Online Health Science Certificates: Compare Programs & More

An online health science certificate opens doors to opportunities in a wide array of allied healthcare specialties. Discover the right one for you below.

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Are you interested in a healthcare career but unsure if a four-year degree is right for you? Or maybe you’re an experienced healthcare professional who wants to add to your skillset and take on new roles.

If you don’t have the time or money to commit to a health science degree, earning a health science certificate online may be the perfect solution. It typically costs much less than a traditional degree and can be done in a shorter time period. Some can be completed in just a few months, while others take about a year.

This option lays the foundation for entry-level healthcare jobs where you can get valuable hands-on experience that future employers will appreciate. It also allows you to build on previous experience and expand your area of expertise, which will make you a likely candidate for more advanced positions.

In this guide, you will learn about various online health science certificates and their objectives. We spotlight a school for each one, breaking down the need-to-know program information, such as cost, student support, coursework, and duration. Let’s get started by looking at our list of the top online and hybrid certificates today.

Health Science Certificates: Which One is Right for You?

While the rankings above look specifically at “health science” certificates, the field can encompass a broad range of healthcare roles, from billing and coding to nutrition and nursing. Although this makes it easier to find one that matches your needs, it can also be overwhelming. Below, we give an overview of each with their related job skills to help you determine which is right for you.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certificate

An online Certified Nursing Assistant Certificate allows you to work in home health, long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, schools, hospitals, and doctor’s offices. It can take anywhere from four to eight weeks to earn this certificate of health science online, after which time you will be able to take a person’s vitals and assist them in bathing, eating, dressing, transferring, and ambulating—also known as activities of daily living (ADLs). Licenses must be renewed every one to two years, depending on the state you’re in.

The Certified Nurse Aide online program at South Denver School of Nursing Arts is designed for high school students and adults who need a flexible program and quick certification. In just four weeks, students aged 16 and up complete online coursework, four days of in-person learning, and two days of clinical experience.

Applicants must pass a background check, drug screen, application exam, TB test, and have CPR certification. Tuition costs $1,600 for high school students and $1,800 for adults. The course teaches 22 nursing skills and has a 95% pass rate for the license exam.

Dental Assistant Certificate

An online dental assistant certificate prepares students to perform a variety of roles in a dental office, including handling patient insurance, making appointments, taking blood pressures, and developing x-rays. Earning a dental assistant certificate online can take anywhere from three months to two years, depending on each state’s requirements and the chosen course. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistant jobs are expected to increase by an above-average rate of 7% by 2032, making an online dental assistant certificate the doorway to a promising career.

This 48-week online health science certificate program includes three weekends of hands-on training at one of six Texas campuses. The course consists of six modules that covers tooth and oral anatomy, office software and equipment, dental procedures and staff, radiology, and dental specialties. Each student has a Student Services Advisor and access to 24/7 IT support. At the end of the program, students can take part in an externship to put their learning into practice at a dental office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and pass the Scholastic Level exam to be eligible for the course.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate

When you earn an Emergency Medical Technician Certificate, you will be equipped to stabilize and transport people from emergency scenes to the hospital using standard equipment in an ambulance. Online EMT courses are at least 170 hours and typically have a hybrid format that includes scheduled skill labs. You will learn how to quickly assess a situation and administer emergency treatments such as oxygen, CPR, and splints. No prior medical experience is required before taking an Emergency Medical Technician Certificate course online.

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a hybrid program for students looking to earn an Emergency Medical Technician Certificate. All coursework is online, and skills labs take place on specified days. This program costs $550 and is suitable for fire/rescue personnel, emergency responders, coaches, nurses, and athletic trainers. Applicants must pre-register, complete a criminal history form, carry malpractice insurance, pass a TB test, and be up to date on their measles and Hep B immunizations. Class spots are on a first-come, first-serve basis, and students must provide their own computer.

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Health Information Technology (HIT) Certificate

A Health Information Technology (HIT) Certificate program focuses on the digital side of healthcare that involves compiling, analyzing, and maintaining patient’s medical records. It teaches students management and leadership skills, as well as clinical skills. While earning this health science certificate online, they will learn how to verify data accuracy and completeness, analyze data to save costs, and participate in the release of information to authorized parties. They may also specialize in coding procedures for research.

