Online Healthcare Degrees
Online healthcare degrees offer a flexible path to enter the growing field of health and wellness.
Students can choose from various programs that fit their goals and schedules. These degrees prepare graduates for careers focused on improving people's well-being.
Many schools now provide healthcare education through distance learning. Students can earn certificates, associate's degrees, or bachelor's degrees entirely online. This allows them to gain knowledge and skills while balancing other commitments.
Key Takeaways
- Online healthcare degrees provide flexible options for entering the health field
- Programs range from certificates to bachelor's degrees
- Distance learning allows students to balance education with other responsibilities
Popular Colleges with Online Healthcare Degrees
1. American Intercontinental University
American Intercontinental University offers online healthcare degrees. Students can earn a bachelor's in healthcare management or a master's in healthcare administration. The programs blend business and healthcare topics.
2. Arizona State University
ASU has several online healthcare degrees. Options include nursing, health sciences, and medical studies. The university uses interactive learning tools and virtual labs in its online courses.
3. California Baptist University
This school provides online degrees in health science and public health. Students can complete coursework on their own schedule. The programs prepare graduates for various healthcare roles.
4. Charter Oak State College
Charter Oak State College has online healthcare programs. Students can earn degrees in health information management and health care administration. The college caters to working adults.
5. Colorado Christian University
CCU offers online degrees in healthcare administration and nursing. The programs integrate faith-based principles with healthcare education. Students can access courses 24/7.
6. Colorado Technical University
CTU has online programs in health sciences and healthcare management. The university uses virtual classrooms and multimedia content. Students can interact with peers and instructors online.
7. Concordia University – Irvine
Concordia University – Irvine provides online healthcare degrees. Options include nursing and healthcare management. The programs blend theory with practical skills.
8. DeVry University
DeVry offers online degrees in health information technology and healthcare administration. The university has partnerships with healthcare organizations for internships and job placement.
9. Florida Atlantic University
FAU has online programs in nursing and health administration. Students can access coursework anytime. The university provides support services for online learners.
10. Florida International University
FIU offers online degrees in health services administration and nursing. The programs use cutting-edge technology for virtual learning. Students can collaborate with peers from around the world.
11. Grand Canyon University
GCU provides online healthcare degrees in nursing, health administration, and public health. The university has a Christian worldview. Programs include both theory and hands-on practice.
12. Herzing University
Herzing offers online degrees in nursing, healthcare management, and health information management. The university has small class sizes and personalized attention for students.
13. Keiser University
Keiser University has online healthcare programs. Options include health science, health services administration, and nursing. The university focuses on career-ready skills.
14. Middle Georgia State University
MGSU offers online degrees in health services administration and nursing. The programs are designed for working professionals. Students can complete coursework at their own pace.
15. Nova Southeastern University
NSU provides online healthcare degrees. Programs include nursing, health science, and medical education. The university uses advanced technology for virtual learning.
16. Regis University
Regis offers online degrees in nursing and health services administration. The programs blend Jesuit values with healthcare education. Students can access courses 24/7.
17. Reinhardt University
Reinhardt University has online healthcare programs. Options include nursing and healthcare administration. The university provides personalized support for online learners.
18. Saint Leo University
Saint Leo offers online degrees in healthcare management and nursing. The programs use a Catholic framework. Students can interact with peers and instructors through virtual platforms.
19. South University
South University provides online healthcare degrees. Programs include nursing, healthcare administration, and public health. The university focuses on practical skills for the healthcare field.
20. Trident University
Trident offers online degrees in health sciences and health administration. The university uses a case-based learning approach. Students work on real-world healthcare problems.
21. University of Alabama – Birmingham
UAB has online programs in health administration and nursing. The university is known for its research in healthcare. Students can access cutting-edge content and resources.
22. University of Bridgeport
UB provides online healthcare degrees. Options include nursing and health sciences. The programs blend theory with practical skills for healthcare careers.
23. University of Central Florida
UCF offers online degrees in health services administration and nursing. The university uses advanced technology for virtual learning. Students can access courses anytime, anywhere.
24. University of Phoenix
UoP has online healthcare programs. Options include nursing, health administration, and health information systems. The university caters to working adults with flexible schedules.
25. University of South Florida
USF offers online degrees in public health and nursing. The programs use interactive learning tools. Students can collaborate with peers and faculty through virtual platforms.
