Online Health Sciences Degrees
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The healthcare field features numerous careers for professionals with a bachelor’s degree, including exercise physiologist, recreational therapist, and nutritionist. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that healthcare workers in technical roles earn a median annual salary of $69,870, which is much higher than the median of $41,950 for all occupations.
The BLS projects employment for healthcare workers to increase 15% from 2019-2029. Individuals can enter this growing field by earning an online health sciences degree. Online learning often features benefits including lower costs, flexible curricula, and the ability to continue working while in school.
Questions for Health Science Students
What is a health sciences degree?
Health sciences programs introduce students to topics such as health education and public health. Program concentrations may include healthcare administration and healthcare education.
How long does it take to get a health sciences degree?
Full-time students without prior college experience typically need four years to earn a health sciences online degree. Associate degree-holders often graduate sooner.
Can you become a doctor with a health sciences degree?
Physicians need an MD to practice. Students earning an online health sciences degree should consult an academic advisor to learn how core coursework and electives may prepare them for medical school.
Can I become a nurse with a health sciences degree?
A health sciences degree does not qualify graduates for nursing licensure. Prospective students interested in nursing should consider pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Health Sciences?
After earning an online health sciences degree, graduates often work in government, public health, and healthcare administration. Other bachelor’s degree-holders pursue a master’s or medical degree. These options make health sciences an appealing major for students who are passionate about healthcare but not yet committed to a specific career path.
Online health sciences degrees are more accessible for many students. Online learners can choose from in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities. Many online programs offer asynchronous courses, which do not require students to log in at specific times.
How Much Does a Health Sciences Degree Cost?
Many colleges and universities provide cost estimates to help learners considering health sciences programs estimate their total out-of-pocket expenses. At public schools, in-state learners typically pay much lower tuition rates than out-of-state students. Other costs may include books and supplies, technology fees, and graduation fees.
Learning online often leads to additional savings. For example, distance learners do not typically pay for on-campus housing or meal plans. Online learning also eliminates the need to relocate or commute. Students pursuing a health sciences online degree may also save on childcare costs.
When determining their budget, learners should research each prospective school’s institutional and departmental financial aid programs. Many institutions award scholarships and grants covering up to 100% of tuition costs for students with excellent high school grades and standardized test scores. Transfer students, veterans, and alumni may also qualify for financial assistance.
How Much Do Health Sciences Majors Make?
According to BLS data, healthcare occupations accessible to bachelor’s degree-holders offer median salaries ranging from $47,710-$75,330. Several factors, including geographic location and experience, impact an individual’s earning potential. For example, recreational therapists in the District of Columbia, California, and Connecticut earn higher median salaries than similarly qualified professionals in other states.
An individual’s employer also affects their salary potential. According to the BLS, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians working in outpatient care centers, surgical hospitals, or colleges earn higher median salaries than those employed by diagnostic laboratories or physicians’ offices. Professionals can also increase their earning potential by gaining on-the-job experience and networking with coworkers.
Degree-seekers can work with a career counselor to research high-paying healthcare jobs. Graduates can also improve their earning potential and marketability by obtaining professional certifications and graduate certificates. These credentials help job applicants demonstrate their value and may qualify professionals for a raise or promotion. Typical requirements for certifications and certificates include taking a course and passing an exam.
Courses in Health Science
Online health sciences degrees typically feature interdisciplinary curricula with one or more concentration options, such as medical radiology, histology, and nuclear medicine technology. Core curriculum requirements vary based on degree. Health sciences students can earn a BS or a BAS. However, BAS programs often require applicants to hold an associate degree.
The following sample curriculum highlights three core courses learners typically complete before selecting a concentration. These classes provide foundational knowledge that students need to excel in upper-division coursework. Students should contact an academic advisor to learn how their prospective online health sciences program prepares degree-seekers for careers in the field.
Learners in this course study healthcare delivery’s history, evolution, and contemporary trends. Analyzing these topics helps students understand the many ethical and legal issues healthcare professionals face, along with how these workers should respond to challenging situations. Coursework also covers healthcare finance, including Medicare reimbursement and typical payment processes.
