Inside Online Health Science Associate Degrees

If you’re thinking about entering the healthcare field, earning a health science associate degree is a good place to start. Whether you want to pursue a clinical or nonclinical career path, these programs will give you a base of knowledge for you to build on. Here we’ll explore health science degrees, including top school, career paths, and answers to students’ most common questions.

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Exploring Online Health Science Associate Programs

Online health science associate degree programs provide an introductory view of the healthcare industry that can prepare students to work in both clinical and nonclinical roles, from nursing practice to medical billing and coding. These degrees provide an interdisciplinary and holistic approach that combines biology, management, communication, and nutrition, among other topics.

Generally, you can find online options that allow you to complete all of your coursework virtually. Some programs may offer internships, so you can get hands-on experience working in a healthcare setting. However, unless the program is delivered on a hybrid basis, you probably won’t be required to participate in any in-person activities.

When researching a program, pay close attention to the curriculum and whether you can choose a concentration. Focusing your studies on a specific area will develop your knowledge and skills within your areas of interest. Associate programs can also prepare you to pursue a bachelor’s degree if you want to continue your education.

Parker University

Parker University’s health sciences associate degree program gives students the foundation they need to pursue a variety of positions, such as health screener, community healthcare worker, and health coach jobs. In addition, students can leverage what they learned to pursue a bachelor’s degree and continue on to graduate school if they choose. To provide this preparation, the school emphasizes the abilities students need—such as communication and ethical skills—to navigate the common challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Parker University offers graduate support services, so you’ll get career guidance to help you for years to come.

Duration: Five terms

Mode: Online

Cost: $43,680

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma, equivalent, or 24 semester hours of undergraduate study
  • Meningitis law compliance
  • Transcripts
  • Background check

Core Curriculum:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Communications
  • Creative arts/humanities
  • Medical terminology
  • Math
  • Social/behavioral sciences
  • Management
  • Public health, health policy
  • Community health, disease prevention
  • Nutrition
  • Lifespan development
  • Biology
  • Ethics

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

SUNY Broome Community College

The health sciences associate degree program offered by SUNY Broome Community College allows students to customize their studies so they take the coursework that is most relevant to their individual goals. This is possible because of the interdisciplinary nature of the classes students can choose from. By the end of the program, you’ll have the theoretical framework and practical abilities needed to effectively communicate in any healthcare setting. Also, you’ll be able to understand quantitative reasoning, promote health and wellness, and use ethical principles to make workplace decisions. Students can use the education they receive as a jumping off point for a bachelor’s degree, and then move on to graduate-level work.

Duration: 24 months

Mode: Online

Cost: $11,328 state residents, $22,656 out-of-state residents

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent

Core Curriculum:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Health sciences
  • Psychology, sociology
  • Chemistry/biochemistry
  • Health promotion
  • Math, stats, history, writing
  • Human development
  • Medical law and ethics
  • Microbiology
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Communication
  • Personal and community health

Northwest Technical College

Northwest Technical College’s health sciences associate degree program provides an understanding of the social, ethical, and psychological concepts successful healthcare professionals should know. Additionally, the 60-credit program focuses on strengthening communication skills, so students can promote good health both verbally and in writing to diverse populations.

To help students succeed, Northwest Technical College provides advisers who help students make decisions about their next steps. Whether they want to pursue entry-level positions after graduation or continue with their education, this invaluable guidance can help you make the right choices to reach your goals. For example, many students who earn a health sciences associate degree go on to bachelor’s degree programs at other schools in the Minnesota State system.

Duration: 24 months

Mode: Online or on campus

Cost: $12,693

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or its equivalent
  • Transcripts
  • Submission of college-level transcripts if applicable

Core Curriculum:

  • Writing, public speaking, communications
  • Biology, microbiology, chemistry
  • Algebra, stats
  • Psychology, sociology
  • Ethics
  • Nutrition
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Healthcare system, health communication
  • Community roles
  • Child development, diverse family relations
  • Macroeconomics
  • Gerontology and aging
  • Dementia, Alzheimer’s, death, dying
  • Sign language
  • Medical terminology
  • Nursing assistant
  • CPR / first aid

FAQs from Future Online Health Science Associate Degree Students

Since an associate in health science degree can lead to a wide range of careers, as well as bachelor’s degrees, it’s important to understand what goes into these programs. Here you’ll find answers to some of students most commonly asked questions.

Does an online health science associate degree offer career flexibility?

Yes. Health science associate degrees can position you to move in several different directions. If you want to train for an entry-level healthcare job, this degree will give you the skills employers look for in a relatively short amount of time. This degree is also an affordable way to jumpstart your career or prepare for more education. Also, these programs can prepare you to qualify for a certification, such as phlebotomy, EKG technician, and medical administrative assistant designations.