This fully online Health Information Technology Certificate program teaches students how to improve healthcare processes by using the latest technology in medical records management and analytics, including mobile health and smart health. Classes are taught by on-campus faculty and can be attended anytime. Students have access to a personal tutor and can participate in field exercises, such as internships and clinical placements. They can also take advantage of several types of financial aid using Suny Smart Track, Crash Course, and a cost calculator. Part-time students are eligible for a tuition assistance program through the state of New York.

Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate

A Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate equips students for hands-on, patient-focused tasks like taking vitals, giving medications, and performing lab procedures, as well as administrative duties such as taking a patient’s history, maintaining health records, and checking patients in and out. This online health science certificate opens the door to significant job opportunities, considering the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that Medical Assistant positions would grow at a rate of 14%, far above the average.

Western Nevada College offers a fully online Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate program designated by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). It prepares students for work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and outpatient clinics by teaching them medical terminology, ethics, clinical procedures, pharmacology, communication, infection control, and risk management.

This open-enrollment program costs $2,795 and gives students 12 months to complete all coursework before taking the national certification exam. Tuition includes the exam fee. There are no prerequisites needed. Course instructors include four teachers with decades of experience who can be reached by email to answer any questions. Students receive a certificate of completion after finishing the program.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

For those who want a healthcare job that is not patient-oriented, a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate may be the answer. In this health science certificate online program, students learn how to ensure healthcare providers receive proper payment and patients receive their full insurance benefits. This certification opens the door to jobs in hospitals, doctors’ offices, insurance companies, and even government agencies like Medicaid. These positions often involve a predictable schedule, good pay, and remote work options.

Purdue Global’s online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate program consists of 10 courses that cost $371 per credit and takes about 11 months to complete. Most students put in 15 to 18 hours of work per week. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical billing, coding, insurance billing, and medical office management, organized into user-friendly online classes that are easy to navigate any time of day or night. Students get hands-on experience during a 40-hour practicum at a health care facility and finish the program with a virtual proctored exam. Several forms of financial aid are also available, including loans, grants, and tuition assistance.

Nutrition Certificate

After earning this certificate of health science online, students can perform health assessments, educate patients, and develop holistic wellness plans for clients to improve quality of life. They can work in hospitals, long term care facilities, sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, or build online coaching businesses. Due to a growing awareness of the importance of good nutrition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7% job growth rate for dieticians and nutritionists.

This online health science certificate course provides students with thorough knowledge of nutrition, the digestive system, energy expenditure, weight management, and how nutrition is linked to chronic conditions such as cancer, osteoporosis, and hypertension. The entire program lasts six months, includes three weeks of coursework, and costs $2,999. It requires three to five hours a week, and classes typically have less than 35 students.

Students not only learn about body mechanisms, they also gain an understanding of how biochemistry and psychology affect a person’s nutrition habits and overall health. Armed with this information, they can effectively guide and educate patients on how to live healthier, happier lives.

Pharmacy Technician Certificate

A Pharmacy Technician Certificate is a necessity for people who want to begin a healthcare career in a pharmacy setting. They are responsible for ordering and stocking medications, filling prescriptions, and educating customers under the supervision of a pharmacist. Students typically earn an online Pharmacy Technician Certificate in a year or less. Although individual state regulations vary, most require pharmacy techs to have some type of certification, registration, or licensure.

The University of Texas at San Antonio offers a fully online Pharmacy Technician Certificate program for $3,195. It consists of 400 course hours that cover pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law and ethics, insurance and inventory procedures, and more. All work must be completed within 12 months, at the end of which students will be ready to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification exam. Afterwards, they can participate in an externship and get valuable hands-on experience at a national pharmacy chain. Registration can be done online, and there is an exam voucher available as well.

