellence. Our system serves 185 communities through 500 locations, including world-class hospitals, behavioral health, multispecialty groups, urgent and virtual care, home and senior services, and mobile health programs.

Our Institute Model unites leading experts in areas like neuroscience, cancer, heart and vascular care, digestive health, orthopedics, and urology and kidney care to provide high-quality, affordable care. All our hospitals have Leapfrog A ratings, ranking us among the safest health systems in the country.

As an administrative fellow, you will be immersed in this mission-driven environment, gaining hands-on experience with strategic initiatives shaping the future of healthcare delivery.


Role title

Administrative Fellowship


Description

This project-based fellowship provides the opportunity to work with Senior Executive Leadership on assignments based on organizational need and the individual’s personal interests. The Fellow will gain system level exposure to human resources, quality, operations, performance excellence, planning and business development, marketing and finance.


Eligibility

To be considered for the Administrative Fellowship, applicants must:

  • Be enrolled in or have recently completed a master’s program in health administration, public health, or a related field (e.g., MHA, MHSA, MPH)
  • Be on track to complete all degree requirements before the fellowship begins
  • Graduate from a program accredited by CAHME or an equivalent accrediting body such as AACSB, AUPHA, or CEPH, demonstrating a strong foundation in healthcare and administrative principles
  • Hartford HealthCare does not provide visa sponsorships for the fellowship program

Required application material

  • Resume/CV

  • Three Letters of Recommendation:
    •    1st letter must be professional
    •    2nd letter must be academic
    •    3rd letter can be personal, academic or professional
  • Official Graduate School Transcript

  • Unofficial Undergraduate Transcript

  • One-Page Personal Statement (interest in Hospital Administration, career objectives, reason for seeking an administrative fellowship, specific interest in Hartford HealthCare)

Apply at NAFCAS


Term

12 months with opportunity to transition to post-fellowship role.


Important Application Deadlines

  • June 5, 2026: NAFCAS application portal opens

  • September 10, 2026: NAFCAS application deadline
    • Please note: Applications submitted after this date will not be considered
    • Your NAFCAS application status must be “Complete” or “Verified” by this deadline
  • June 2027: Administrative Fellowship program begins

Important Note for Applicants:
After submitting your application, please check your email regularly (including your spam and junk folders). All official communications, updates, and interview invitations regarding your application status will be sent via email.


Interview Structure

The selection process is conducted in two sequential phases:

  • First Round Interviews: Conducted virtually
  • Final Round Interviews: Conducted on-site at our corporate headquarters in Hartford, CT

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Hartford HealthCare for your Administrative Fellowship?

At Hartford HealthCare, our mantra is “The Best at Getting Better.” Fellows are not observers; they actively contribute to system-wide initiatives that advance quality, safety, and patient care.

Fellows gain exposure to a nationally recognized health system known for:

  • #1 in the nation for quality (AHA Quest for Quality Prize)
  • Consistent Leapfrog “A” Safety Grades
  • Top Teaching Hospital and Ambulatory Surgery Center designations
  • A 31% reduction in hospital-acquired infections over five years

What is the structure of the fellowship program?

The Administrative Fellowship is a 12-month, project-based program offering exposure to leadership, operations, and system strategy across an integrated health system. Each fellow partners with a Senior Executive leader and supports high-impact projects aligned with organizational priorities. 

The cohort model allows fellows to learn alongside peers while participating in executive meetings, system initiatives, and networking opportunities.

What type of support will I receive throughout the fellowship?

The Administrative Fellowship Program is housed within the University Relations team. The Director of University Relations and the Program Manager oversee the program, providing ongoing guidance throughout the fellowship experience and beyond.

The University Relations team structures your year to ensure high-level coordination and maximum leadership exposure. By managing administrative details, the team allows you to focus on your core projects while seamlessly engaging in broader system initiatives. 

What is the salary and benefits package?

Hartford HealthCare offers Administrative Fellows a highly competitive salary, a sign-on bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Why live and work in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers an exceptional quality of life that blends vibrant local culture, deep historic charm, and diverse geographic landscapes. Whether you prefer the energy of bustling coastal cities, the tranquility of suburban neighborhoods, or the scenic beauty of rural towns, Connecticut provides an ideal home for early-career professionals.

What kind of projects do fellows work on?

Fellows drive high-impact projects tailored to organizational priorities and individual career interests. Their work spans operations, finance, quality and patient experience, innovation, community health, and program leadership. From workflow optimization and patient safety initiatives to HR and technology conversions, fellows contribute to some of the most meaningful work happening across the system.

What positions do fellows transition into after graduation?

The Hartford HealthCare Administrative Fellowship Program boasts a 90% conversion rate, with most fellows transitioning directly into management-level roles across the health system.

How many fellows are accepted each year?

Cohort sizes vary annually based on strategic system needs. On average, Hartford HealthCare extends seven to ten fellowship offers each year. To ensure comprehensive organizational exposure, fellows are strategically placed across our corporate headquarters, regional hospitals, and clinical institutes.

Does Hartford HealthCare sponsor visas for international applicants?

Hartford HealthCare does not provide visa sponsorship for the Administrative Fellowship Program.


For more information

Please contact HHCAdministrativeFellowship@hhchealth.org should you have any questions related to the application process.