Best Online Master’s in Health Science Programs of 2024

Discover the best master's in health science degree programs. Explore career options, earning potential, and more. Find your path to success in healthcare.
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Updated on February 27, 2024
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Best Online Master's Programs in Health Science

Earning a master's in health science helps you pursue a variety of advanced roles in healthcare settings. Health science professionals lead community health seminars as part of local governments, oversee entire hospital departments as health services managers, or work one-on-one with athletes looking to heal from injuries.

Costs for an online master's in health science program can vary dramatically, with students attending local public colleges typically paying the lowest tuition rates. Whether studying online or in person, degree-seekers should plan to spend 1-2 years meeting all degree requirements before graduating.

Learn about the best online master's in health science programs, common courses, and career pathways for graduates.

Popular Online Health Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Health Science Program?

Students in an online master's in health science program often want to improve healthcare outcomes by managing administrative tasks, working with individuals directly, or engaging in community health education.

Most master's programs comprise 30-36 credits and take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full time, part time, or on an accelerated schedule. Some degrees also provide concentrations to help degree-seekers hone their particular interests.

Concentrations vary among schools, but common options include health leadership, health education, public health, health informatics, health policy, and nutrition.

Most programs can be completed fully online. Aside from completing coursework, some programs may include an internship or a culminating project that combines everything the student learned into a final assignment.

Online Master’s in Health Science Programs Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL
$6,974 $28,170 89%
#2 MCPHS University
Boston, MA
$22,950 $22,950 98%
#3 Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
$36,234 $36,234 83%

Best Accredited Online Master's in Health Science Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science Programs of 2024

Florida Gulf Coast University

  • Fort Myers, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $373

Out-of-State | $1,300

Credits to Graduate: 45

In FGCU's online MS in health science, you develop specialized skills for a career in health services administration. Along with healthcare policy and economics courses, the program includes a health services administration internship and a capstone seminar. 

FGCU's online programs use both asynchronous and synchronous delivery modes. The school offers eligible out-of-state students a tuition waiver that brings the tuition rates to in-state levels. You need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,191
Out-of-state
$22,328
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,974
Out-of-state
$28,170
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
15,909
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s in Health Science Programs of 2024

MCPHS University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,110

Out-of-State | $1,110

Credits to Graduate: 30

Students in MCPHS' online master of health sciences (MHS) learn to design and develop educational and leadership tools for healthcare schools and organizations. The program features an independent research project and courses teaching the required skills for these areas. 

At MCPHS, online students complete asynchronous courses on a part-time schedule and can still graduate within two years. No matter where they live, online students pay the same tuition rate and a one-time technology fee of $525. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a preferred GPA of 3.0 or higher. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,700
Out-of-state
$34,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,950
Out-of-state
$22,950
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
7,304
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Master’s in Health Science Programs of 2024

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,382

Out-of-State | $1,382

Credits to Graduate: 48

Drexel's MS in interdisciplinary health sciences offers students the choice of four pre-health concentrations, including biochemical and pharmacologic principles, concepts in anatomy and pathology, laboratory techniques, and medical science. The program also includes an MCAT preparatory course, a professional portfolio section, and a capstone paper and presentation from one of three tracks: independent research, clinical research, or community service.

Most online courses in this program run synchronously to simulate an in-class experience. All students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Health Science Program?

  • Research Methodology: Usually taken in the first semester, this course provides the foundation for research-focused assignments by teaching students how to construct research questions and find quality source material.
  • Health Science Leadership: This class reviews leadership strategies and models with an emphasis on healthcare settings. Students also look at case studies for real-world healthcare leadership examples.
  • Health Professionals as Educators: This course teaches students how to educate others about healthy living, emphasizing improving health literacy, developing teaching skills, and integrating health science principles into curricula.
  • Healthcare Systems Management: This course provides an overview of the U.S. healthcare system, including historical and contemporary perspectives. Students learn financing, insurance, personnel, managed care, and current regulatory guidance.
  • Conflict Resolution in Health Leadership: Designed for future managers, this course examines the contemporary theories around conflict management and dispute resolution and emphasizes how these can transfer to healthcare settings.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

What are the Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Health Science Program?

Admission requirements for online master's in health science programs vary from school to school, so prospective students should pay close attention to graduate admissions information from individual programs.

Some components remain the same across universities: students must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, possess a qualifying GPA, and meet prerequisite requirements. Competitive programs may also require an interview.

Application

Every online master's in health science program requires students to complete an online or paper application to receive admission consideration. College applications typically collect basic demographic information such as full name, mailing address, date of birth, and citizenship status.

Test Scores

Some online master's in health science programs may require prospective applicants to submit GRE scores. Preparing for the GRE can take time, so learners should start the process earlier. The GRE scores an applicant needs will depend on the school.

Letters of Recommendation

Many programs request letters of recommendation as part of application packets, as these allow the admission committee to understand how others view the student. Typical recommenders include current or former professors, mentors, supervisors, or faith leaders who know the learner well.

Resume and Work Experience

Given that these health science programs exist at the master's level, some may ask for evidence of relevant work experience within the application. These requirements will vary by program, so learners should ensure they possess enough experience before applying. They must also submit a resume outlining work experience to receive consideration.

Essays

Essays provide the opportunity for degree-seekers to state, in their own words, why they want to pursue a master's in health science, how they plan to use the degree after graduating, and why they feel drawn to a particular program. Leave ample time to write the admission essay to provide thoughtful answers.

