Choosing a Health Sciences degree is an important decision. You can choose to earn your degree in the traditional manner by attending class on campus or you can take your classes online. Online Health Science degree programs provide you with the same curriculum and course materials as classes held on campus. Students have access to the same resources as students who attend a classroom setting.
An online Health Sciences degree will provide you with the skills and resources you will need to find work in an environment that deals with many different health services in both the public and private sectors. Finding work in the field first is the best way to decide what type of job you want to look for after you graduate. By finding work first, you may be able to reduce the cost of your education by working with your employer and getting them to cover part of your tuition and books.
Methodology: Ranking the Best Online Health Science Degree Programs
To rank the best online health science degree programs in the US, the editors of Bachelor’s Degree Center focused exclusively on accredited, reputable colleges and universities. We rank programs according to their overall value, including tuition, student satisfaction, and average graduate salary. Data comes from IPEDS and Niche.
1. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers a BS in Health Science that is considered among the best online health science degree programs available in the marketplace. Degree candidates enrolled in Purdue University’s baccalaureate degree in health science must complete 180 quarter credits to graduate. Students are offered rolling admission dates through the year from Purdue University Global. Additionally, this program offers students military transfer credit and the option to accelerate their master’s degree concurrently. Classes include environmental health, advanced health informatics, and research methods for health sciences, among others.
Established in 2018 to serve the adult education community across the country, Purdue University Global operates mostly online but maintains several academic facilities as well. More than 28,700 students attend classes offered by PU Global.
What We Like: Purdue University Global operates as a corporation to benefit the public.
Degree: Health Science, BS
Purdue University Global BS in Health Science
2. Rutgers University
Rutgers University’s School of Health Professions offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree completion program in Health Science designed specifically for health care professionals. College Factual ranks Rutgers University baccalaureate degree as the best online health science degree program available in the national marketplace. This health science bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University offers students three academic concentrations in health care management, aging, or psychiatric rehabilitation. This fully online program from Rutgers can be completed as full-time or part-time students.
Rutgers University is recognized among the oldest schools in the nation, being established in 1766. The school’s three main campuses and online programs serve approximately 68,750 students. Rutgers is considered a public ivy league school that is also a sea-grant school.
What We Like: Rutgers is the state university of New Jersey and the state’s largest higher learning institution.
Degree: Health Science, BS
Rutgers University Health Science, BS
3. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Science that requires degree candidates to complete 120 semester credits to graduate but mostly designed for those in the health care field who already hold an associate of applied science (AAS) degree in a health science field. Classes for Arizona State’s baccalaureate degree program in health science include issues in later life, health communication, population health management, and applied health care ethics, to name a few.
Arizona State University (Arizona State) was founded in the mid-1880s. This space-grant school is recognized to have one of the largest student enrollments in the nation, with more than 150,000 students attending classes online and on-campus.
What We Like: Arizona State University was established as a teacher’s training school years before Arizona reached statehood.
Degree: Health Science, BAS
Arizona State University BAS in Health Science
4. The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University offers a BS in Health Science that can be completed entirely online. OSU’s best online health science degree program prepares students for rewarding careers in the fields of research design, healthcare statistics, psychology, epidemiology, or ethics, to name a few. Ohio State University’s baccalaureate degree in health science requires degree candidates to complete 120 semester credits, of which 30 semester credits must be earned in residency. US News ranks Ohio State’s online baccalaureate degrees among the top in the country.
Ohio State University (Ohio State) was founded under the Morrill Act in 1870. In addition, Ohio State University is a sea-grant and space-grant school with multiple campuses in Ohio that serve approximately 61,150 students.
What We Like: Ohio State University is recognized as one of the country’s public ivy league schools.
Degree: Health Science, BS
Ohio State University BS in Health Science
5. Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a BS in Health & Rehabilitation Sciences that is considered among the most affordable and best online health science degree programs available in the marketplace. Degree candidates enrolled in Bellevue University’s baccalaureate degree in health science are required to complete 127 credit units to meet requirements. Classes for Bellevue’s health science degree include microbiology, abnormal psychology, human development, understanding health research, and medical ethics/leadership, to name a few. Students can accelerate their degree, which hallows up to 60 semester credits and credit for military experience/training.
Established as a private institution of higher education in 1966 to primarily serve adult learners, Bellevue University now serves approximately 10,150 students from its suburban campus and its professional center in Omaha.
What We Like: US News ranks Bellevue University’s online baccalaureate degree programs among the finest in the nation.
Degree: Health Science, BS
Bellevue University BS in Health & Rehabilitation Sciences
6. University of Missouri — Columbia
The University of Missouri offers a Bachelor of Health Science that offers students four academic concentrations – rehabilitation science, health/wellness services, pre-professional, and leadership. The University of Missouri’s best online health science degree program is a non-clinical academic program and is designed as a completion program for those students who have already completed some college or health-related field – up to 64 credits may be transferred. US News recognized this health science degree among the top programs in the country.
