Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on February 27, 2024

An online healthcare certificate prepares graduates for in-demand roles as medical assistants and health information technicians.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistants and health information technicians will both see much faster than average projected job growth from 2019-2029. Earning an online healthcare certificate builds the knowledge and skills required for these high-demand careers.

An online learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students balancing school with other responsibilities. Distance learners complete flexible coursework while meeting any clinical requirements in their local areas. Students on a budget can research the most affordable option for their certificate program without limiting their options to local schools.

Our list ranks the top online healthcare certificate programs to help prospective applicants find the best fit for their budget and career goals. This article also explores common healthcare certificate courses, career paths for graduates, and professional certifications in healthcare.

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The Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Charter Oak State College

  • Location-markerNew Britain, CT
  • 4 year
  • Online

The online health information management certificate at Charter Oak State College ranks high among programs of its kind. From its campus in New Britain, Connecticut, the public institution offers certificate programs in 17 areas.

With career-focused classes, the health information management program introduces participants to industry-relevant topics while providing insights into professional roles. Certificate-seekers gain hands-on experience to provide career-specific training. Enrollees choose classes based on their schedule, needs, and career goals. The leadership in health care administration certificate program uses full-time and part-time schedules for distance learners. Busy students benefit from the flexibility to balance school with work and other obligations.

Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for assistance. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,656
  • Out-of-state$10,056
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,288
  • Out-of-state$9,720
  • Retention Rate100%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled1,611
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Cedar Crest College

  • Location-markerAllentown, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Cedar Crest College offers an online healthcare administration certificate that provides a flexible route to training for the healthcare administration field. Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, the private institution offers 11 certificate options.

With career-focused classes, the healthcare administration program introduces participants to industry-relevant topics while providing insights into professional roles. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible online classes and several enrollment options meet the needs of multiple learners. Remote enrollees choose from full-time and part-time options in the online health care management certificate program. This flexibility appeals to busy students and working professionals.

Learners can contact the financial aid office for information about assistance and eligibility guidelines for certificate programs. The school connects students with financial aid resources, including scholarships and federal aid programs. According to the school, 100% of the student body receives financial aid and 51% graduate within six years.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$39,774
  • Out-of-state$39,774
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,287
  • Out-of-state$14,287
  • Retention Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate61%
  • Students Enrolled1,526
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Champlain College

  • Location-markerBurlington, VT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Champlain College offers an online certificate for students interested in healthcare administration careers. Learners enroll in 19 certificate programs offered from the Burlington, Vermont, campus of the private institution.

With industry-tailored classes, the healthcare administration program builds key knowledge and skills while providing insights into the profession. Certificate-seekers can also boost their career training with workshops, events, and internship opportunities. Enrollees can modify the program based on their schedule. The online healthcare administration undergraduate certificate program offers tracks for full-time and part-time leaners. Working professionals and busy students benefit from the flexible options.

The accredited institution meets federal requirements for distance learners to submit the FAFSA and receive aid. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Currently, 100% of the student body receives some form of financial aid and the school has a 65% graduation rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$41,728
  • Out-of-state$41,728
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,310
  • Out-of-state$14,310
  • Retention Rate82%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled4,385
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

  • Location-markerStandish, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Saint Joseph's College of Maine’s online certificate in healthcare administration is an attractive option for students seeking flexible training relevant to the healthcare administration field. The private institution, located in Standish, Maine, offers two certificate programs.

Participants in the healthcare administration program benefit from industry-tailored classes, deepening their knowledge of the healthcare administration field while providing insight to industry professions. Certificate-seekers participate in experiential learning opportunities to gain relevant skills for their career path. Flexible enrollment options help learners make progress toward their certificate. The online health administration certificate program offers full-time and part-time tracks. Busy students rely on this flexibility to balance school with work and other responsibilities.

Distance learners can contact the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for certificate programs. The school's financial aid options include external scholarships, internal funding opportunities, and federal financial aid. According to the most recent data, 98% of enrolled students use financial aid, while the school has a 67% graduation rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$36,720
  • Out-of-state$36,720
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,470
  • Out-of-state$9,470
  • Retention Rate82%
  • Acceptance Rate87%
  • Students Enrolled1,987
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment40%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Colorado Christian University

  • Location-markerLakewood, CO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The online certificate in healthcare administration at Colorado Christian University appeals to students seeking career training in a flexible format. From its campus in Lakewood, Colorado, the private institution lets learners choose from 12 certificate options.

