A Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is an interdisciplinary degree program designed for students passionate about healthcare who want to build a strong foundation for careers in medicine, allied health professions, or healthcare administration.
This comprehensive guide explores what you can expect from these programs, including coursework, costs, admission requirements, and career outcomes.
What to Expect from Health Sciences BS Degree Program
Health Sciences is fundamentally the study of all the ways you can deliver and improve healthcare. The field goes beyond basic medical knowledge, utilizing scientific research and practical application to improve population health through various specialties related to healthcare delivery.
A Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences provides students with an in-depth science background and prepares them for opportunities in fields such as physical therapy, medicine, dentistry, exercise science, occupational therapy, public health, health administration, physician assistant programs, nurse practitioner studies, and medical dietetics.
Program Structure and Format
Most Health Sciences bachelor’s programs require 120 credit hours and can be completed in approximately 4 years of full-time study. Many programs offer flexible scheduling options:
- 100% online programs with asynchronous learning
- Hybrid programs combining online and on-campus components
- Accelerated pathways allowing completion in as little as 2-3 years for students with transfer credits
- Part-time options for working professionals
Key Program Features
Interdisciplinary Approach: Programs blend foundational health sciences education with specialized coursework in healthcare management, policy, and business practices.
Flexible Concentrations: Many schools offer specialized tracks such as:
- Biological Health Sciences
- Social and Behavioral Health Sciences
- Healthcare Administration
- Health Information Technology
- Pre-clinical tracks for medical school preparation
- Public Health focus areas
Hands-on Experience: Most programs include internships, capstone projects, or practicum experiences that provide real-world application of classroom learning.
Graduate School Preparation: Curricula are designed to prepare students for competitive graduate programs in various healthcare fields.
Core Curriculum: What You’ll Study
Foundational Science Courses
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding human body systems and functions
- Microbiology: Study of microorganisms and their impact on health
- Chemistry for Health Sciences: Chemical principles applied to healthcare
- Biostatistics: Statistical methods for analyzing health data
- Research Methods: Scientific methodology and evidence-based practice
Health Systems and Policy
- Healthcare Administration: Management principles in healthcare settings
- Health Policy and Economics: Understanding healthcare systems and financing
- Legal and Ethical Issues: Healthcare law, regulations, and ethical decision-making
- Medical Terminology: Professional healthcare language and communication
Public Health and Epidemiology
- Epidemiology: Study of disease patterns and public health interventions
- Environmental Health: Impact of environmental factors on population health
- Community Health: Health promotion and disease prevention strategies
- Global Health: International health challenges and solutions
Professional Development
- Healthcare Communication: Professional communication skills
- Leadership in Healthcare: Management and leadership principles
- Interprofessional Collaboration: Working effectively in healthcare teams
- Career Development: Resume writing, interview skills, and professional networking
Specialized Coursework by Concentration
Pre-Clinical Track:
- Pathophysiology I & II
- Introduction to Pharmacology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Advanced Chemistry and Physics
Health Promotion Track:
- Preventive Healthcare
- Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases
- Medical Self-Assessment
- Wellness and Behavior Theories
Healthcare Administration:
- Healthcare Finance
- Quality Improvement
- Healthcare Informatics
- Strategic Planning
Program Costs and Financial Considerations
Tuition Ranges by Institution Type
Public Universities (In-State):
- $212-$390 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $25,000-$47,000
Private Universities:
- $350-$455 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $42,000-$55,000
Online Programs:
- $140-$371 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $17,000-$45,000
Sample Cost Breakdown
University of Central Florida (Public):
- In-state tuition: $212.28 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $25,500 total
Purdue Global (Online):
- $371 per credit hour
- 180 quarter credits (120 semester credits) = approximately $29,700
Liberty University (Private Online):
- $390 per credit hour (full-time undergraduate)
- 120 credit hours = approximately $46,800
Arizona State University Online:
