Why This Matters

  • $69,870 AVERAGE YEARLY SALARY

    Careers in the health sciences can have vastly different salary expectations, ranging from around $27,000 on the low side to six figures on the high side. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an average of $69,870 across all healthcare occupations.

  • 15% JOB GROWTH EXPECTED

    Expected job growth in the healthcare field, including health sciences, is 15%. This is much faster than average.

  • HIGHEST EMPLOYMENT LEVEL IN TX, FL, PA

    The states with the highest level of employment for athletic trainers, which is another health sciences job that requires a bachelor’s degree, are Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, California, and North Carolina.

Our Research

In this guide, we’ve only included schools that had the lowest cost per credit hour, with several of our options coming in around $200 to $300 per credit hour.

Cheaper isn’t better if it means that the school isn’t nationally or regionally accredited. All of the schools on our list have accreditation from organizations such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

  • 58 hours to write this article
  • 64 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 107 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Health Science Programs

Most Affordable Online Bachelor's in Health Science Programs Badge
01
Intelligent Pick
Oregon Institute of Technology
01
Best in the South
University of West Florida
01
Most Multidisciplinary Program
University of South Dakota
01
Best Public Institution
University of Missouri
01
Best for AA/AS Degree Holders
Florida Gulf Coast University
01
Best in the West
West Texas A&M University
01
Best Hybrid Program
Texas Woman's University
01
Best Grad School Preparation
Wilmington University
01
Best Integrated Care Focus
Arizona State University
01
Best One-Year Program
Northern Kentucky University
01
Best Clinical Services Track
Missouri State University
01
Best Faculty Mentors
The Ohio State University
01
Best Private Institution
Bellevue University
01
Best for Adult Learners
Fort Hays State University
01
Best Public Research Institution
Rutgers University
01
Best Focus on Administration
Washburn University
01
Best Faculty
Northern Arizona University
01
Best for Transfer Students
Southern New Hampshire University
01
Most Affordable
Bay Path University
01
Best Catholic Institution
University of the Incarnate Word
01
Best Research Opportunities
Indiana University Bloomington - School of Public Health
01
Best for Veterans
American Public University
01
Best for Diversity and Inclusivity
University of Vermont
01
Best for Leadership Training
Keiser University
01
Best Private Research Institution
Nova Southeastern University
01
Best Focus on Ethics
Touro University Worldwide
01
Best Alumni Experience
Mary Baldwin University
01
Best Gerontology Track
United States University
01
Most Customizable Program
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
01
Best Honors Program
Liberty University

Discover More Options

What You Should Know About This Degree

One of the great things about an online bachelor’s in health science program is that it’s often cheaper than similar programs that require in-person attendance. Schools tend to give discounts to online-only students, or they may have a completely separate pricing structure for online classes. Fees that have to do with on-campus facilities, such as rec centers or security fees, may also be waived for online programs. You can also save on other costs, such as transportation, parking, and childcare.

When you’re deciding which program works best for your academic needs and budget, it’s important to consider the overall cost of the program. To get a close estimate, multiply the cost per credit hour by the number of credits required, and don’t forget to include things like textbook rentals and other supplies you may need (scientific calculator, lab kits, etc.). If this seems a bit out of your budget, remember that there are plenty of financial aid options available. Many scholarships, loans, and grant programs use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify students, and the financial aid office can let you know what’s available at that campus.

While online programs may be cheaper and more convenient for busy students, that doesn’t mean they’re easy. To be successful, you’ll need the proper computer equipment, access to a high-speed internet connection, and excellent time-management skills. Asynchronous classes will require you to have the self-discipline to stay on track without a professor leading you along every step of the way.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in health science programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? Those interested in an online bachelor’s in health science program will need to have a high school diploma or GED. Competitive programs may also require a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a certain GPA or SAT score.
  • Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? The format of the classes in an online degree program varies depending on the school. General classes may be conducted asynchronously while science classes that involve labs may have synchronous schedules so that a professor is on hand to answer immediate questions.
  • How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s in health science? The average student going full-time, which is at least 12 credit hours per semester, can complete an online bachelor’s in health science in four years. Part-time students may take as long as six years, and it’s also possible to complete the degree faster by taking more classes and attending during summer semesters.
  • What tests are required for an online bachelor’s in health science program? Some colleges require you to take the SAT or ACT before being accepted. Placement tests for math are also common, and you may also consider taking AP tests if you took the equivalent high school classes.