Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Updated October 18, 2023
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Health sciences professionals treat patients, promote public health, and oversee healthcare organizations.
The field of health sciences covers clinical, research, and administrative roles in the healthcare sector. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in health sciences can pursue roles like healthcare administrator or health educator.
This broad field covers varied job opportunities. For example, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), healthcare administrators earn a median salary of $104,830 a year. A health science degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study, which can lead to opportunities like physician assistant -- a career that earns a median salary over $126,010 per year. The BLS also projects that both careers will see faster than average job growth.
Our ranking lists the best bachelor of health science programs, helping prospective students find the right fit for their interests and career goals.
The Best Online Health Sciences Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
University of Florida-Online supports highly ranked bachelor's programs from its main campus in Gainesville. The bachelor of science in health education program is one of the school's 21 online bachelor's programs.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. The program prioritizes flexibility in student learning. Learners can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduate tuition at the institution is $15,000. Students can receive financial aid to offset the costs of their degree. Learners can expect to be awarded $7,670 in financial aid, on average.
University of Florida-Online at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: Data not available
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Admission Rate: 32%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Central Florida enrolls distance learners in 47 programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 19 online bachelor degrees, including a bachelor of science in healthcare administration. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips learners with relevant skills needed to succeed in the field. Students can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $39,900. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $11,617 in tuition and fees yearly. To learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities, prospective applicants should contact the department.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Miami-based Florida International University supports online learning across 67 online programs. The college offers 36 fully online bachelor's degrees. Students looking for a health-adjacent career can pursue the bachelor of health services administration at their own pace. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a postgraduate career. Degree candidates can explore electives, minors, and degree consultations with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $41,500 for graduates six years after completing their studies. The average undergraduate pays $9,888 in tuition and fees yearly. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus, a public college in University Park, supports online learning across 207 online programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 67 online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of science in health policy and administration is a wise choice for students seeking competitive, flexible study.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Enrollees also complete general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Learners can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $43,600 six years after completing their degree. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Pennsylvania State University-World Campus, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the department.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: Data not available
Total Online Programs: 207
Online Bachelor's Programs: 67
Admission Rate: 76%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nicholls State University, a public college in Louisiana, offers competitive bachelor's degrees. The institution supports nine remote online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of health sciences.
Degree-seekers can modify their coursework to suit their interests and accommodate their schedule. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $6,015. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college. The institution averages financial aid packages of $8,576 per enrollee.
Nicholls State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,388
Total Online Programs: 16
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree in health science? Consider Eastern Washington University. The school offers a flexible bachelor of science in health science. The program supports flexible study for online learners.
Degree candidates complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the field. Enrollees also complete general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $37,700, according to the college. The average undergraduate student pays $12,764 in tuition and fees every year, after aid. Students can meet with the department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Eastern Washington University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,825
Total Online Programs: 63
Online Bachelor's Programs: 33
Admission Rate: 96%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of West Florida supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 26 online programs. Students seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from 10 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor of science in health sciences. The program supports students from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework amounting to 120 credits. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education during their studies. Learners can modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $33,600 for graduates six years after completing their studies. The average undergraduate pays $7,515 in tuition and fees yearly. Prospective students can contact the health science program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
The University of West Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,296
Total Online Programs: 26
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 31%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in applied health science should consider University of North Alabama's online bachelor of science in applied health science program in Florence. The program is one of 10 online bachelor's degrees available through the institution. Degree-seekers prepare for the field's demands through rigorous study.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can also choose elective classes or pursue a minor to further their learning.
Undergraduate students pay approximately $19,200 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid. The college reports that students receive an average of $6,706 in financial aid.
University of North Alabama at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,068
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 89%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Arizona State University-Skysong
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking flexible online study should consider Arizona State University-Skysong. Located in Scottsdale, the public institution boasts 54 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor of applied science in health sciences.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Students seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Enrollees can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary study to fit career goals.
Typically, undergraduates pay $19,282 tuition. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses. The college reports that learners receive an average of $10,278 in financial aid.
Arizona State University-Skysong at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible online study should consider University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. The public college supports three online bachelor's programs from its main campus. The bachelor's in health sciences program supports flexible, rigorous study.
The program prepares students for the demands of the field. Enrollees can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary study to fit career goals.