Founded in the late 1830s as a land grant and space grant school, the University of Missouri (UM Columbia) is now a comprehensive school with a student population of about 13,550 students. Additionally, Mizzou is a member of the state’s university system.
What We Like: Mizzou is recognized as the first public university located to the west of the Mississippi River.
Degree: Bachelor of Health Science
University of Missouri Bachelor of Health Science
7. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts offers a BA in Health Studies that allows for the transfer of up to 105 semester units – including life and work experience. UM Amherst’s best online health science degree program offers students the option of customizing their own degree to fit their interests and time availability. Students graduate from this health science baccalaureate degree to find careers in health care management, education, substance abuse, health programming, and health communication, to name a few.
The University of Massachusetts (Amherst) was established as an agricultural college in 1863. UMass Amherst is a land grant school that is the state university’s flagship campus and a member of the Five College Consortium in the Massachusetts Pioneer Valley.
What We Like: The University of Massachusetts, located in Amherst, is recognized among the top largest institutions of higher education, behind Harvard and BU.
Degree: Health Studies, BA
University of Massachusetts BA in Health Studies
8. Kettering College
Kettering College offers a BS completion degree program in Health Sciences that offers five academic emphases. The available emphases from Kettering College’s best online health science degree program include respiratory care, management, advanced imaging, education, and sonography. Core classes for this health science completion program include health care economics, legal/ethical considerations in health care, community health perspectives, plus a capstone project, to name a few.
Kettering College is an Adventist higher learning institution that was established in 1967 as a school dedicated to the teaching of medical arts and sciences. The school’s suburban campus in Kettering is home to approximately 700 students and is situated alongside the Charles Kettering hospital.
What We Like: Kettering College has been recognized among the best and the most affordable schools in the state of Ohio.
Degree: Health Science, BS
Kettering College offers a BS Health Sciences
9. Texas Woman’s University
The Texas Woman’s University offers two of Texas’s best online health science degree programs with its Bachelor of Science (BS) degree program or its Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Health Studies that are both SABPAC approved. Students enrolled in TWU’s health science baccalaureate degree programs are preparing for careers as a Certified Health Education Specialist, among others. Graduates of Texas Woman’s University must complete 120 semester credits that cover more than 50 health topics.
Founded about 1900, the Texas Woman’s University operates multiple campuses through the Lone Star State, with a student population of about 10,110 students. The Texas Woman’s University is one of four higher learning institutions in the state who operate as independent schools outside of a university system.
What We Like: The Texas Woman’s University is recognized as the largest Texas-support institution that is primarily designed to serve women.
Degree: Health Studies, BS
Texas Woman’s University Health Studies, BS
10. University of Vermont
The University of Vermont offers one of Vermont’s best online health science degree programs with its degree completion program that is available 100% online. UVM’s health science completion program is designed for students who have finished their associated degree or a minimum of one year of college. Students find rewarding work after graduating from UVM’s health science baccalaureate degree as a navigator of health benefits, health science educator, policy analyst, global health program specialist, or research assistant, to name a few.
The University of Vermont is a triple-designated university (sea, space, and land-grant) that was established in 1791. UVM is home to about 10,440 students who study on campus and through the university’s distance learning platform.
What We Like: The University of Vermont’s student center was the first in the nation to receive a gold LEED environmental design award in energy leadership.
Degree: Health Science
University of Vermont Health Science
11. George Washington University
George Washington University offers a BS in Health Science that offers a variety of academic concentrations. GWU’s best online health science degree program includes concentrations in biomedical informatics, clinical operations/management, clinical health service, research administration, disaster response leadership, and medical laboratory science. George Washington University’s clinical health sciences emphasis is designed for active-duty Navy members. A way to formalize specialized military training. Other baccalaureate health science degrees are designed for working professionals to complete their bachelor’s degrees while working.
Established in the early 1820s, George Washington University is situated in the heart of the nation’s capital which allows the school to host a number of research institutes affiliated with the federal government. More than 26,550 students attend classes online and on-campus offered by GWU.
What We Like: George Washington University operates a number of campuses throughout the DC vicinity.
Degree: Health Science, BS
George Washington University BS in Health Science
12. University of Cincinnati — Online
The University of Cincinnati offers a BS in Health Science with an interdisciplinary pre-occupation therapy coursework. UC’s best online health science degree program focuses more on the study of nutrition, biomechanics anatomy, and pharmacology. This baccalaureate degree from UC is designed for part-time or full-time students, which can be completed in two to four years. Degree candidates have the option of earning a minor in psychology simultaneously from UC’s College of Arts & Sciences. The school allows up to 68 semester credits to be transferred if eligible.
The University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati) is a space-grant higher learning institution that was established as a college in 1819. The university operates multiple campuses that serve about 46,250 students.
What We Like: The University of Cincinnati operates as the oldest institution of higher learning in the greater Cincinnati vicinity.