- Varies by residency status
- 120 credit hours total
Additional Costs to Consider
- Application fees: $0-$60
- Technology fees: $180-$300 per term
- Books and materials: $800-$5,000 (many programs now include digital textbooks)
- Clinical/internship expenses: Variable
- Certification exam fees: $140-$300 per course assessment (some programs)
Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Federal financial aid available for accredited programs
- Military benefits: Many programs accept GI Bill benefits and offer military discounts
- Employer tuition assistance: Partnership programs with healthcare organizations
- Merit-based scholarships: Academic achievement awards
- Transfer credit savings: Up to 75% of credits may transfer from previous institutions
Admission Requirements
Basic Requirements
Educational Background:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum GPA requirements (typically 2.5-3.0)
- Some programs require associate degree completion for bachelor’s completion tracks
Standardized Testing:
- Most programs do not require SAT/ACT scores for adult learners
- Some competitive programs may require entrance exams
Prerequisites for Specialized Tracks
Pre-Clinical Concentrations:
- College-level biology and chemistry courses
- Mathematics through college algebra or statistics
- Physics (for some programs)
Healthcare Administration:
- Business mathematics
- Introduction to business concepts
Application Materials
- Completed application (often no application fee for online programs)
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Personal statement or essay (program-dependent)
- Letters of recommendation (for competitive programs)
- Resume documenting healthcare experience (preferred but not always required)
Transfer Student Considerations
Many Health Sciences programs are designed specifically for transfer students:
- Community college partnerships: Articulation agreements facilitate seamless transfer
- Credit evaluation: Up to 75% of credits may transfer
- Work experience credit: Some programs award credit for professional healthcare experience
- Military training credit: Veterans may receive credit for military healthcare training
Career Opportunities and Outcomes
Entry-Level Career Paths
Healthcare Administration (Median Salary: $98,000-$100,000):
- Healthcare facility manager
- Health services manager
- Practice administrator
- Clinical coordinator
Public Health (Median Salary: $43,000-$55,000):
- Community health worker
- Health education specialist
- Epidemiologist assistant
- Environmental health specialist
Clinical Support (Median Salary: $35,000-$65,000):
- Clinical research coordinator
- Medical laboratory technician
- Health information technician
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
Healthcare Technology (Median Salary: $45,000-$75,000):
- Health informatics specialist
- Medical records administrator
- Healthcare data analyst
Graduate School Preparation
A Health Sciences bachelor’s degree serves as excellent preparation for:
Clinical Programs:
- Medical school (MD/DO)
- Physician Assistant programs (median salary: $129,300)
- Nursing programs (RN to MSN)
- Physical therapy (median salary: $91,010)
- Occupational therapy (median salary: $89,440)
Advanced Healthcare Roles:
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Healthcare Administration (MHA)
- Health Informatics
- Genetic counseling
- Clinical psychology
Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations are projected to grow 15% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and increased focus on preventive care.
Choosing the Right Program
Factors to Consider
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is regionally accredited and meets professional standards
- Specialization Options: Choose programs offering concentrations aligned with your career goals
- Clinical Opportunities: Look for programs with strong internship and hands-on learning components
- Faculty Expertise: Programs with experienced healthcare professionals as instructors
- Student Support: Academic advising, career services, and student success resources
- Flexibility: Online options, multiple start dates, and part-time scheduling
Top Schools
As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, more students are turning to flexible, online pathways to launch or advance their careers in the health sciences. Whether you’re a working adult seeking career mobility, a transfer student looking to complete a degree, or someone preparing for graduate studies, today’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Science programs offer diverse options tailored to your goals.
The following schools stand out for their unique blends of affordability, curriculum specialization, scheduling flexibility, and career-oriented support. From self-paced models and accelerated pathways to faith-integrated education and transfer-friendly policies, these programs demonstrate how online learning can provide a high-quality, accessible route to impactful roles in the healthcare industry.