Typically, undergraduates pay $13,955 tuition. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Degree-seekers typically receive a financial aid award package amounting to $5,423, on average.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,533
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 76%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University, a private not-for-profit college in Manchester, supports online learning across 84 programs. Undergraduate students from across the globe can connect with the college through one of its 35 fully online bachelor's degrees. Students seeking competitive study in health science in a flexible modality can enroll in the online bachelor's in health science. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Degree candidates complete general education and advanced coursework amounting to 120 credits. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a postgraduate career. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's graduates can access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. They earn an average median salary of $43,300 after six years. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider University of Missouri-Columbia. The college boasts 14 fully online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of health science.
The program supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Enrollees can modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor.
At present, undergraduates pay $26,991 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their studies. At the college, enrollees receive an average of $10,464 in financial aid.
University of Missouri-Columbia at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,722
Total Online Programs: 58
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 81%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lawrence-based University of Kansas facilitates online learning throughout 38 online degrees. The bachelor of health sciences program is one of the college's eight online bachelor's programs. The program offers flexible study options. Students can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
Degree-seekers attend industry-relevant lectures while completing health sciences-specific coursework. These classes equip students with specific and broad knowledge and skills. Enrollees can customize their program by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $45,100 six years after finishing their degree. When preparing for the costs of education, students should know that the average cost of tuition and fees after aid is $19,195. Prospective enrollees can meet with the department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
University of Kansas at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,005
Total Online Programs: 38
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 93%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Missouri Southern State University
Joplin, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Missouri Southern State University, located in Joplin, enables distance learning across nine online programs. Students can pursue four online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in health science. The program prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. The program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
Graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $31,300. Though educational costs vary, students can expect to pay an average of $9,810 in tuition and fees. Prospective applicants should connect with the department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
Missouri Southern State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,836
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 94%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Columbus, Ohio State University-Main Campus provides competitive bachelor's degrees to learners from all walks of life. The public school offers two online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in health sciences.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. Students complete coursework relevant to the field, with the option to choose electives and modify coursework.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $31,174. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The school averages financial aid award packages of $8,176 per student.
Ohio State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 21,150
Total Online Programs: 17
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 54%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Health Sciences Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Health Sciences Programs
Choosing an Online Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences
Prospective students have many factors to consider when choosing an online health science bachelor's degree, including the program's cost, the school's transfer policies, and the program's length. These factors can all shape student experiences. By researching the following areas, prospective students can find the right programs to meet their professional goals.
What Is Health Science?
Health sciences explore human health and disease, encompassing the promotion of health, the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, and research into human health. It also covers diverse areas like medicine, public health, pharmacy, rehabilitation, and health administration.
Within the broad field of health sciences, professionals can specialize in patient-facing clinical work, research, or the business side of healthcare. For example, health sciences professionals who specialize in a clinical area may work as nurses, physician assistants, or physical therapists. In the research subfield, health sciences professionals work as medical laboratory technicians or research health scientists. On the business side, administrative roles -- like healthcare administrator or executive -- often require a background in health sciences.
Health science professionals work in hospitals, doctor's offices, nursing homes, and laboratories. By addressing human health from every angle, health sciences can improve health outcomes for patients of all ages.
A bachelor's in health sciences blends coursework and labs to prepare students for healthcare jobs or for graduate study. The degree emphasizes both clinical and administrative abilities, setting healthcare professionals up for advanced careers.
What Will I Learn in an Online Bachelor's of Health Sciences Program?
- Healthcare Law and Ethics: Students in this course learn about legal and ethical issues affecting the healthcare system. The class examines government regulations, the role of patient consent, and privacy and confidentiality. Students also learn to analyze legal and ethical healthcare resources.
- Healthcare Management: A healthcare management course explores the daily challenges of overseeing healthcare organizations. Students learn about the management of healthcare institutions, including laws and regulations that apply to the field. They also develop management skills and learn to apply healthcare management theories to the practice of medicine.
- Public Health: Undergraduate public health courses introduce students to core public health principles and methods. Students learn about the role of public health in promoting community health, preventing widespread disease or epidemics, and improving health outcomes on a broad scale. The course may also examine public health infrastructure, emerging issues, and chronic or infectious disease.
