Best Online Health Education Programs

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Updated on April 19, 2023
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Earning an online bachelor's in health education can provide students with the training needed to take on entry-level roles in a variety of settings and fields. Learners prepare to design health promotion programs for many different audiences and evaluate their effectiveness.

Costs for a bachelor's in health education can vary dramatically based on the type of online school a degree-seeker selects. Public colleges and universities tend to offer the lowest tuition rates for in-state learners, while private institutions usually charge substantially more regardless of residency status.

Regardless of whether a learner decides to enroll in an online or in-person program, they should plan to spend about four years earning their degree. They should also plan on participating in an internship. Graduates can expect to enter a growing field, with many positions projected to be added in the coming years.

Keep reading to learn about degree requirements, common classes, and professional outcomes.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Health Education Program?

Before enrolling in an online bachelor's in health education program, prospective learners should ensure they know what to expect. Most programs require students to earn 120 credits over four years of full-time study to graduate. Part-time learners usually earn their degrees in six years.

Some programs allow students to concentrate in a particular area of the discipline. These vary by school, but options may include community health, health science, and health and physical education.

Aside from required and elective coursework, many programs include an internship component to help students build hands-on skills and network with local professionals prior to graduation. Some also include a senior capstone that allows them to use skills gained throughout the degree in a culminating, expansive project.

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

Popular Online Bachelor's in Health Education Programs

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

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Health Education Program?

History of Health Education

This introductory course looks at the foundations of health education, with emphasis on how the discipline has evolved over time. In this class, students consider both historical and contemporary issues and challenges within the field.

Personal and Community Health

Students taking this course learn about common health ailments affecting individuals. They then learn how to develop programs for health promotion and disease prevention.

Administration of School Health Programs

This course is designed for individuals who plan to work in K-12 settings. In the class, students learn how health education classes are typically structured and deployed to maximize effectiveness and involvement from students and staff alike.

Measurements and Evaluation

In this class, students learn about the quantitative and qualitative data tools available to health educators. They explore how to use these tools effectively to evaluate both existing and new health education programs.

Health Education Internship

Students participate in semester-long internships at schools, rehabilitation centers, community centers, public health departments, or similar locations to gain hands-on experience prior to graduation. During their internships, they receive professional supervision and the chance to network with industry professionals.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Health Education Program?

Individual schools set their own admission standards for online bachelor's in health education programs. It's important for prospective students to review each school's requirements carefully. That said, many schools require similar components as part of the application process. We review these below.

Application

Today, most schools use online applications, rather than paper forms. They typically ask for general information such as a prospective student's full name, mailing address, date of birth, citizenship status, and other basic demographic details. Some schools may also allow candidates to submit a paper application.

Test Scores

At the undergraduate level, the most common standardized tests used include the ACT and the SAT. While most schools require applicants to submit test scores, some institutions no longer ask for them — especially during the COVID-19 era. Check with prospective schools to see whether or not these test scores are required.

Letters of Recommendation

Many colleges request letters of recommendation to help get a better sense of prospective candidates' strengths and skills. Common examples of recommenders include current and former teachers, supervisors, volunteer overseers, or faith leaders. Be sure to give these individuals plenty of time to craft thoughtful letters.

Essays

College essays give prospective students the opportunity to share their life experiences, motivations for seeking a college degree, and reasons for applying to a particular school. Ask a trusted advisor to review essays for both thematic and grammatical improvements.

Official Transcripts

Colleges use official transcripts to verify GPAs and review previous classes taken. Students looking to transfer from community colleges to four-year universities submit their transcripts so registrars can assess which credits are transferable.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Health Education Degree?

Career Outlook

A popular bachelor's degree, a BS in health education can allow graduates to pursue careers that are in-demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects positions for health education specialists and community health workers will grow by 17% between 2020 and 2030, far faster than the national average for all occupations.

Additionally, the BLS projects that jobs for dietitians and nutritionists will grow by 11% over the next ten years, leading to the creation of nearly 8,000 new positions. Because graduates with bachelor's in health education degrees can work in a wide variety of industries, they have many options after graduating. Plenty of jobs can be found in K-12 settings, hospitals, or even corporate wellness departments.