Phlebotomy Technician Certificate

Phlebotomists, those with a Phlebotomy Technician Certificate, play an important role in healthcare by interacting with both patients and doctors in hospitals, labs, and blood donor centers. Their job primarily involves drawing blood from patients, as well as taking vitals, checking blood glucose levels, preparing blood and urine specimens for the lab, educating patients on the blood-drawing procedure, and maintaining medical equipment. They are often in higher demand during emergencies that require blood collection.

With this 100% online certificate of health science program, students are equipped to take the provisional Certified Phlebotomy Technician Specialist exam. Provisional certification is good for six months until the required clinical skills are completed. No prerequisites are required to take the course or exam, other than a high school diploma or equivalent. Students can enroll anytime and have up to 12 months to complete the program, which covers infection control, anatomy, medical terminology, phlebotomy equipment and procedures, and labs. An Externship Coordinator offers job assistance to students upon successful completion of the course.

Surgical Technologist Certificate

A Surgical Technologist Certificate prepares students to step into an operating room or doctor’s office with the skills to maintain a sterile environment and assist doctors and nurses during surgeries. Their role includes preparing patients for surgery, counting and organizing surgical tools, and keeping everything sterile before, during, and after the procedure. They also hand implements to the doctors and nurses as needed. Surgical technologists may also have the option to specialize in an area such as pediatrics surgery, plastic surgery, and neurosurgery.

Franklin University offers an online Surgical Technologist Certificate program that takes just two to three months to complete and costs $4,000. It consists of three courses: 1) Professionalism in Allied Health (32 hours), 2) Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology (96 hours), and 3) Surgical Technology (96 hours). The coursework is self-paced and prepares students for the Tech in Surgery Certified (TS-C) national certification exam. The resulting certification is accepted anywhere in the U.S. and can also earn college credit. Each student has a Personal Student Success Advisor, as well as access to Career Coaches.

The Ultimate Certificate Checklist: Features to Look For

With so many online health science certificate programs to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which one is best for you. To streamline the process, we share top factors to consider and how they can affect your education and future career.

Accreditation

Accreditation denotes whether a school’s curriculum meets quality standards set and upheld by governmental and non-governmental organizations. To qualify for federal financial aid, you must attend an accredited university. Earning a certificate of health science online from an accredited institution shows employers you have received a sound education that has adequately prepared you for your job.

Cost and Financial Aid

Cost is often a determining factor when it comes to choosing an educational program, and financial aid is a critical part of finding an affordable school. Scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance are a few ways you can pay for your education without going into debt when earning your health science certificate online.

Facilities and Resources

When earning an online health science certificate, you won’t be using on-campus facilities, but it’s important that there are resources in place to resolve any problems and questions. Because online learning is typically done outside of traditional business hours, you’ll want a school that offers 24/7 tech support, asynchronous learning, and an easy way to communicate with your instructors.

Job Placement Support

Beginning a healthcare career can be challenging, so many schools have systems in place to help you find externships and jobs in your chosen field. This provides much-needed hands-on experience that paves the way to future positions. In some online health science certificate programs, you may have an individual advisor assigned to you for one-on-one guidance.

Program Reputation

A reputable program boosts your credibility in the eyes of potential employers and gives assurance that you are receiving a high-quality education. When looking at top health science certificate online programs, you can look up faculty credentials and find out what former students have to say about their experience.

Transferability of Credits

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 1.2 million students transferred to new schools in 2021, making transfer credit a high priority in education because they save time and money. Credit transfer policies vary from school to school. In some cases, an online health science certificate can convert into credits that can be put towards a future degree.

Leading Health Science Programs Online

1

Northwood Technical College

Shell Lake, Wisconsin

Northwood Technical College’s Health Sciences programs provide comprehensive training for various healthcare careers. The college offers a wide range of programs, including Nursing, Medical Assistant, Health Information Technology, and Physical Therapist Assistant. These programs emphasize hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical practice in real-world healthcare settings. The Nursing program, for example, features high NCLEX pass rates and strong job placement statistics. Northwood Tech supports students with experienced faculty, flexible class schedules, including online options, and extensive student resources such as tutoring and career services. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help manage educational costs. The college is dedicated to preparing students for certification exams and successful careers in the healthcare industry, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of their chosen fields.