Healthcare Delivery
Public health involves the use of educational initiatives and assistance to improve a community’s health and longevity. Learners analyze various evidence-based practices, case studies, and challenges that modern public health professionals encounter. Students examine international public health crises, such as infectious disease and malnutrition. Health sciences and public health majors usually take this course together. Introduction to Public Health
Learners typically complete this capstone course during their senior year. During the class, students develop a health sciences portfolio containing undergraduate work samples. Degree-seekers typically complete a self-assessment detailing how the included samples demonstrate the program’s learning outcomes. Students may also develop a business proposal emphasizing leadership, entrepreneurial thinking, and professional values. Leading Change
Certifications and Licensure for Health Sciences
Although the BLS projects the need for healthcare workers to grow significantly from 2019-2029, graduates of online health sciences degrees may need additional credentials to qualify for some positions. Professional certifications help individuals stand out in the job market. To qualify for a certification, candidates may need to obtain professional experience, join an organization, and pass an exam.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
CCMAs assist physicians and nurses by recording patients’ vital signs, administering medications, and maintaining medical records. Candidates must possess some relevant professional experience and pass an exam. The National Healthcareer Association offers candidates test-preparation materials for an additional cost. To maintain the certification, professionals pay a renewal fee every two years.
Certified Coding Specialist - Physician-Based
The American Health Information Management Association awards this credential to experienced coding professionals with an academic background in healthcare. Candidates take a four-hour, 115-question exam covering diagnosis coding, research, and compliance. Test-takers may use two approved code books during the exam. Members of the association receive a 25% certification discount.
Certified Pharmacy Technician
This certification qualifies professionals to work under a licensed pharmacist. Candidates must complete an approved training program, undergo a criminal background check, and pass the certification exam. The exam comprises 90 multiple-choice questions, and test-takers receive unofficial results minutes after finishing. Certified professionals must take continuing education courses to qualify for renewal.
Scholarships for Health Sciences
In addition to institutional aid, learners can apply for private scholarships to help minimize student debt. Typical application requirements include high school or undergraduate transcripts, recommendation letters, and an essay. Some awards support women or members of a minority group.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
$2,000 ‘No Essay’ Scholarship | $2,000 | College students majoring in any subject can apply for this award. Applicants must create a Niche account. Learners can apply for the scholarship each month as long as they remain enrolled in an accredited school. |
The Urban Scholarship Fund | $1,000-$2,000 | The Texas Association of Developing Colleges awards this scholarship to Texas residents studying at any two-year or four-year school in the state. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. |
Best Online Health Sciences Degrees
The Ohio State University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners at The Ohio State University can pursue an online bachelor of science in health science. Located in Columbus, the school delivers academic programs on campus. Distance students can enroll in the school's two online bachelor's programs.
The online health sciences program offers a high-quality learning experience with flexible scheduling options. The online curriculum features customizable scheduling options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations. Students can pursue opportunities to connect with peers and faculty members. While most bachelor's degree-seekers graduate in four years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. At the accredited institution, distance learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant to cover costs. The school's dedicated financial aid counselors work with students as they locate and apply for educational funding.
34%
$10,197
94%
$31,174
- Acceptance Rate
- 54%
- Students Enrolled
- 61,391
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Cincinnati's bachelor of science in health sciences prepares online learners to succeed in health science careers. Busy students balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options. Graduates of the online health science bachelor's program can qualify for entry-level careers in the field.
The health science curriculum features specialized classes in the field and foundational core coursework. In addition to taking courses in the major, learners complete general education classes and choose elective courses. General education requirements help students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which graduates can apply to careers in a variety of careers. Learners can customize the curriculum based on their interests and professional goals.
Located in Ohio, the public institution delivers 459 programs. Degree-seekers can pursue any of the school's 11 online bachelor's programs. Students enrolled in online bachelor's programs pay an average per-credit tuition rate of $732 and complete approximately 120 credits to earn their degree. Students can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to cover their expenses.
49%
$ 9,476
88%
$24,810
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 39,263
- Institution Type
- Public
Ferris State University
- Big Rapids, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online allied health science program at Ferris State University ranks among the top programs of its kind. Students enroll in a variety of online and on-campus programs offered by the public institution. The flexibility of an online program appeals to busy students and working professionals.
During the online bachelor's program, degree-seekers build foundational and advanced skills in health science. Students work closely with faculty mentors and academic advisors to individualize their degree based on their interests and career goals. The school also supports distance learners through online tutoring, career services, and financial aid counseling.
