While physicians and nurses work on healthcare's front lines, allied health professionals work behind the scenes to promote excellent patient outcomes. Depending on their job title, they may focus less on patient care and more on supporting the healthcare field's mission.
Dive into how a health sciences degree can train you to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives and the healthcare field as a whole.
Degree at a Glance
Typical Program Length: Four years
Typical Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma, minimum high school or undergraduate GPA
Top Skills Gained: Evidence-based decision making, leadership, communication
Popular Concentrations: Geriatrics, women's health, environmental health, public health, behavioral and mental health
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Health Sciences Degrees
Price Check
The National Institutes of Health awards up to $20,000 annually to degree-seekers who complete a service obligation upon graduation.
Why Choose Health Sciences?
Earning a health sciences degree lets you explore many healthcare careers:
Healthcare administration
Clinical research coordination
Public health
Healthcare informatics
This flexibility makes health sciences a great major for students who've yet to choose their career path. The degree also helps you develop in-demand, transferable skills, such as:
Critical thinking
Information management
Leadership
Problem-solving
Developing these skills in your program can help you excel in careers in and outside of the healthcare field.
Career Outlook for Health Sciences Graduates
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong growth in the need for healthcare professionals between 2024 and 2034. Many of these jobs also feature a median salary much higher than what the typical American worker makes. Your college's career and academic advisors can help you explore in-demand, well-paying positions and adjust your academic plan accordingly.
Some of the professions in the table below require education and experience beyond a bachelor's degree.
| Job | Annual Median Wage, May 2024 |
|---|---|
| Medical Scientist | $100,590 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $66,050 |
| Health Education Specialist | $63,000 |
| Natural Sciences Manager | $161,180 |
| Epidemiologist | $83,980 |
Health Sciences Licensing and Certification Requirements
Although many entry-level health sciences jobs do not require a license or certification, you may need one to reach your long-term career goals. You can research requirements specific to your state by visiting its licensure board website. Licensure boards provide aspiring and current professionals with information regarding education, examination, and renewal requirements.
Ways to Save on a Health Sciences Degree
You can save money on a health sciences degree in many ways. Discuss these and other options with enrollment and financial aid advisors.
Attend an In-State Public College or University: Attending an in-state public college or university can reduce your health sciences degree's cost of attendance significantly. You can put these savings toward a graduate degree or another goal.
Apply for Private Scholarships: Private scholarships exclusive to healthcare majors may cover most or all of your health sciences degree's tuition and fees. Make sure to follow all application requirements and deadlines closely.
File the FAFSA Annually: Filing the FAFSA may qualify you for federal grants and loans. Take out these loans before private loans, as the latter may charge a significantly higher interest rate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Health Sciences Programs
Health sciences degrees provide an overview of the U.S. healthcare system with core courses in:
Medical terminology
Disability and society
Introduction to psychology
Programs offer academic flexibility, letting you customize your educational experience with a concentration or electives. This feature makes the degree attractive to students with different healthcare career goals.