Why We Selected Northwood Technical College:

  • Northwood Tech offers free peer tutoring services to enhance student learning outcomes.
  • Northwood Tech provides flexible class formats, including online and hybrid options, to accommodate diverse schedules.
  • The college offers specialized support for English Language Learners, including free classes and career counseling.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,570
  • Average Institutional Aid$748
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course73%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award62%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio7/1
2

Lakeshore Technical College

Cleveland, Wisconsin

Lakeshore Technical College offers various health science programs, including certificates and associate degrees. Programs like Dental Assisting, Health Information Management, and Nursing provide students with hands-on clinical experiences and prepare them for high-demand careers in healthcare. The new Froedtert & Medical College Center for Healthcare Excellence opens in Fall 2024, doubling training capacity. High school students can earn dual credits, and credits are transferable to many four-year universities.

Why We Selected Lakeshore Technical College:

  • The program offers transferable credits to over 30 universities, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
  • Lakeshore Technical College provides specialized career tracks in health science, focusing on in-demand skills.
  • The program integrates professional ethics and confidentiality standards, preparing students for high-demand roles.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,868
  • Average Institutional Aid$626
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award65%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
3
Central New Mexico Community College offers a Pre-Health Science, Pre-Medical Certificate of Completion designed for students with or nearing a bachelor’s degree who need to complete science and math prerequisites for medical school. The 35-credit program includes courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, preparing students for medical school applications. Flexible scheduling options allow for part-time or full-time study, starting any term, primarily at the Main Campus. Financial aid is available.

Why We Selected Central New Mexico Community College:

  • The program offers flexible online coursework, allowing students to balance education with other responsibilities.
  • The program provides extensive clinical placement services, ensuring students gain practical experience in their home communities.
  • The program is led by a faculty with significant expertise, including many Certified Nurse-Midwives, enhancing student learning.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,368
  • Average Institutional Aid$502
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award33%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
4
Roane State Community College offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree, consisting of 66 credits. The program includes both classroom and clinical experiences, with clinical rotations in various healthcare settings. Students spend six hours per week in clinical settings during the first year and twelve hours during the second year. Admission requires completing 13 of 27 general education credits, achieving a minimum GPA of 2.75, and passing the HESI A2 exam. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become Registered Nurses. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Career outcomes include high job placement rates and median wages of $58,173. Articulation agreements are available for pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Why We Selected Roane State Community College:

  • High job placement rate of 94% ensures successful career outcomes for graduates.
  • Clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings provide individualized attention and instruction.
  • Eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam upon graduation offers a direct path to licensure.

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
The Health Sciences Certificate at Hudson Valley Community College is a one-year program designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the health science field. It includes coursework in basic sciences and a concentration in health science areas. The program allows students to pursue further education in health science programs, transfer to a four-year institution, or enter the workforce as home health care aides, health care administrative assistants, emergency medical technicians, phlebotomists, or EKG technicians. Admissions requirements typically include academic records and may involve additional materials. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students. The program is structured to accommodate students seeking immediate employment or further education.

Why We Selected Hudson Valley Community College:

  • The Health Sciences Certificate offers flexible online scheduling, accommodating work and family commitments.
  • The program provides a pathway to transfer into four-year institutions or enter the workforce directly.
  • Students benefit from the same faculty as on-campus programs, ensuring consistent educational quality.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,800
  • Average Institutional Aid$658
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award32%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
The Health Sciences program at Northwest Technical College offers a 60-credit Associate of Science degree. It combines general education courses with a focus on health sciences, including biology, chemistry, anatomy, and psychology. Students work with advisors to select technical electives tailored to their career goals. The program prepares graduates for various health and human services roles or transfer to baccalaureate programs in fields like nursing, social work, or health education. Career opportunities include positions as nursing assistants or further education in health-related fields. The program is designed to provide a strong foundation for future studies and career advancement. Credits are transferable within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

Why We Selected Northcentral Technical College:

  • The program offers flexible online and on-campus study options for students.
  • The Health Sciences Broad Field degree provides a strong foundation for advancing to baccalaureate programs.
  • Northwest Technical College's health sciences programs often lead to high transfer rates within the Minnesota State system.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,384
  • Average Institutional Aid$654
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award46%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
7