With industry-tailored classes, the healthcare administration program introduces participants to foundational topics and offers industry insights. Certificate-seekers can also participate in experiential learning opportunities focused on their career goals. Flexible class schedules and enrollment options meet the needs of diverse learners. The online healthcare administration certificate program offers full-time and part-time tracks. This flexibility allows busy students to balance school with work or other obligations.

Learners can contact the financial aid office for information about assistance and eligibility guidelines for certificate programs. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 100% of enrollees receive financial aid and the overall graduation rate is 55%.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$23,502
  • Out-of-state$23,502
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$13,045
  • Out-of-state$13,045
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled7,587
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Roger Williams University

  • Location-markerBristol, RI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The online healthcare administration certificate at Roger Williams University offers a flexible route to healthcare administration career training. Learners choose from seven certificate programs offered by the private institution from its Bristol, Rhode Island, campus.

The healthcare administration program offers industry insights and career-focused training throughout its curriculum. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. The online health services administration certificate offers both full-time and part-time enrollment. This flexibility appeals to busy students and working professionals.

The financial aid office works with distance learners to find scholarships, grants, and other funding sources. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities, including scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Currently, 100% of enrollees receive financial aid and the school has a 67% graduation rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,789
  • Out-of-state$32,789
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$15,768
  • Out-of-state$15,768
  • Retention Rate85%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled4,838
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment12%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Wayne Community College

  • Location-markerGoldsboro, NC
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

The online healthcare administration certificate at Wayne Community College uses online classes to train students for healthcare administration careers. At the public institution, learners choose from 44 certificate programs offered from the Goldsboro, North Carolina, campus.

The program offers industry-tailored classes that help participants deepen their knowledge of the field while gaining industry insights. Certificate-seekers work with faculty mentors to individualize their program and pursue experiential learning opportunities. Flexible course options make it easier for learners to fit classes around their other responsibilities. The online medical office administration certificate program offers tracks for full-time and part-time students. This flexibility helps busy enrollees balance school with work and other responsibilities.

Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to find out more about eligibility for assistance. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. According to the school, 63% of enrollees receive financial aid and the graduation rate is 45%.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,432
  • Out-of-state$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,948
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment56%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Minnesota West Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerGranite Falls, MN
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

The flexible healthcare administration certificate at Minnesota West Community and Technical College provides an online route to healthcare administration training. From its main campus in Granite Falls, Minnesota, the public institution operates 71 certificate programs.

Participants in the healthcare administration program deepen their knowledge of the field through industry-tailored classes. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. The online healthcare supervision and leadership certificate offers both full-time and part-time enrollment. These flexible options appeal to working professionals and busy students.

The financial aid office helps learners identify funding sources for certificate programs. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. With 92% of all enrollees receiving financial aid, the school boasts a 45% graduation rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,300
  • Out-of-state$10,600
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate59%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,421
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment49%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Columbus State University

  • Location-markerColumbus, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Columbus State University offers an online healthcare administration certificate that appeals to students seeking flexible healthcare administration career training. From its campus in Columbus, Georgia, the public institution offers certificate programs in 15 areas.

The healthcare administration program emphasizes industry-specific knowledge and professional insights throughout the curriculum. Certificate-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities to gain healthcare administration career training while in the program. Flexible enrollment options help learners make progress toward their certificate. Full-time and part-time students participate in the online healthcare manager certificate program. Working professionals and busy enrollees benefit from the flexible options.

When preparing for educational costs, learners should consult with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for assistance. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities, including scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. According to the school, 92% of enrollees receive financial aid and the graduation rate is 38%.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,371
  • Out-of-state$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,300
  • Out-of-state$11,394
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate79%
  • Students Enrolled7,877
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs

Lenoir Community College

  • Location-markerKinston, NC
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

The online healthcare administration certificate at Lenoir Community College ranks high among programs of its kind. Located in Kinston, North Carolina, the public institution offers 63 certificate options.

The healthcare administration curriculum challenges participants with industry-tailored classes which offer insights into the healthcare administration profession. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. Full-time and part-time students take classes as part of the medical administrative assistant certificate program. This flexibility makes it easier for busy enrollees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.