- Medical Terminology: Health sciences professionals must understand medical terminology to communicate with medical professionals. This course introduces students to the terminology used in medical records, including specialty medical terms. Many healthcare programs -- including degrees in nursing, physical therapy, and health information management -- require a medical terminology course.
- Epidemiology: Epidemiology is the study of the distribution of health and disease in human populations. This course trains students to understand disease outcomes, improve population health, and conduct sound research. Students explore the principles and methods of public health epidemiology, the environmental and behavioral factors that contribute to disease, and common epidemiologic study designs.
Bachelor's in Health Sciences Jobs
A bachelor's in health science prepares graduates for clinical roles or business careers in healthcare, so there's a lot you can do with one of these degrees. For example, a bachelor of health science meets the requirements for medical and health services management roles and can also lead to opportunities for health educators, community health workers, and medical laboratory technicians.
In addition to traditional career paths, a health sciences graduate can also become a health science writer, a biomedical illustrator, or a public health consultant. Some healthcare positions require additional study; for example, become a physician assistant requires a master's degree.
Medical and Health Services Managers
Also known as healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, these professionals direct and coordinate services for healthcare facilities, medical practices, or departments within hospitals. Medical and health services managers develop goals to improve the efficiency and quality of healthcare services and ensure their facilities follow laws and regulations.
As part of their management responsibilities, medical and health services managers monitor budgets and create work schedules. They must also keep records on facility maintenance services. Most positions require a bachelor's degree and some work experience, though some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Health Educators
Health educators promote health by teaching people about healthy behaviors and ways to improve wellness. Also known as health education specialists, they develop programs and materials to educate the public about health topics. They must also evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs and materials.
Health educators sometimes connect people with health services and resources on well-being. They may also supervise staff carrying out health education programs and analyze data to identify a community's health education needs. The position typically requires a bachelor's degree, and some employers prefer candidates with a certified health education specialist credential.
Physician Assistants
Physician assistants examine, diagnose, and treat patients, typically working under the supervision of other healthcare providers like physicians and surgeons. They review patient medical histories, conduct physical examinations, order diagnostic tests, and diagnose patient conditions. In some states, physician assistants can also treat patients and prescribe medicine.
In addition to providing medical care, physician assistants often educate patients, research new treatments to improve patient care, and participate in outreach programs. This career path requires a master's degree from an accredited program, which typically takes two years of additional education. Physician assistants must also hold state-issued licenses.
Accreditation for Online Health Sciences Degrees
Prospective students should always check a school's accreditation status before applying. Accreditation benefits students in several ways. Credits earned at an accredited institution will transfer more easily to other schools and programs, and an accredited degree meets requirements for professional certifications and licenses. Graduate programs may also require an accredited bachelor of health science for admission.
Accreditation recognizes schools and programs for meeting the highest standards of academic excellence. Colleges and universities can earn either regional or national accreditation from independent accrediting agencies, but in the health sciences, regional accreditation is the gold standard.
Individual programs within a university can also pursue accreditation from programmatic accreditation agencies. In the health sciences, the Council on Education for Public Health and the National Environmental Health Science & Protection Accreditation Council grant programmatic accreditation. Learn more about the accreditation process and the benefits of accreditation.
Health Sciences Professional Organizations
Professional organizations help health sciences students transition from undergraduate studies into the workforce. Many offer national or local events where students can connect with professionals like healthcare administrators or public health educators. The following health sciences professional organizations all provide development resources and career support for students and early career professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Health Science?
Health science explores human health and disease from multiple angles. The field encompasses patient-facing roles, research technicians, and healthcare administration.
What Can You Do With a Health Science Degree?
A health science degree prepares graduates for roles like health educator, healthcare administrator, and medical laboratory technician. The degree also provides a foundation for further study through graduate programs.
What Is a BS in Health Science?
A bachelor of health science degree combines technical and administrative coursework to train students in providing patient care and managing healthcare organizations.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Health Science?
Earning a health science degree typically takes four years for full-time students. Transfer students with an associate degree can often complete a bachelor of health science in two years.
What Job Can I Get With a Health Science Degree?
Bachelor's in health science job options include healthcare administrator, surgical technician, physical therapy assistant, and respiratory therapist. Health science graduates can also work as healthcare administrators and managers.
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