Individuals who earn an online master’s in health science degree can work in clinical or nonclinical settings. Some supervise entire hospital departments, physicians’ offices, or rehabilitation facilities, while others ensure safe workplaces. Others might work for local governments, host community health seminars, or provide training to prevent and treat athletic injuries.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth of 28% (much faster than average) for medical and health services managers from 2021 to 2031, with a median annual salary of about $101,000 in 2021 (the most recent statistics available). The BLS predicts a 5% job growth for occupational health and safety specialists and technicians, earning a median annual salary of about $75,000. The field of athletic trainers has a projected growth of about 17%, with a median yearly salary of about $49,000.
Most schools estimate their online master’s degrees take one to two years to complete, but this depends on the number of credits and how many you take each year. An online master’s in health science takes about 30 to 45 credits, with costs ranging from about $370 to $1,300 per credit. You’ll find tuition costs vary between public and private institutions and that some schools also charge higher tuition for out-of-state students. Generally, graduate tuition for the 2020-2021 term costs around $19,750.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Health Science Program
Choose your area of study
The first step in choosing an online master’s in health science program is deciding on specific goals. Graduates can work for hospitals, consulting firms, community health organizations, governmental organizations, nonprofits, and private companies.
Some students pursue an online master’s in health science because they’re interested in a future medical school career or doctoral program in biomedical sciences. Those programs integrate several disciplines, such as anatomy, genetics, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, immunology, microbiology, and medical ethics.
Others are drawn to the administrative side of health and pursue a program to foster leadership skills to help them promote healthy policies and behaviors.
Research schools and programs
Check whether any potential school or program is accredited by a reputable entity, such as the U.S. Department of Education, the Council on Education for Public Health, or the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Programs. Accreditation ensures that a program meets specific educational standards. It also affects whether the school receives federal financial aid.
Also, take note of other requirements for the degree. Some online programs integrate modern distance teaching methods and have no in-person requirements. Others have campus-based meetings or internships. How does the school help online students meet these requirements and other obligations? Could your current job fulfill this requirement?
Lastly, to have a well-rounded learning experience, look at what other support services the school offers for online students. Is there a mentoring program or career services? Are there networking opportunities, such as an alum association? Check the school’s website, social media profiles, and marketing materials for this information, and also talk with program representatives.
Prepare for tests and applications
Each program varies in its application requirements and process. However, most online master’s degree programs in health science require:
- A bachelor’s degree or higher
- Transcripts from previous colleges
- Letter(s) of recommendation from professional and academic references
- A resume or record of employment history
- A personal essay or statement of purpose describing your plans and achievements
Some competitive programs require an interview. In addition, some programs require students to submit standardized test scores, such as those from the GRE. Applicants who need to take the GRE should prepare and sit for the exam while researching schools.
Select your program
Some students submit applications to several schools to boost their chances of acceptance, while others target a single program that aligns with their interests and needs. Whatever you decide, be aware that most schools’ application fees can add up. Contact the school about a fee waiver if you need financial assistance.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Every school with an online master’s in health science program should specify the financial support students can receive, including grants, fellowships, scholarships, assistantships, and work-study. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for federal student loans and need-based institutional aid.
Students currently employed in the healthcare field can check whether their employer’s tuition assistance benefits can offset their costs. For more detailed information about how to pay for your degree, consult with your school’s Financial Aid office.
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Standard options for this program are a Master of Science in Allied Health, a Master of Science in Health Informatics, and a Master of Science in Health Sciences. You may also see a few arts programs, such as a Master of Arts in Nutrition.
Most online master’s in health science programs are accredited regionally, meaning that a regional organization looks at the curriculum to ensure it meets the needs of those entering these careers. Accreditations to look for include the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSCHE) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Health Science Program?
Online master’s in health science programs vary based on the school, but students can expect a core curriculum covering healthcare research, science, regulations, communication, and leadership skills.
Some programs might focus more on medical science, offering concentrations such as women’s health, molecular medicine, anatomy, aging, neuroscience, and research. Other programs might integrate this with administrative issues, such as legal and regulatory issues, managing personnel, overseeing budgets, and designing systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in health science degree program
- Health Sciences Ethics. Students learn about fundamental ethical medical issues, such as informed consent. They also discuss considerations that general and clinical sciences must address.
- Healthcare Systems Management. A course like this provides an extensive overview of the healthcare system in the United States, including contemporary and historical perspectives. Expect to learn more about regulatory guidance, financing, insurance, managed care, and personnel issues.
- Introduction to Medical Sciences. Students preparing for medical school might encounter a course like this one based on medical cases that students review in small groups with a faculty member. Each case involves a series of traditional didactic lectures and learning strategies.
- Research Methodology. This course prepares students for responsible conduct when doing research. Students also learn how to formulate research questions and find quality sources.
- Health Science Leadership. A course like this familiarizes students with leadership models and strategies in a healthcare setting. Students also review case studies of real-world examples.
Online Master’s in Health Science Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in health science degree program?
Application processes vary by school. Check your potential school’s application webpage. Some schools establish an online portal for accepting applications. Others coordinate with a streamlined admissions application system, such as the Common Application or Common App, which allows students to upload their materials and apply to multiple schools.
Be sure to collect electronic or digital versions (PDFs) of all required information, such as college transcripts, letters of recommendation, work experience, and test scores. Talk with a school admissions counselor if you’re concerned about or having trouble uploading any documents.
How much does an online master’s in health science degree cost?
Costs will vary depending on the costs per credit, the number of credits per course, fees, and other expenses, such as books. Some schools charge about $370 per credit, while others charge about $1,300, depending on whether it’s a private or public institution. Some charge more for out-of-state students.
In general, for the 2020-2021 terms, graduate tuition costs around $19,750, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). An undergraduate degree costs about $25,900 a year, including tuition, fees, room, and board.
The average tuition for a private institution was about $26,000, roughly double that of a public institution at about $12,400 a year, these records show.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in health science degree?
While this depends on the curriculum, most schools estimate their online master’s programs in health science take about one to two years to complete. Attending full-time or part-time affects this timetable, as does the total number of credits. That said, you might find an accelerated program that suits your needs or a hybrid program that offers the flexibility of in-person and online learning.