| School | Location | Program Length | Tuition Estimate | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of the People | Pasadena, CA (Online) | 2.5 years | $5,520 total | Tuition-free model; pay-as-you-go per course; scholarships available; global accessibility; stackable certificates. |
| Walden University | Minneapolis, MN (Online) | 4 years (course-based) or self-paced | $18,000–$46,980 | Tempo Learning® self-paced option; CHES prep; generous transfer credits; first-time adult learner support. |
| Purdue Global | West Lafayette, IN (Online) | 4 years | $66,780 | Trial period with no financial obligation; military pathways; graduate degree tracks; internship opportunities. |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ (Online) | 4 years | Varies by residency/aid | Five specialization tracks; 7.5-week courses; internship included; high-quality reputation. |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH (Online) | 2–4 years | Varies; based on credit transfer | Designed for allied health grads; strong pre-professional advising; capstone project. |
| Southern California University of Health Sciences | Whittier, CA (Online) | 2 years | Varies; degree completion | Accelerated pathways to graduate degrees; Eastern medicine and genomics tracks; guaranteed SCU interviews. |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA (Online) | 3.5–4 years | $23,700 (with max transfer) | Faith-based learning; 75% transfer credit allowed; no standardized testing; wide topic coverage. |
| Western Governors University | Millcreek, UT (Online) | 2 years | $17,640 | Competency-based learning; flat-rate tuition; average $11K salary increase post-grad; generous transfer credit. |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA (Online) | 4 years | Varies by residency | Interdisciplinary focus; practical skill-building; resume/emotional intelligence training. |
| University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL (Online) | 4 years | $26,277 (in-state) | 90 transfer credits allowed; 8-week terms; research-based capstone; team learning emphasis. |
University of the People
www.uopeople.edu
Pasadena, CA
Flexible, Affordable Path to a Health Science Degree
University of the People offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Health Science (BHS) designed for students seeking to improve community health outcomes and pursue careers in healthcare or graduate education. The program includes 39 courses and can be completed in under two and a half years. UoPeople follows a pay-as-you-go model, with a $60 application fee and a $140 assessment fee per course—totaling approximately $5,520 for the entire degree. There are no tuition or textbook fees, and students may qualify for scholarships or transfer up to 75% of credits from other accredited institutions. This program emphasizes asynchronous learning, allowing students to study on their schedule using accessible technology such as smartphones and basic internet.
Career-Ready Curriculum and Stackable Credentials
The curriculum integrates foundational topics in biology, anatomy, psychology, and public health. Students complete 20 major and 19 general education courses, earning stackable certificates in Public Health and Health Services, Human Biology, Epidemiology, and Behavioral Health. Key skills developed include team leadership, health policy analysis, and understanding the biological and social causes of illness. The degree prepares graduates for roles such as medical services manager, community health worker, and health education specialist. UoPeople’s Career Service Center supports students with job readiness resources like resume building and interview preparation. The institution’s global accessibility and flexible model make it especially appealing for working adults balancing career and education.
Walden University
www.waldenu.edu
Minneapolis, MN
Tailored Online Learning for Future Health Professionals
Walden University’s online BS in Health Studies is a flexible, career-focused program that equips students with skills in health promotion, program evaluation, and healthcare communication. Offered in two formats—Course-based (48 months, $46,980 with scholarship) and Tempo Learning® (self-paced, from $18,000)—students can choose the structure that fits their schedule and learning style. The curriculum requires 181 quarter credits and includes a capstone course, with up to 135 credits eligible for transfer (125 in Virginia). Walden emphasizes a streamlined admissions process with no application fee and easy credit transfer options. Tuition may be reduced further through scholarships like the Believe & Achieve Scholarship and other federal aid.
Customizable Curriculum and Certification Opportunities
Students can personalize their education with concentrations such as Health Promotion and Wellness, which prepares them for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. The program includes core and elective courses that provide a deep dive into the U.S. healthcare system’s dynamics. Walden’s student support includes enrollment specialists and the Walden Undergraduate Academy®, which assists first-time adult learners in building confidence and academic skills before beginning coursework. Designed to support students in becoming change agents within their communities, this degree prepares graduates for roles in allied health, health education, and public wellness initiatives.
Purdue Global
www.purdueglobal.edu
West Lafayette, IN
Comprehensive Training for Health Science Careers
Purdue Global’s online Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science is a robust program designed to build administrative and clinical skills for healthcare leadership roles. With an average completion time of four years, the program includes 34 courses across core, major, and elective categories. Tuition is $371 per credit hour, with a total of 180 quarter credits required. Purdue Global provides a three-week trial period with no financial obligation, and students may significantly reduce their costs through transfer credits, prior work experience, or military credit. Additional financial aid, grants, and tuition discounts are available, particularly for military and corporate partners.
Practical Experience and Graduate Pathways
The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including biostatistics, public health practices, environmental health, and the social determinants of health. Students can gain hands-on experience through optional internships and prepare for graduate-level education via integrated master’s degree pathways. The Military Physician Assistant Preparation (MPAP) concentration offers a unique opportunity for active-duty servicemembers, while all students benefit from the ability to customize their education to match career goals. With accessible start dates and strong student support, Purdue Global’s Health Science program positions graduates for success in medical management, community health, and healthcare administration.