Online Healthcare Degree Options
Many types of healthcare degrees can be earned online. Certificate programs include alternative medicine, dental assistance, and sports medicine. These short programs help students gain specific skills quickly.
For those seeking more in-depth education, associate degrees are available in medical assisting, medical coding, medical office administration, and pharmacy. These two-year programs provide foundational knowledge for entry-level healthcare jobs.
Bachelor's degrees offer the most comprehensive education. Online options include health informatics, health science, health services, and healthcare administration. Students can also pursue degrees in mental health counseling, nursing, nutritional sciences, and public health.
Online learning allows flexibility for working adults. Students can often complete coursework on their own schedule. Some programs blend online and in-person components for hands-on training.
Certificates
Online Alternative Medicine Certification
A certificate in alternative medicine can open doors to holistic health careers. These programs teach natural healing methods like massage, Chinese medicine, and aromatherapy. Students may also study acupuncture, yoga, and meditation. Some programs cover homeopathy and natural childbirth practices.
The curriculum often includes basic science courses. Students might take classes in anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry. Legal and ethical issues in alternative medicine are also important topics.
Graduates can pursue various career paths. Some become wellness coaches or massage therapists. Others work as yoga instructors. The certificate can also boost existing careers in healthcare. Nurses, therapists, doctors, and midwives may find it useful.
Online Dental Assistant Certification
Dental assistant programs prepare students to help dentists and hygienists. The coursework covers tooth and mouth anatomy. Students learn about dental tools and appliances like dentures. They also study X-ray safety and infection control.
Many programs teach dental software and imaging skills. Office tasks are part of the training too. Students learn how to prepare for procedures and set up supply trays.
These programs often take a year or less to finish. Graduates can then take a test to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). Each state has its own rules for dental assistants to practice.
The job outlook for dental assistants is good. They earn about $41,000 per year on average.
Online Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy Certification
Sports medicine and physical therapy certificates are great starting points for these fields. The programs teach skills for working as an aide in medical offices.
Students learn about human body systems and movement. Courses cover anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. The training also includes office skills like record-keeping and billing.
Privacy laws are an important part of the curriculum. Students learn how to protect patient information.
Physical therapy aides typically earn around $28,000 yearly. This job can be a stepping stone to more advanced roles. With more education, aides can become assistants or full physical therapists.
To advance, students often get an associate's degree next. Becoming a physical therapist requires a doctoral degree.
Healthcare Career Paths
Medical Assistant Program
An online medical assisting degree can open doors to a rewarding career in patient care and medical office support. This two-year program covers human body systems, medical procedures, and drug information. Students gain hands-on skills through practical training.
The curriculum blends clinical and administrative topics. Classes touch on insurance processing, medical coding, and patient record systems. Graduates often work in doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals, or surgery centers.
Medical assistants earn around $35,850 yearly. Job growth looks strong, with a 19% increase expected over the next decade.
Medical Coding Certificate
A medical coding degree prepares students for careers in managing health records and billing. This program suits detail-focused individuals who enjoy working with computers in healthcare settings.
Courses cover medical terminology, treatments, and drug information. Students learn different coding systems for procedures and diagnoses. The curriculum also addresses patient privacy laws and healthcare ethics.
After finishing, graduates can take the Certified Coding Associate exam. Many coders work in medical offices or hospitals, with some remote options available.
Medical records techs make about $44,090 per year. The job outlook shows 8% growth in the coming years.
Healthcare Office Management
An online degree in medical office management trains students to keep healthcare practices running smoothly. The two-year program covers key administrative skills.
Classes include medical terms, insurance claims, and billing practices. Students learn to use medical databases and office software. The program stresses legal and ethical business practices, with a focus on patient privacy rules.
Graduates can pursue certification as a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant. Typical jobs include medical secretary, billing clerk, or office manager. The average salary for medical secretaries is around $37,350 yearly.
Pharmacy Tech Training
A pharmacy technician degree prepares students to assist pharmacists and serve customers. This program teaches skills for working behind the pharmacy counter.
The curriculum starts with basic medical terms and pharmacy practices. Later courses cover drug types, pharmacy setup, ethics, and safety rules. Math skills for dosage calculations are key. Many programs include real-world practice in pharmacies.
After earning their degree, students can take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam. Certified pharmacy techs earn about $35,100 per year on average.