Official Transcripts

Online master's in health science programs require official transcripts to confirm the GPA stated by the student on their application and ensure they took all required prerequisite courses. Schools also use official transcripts for learners looking to transfer existing credits into the program.

What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Health Science Degree?

Career Outlook

Graduates of an online master's in health science program typically find many job paths available to them after earning their degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for medical and health services managers will grow by an astounding 28%, creating nearly 144,700 new positions between 2022-2032.

Completing this degree can also lead to higher salaries. Median wages vary based on experience, employer, education, and location, but several healthcare positions offer six-figure salaries to qualified candidates.

Graduates can find positions in governmental, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations, with many degree-holders accepting jobs in hospitals, community health organizations, and consulting firms.

Career Paths

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists

These professionals often act as consultants to ensure safe workplace environments and that employees appropriately use hazardous materials or equipment. They also create procedures to help report unsafe working conditions and prepare reports on their findings.

Median Annual Salary
$75,240

Medical and Health Services Managers

Working in hospitals, physicians' offices, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers, these professionals oversee the administrative functions of each setting. They identify ways of improving effectiveness and efficiency, set departmental goals, oversee budgetary requirements, manage employee scheduling, and ensure all legal and regulatory requirements are met.

Median Annual Salary
$104,830

Social and Community Service Managers

Whether working in a governmental or nonprofit capacity, social and community service managers look for ways to support the well-being of communities. They work with community members to identify gaps in needed services, create programs to meet those needs, assess programs for effectiveness, and look for ways to improve them.

Median Annual Salary
$74,240

Athletic Trainers

Athletic trainers work with their clients to prevent and treat injuries and illnesses. They create and implement rehabilitation programs, use tapes and braces to protect athletes from injuries, and consult with patients on ways to continue their training without sacrificing their long-term health.

Median Annual Salary
$53,840

Health Education Specialists and Community Health Workers

These professionals work with individuals and communities to help them live healthy lives. They develop educational programs and materials, host health-related events, and evaluate the effectiveness of these programs. They may also oversee other health educators and trainers working in local communities.

Median Annual Salary
$59,990

Continuing Education

After working in the field for several years, some professionals may decide to continue their education. Completing a doctorate in health sciences provides the training and qualifications needed to compete for high-level healthcare positions.

Some graduates decide to educate the next generation of health science professionals and seek jobs at colleges and universities. Others decide they want to conduct research for think tanks, universities, or laboratories.

A doctorate in health science can take 4-6 years to complete, with options to study in person and online. Many students continue working in their current jobs and schedule coursework around their responsibilities.

How Do I Choose an Online Master's in Health Science Program?

Cost

The cost of an online master's in health science program can vary dramatically based on several factors. Private school learners typically pay more than students at public schools, and residency status can also affect costs. Prospective students should understand true program costs and compare online and in-person expenses.

Program Format

Students can find online master's in health science programs offered in various formats to fit scheduling needs. Those seeking flexibility can consider asynchronous learning, while those looking for a more traditional schedule follow the synchronous pathway. Learners can also choose from part-time or full-time formats and accelerated programs to graduate more quickly.

Location

When looking at online programs, pay close attention to whether they require in-person learning sessions. If not, students can select from programs across the United States. If a program requires campus-based meetings, students should choose a college or university near their home.

Accreditation

In addition to attending a college that holds accreditation, students should look for master's in health science programs that hold programmatic accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Programs (CAHME) or Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Student Support

Attending a school that offers adequate support services can make or break the student experience. In addition to offering mentorship opportunities, look for programs with great internship connections. Students should also make sure they understand a school's student services and how these work with online learning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Health Science Programs

Is a master's in health science worth it?

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An online master's in health science program provides the training needed to pursue in-demand and often higher-paying positions within the healthcare and health research fields. These programs typically take approximately two years to complete and set graduates apart from colleagues with only bachelor's degrees. Going to graduate school while continuing to work can sometimes feel challenging, but online master's in health science programs support busy learners by providing flexible schedules, part-time options, and accelerated formats.

What can I do with a master's in health science?

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Master's in health science degrees provide a great option for students seeking a versatile and transferable degree. Graduates of these programs work in myriad industries and settings, making it a great option for students who want to keep multiple pathways available. Some graduates feel drawn to work as health informatics specialists or healthcare project managers, while others prefer the more one-to-one nature of the work done by health educators or occupational health and safety specialists. Make sure to research your options to pick a path that suits your interests.

Are health science majors in demand?

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While the answer to this question depends on the job a graduate plans to apply for, the simple answer is yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for medical and health services managers will grow by an impressive 28% between 2022-2032. Meanwhile, athletic trainer jobs are also projected to grow 14% during the same period. Before pursuing any role, learners should conduct their own research to ensure they feel comfortable and confident with the position and its future.

How much money can I make with a master's in health science?

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Salaries can vary drastically based on your title, your experience, the type of employer you work for, and where you live. If you decide to go the athletic trainer route, you can expect to earn a median annual salary of $53,840 per year. Social and community service managers earned median wages of $74,240, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in health science?

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Medical and health services managers have the highest median annual salary of $104,830, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of earners brought in more than $209,990. Medical and health services managers in general medical and surgical hospital roles tend to earn the highest wages, with a median salary of $139,490. Those working in this role in hospitals ranked second with a median salary of $112,870.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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