Arizona State University
https://asuonline.asu.edu/online-degree-programs/undergraduate/health-sciences-bs/
Tempe, AZ
Flexible and Specialized Curriculum for Diverse Career Paths
Arizona State University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences designed to prepare students for careers in health administration, education, or research. This 120-credit hour program consists of 40 total classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks, and can be started as early as May 19, 2025. The curriculum covers key topics such as data statistics, the U.S. healthcare system, and emerging health challenges. A unique feature of the program is its five specialization tracks—Community-Based Health Outcomes, Health and Media, Health Legislation and Regulation, Integrated Care, and Mental and Behavioral Health—allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests. The program concludes with an internship to provide hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting.
Outcomes That Prepare You for Broad Career Options
Graduates of ASU’s program are well-equipped for roles across the health sciences spectrum, including public health, healthcare policy, education, and administration. Though the program does not lead to licensure, the specialized knowledge and experiential learning provide a strong foundation for entering the workforce or pursuing graduate studies. Tuition varies, but ASU Online offers financial aid options, making it a competitive choice for students seeking flexibility and specialization in their undergraduate education.
University of Cincinnati
https://online.uc.edu/undergraduate-degrees/bachelor-of-science-in-health-sciences/
Cincinnati, OH
Designed for Allied Health Professionals and Graduate School Preparation
The University of Cincinnati’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is a degree completion program ideal for individuals with an associate degree in an allied health field. The 60-credit program can be completed in 2 to 4 years with options for full- or part-time enrollment and flexible start dates in spring, summer, and fall. The curriculum emphasizes foundational science, public health, anatomy, and physiology, with elective tracks in policy, administration, and pre-professional pathways. A capstone project rounds out the academic experience, preparing students for graduate programs in nursing, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, and more.
Career and Academic Advancement Opportunities
UC’s program not only enhances credentials for those currently working in healthcare but also positions graduates for leadership roles such as healthcare facility managers or health services administrators. It also serves as a stepping stone for entry into competitive graduate programs. With financial aid available and a dedicated pre-professional advising team, students can effectively navigate both academic and career progression. The program’s design, focused on academic rigor and student support, empowers graduates to contribute meaningfully to improving population health.
Southern California University of Health Sciences
https://www.scuhs.edu/bachelors-degrees/bachelor-of-science-in-health-sciences-bshs/
Whittier, CA
Customizable Degree Completion for Healthcare Advancement
Southern California University of Health Sciences offers a flexible online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program tailored for students with 60 or more college credits. Designed for completion in under two years, the program is structured around short, intensive 7.5-week courses, with no more than two taken at a time. Students can attend full-, part-, or three-quarter time, and concentrations range from Health Education and Nutrition to Eastern Medicine and Human Genomics. With asynchronous learning and multiple annual start dates, the program adapts well to working professionals’ schedules.
Pathways to Advanced Degrees and Career Growth
SCU’s program stands out for its Accelerated Pathways, allowing students to earn transferable credits toward a master’s or doctoral degree in fields like Chiropractic, Genetic Counseling, or Acupuncture. Students are also guaranteed interviews for select SCU graduate programs upon successful BSHS completion. With a holistic approach that combines conventional and complementary medicine education, graduates are prepared not only for advanced academic pursuits but also for impactful roles in integrated and whole-person healthcare systems.
Liberty University
https://www.liberty.edu/online/health-sciences/bachelors/health-sciences/
Lynchburg, VA
Faith-Integrated Health Science Education Online
Liberty University’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences offers a flexible, faith-based curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in allied health professions or graduate study. The program is fully online with 8-week courses and allows students to transfer in up to 75% of the total credit hours. Courses cover a wide array of topics, including human anatomy, healthcare law and ethics, financial analysis in healthcare, and applied nutrition. Liberty emphasizes ethical practice in healthcare by integrating a biblical worldview across the curriculum.
Affordable and Career-Oriented with National Recognition
As a regionally accredited private university, Liberty offers financial flexibility through credit transfers and no standardized testing for admission. The degree equips students for entry-level roles in health management, patient care support, and healthcare communication. It also serves as a stepping stone for advanced degrees or certifications. With over 600 online programs and a strong reputation in distance education, Liberty provides a structured yet adaptable path for students seeking to impact lives through health science.