The school's accreditation status means that distance learners qualify for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school's financial aid office helps distance learners identify scholarships and grants.
Ferris State University Fast Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 98
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Number of Online Students: 3,610
Admission Rate: 87%
Rate of Undergraduate Graduation: 47%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
29%
$12,376
76%
$12,376
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,472
- Institution Type
- Public
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With a main campus in Nebraska, Bellevue University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. With 79 online programs, the private institution educates students based throughout the country. The school's offerings include a bachelor's in health science program that helps degree-seekers qualify for careers in the field.
The online program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for enrollees balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. Distance learners in the health science program complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. Online students can consult with professors virtually. While most bachelor's degree-seekers graduate in four years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time.
At the accredited institution, distance learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal student aid programs to pay for school. Students can discuss funding options, including grants and scholarships, with qualified financial aid counselors. At the school, 84% of undergraduates obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
95%
$7,176
78%
$7,176
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 11,637
- Institution Type
- Private
Wichita State University
- Wichita, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduates of Wichita State University's online bachelor's in health science program can pursue a variety of positions in health science. Located in Kansas, the public institution's 185 programs include 25 online options. The school delivers 10 bachelor's programs online.
Distance learners in the health science program complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. The curriculum features specialized classes and foundational core coursework, helping students gain a broad knowledge base. General education requirements help degree-seekers develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Undergraduates can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume.
Distance learners can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. The school's financial aid counselors help students secure funding through scholarship and grant programs.
51%
$ 6,709
69%
$15,890
- Acceptance Rate
- 92%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,342
- Institution Type
- Public
Missouri Southern State University
- Joplin, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners at Missouri Southern State University can pursue an online bachelor of science in health sciences. Students can pursue nine online programs from the public institution, along with in-person academic offerings in Joplin. Degree-seekers who want to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree can enroll in one of the school's four online bachelor's programs.
Distance learners in the health sciences program can study from anywhere using the virtual classroom environment. After completing core requirements, students in the program gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Degree-seekers develop transferable critical thinking and communication skills, which apply to careers in a variety of fields. Internship opportunities help undergraduates prepare to impress employers after graduation.
To help learners succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, such as academic advising and career counseling. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants and loans. Students can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors.
51%
$ 7,289
65%
$14,578
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,604
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs is a public postsecondary school. Among other bachelor's programs at the school, the healthcare science program enables graduates to enter the workforce. Students typically complete 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree.
The school's bachelor's in healthcare science with an allied health completion option features a flexible online learning format. Distance learners watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Smaller classes help students achieve better outcomes. Degree-seekers may receive credit for hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships. Learners can join student organizations to access professional development and network with peers.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs Facts:
Undergrad School Tuition: $9,284 in-state; $20,082 out-of-state
Average Per-Student Aid : $6,446
Average Net Price: $16,221
Percent of Students Who Earn a Bachelor's Degree: 45%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.
38%
$ 9,284
70%
$20,082
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,807
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With programs available on campus and online, the University of Missouri is a public institution educating students through academic programs in various fields. The school enrolls learners in 296 programs, including 58 online programs. The institution's undergraduate offerings include a flexible online bachelor of health science for students interested in health science careers.
Learners take classes on general education topics, foundational subjects, and more advanced areas of the field. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities allow degree-seekers to apply field-specific knowledge and skills. During their undergraduate studies and after graduation, individuals can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. Admissions advisors provide prospective students with program-specific application details.
University of Missouri at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 82
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 9,722
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
32%
$ 9,120
88%
$26,991
- Acceptance Rate
- 81%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,014
- Institution Type
- Public
Northern Kentucky University
- Highland Heights, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Highland Heights-based Northern Kentucky University provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The institution offers 137 programs, including 35 online programs. Undergraduates interested in health science can enroll in the online bachelor of science in health science program.
Busy enrollees balancing work and school can benefit from the online health science program's scheduling flexibility. The health science program takes place in a virtual classroom environment. Students in online classes can participate in asynchronous discussions and network with peers. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Online undergraduate programs at the school cost an average of $494 per credit, and bachelor's learners generally complete about 120 credits to graduate. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants. According to the school, 99% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid.
32%
$ 9,912
72%
$19,872
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,664
- Institution Type
- Public
Alaska Pacific University
- Anchorage, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students can attend classes at Alaska Pacific University's campus in Anchorage. The school's catalog of nine online programs provides options for students interested in many fields. Individuals interested in health science careers can enroll in the institution's online BS in health sciences.