Degree: Health Science, BS
University of Cincinnati BS in Health Science
13. Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University offers a BS in Health Science with an emphasis in Public Health that ranks among Arizona’s best online health science degree programs. Students graduating from NAU’s baccalaureate degree in health science graduate and enter the workforce as a researcher, an emergency response planner, or health educator, among others. NAU’s degree in health science requires the completion of 120 semester units, of which 71 units must include public health (43 units), health sciences (19 units), and internship or elective option.
Established in 1899 as a research school a dozen years before Arizona reached statehood, Northern Arizona University operates campuses statewide, and online that serve approximately 29,240 students.
What We Like: The faculty of Northern Arizona University’s astronomy department has helped discover a number of astronomical bodies as the school is home to the Lowell Observatory.
Degree: Health Science-Public Health, BS
Northern Arizona University BS in Health Science
14. Ohio University
Ohio University offers a BS completion degree program in Integrated Health Studies (HIS) that has been developed for students who have already completed 60 semester credits in a health-related field of study. This best online health science degree program from Ohio University requires students to complete 120 semester credits to meet the baccalaureate degree requirements. Classes for this degree include cultural competency in interprofessional health care, introduction to exercise science, family health, foundations in health education, and introduction to physical therapy, to name a few.
Ohio University (Ohio) was founded in 1787, prior to Ohio becoming a state. Ohio University is the oldest public higher learning institution in the state and the tenth in the country. The university operates multiple campuses that serve more than 32,850 students.
What We Like: Ohio University athletes play in the Division 1 NCAA – Mid American Conference.
Degree: BS in Integrated Health Studies
Ohio University BS in Integrated Health Studies
15. University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota offers a BS in Health Science that offers students an interdisciplinary approach, along with the flexibility of an online program. As one of South Dakota’s best online health science degree programs, USD offers six academic pathways to the degree. This baccalaureate degree from the University of South Dakota requires students to complete 120 semester units, with 44 credit hours from the health science curriculum. Coursework for this degree includes health literacy & culture care, principles of health care, and technology in care delivery, to name a few.
The University of South Dakota was established prior to South Dakota becoming a state in 1862. The university’s rural campus is home to about 10,000 students.
What We Like: The University of South Dakota holds the distinction of being the state’s flagship school and the oldest of all higher education facilities in South Dakota.
Degree: Health Sciences, BS
University of South Dakota BS in Health Science
Why Should I Get My Health Sciences Degree Online?
Choosing an online Health Sciences degree gives the student an opportunity to attend class when it is most convenient for them. They can complete their classes in their free time or after they get the kids put to bed. Many students who make the choice to return to college to earn a Health Sciences degree, often do so after they have already started their career. It would be difficult for them to leave work if they are already established in their chosen field. Taking all of their courses online makes it possible for them to remain in their current position and study when they have free time.
Online learning platforms also offer students a chance to interact with both their instructor as well as other students. Students are able to communicate via chat or through emails so they can stay on the same page as other students.
Online Health Sciences degrees can be earned in conjunction with other degree programs as well. Students who sign up for dual degree programs can take some of their classes online to speed up the process. There are several online degree programs that are accelerated. This type of program can be completed in as little as 18 months where a conventional class may take as much as two years. Taking courses online offers multiple advantages that will allow you to reach your goals much sooner and continue to build your career.
What Kinds of Health Science Jobs Can I Get with a Bachelor’s Degree?
With a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences, you have can choose from a wide variety of career options. The Health Sciences field is very diverse and includes positions in both the public and private sectors. Once you choose your career path, you can find entry-level positions that will allow you to earn much-needed experience right away.
Emergency Management Specialists can use a Health Sciences degree to handle emergency situations that involve outbreaks of infectious disease or health hazards that may result from toxic spills or natural disasters. EMS professionals can find work in local governments or as private consultants. Emergency Management Specialists work with every department from law enforcement to fire stations, as well as public health officials to make sure the public is safe.
Health Educators can find work teaching safety classes to the public or offering information to groups of people who belong to organizations that are dedicated to helping others. This includes groups like the Salvation Army and the Peace Corp. Health educators also teach health and safety classes such as CNA certifications, CPR, and First Aid courses that are necessary for certain types of jobs.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists work to ensure safe practices within the workplace. Groups like OSHA enforce strict rules and regulations that enable employees to have a safe place to work where they don’t have to worry about getting injured. Accidents in the workplace result in millions of dollars each year being awarded in Workers’ Compensation claims. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists inspect work environments to ensure they are hazard-free and safe for all employees.
Public Health Nurses not only work to educate the public about new health concerns. They are in charge of ensuring county health records are accurate and up to date. Public Health Nurses also work with the schools and local businesses to ensure that local health codes are met. Public health officials are also responsible for working with restaurants and any type of business that deals with the serving of food and beverages.
Dietitians/Nutritionists are also in high demand. They are the ones who are responsible for developing school lunches and ensuring students and individuals on assistance are able to receive the right types of food to remain healthy. Dietitians and nutritionists can also find work in healthcare facilities, rehab centers, and hospitals creating individual meal plans for patients with special dietary needs.
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