Anoka Technical College

Anoka, Minnesota

Anoka Technical College offers a variety of programs designed to fast-track students into solid careers. These include Associate of Applied Science degrees, diplomas, and certificates across fields like administration, construction, electronic engineering technology, and health science. For example, the Administrative Office Specialist program offers an AAS degree requiring 60 credits, a diploma requiring 40 credits, and a certificate requiring 16 credits. Financial aid options are available, including tuition and fee-free pathways for eligible students. Career outcomes vary by program, but many lead to immediate employment opportunities. Admissions requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent. The college emphasizes affordability and flexibility, making it an attractive choice for students seeking practical skills and career readiness.

Why We Selected Anoka Technical College:

  • Anoka Technical College offers specialized career tracks in in-demand industries.
  • The college provides state-of-the-art equipment for hands-on learning experiences.
  • Anoka Technical College fosters strong partnerships with local employers for job readiness.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,500
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,288
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award32%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
8

National Park College

Hot Springs, Arkansas

The Health Sciences program at Norwich University offers a Bachelor of Science degree with two concentrations: Pre-Professional Health Careers and Accelerated Master’s in Athletic Training. The Pre-Professional concentration prepares students for graduate studies in fields like medicine, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, allowing flexibility in course selection. The Accelerated Master’s in Athletic Training is a 3+2 program where students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. Admission to the Master of Athletic Training requires a cumulative GPA of at least 2.7 and completion of prerequisite courses. Potential careers include athletic training, osteopathic medicine, and healthcare administration. The program is designed to meet entrance requirements for various graduate schools, providing a strong foundation for future health careers.

Why We Selected National Park College:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in diverse healthcare settings.
  • Faculty expertise provides practical insights and mentorship throughout the program.
  • Accelerated completion options allow students to finish their degree in a shorter timeframe.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$3,000
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,836
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award30%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
9
Montgomery County Community College offers a range of Health Sciences programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in healthcare. These programs include Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Radiography, Phlebotomy, and Health Care Administration, among others. Each program varies in length and credits required, typically leading to an associate degree or certificate. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students. Admissions requirements may include prerequisite courses and specific GPA requirements. Upon completion, graduates can pursue entry-level positions in their chosen field or continue their education at a four-year institution. The college’s state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships provide students with practical experience, enhancing their career prospects.

Why We Selected Montgomery County Community College:

  • Montgomery County Community College offers top-ranked online health programs recognized for quality and affordability.
  • The college's nursing program provides hands-on experience through a state-of-the-art Simulation and Skills Suite.
  • Students can benefit from strong career outcomes and high placement rates in various healthcare settings.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$8,640
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,293
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award29%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
The Health Science program typically requires a minimum of 120 semester hours, including general education courses, program prerequisites, and professional curriculum. The program often takes four years to complete for full-time students. Admissions typically require completion of prerequisites such as psychology, sociology, math, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, statistics, biology, and chemistry. Career outcomes include entry-level positions in healthcare and preparation for graduate programs like occupational therapy or physician assistant studies. Financial aid and cost details vary by institution, but many programs offer flexible scheduling and transfer credit options. Students can pursue various tracks, such as pre-medical or clinical care concentrations, depending on their career goals. A minor is often required, which can overlap with graduate school prerequisites.

Why We Selected Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in health sciences, enhancing job prospects.
  • Employer partnerships provide students with valuable networking opportunities and job placements.
  • Faculty expertise in specific health science fields ensures high-quality education and mentorship.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,432
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,481
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award32%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
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Jenna Tidd, CNA AUTHOR

After 10 years of healthcare experience as a Certified Nurse Aide, Jenna Tidd brings hands-on knowledge, insight, and a love for research to her work as a health content writer/editor. In about three years, she has written over 100 articles on topics like mental health, wellness products, and sleep quality. Some companies she's worked with include Thrive Global, mindbodygreen, HealthDay News, Sleep Foundation, and Poosh. Jenna enjoys finding quality healthcare resources and sharing them with others who are beginning or advancing their medical careers.

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