When preparing for educational costs, learners should consult with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for assistance. The school administers federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant for qualifying students. Out of the total student body, 73% receive financial aid and the school reports a 30% graduation rate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,432
  • Out-of-state$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate60%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,526
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment76%
  • AccreditationYes

Best Online Colleges

Certificate in Healthcare

2022


The Best Schools

Online Healthcare Certificate Program Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Rankings Methodology

What Is an Online Healthcare Certificate?

An online healthcare certificate trains learners in medical assistance, healthcare terminology, healthcare records management, and medical coding. During a certificate program, students strengthen their administrative and clinical abilities, learning how to interact with patients, perform basic healthcare assessments, and maintain medical records.

After a one-year certificate program, graduates meet the requirements for many allied health careers. With an online healthcare certificate, professionals can pursue careers as medical assistants, medical office assistants, and health information technicians.

Online medical certificate programs combine remote classes with practical training. Distance learning students complete clinical training through online simulations, virtual laboratory projects, and in-person supervised experiences in their local areas. Programs work with online learners to meet these requirements at approved sites close to the student’s home.

What’s the Difference Between a Healthcare Administration Certificate and an Associate Degree?

A healthcare administration certificate and an associate degree in healthcare administration both prepare graduates for allied health careers. However, the options differ in important ways. For example, certificate programs often take one year or less to complete, while an associate degree takes two years. Many schools offer both certificate and associate programs.

A certificate covers fundamental topics and meets the requirements for some entry-level roles. An associate degree offers more in-depth education, including general education requirements, and leads to more career-oriented opportunities, like administrative coordinator or operations assistant. After earning certificates, graduates can sometimes transfer their credits toward associate degrees in healthcare administration, depending on accreditation.

What Can You Do With a Healthcare Certificate?

A healthcare certificate trains students to work in hospitals and doctor’s offices in roles like medical office assistant, medical secretary, nursing assistant, or administrative assistant. Medical assistants conduct basic health assessments and maintain patient records, while health information technicians manage medical records. Below are a few jobs that healthcare certificate-holders can pursue.

Choosing an Online Program

How can you choose the right online healthcare certificate program for your needs? By considering factors like your budget, career goals, and schedule availability. Researching a prospective program’s job placement rate can also help you make informed decisions. Learn more about choosing an online program with the following links.

Accreditation for Healthcare Programs

Accredited online healthcare certificate programs meet the requirements for professional certification, and many employers only hire graduates from accredited programs. As a result, prospective applicants should always choose regionally accredited schools.

Several specialized agencies grant accreditation to allied health schools, including The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The U.S. Department of Education recognizes CAAHEP and ABHES as accrediting agencies for health programs.

What to Expect From a Healthcare Certificate

During a healthcare certificate, learners complete general healthcare courses in medical terminology, human anatomy, and health information systems. They also take specialized courses, such as medical assisting or medical coding. These classes build the knowledge and skills required for allied health careers.

Healthcare Curriculum

  • Customer Service: Customer service is a core skill in medical assisting and medical office assisting. In this course, learners examine the best customer service practices in healthcare, including soliciting customer feedback and managing complaints.
  • Healthcare Research and Quality: Healthcare organizations use research and data analysis to improve quality of care and patient outcomes. This course covers quality improvement approaches, applying research in practice, and enhancing healthcare procedures through data analysis.
  • Health Finance and Economics: Students in this course explore financial management and economics in healthcare, providing a general overview of the financial side of the healthcare system. Topics include profit analysis, capital budgeting, and healthcare consumption.
  • Health Information Systems: Healthcare organizations increasingly rely on technology to manage data and improve performance. Students in this course examine healthcare information needs, computer-based analytical tools, and patient information management.
  • Medical Legal Issues: Healthcare practitioners must study medical law and ethical issues to ensure compliance. Coursework in this class covers privacy rights, healthcare legislation, and court rulings on medical care. This class prepares practitioners for clinical and record management responsibilities.
  • Navigating the U.S. Healthcare System: Learners in this class explore regulatory agencies, hospital systems, and health insurers and how they operate in the United States. Coursework examines the mechanisms for delivering health services and compares the U.S. healthcare system to international systems.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Healthcare Certificate?