Bachelor's Degrees
Online Health Data Management Degree
Health data management combines healthcare knowledge with tech skills. Students learn to handle medical information using computer systems. The program covers both business and medical topics.
Classes may include:
- Information technology
- Spreadsheets
- Accounting
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy
- Health insurance
Graduates can work as health information specialists. They may find jobs in hospitals, clinics, or insurance companies. The pay for medical managers averages $104,280 per year.
Online Health Sciences Degree
A health sciences degree offers a broad base of medical knowledge. It can lead to many different careers. The program involves lots of science classes.
Common courses are:
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Physics
- Anatomy
Students also study health-related topics like medical terms and insurance billing.
After graduating, some people become health managers or work in medical sales. Others go on to advanced programs in fields like:
- Physician assistant studies
- Audiology
- Pharmacy
- Dentistry
Online Health Services Degree
Health services programs teach about the big picture of healthcare. They cover how medical systems work. This degree works well for people who already have some medical training.
Students learn about:
- Global health issues
- Healthcare systems
- Management skills
- Project planning
Many programs let students pick a focus area, such as:
- Eldercare
- Health management
- Community health
Graduates often work as health educators or run community programs. Some manage nursing homes or doctor's offices.
Online Healthcare Management Degree
Healthcare managers keep medical offices running well. They make sure staff work together and patients get good care. This degree teaches the business side of medicine.
Key topics include:
- Healthcare finance
- Health insurance
- Communication
- Marketing
- Public health
- Health data
Students may choose to focus on areas like leadership or quality control.
This degree can lead to jobs running hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. Some graduates work for drug companies or community health programs.
Online Mental Health Support Degree
Mental health degrees teach ways to help people with emotional issues. The program covers different types of psychology and counseling methods.
Students learn about:
- Social psychology
- Brain science
- Mental illness
- Counseling techniques
- Working with diverse groups
Graduates may work as:
- Mental health aides
- Caregivers in group homes
- Case managers for social services
To become a licensed counselor, more schooling is needed after this degree.
Online Nursing Degree
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prepares students to become registered nurses. The program covers both classroom learning and hands-on practice.
Coursework includes:
- Health and illness
- Injury care
- Medications
- Nursing procedures
- Medical records
- Nursing ethics
Students also do clinical work in real healthcare settings.
After earning a BSN, graduates must pass a national exam to get licensed. Licensed nurses earn about $75,330 per year on average.
Some programs offer a fast track for working nurses to earn their BSN.
Online Nutrition Degree
Nutrition degrees teach how food affects health. Students learn to help people eat better. The program mixes science with practical skills.
Classes often include:
- Chemistry
- Behavior science
- Nutrition through the lifespan
- Diet planning
- Nutrition counseling
Many schools require students to do an internship.
This degree can lead to jobs as dietitians or nutritionists. These professionals often work in:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Community health programs
The average yearly pay is $63,090.
Online Public Health Degree
Public health focuses on community-wide health issues. Students learn to improve health for large groups of people.
The program covers topics like:
- Global health trends
- Fair access to healthcare
- Disease prevention
- Health education
Graduates often work to make communities healthier. They may run health programs or study ways to stop diseases from spreading.
Public health workers can find jobs with:
- Government agencies
- Non-profit groups
- Healthcare systems
This field offers many ways to make a difference in people's lives.
Accreditation for Online Healthcare Degrees
Choosing an accredited school for an online healthcare degree is crucial. Regional accreditation shows that a college meets high academic standards across all programs. This matters for job prospects and further education. It's also needed for federal financial aid.
For healthcare programs, field-specific accreditation is key. This means a professional group has approved the program's quality. Different healthcare fields have their accrediting bodies.
ABHES accredits allied health programs at many levels. CAHME focuses on master's degrees in healthcare management. CEPH handles public health degrees from bachelor's and up. Nursing students should look for CCNE accreditation.
Here's a quick list of main healthcare accreditors:
- ABHES: Allied health programs
- CAHME: Healthcare management master's degrees
- CEPH: Public health degrees
- CCNE: Nursing programs
These groups make sure programs teach the right skills. They check that courses cover important topics. This helps students prepare for real healthcare jobs.
When picking a program, check both school and program accreditation. This ensures a solid education that employers will value. It also helps with licensing in some healthcare fields.
Financial Aid Options for Healthcare Degrees
Many students can get help paying for their healthcare education. The government offers grants and low-interest loans. To apply, students need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some states have their own aid programs too.