Are there concentrations in a health science associate program?

Depending on the program, students may be able to pursue a specialization while completing their health science associate degree. For example, the healthcare administration specialization helps learners understand the ins-and-outs of medical facilities and the role they play in the community. Meanwhile, the curriculum of the medical lab technician concentration focuses on teaching students the specific skills needed to conduct medical tests, work directly with patients, obtain and store specimens, and perform basic daily procedures in a lab setting. In the medical records and information concentration, students learn how to organize and manage health information data, particularly digitizing medical records and properly storing and securing patient information.

Is there financial aid available for health science associate degree students?

Online students benefit from exploring all financial aid types before entering a program. It pays to research your options to maximize the amount of money you can receive to fund your education.

First and foremost, scholarships for health science degrees are a great source of education funding, which you can receive from your college, as well as external sources. These awards are provided based on merit and financial circumstances, and they don’t need to be paid back. For example, Parker University offers needs- and academic-based scholarships to current and incoming students.

Similarly, grants are a source of financing that don’t have to be paid back. They’re typically based on a student’s financial need and come from the federal or state government, private or nonprofit organizations, or your college or university.

Another good source of financial aid is through work-study programs, which allow you to offset your expenses with pay in exchange for working a job on campus. And of course, when you have exhausted all of your other options, you can bridge the financial gap by taking out student loans.

How can I further my education in health science?

After getting a taste of the healthcare industry with your associate degree in health science, you may wish to increase your employment options with more education. A bachelor’s degree in health science allows learners to take more coursework related to the field and focus more specifically on a subdivision of health science. Popular concentrations for bachelor’s level programs include pharmacology, exercise science, psychology, healthcare management, and diet and nutrition.

On the master’s level, health science degrees are further specialized so you can really gain advanced expertise in your area of interest. Often, people secure a master’s to pursue non-medical healthcare professions such as health informatics, public health, and health and human performance.

Alternatively, perhaps you already hold a degree or work experience in another field, and you may want to transition into healthcare from a different career. Often, these individuals opt for an accelerated health science degree program to put them on the fast track to completion. Whatever the case, a host of options are available to further your education in the health science field.

What types of degrees are similar to health science?

Since healthcare is such a broad field, you may want to examine similar disciplines and degrees as part of your research. For example, healthcare administration—usually on the master’s level—is for those who want to learn the nuts and bolts of leadership in the field. They can go on to work in roles that focus on organization issues, such as staffing in environments like hospitals and clinics. Similarly, healthcare management degree programs focus on handling the day-to-day operations of the workplace. The curriculum emphasizes healthcare policies, financial accounting, and leadership strategies.

Career Profile: What Can You Do with an Associate in Health Science?

By earning an online associate degree in health science, you open doors to many employment opportunities in the healthcare field and beyond. Many associate degree holders pursue exciting careers at doctors’ offices, hospitals, and care facilities.

Also, an associate degree in health science can prepare you for additional education at the bachelor’s degree level and beyond. Advanced degrees allow students to develop expertise in a specialized area and increase their earning potential.

Bottom line: Associate degree holders in health science have valuable options upon completing their programs. The following are some common career paths, all of which begin with a strong associate degree education.

Occupational Therapy Assistants

These professionals work in occupational therapists’ offices, hospitals, and nursing homes. Occupational therapy assistants are responsible for helping clients with activities that improve their motor functions, including teaching people how to use devices that make everyday activities easier. As they work with patients, they track the progress of different therapies. Also, occupational therapy assistants do administrative tasks for their employers.

Physical Therapist Assistants

Physical therapist assistants help patients with their treatments in several ways. Their duties include observing sessions and documenting patients’ progress, as well as assisting people with the exercises that are part of their treatments. Also, these professionals educate clients about the details of their therapies and the exercises they can do at home to improve their mobility.

Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are responsible for both clinical and administrative job duties in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and doctor’s offices. Their jobs entail conducting patient intake interviews to record their medical histories, taking vital signs, and providing injections and medications under the supervision of a doctor. Which clinical tasks medical assistants are allowed to perform can vary from one state to the next.

Medical Records Specialists

Medical records specialists ensure that patient information is accurate, complete, and secure, which helps healthcare organizations get paid by insurance companies for their services. In order to do this, they learn medical classification systems and apply them to different diagnoses and treatments. These workers must also be familiar with the privacy regulations and best practices for safeguarding patient data.

Medical Transcriptionists

Medical transcriptionists often work in hospitals and physicians’ offices. They may also be employed by third-party companies that provide transcription services to healthcare organizations. These professionals are responsible for creating documents—such as patient histories and discharge summaries—after listening to recordings from doctors and other healthcare professionals. They also enter these reports into electronic health records systems.