Career Paths

Health Education Specialists

Health education specialists develop programs and materials to educate community members. These professionals may also evaluate program effectiveness and oversee other staff members in their departments.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $56,500

Dietitians and Nutritionists

Dietitians and nutritionists educate their clients on how to eat healthier foods to improve their health and manage existing ailments. They may work in-house at governmental agencies, nonprofits, or corporate wellness departments. They can also own their own practice and see individual clients.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $63,090

Health Education Teacher

Working in middle and high schools, these professionals develop curricula for health education programs covering a variety of important topics. They may also work with the physical education teacher to develop shared programming based on state regulations and learning outcome rubrics.

Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $62,870

Patient Navigator

These professionals help patients navigate often complicated healthcare systems to ensure they get the best treatment possible. Navigators help set up appointments for both physician visits and testing. They may also answer questions about insurance coverage and advocate on behalf of patients. Professionals in this role may also benefit from having some form of clinical experience.

Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $44,840

Health Promotion Coordinator

Health promotion coordinators work in a variety of settings to encourage individuals and communities to improve their wellness. They may develop community and neighborhood initiatives, distribute literature on making healthier decisions, and create new policies to encourage healthy behaviors.

Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $49,510

Health Education Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

After working in entry-level positions for a few years, some online health education bachelor's graduates may decide to take their careers to the next level. Within this field, there are several options for increasing knowledge and skill sets to boost salary potential.

Earning a master's in health education can allow graduates to take on more senior-level roles in their chosen fields. These programs take about two years to complete. Professionals looking to take on more hands-on, clinical work may decide to pursue a master's in public health. Motivated learners may even choose to enter a doctoral program in public health.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Health Education Program?

Cost

According to the College Board, attending a public four-year institution cost an average of $10,740 in tuition and fees during the 2021-2022 academic year. Four-year private schools cost an average of $38,070 in tuition and fees during the same period. Before committing to any bachelor's in health education program, students need to understand the true cost of the degree and compare campus-based and online programs.

Program Format

When looking at online bachelor's in health education programs, students will notice that classes are offered synchronously or asynchronously. Those seeking flexibility typically go with the latter option so that they can complete coursework whenever best suits their schedule. Degree-seekers can also select from full-time and part-time pathways. Students who want to graduate more quickly should consider accelerated programs.

Location

Learners who enroll in an online bachelor's in health education with no in-person requirements can theoretically select a school in any part of the country. That said, students who pick an option with campus-based programming — or who want to occasionally visit camps — should select an option within driving distance of their home.

Accreditation

In addition to choosing a college that maintains proper regional accreditation, students pursuing an online bachelor's in health education should also ensure any degree they choose maintains programmatic accreditation. In the case of health education, look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Student Support

Students who want a great college experience frequently review the list of student support services provided by prospective colleges. In addition to providing opportunities for mentorship, they should also help students secure meaningful internships. Learners should make sure they understand what student services are offered for online students, as well.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Health Education Programs

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Best Online Bachelor's in Health Education Programs

  1. Arizona State University-Skysong
    Location

    Scottsdale, AZ

    Tuition

    $14166

    Based in Phoenix, ASU offers a bachelor's in public health education program that prepares graduates to take the certified health education specialist exam. Courses in the program's 120-credit curriculum include an exploration of well-being, optimizing your health and performance, health theory, and community health.

    Applicants must place in the top 25% of their high school class, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, or score a 24 on the ACT (22 for in-state students) or an 1180 on the SAT (1120 for in-state students).

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $446/credit in-state; $541/credit in-state
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: No
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  2. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
    Location

    Greensboro, NC

    Tuition

    $10396

    UNCG's online bachelor's in health education program is designed for students who already hold an associate or bachelor's degree. To pursue UNCG's health studies online concentration, students must earn a minimum 2.5 GPA in all public health prerequisite courses.

    The program's 120-credit curriculum includes core courses in environmental health, epidemiology, gender and health, and public health diseases. All students must complete a health seminar capstone course during their final semester.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $222/credit in-state; $854/credit out-of-state
    • Program Length: Varies
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  3. Southern New Hampshire University
    Location

    Manchester, NH

    Based in Manchester, SNHU offers an online bachelor's in health education program that strives for flexibility by accepting up to 90 transfer credits and eschewing ACT and SAT score requirements. The program's 120-credit curriculum prepares graduates for the certified health education specialist exam.

    The curriculum includes courses like wellness across the lifespan, social and behavioral health, and principles of epidemiology. All students also complete a community health capstone. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis and returns decisions within days.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $320
    • Program Length: Varies
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: No
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
  4. Mississippi University for Women
    Location

    Columbus, MS

    Tuition

    $11152

    Based in Columbus, MUW offers a bachelor's in public health education program that accepts up to 62 transfer credits from community college courses toward a bachelor's degree. Students can choose between bachelor of science and bachelor of applied science degrees.