Scholarships are another way to pay for school. Students can win money from private groups, community organizations, or their college. Scholarship amounts vary from small to large. Some are given once, while others can be used year after year.
Some employers help workers pay for more schooling. This can be useful if the degree will help the employee do their job better. Students should ask their workplace if this is an option.
College financial aid offices can guide students through their choices. They know about different ways to pay for school and can explain the process.
Healthcare Degree Online Questions
Online Healthcare Degree Options
Many healthcare degrees can be earned through online programs. These include dental assisting, health informatics, medical coding, nursing, and public health. Some programs mix online classes with in-person clinical work. This lets students gain hands-on skills while enjoying the flexibility of online learning.
In-Demand Healthcare Jobs
The healthcare field offers many growing job options. Medical assistant jobs are set to grow 19% in the next 10 years. Health information tech jobs will grow 8%. Nursing, home health, and mental health counseling are also expanding fields. Jobs for nutritionists, dental assistants, and paramedics are on the rise too.
Top Healthcare Degrees
The best healthcare degree depends on your goals. For patient care, look into medical assisting or nursing. For office work, try medical coding or healthcare admin. Healthcare admin and management degrees are popular choices. They can lead to good jobs and pay. A bachelor's degree is a great start. Some people go on to get a PhD for more advanced roles.
Online Medical School
Many healthcare degrees offer online classes. These include health science, medical assisting, and nursing. But to become a medical doctor, you need to go to school in person. This includes classroom learning and hands-on training. Online med school may be an option in the future, but for now, it's not available.
Healthcare degrees can boost your career options. They can lead to jobs in hospitals, clinics, or offices. Many programs teach key skills like:
- Critical thinking
- Patient advocacy
- Leadership skills
- Healthcare system knowledge
Some programs include internships. These give real-world experience. They can help with career development. A capstone course is often part of the degree. It lets students use all they've learned on a big project.
Healthcare jobs can range from direct patient care to office management. With the right degree, you can find a role that fits your skills and interests.
Is a Healthcare Degree a Good Investment?
Getting a healthcare degree can open up many job opportunities. The field is growing fast, with lots of new jobs expected in the next ten years. This growth is faster than in many other job areas.
There are many different jobs you can do with a healthcare degree. Some people work directly with patients as nurses or medical assistants. Others work behind the scenes in jobs like medical records or health information.
As more older people need medical care, the demand for healthcare workers is going up. This means there will likely be steady jobs available for those with the right training.
Healthcare degrees can lead to careers that help people and pay well. If you like the idea of working in healthcare, many schools offer these programs. Some even have online classes that fit around your schedule.
Common Questions About Online Healthcare Degrees
Top-Paying Jobs with Online Healthcare Degrees
Graduates with online healthcare degrees can pursue many well-paying careers. Some options include:
- Nurse practitioner
- Healthcare administrator
- Clinical research coordinator
- Health information manager
- Medical and health services manager
Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific role. Many of these careers offer six-figure earning potential with experience.
Trusted Schools for Online Healthcare Programs
Several respected institutions offer online healthcare degrees:
- Johns Hopkins University
- George Washington University
- Boston University
- University of Cincinnati
- Arizona State University
These schools provide fully accredited programs. Students should check specific accreditations for their field of study.
Best Online Degrees for Moving Up in Healthcare
Popular online degrees for career growth include:
- Master of Health Administration (MHA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics
- Healthcare MBA
These programs build advanced skills valued by employers. They can open doors to leadership roles.
Time to Finish Fast-Track Online Healthcare Degrees
Accelerated online programs let students graduate faster. Typical completion times:
- Associate degree: 12-18 months
- Bachelor's degree: 2-3 years
- Master's degree: 12-24 months
Exact timelines depend on the school and program. Full-time students usually finish quicker than part-time.
Online Medical Programs with Built-In Certifications
Some online healthcare degrees include certifications. Examples:
- RN to BSN with specialty certifications
- Health IT degrees with RHIA or CAHIMS prep
- Healthcare management with Lean Six Sigma certification
These programs save time and money by combining degree and cert prep.
Fully Remote Online Healthcare Degree Options
Many schools now offer 100% online healthcare degrees. Popular choices:
- BS in Health Sciences
- MS in Health Informatics
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Master of Healthcare Administration
- BS in Healthcare Management
These programs use virtual labs, simulations, and online clinicals. No campus visits are needed.