Top Online Programs for Associate in Health Science Degrees

Our comprehensive ranking system identifies the best-value programs that balance affordability with educational quality, helping you find options that fit your budget while meeting licensure requirements. For detailed information about our evaluation process, click the methodology pop-up above the rankings.

1

Holmes Community College

Goodman, Mississippi

Holmes Community College offers various health sciences programs, preparing students for careers in healthcare. Programs include Nursing, Emergency Medical Technology, Physical Therapist Assistant, and others. These programs provide foundational knowledge, hands-on training, and are designed to meet certification and licensure requirements.

Why We Selected Holmes Community College:

  • Holmes Community College offers specialized career tracks in health sciences, including pre-medical and pre-dental pathways.
  • The program provides foundational courses for various health professional programs, enhancing transfer opportunities.
  • Holmes Community College does not explicitly offer tuition discounts or scholarships specific to the Health Sciences program.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,700
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,174
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award34%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
2
Roane State Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management, focusing on health data management, medical coding, and information systems. The program prepares students for the RHIT certification exam and roles in healthcare settings. The curriculum includes comprehensive training in managing and coding patient health information.

Why We Selected Roane State Community College:

  • The program offers low clinical group ratios for personalized instruction.
  • Roane State has articulation agreements for seamless BSN transitions.
  • The program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, exceeding 90% in most years.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,326
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,114
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course52%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award32%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
3

Cerritos College

Norwalk, California

Cerritos College’s Health Sciences and Wellness pathway offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for various careers in healthcare. The pathway includes programs in Nursing, Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technology, Physical Therapist Assistant, and Health Occupations. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience to ensure students are well-prepared for their professional roles. The Nursing program, for example, provides extensive training and has a high NCLEX-RN pass rate. Cerritos College supports students with state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student services, including tutoring and career counseling. Additionally, the college offers flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate different student needs. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to help students with the cost of their education, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede their pursuit of a career in healthcare.

Why We Selected Cerritos College:

  • Cerritos College offers two years of free tuition through the Cerritos Complete program.
  • The college provides guaranteed priority admission to CSU through Associate Degrees for Transfer programs.
  • Cerritos College partners with National University to offer bachelor's degrees in select fields like Criminal Justice and Nursing.

Program Details

  • AccreditationACCJC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,288
  • Average Institutional Aid$174
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award44%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio26/1
4
The Pre-Professional Health Science program at the College of Southern Maryland is designed for students aspiring to careers in healthcare. It offers an Associate of Science degree with concentrations tailored for specific health fields, such as nursing and nuclear medicine technology. The program emphasizes science and liberal arts courses, preparing students for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Alongside this, CSM provides an Associate of Applied Science degree for a physical therapy assistant and a credit certificate program for a pharmacy technician. The program’s flexibility allows students to pursue various career paths, including direct entry into certain healthcare roles or further education in fields like nursing or nuclear medicine. Financial aid and scholarships are typically available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected College of Southern Maryland:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in health sciences, including nursing and nuclear medicine technology.
  • The College of Southern Maryland provides opportunities for immediate employment in certain health fields with associate degrees.
  • The program allows students to transfer to prestigious universities like Johns Hopkins for further education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,640
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,501
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course92%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award35%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
5
The Associate of Science in Healthcare Sciences Broad Field degree at Northwest Technical College is a 60-credit program designed to provide a strong foundation in health sciences. It includes general education courses in writing, public speaking, biology, chemistry, algebra, statistics, psychology, and sociology. Students also select 10 technical electives with the guidance of an advisor, preparing them for various health sciences baccalaureate programs. The program is flexible, allowing students to pursue a wide range of career paths depending on their occupational goals. Graduates can explore diverse fields, and the degree is structured to facilitate transfer to baccalaureate programs. Career outcomes vary based on the chosen field, with opportunities to pursue further education in fields like nursing, public health, or medical sciences.

Why We Selected Northwest Technical College:

  • The program offers flexible online or on-campus study options for convenience.
  • Northwest Technical College's health sciences program is ranked second nationally for online associate degrees.
  • Graduates often achieve high job placement rates or advance to baccalaureate programs seamlessly.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$6,057
  • Average Institutional Aid$900
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award43%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
The Health Sciences program at Kingsborough Community College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in health-related fields. The program typically spans two years and requires completion of specific prerequisites and general education courses. Students engage with courses in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and sociology, providing a solid foundation in health sciences. Career outcomes include opportunities in healthcare management, public health, and research, with potential pathways to graduate programs in fields like nursing or allied health. Admissions requirements typically involve completing prerequisite courses, and financial aid options are available to support students. The program’s focus on core health sciences content and flexibility in course selection make it an attractive choice for those interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.