Western Governors University
https://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-health-degrees/health-science-bachelors-program.html
Millcreek, UT
A Flexible, Fast-Track Health Science Program
Western Governors University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Health Science program designed to help students launch or advance careers in healthcare. The program consists of 28 courses and typically takes about 24 months to complete, thanks to WGU’s competency-based model that allows students to move through material at their own pace. Tuition is charged at a flat rate of $4,210 per six-month term, resulting in an estimated total cost of $17,640 if completed in two years. Students benefit from a curriculum shaped by industry experts and focused on practical skills, including cognitive psychology, epidemiology, and public health. A capstone project at the end of the program allows students to apply what they’ve learned to solve real-world healthcare challenges.
Career Advancement and Salary Growth
Graduates of WGU’s Leavitt School of Health report an average salary increase of $11,059, demonstrating the program’s real-world impact. The curriculum not only builds foundational knowledge in subjects like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, but also prepares students for further studies in clinical-based programs or graduate school. With its flexible scheduling, generous transfer credit policy, and project-based learning, WGU’s B.S. in Health Science is especially well-suited for working adults seeking a career change or progression within the healthcare industry.
Georgia Southern University
https://ww2.georgiasouthern.edu/chp/hk/online-bhs/
Statesboro, GA
Interdisciplinary Learning with Practical Outcomes
Georgia Southern University’s Bachelor of Health Science program, available fully online or at the Armstrong Campus, is built to support a wide range of career and academic goals in the healthcare sector. This 124-credit hour program emphasizes interdisciplinary study across subjects like biology, nursing, and kinesiology. It also features practical coursework in resume building, emotional intelligence, and professional development to prepare students for both job markets and graduate school. The program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to balance academic commitments with personal and professional responsibilities.
A Launchpad to Diverse Health Careers
Students graduate with a strong foundation in public health, medical terminology, nutrition, and legal issues in healthcare. Georgia Southern’s career-oriented approach includes building a professional portfolio, developing communication skills, and analyzing scientific literature. This prepares students for careers as community health workers, health education specialists, clinical managers, or for further study in fields like radiography and rehabilitation. With strong job outlooks in healthcare, this degree equips students with tools and knowledge to succeed in one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S.
University of West Florida
https://onlinedegrees.uwf.edu/online-degrees/bs-health-sciences/
Pensacola, FL
Comprehensive Health Science Education Online
The University of West Florida offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences that prepares students for careers focused on health outcomes improvement and healthcare operations. The 120-credit hour program takes approximately 48 months to complete, with courses structured in 8-week terms to support flexible, accelerated learning. Tuition is affordable at $218.98 per credit hour for in-state students, and the program accepts up to 90 transfer credits. Recognized as a top-ranked program by CollegeChoice.com, this degree covers essential topics such as healthcare systems, ethics, informatics, and epidemiology.
Career-Ready Curriculum with a Research Focus
UWF’s health sciences degree integrates research-based capstone projects and team-based learning, giving students the skills to thrive in roles like clinical research coordinator, health information technician, or healthcare recruiter. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making, effective communication, and application of health science theories to real-world scenarios. With a strong focus on modern challenges in public health, the program is ideal for students looking to enter the healthcare workforce or pursue graduate studies in healthcare informatics, behavior analysis, or physical therapy.
How Long to Pay Off Your Degree?
Choosing to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health Science is a valuable investment in your future—but understanding the financial commitment is just as important as selecting the right school.
Based on the programs featured above, the average tuition cost for an online B.S. in Health Science is approximately $27,000.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average starting salary for graduates entering roles such as health education specialists, healthcare administrators, and community health workers ranges from $45,000 to $55,000 annually. For this estimate, we’ll use a midpoint starting salary of $50,000.
Here’s how long it would take to pay off a $27,000 student loan (excluding interest) depending on what percentage of your income you dedicate toward repayment annually:
- 5% of Salary ($2,500/year): Approximately 10.8 years
- 10% of Salary ($5,000/year): Approximately 5.4 years
- 15% of Salary ($7,500/year): Approximately 3.6 years
- 20% of Salary ($10,000/year): Approximately 2.7 years
These figures do not include interest or any potential student loan forgiveness or income-driven repayment plans, which could further impact the timeline. However, they provide a useful benchmark for planning your finances and understanding the return on your educational investment. Whether you’re seeking affordability, flexibility, or a program with a fast track to employment, each of the schools profiled offers unique opportunities to help you achieve your career goals in healthcare.