The program features foundational and advanced courses in the major. Upper-division requirements help learners develop transferable skills that apply to a variety of careers. Undergraduate degree-seekers typically earn the 120 credits required to graduate in four years.
Online and on-campus learners can access support services, such as tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling. At the accredited institution, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant.
Alaska Pacific University Numbers:
Student Admission Rate: 89%
Total Programs: 35
Total Bachelor's Programs: 15
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Permits Transfer Credits: No
33%
$20,350
72%
$20,350
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 529
- Institution Type
- Private
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Old Dominion University is a public institution educating students from its Norfolk campus. The institution's offerings include on-campus and online academic programs. Degree-seekers enrolled at the school can pursue 62 online programs, 20 of which confer bachelor's degrees. The institution's online bachelor's in health services administration helps enrollees gain the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in health science.
To graduate, degree-seekers complete at least 120 credits. Students in the online health science program take classes on general education topics, foundational subjects, and more advanced areas of the field. Specialized electives allow learners to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Students can participate in internships to bolster their resume and impress prospective employers.
Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. Tuition for the school's 120-credit bachelor's programs costs an average of $492 per credit. The school reports that 94% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. Admissions advisors help individuals understand the application requirements for their prospective program.
54%
$ 7,029
80%
$26,664
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 23,675
- Institution Type
- Public
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of West Florida educates degree-seekers on campus and online. The school's academic offerings include 26 online programs. Among the institution's online options is a flexible bachelor of science in health sciences that makes higher education more accessible for busy students.
Learners pursuing the bachelor's degree take general education courses, along with core and upper-division major classes. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences to prepare degree-seekers to succeed in the field. Online undergraduates can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Prospective students can contact the school for specific application details.
The University of West Florida Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 58
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Number of Online Students: 8,296
Percent of Students Admitted: 31%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Average Cost Per Credit: $390
Applies Transfer Credits: Yes
66%
$ 3,735
81%
$16,004
- Acceptance Rate
- 31%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,557
- Institution Type
- Public
Washburn University
- Topeka, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A public institution, Washburn University is based in Topeka, Kansas. Learners can study online or on campus. Degree-seekers can choose from the school's 112 program options, with 28 programs available online. While completing the institution's online bachelor of health science, enrollees take courses emphasizing the skills needed for health science careers.
The program requires at least 120 credits. Students in the bachelor's program complete general education requirements, which foster transferable skills they can apply to field-specific classes. Specialized electives allow learners to customize the program based on their goals and interests. In addition to coursework, the program features hands-on learning experiences, such as internship opportunities.
Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid, such as the Pell Grant. At the school, 92% of students receive financial aid to fund their undergraduate education. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective students can contact an admissions advisor.
38%
$ 8,594
69%
$19,346
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 6,285
- Institution Type
- Public
West Texas A&M University
- Canyon, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A public postsecondary school located in Canyon, West Texas A&M University offers some of the best online courses in the country. Bachelor's programs at this school expose students to both liberal arts and skills training. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees from a distance while they work.
The school offers flexible online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's degree in health sciences. Professionals often benefit from the flexible learning schedule. Bachelor's degree-holders often qualify for promotions and raises. Students without transfer credits typically need about four years to graduate.
West Texas A&M University Numbers:
Average Price With Financial Aid: $12,982
Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 90%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 47%
Student Acceptance Rate: 69%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
West Texas A&M University has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
59%
$5,554
68%
$6,960
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,970
- Institution Type
- Public
Los Angeles Pacific University
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Los Angeles Pacific University offers a top-ranked online BS in health sciences program. The private institution offers online and on-campus bachelor's programs from its main campus in California. The flexible learning format helps degree-seekers balance college with work and other responsibilities.
During the online bachelor's program, students gain a foundational and advanced understanding of health science. Students work closely with faculty mentors and academic advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their career goals. The program supports distance learners through tutoring, a writing center, and career advising.
At an accredited institution, online learners can qualify for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. The school's financial aid office helps distance students identify scholarships and grants.
Los Angeles Pacific University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Graduation Rate: 22%
Per-Credit Price: $506
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: Yes
N/A
$10,800
67%
$10,800
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,953
- Institution Type
- Private
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