Why We Selected CUNY Kingsborough Community College:

  • The program offers microcredentials in Health Coaching, Basic Life Support, and First Aid.
  • The degree provides opportunities for transfer to baccalaureate programs in health sciences.
  • It caters to both new students and incumbent professionals seeking career advancement in health services.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,800
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,023
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course97%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award35%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
7

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, California

Saddleback College’s Health Sciences programs offer a range of certificates and degrees that prepare students for careers in healthcare. The programs focus on areas such as medical assisting, health information management, and health science. Students can pursue an Associate of Science in Health Science, which includes options to specialize in medical assisting. The programs typically require completion of specific credits and courses, with some courses shared across different health science programs. Career outcomes include roles in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals. Financial aid and counseling services are available to support students. Admissions requirements vary by program, but generally include meeting with a counselor to review transcripts and prior academic work. The programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for immediate employment or further education.

Why We Selected Saddleback College:

  • Saddleback College offers shared courses across programs, allowing students to complete multiple certifications efficiently.
  • The Health Sciences program at Saddleback College provides flexible online courses, enhancing accessibility for students statewide.
  • Saddleback College's Health Sciences programs prepare students for various careers in hospitals, health departments, and non-profit agencies.

Program Details

  • AccreditationACCJC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,288
  • Average Institutional Aid$758
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course82%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award53%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
The Associate of Science in Health Science program is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of health sciences, preparing them for further education or entry-level careers in healthcare. The program typically requires a minimum of 60-90 credits, depending on the institution. It covers core subjects such as biology, anatomy, physiology, and genetics, providing a solid base for advanced studies in fields like nursing, physical therapy, or public health. Career outcomes include positions in allied health sciences and potential advancement opportunities in both military and civilian sectors. Financial aid and transfer credits may be available, with some programs offering military-friendly options. The program is often structured to align with bachelor’s degree prerequisites, allowing for seamless transition to higher education.

Why We Selected Lamar Institute of Technology:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in high-demand healthcare fields like Dental Hygiene and Health Information Technology.
  • Lamar Institute of Technology provides competitive salaries and rewarding working conditions in various care settings.
  • The program prepares students for in-demand jobs with a strong focus on practical skills and industry relevance.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,920
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,094
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award28%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
9

Pasadena City College

Pasadena, California

The Anesthesia Technology program at Pasadena City College offers an Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Achievement. The program spans three semesters, preparing students to become Certified Anesthesia Technologists. Key admission requirements include completing specific science courses with a “C” or better, maintaining a valid CPR certification, and submitting a health clearance. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for the ASATT National Certification Exam. The program emphasizes assisting licensed anesthesia providers, preparing and maintaining equipment, and performing maintenance tasks. Career outcomes include integral roles in anesthesia patient care teams across various healthcare settings. Financial aid and cost details are not specified, but students should consult with the college for specific information.

Why We Selected Pasadena City College:

  • The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on patient care and ethical standards.
  • Pasadena City College provides access to 16 diverse health science programs for students to explore.
  • Students can benefit from financial aid opportunities to help cover program costs and fees.

Program Details

  • AccreditationACCJC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,104
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,127
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award26%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
10

SUNY Broome Community College

Binghamton, New York

The Health Sciences A.S. degree at SUNY Broome is designed to be highly customizable, allowing students to select courses that align with their specific health career goals. This program is ideal for those planning to transfer to another college or university or into health programs at SUNY Broome. It provides a strong foundation in science and mathematics, preparing students for further education in medical or health science fields. The program emphasizes effective communication, medical terminology, ethical behavior, and cultural awareness. Students work with advisors to tailor their course selection, which can include a variety of biology, math, and health-related classes. The degree can lead to entry-level positions in healthcare or serve as a stepping stone for further academic pursuits. Transfer opportunities are facilitated through articulation agreements across SUNY.

Why We Selected SUNY Broome Community College:

  • The Health Sciences program at SUNY Broome offers flexible course options, allowing students to complete degrees entirely online.
  • The program provides access to modern facilities like the Decker Health Science Center for hands-on learning experiences.
  • Students benefit from specialized career tracks and expert faculty with real-world experience in healthcare settings.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,088
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,406
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award37%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
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Kenya McCullum AUTHOR

Kenya McCullum has been a professional writer and researcher for over twenty years and has written hundreds of feature-length articles, guidebooks, and other in-depth content. She has tackled various healthcare topics, such as women's health, fitness, mental health, addiction, and nutrition, as well as issues providers face when delivering care. Also, McCullum has extensive experience writing about higher education, online learning, continuing education, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has interviewed numerous leaders in the healthcare and education sectors. She has a master’s degree in communication and a bachelor’s degree in English.

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