    In both tracks, students take courses like chronic disease, environmental public health, and public health interventions. All students complete either a research course or an internship in the field.

    Prospective students must submit official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Men are welcome to apply, as approximately 20% of MUW's students identify as male.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $319/credit
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 124 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: No
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  5. Eastern Oregon University
    Location

    La Grande, OR

    Tuition

    $15902

    Located in La Grande, EOU offers an online bachelor's in health and human performance with four concentration options: nature and outdoor recreation programming, community health, exercise science, and physical education and sport. In all cases, students must complete 180 quarter credits of courses like human anatomy and physiology, behavior change theory, and measurement and evaluation in physical activity and health.

    During their final semester, students complete a capstone seminar and project. Applicants must submit proof of a high school or GED diploma and ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students can earn up to 135 quarter credits with them when they enroll.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $265/credit in-state; $305/credit out-of-state
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 180 quarter credits
    • Degree Completion Program: No
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Public
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  6. Southern Nazarene University
    Location

    Bethany, OK

    A Christian school based in Bethany, Oklahoma, SNU provides a bachelor's program in family studies and gerontology that students can complete entirely online or through once weekly night classes. The program uses an accelerated format, as each course lasts five weeks and incoming students can earn up to 30 credits for prior knowledge.

    Learners enroll in one class at a time and take courses in data analysis, family communication, adulthood and aging, and counseling. Applicants must submit all prior official transcripts.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $450/credit
    • Program Length: 18 months
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
    • Degree Completion Program: Yes
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  7. Concordia University Texas
    Location

    Austin, TX

    Located in Austin, Concordia provides an online bachelor's program in global public health that offers six concentration options: behavioral science, environmental science, healthcare administration, kinesiology, natural science, and social science. No matter their concentration, students complete core courses like essentials of global public health; globalization, trade, and health policy; comparative health systems; and immigration, violence, disasters, and health.

    Prospective students need a minimum 2.5 high school GPA. They do not need to submit ACT or SAT scores.

    Program Snapshot

    • Program URL: Visit Program
    • Cost-per-Credit: $16,800/semester
    • Program Length: 4 years
    • Total Credits Required to Graduate: About 120 credits (varies)
    • Degree Completion Program: No
    • Instruction Style: N/A
    • Format: Online
    • School Status: Private
    • Program Accreditation: N/A
    • School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Health Education Programs

Is a bachelor's in health education worth it?

Completing an online bachelor's in health education degree can be a great option for individuals who want to help others make healthy decisions that can improve their quality of life. These programs can prepare graduates to continue their education or apply for entry level roles.

Earning a bachelor's in health education qualifies graduates for a variety of different roles in governmental, nonprofit, and for-profit settings. This versatile degree makes sense for students who want professional options after graduating.

What can I do with a bachelor's in health education?

Bachelor's in health education programs offer students an interdisciplinary education that can lead a variety of career paths. Some students use this program as the foundation for future education and training as a dietician or nutritionist. Others decide to work in educational settings as health teachers, although these roles may require additional credentials or certification.

Those looking to make a difference in their local community may decide to pursue a nonprofit or governmental role as a community health worker or health education specialist. Others decide to work as wellness coordinators.

Are health education majors in demand?

Students looking for a degree that can lead to stable, growing jobs should consider an online bachelor's in health education. The BLS projects that positions for health education specialists and community health workers will grow by 17% between 2020 and 2030. This amounts to 21,000 new positions over the next ten years.

The BLS projects 16,000 roles will open each year due to workers changing careers or retiring.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in health education?

Salaries for health education graduates can vary widely based on a person's specific job title, employer, level of experience, and location. According to the BLS, dietitians and nutritionists earned a median annual wage of $63,090 in May 2020.

During the same period, high school health education teachers made a median yearly salary of $62,870, while health education specialists and community health workers earned a median wage of $48,140 per year.

What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor's in health education?

The BLS indicates that dietitians and nutritionists or high school health education teachers earned the highest median salaries among health education professionals in May 2020.

That said, those who decide to pursue advanced degrees can earn significantly more. For example, epidemiologists typically need at least a master's degree to practice. The BLS reports that these professionals earned a median annual wage of $74,560 in May 2020.

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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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