Many community colleges, vocational schools, and technical schools offer healthcare certificate programs. Most online healthcare certificate programs take 6-12 months to complete. Online medical certificate programs typically require around nine months of coursework.

During a healthcare certificate, students complete coursework in medical terminology, health information record management, and healthcare compliance. They also gain practical training through simulations, laboratory assignments, and clinical practicums. This blend of classroom and experiential learning prepares certificate graduates for careers in healthcare.

Pursuing Healthcare Certifications Online

It is important not to confuse certificates with certifications. Certificate programs train students in particular areas through coursework, assignments, and exams, while certifications recognize professionals who are skilled in particular fields. Certificates are similar to degrees, while certifications are for working professionals.

Professional certifications help healthcare professionals stand out in the job market. For example, certified clinical medical assistants and certified electronic health records specialists can point to their certifications to demonstrate their experience and training.

Private organizations deliver certifications, while certificates are conferred by schools. Most certifications require previous training, such as a certificate or work experience, but they don’t offer training themselves. Candidates pursuing healthcare certifications online must pass an exam to earn the credential, and many certifications require renewal every 2-3 years. Recertification may require continuing education credits or additional exams.

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

The CCMA Certification requires a completed medical assistant program or one year of supervised work experience as a medical assistant to apply. Candidates then complete an exam either online or in person at a school or testing center. Candidates with passing scores earn the CCMA credential.

Certified Compliance Technician

Compliance technicians can demonstrate their experience with HIPPA, healthcare compliance, and fraud by earning this credential. Each CCT candidate takes a 90-minute exam covering basic competency areas in healthcare compliance, including noncompliance penalties. Test-takers receive their scores immediately after the exam. Candidates with passing scores earn the credential.

Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist

The CEHRS credential requires electronic health records specialist training or one year of supervised work experience as an electronic health records specialist. Only accredited or state-recognized training programs meet the eligibility requirement. Candidates must pass an examination to earn the credential.

Certified in Healthcare Compliance

The CHC credential recognizes professionals experienced in healthcare compliance. Candidates must meet work experience or student experience requirements to sit for the exam. The CHC exam tests candidates on healthcare compliance and best practices. The certification remains valid for two years.

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant

The CMAA credential requires either completion of a medical administrative assistant training program or one year of supervised work experience as a medical administrative assistant. Candidates take the exam at schools or testing centers. Test-takers earn the credential with passing scores.

Health Unit Coordinator Certification

Candidates must work as health unit coordinators or demonstrate completion of health unit coordinator training programs to qualify for this credential. The certification requires a passing score on a 120-question comprehensive examination. Professionals receive certification for three years and must complete a recertification process to maintain the credential.

Healthcare Organizations

Professional organizations can help students and early-career professionals advance their careers. These organizations provide professional development support, career resources, and networking opportunities.

Professional organizations often specialize in areas within the healthcare field. For example, the Association for Healthcare Administrative Professionals and the American Health Information Management Association represent medical assistants and health information technicians. Meanwhile, the American Association of Healthcare Administration Management and the American College of Healthcare Administrators advocate for healthcare administrators.

Medical Office Administration Careers

BLS data indicates that the healthcare field is growing much more quickly than other careers, adding approximately 2.4 million new job openings from 2019-2029.

A healthcare certificate prepares graduates for careers as medical records technicians, medical assistants, and health information technicians. In these roles, professionals blend their clinical and administrative training to help hospitals and doctor’s offices run smoothly. Online healthcare certificate programs can also lead to careers as medical secretaries and administrative assistants.

The information below covers median salary data for common medical careers among individuals with healthcare certificates.

CareerMedian Salary (2020)
Medical Records and Health Information Technician$44,090
Administrative Assistant$40,990
Medical Assistant$35,850
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Frequently Asked Questions

Online healthcare certification options include certified clinical medical assistant and certified electronic health records specialist credentials. Additionally, many colleges offer online healthcare certificates for medical assistants.

Online medical certificate programs train graduates for careers as medical assistants, health information technicians, and medical coders. Many programs take one year or less to complete.

Allied health careers that require certification, including sonographer, respiratory therapist, and radiologic technician, earn above-average salaries. Earning a healthcare certificate can also lead to employment as a medical assistant.

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