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With the United States facing global health threats, including the spread of pandemic diseases and rising rates of obesity, cancer, and substance abuse rates, demand for public health professionals is high. Students earning a bachelor’s in public health learn about human disease, healthcare policy, and social and cultural factors that impact public health. Learners also explore how public health officials track and tackle public health problems.
Depending on concentration, graduates with a public health degree can enter careers in areas such as public health research, education, and policy. Online learning provides the flexibility busy students need to balance academics with other responsibilities. Online programs can also be more cost-efficient than on-campus programs. This guide includes information about public health careers, common program requirements, and financial aid options available to public health students.
Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Programs in Public Health
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Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Public Health
The list below includes schools offering the best public health bachelor’s degrees online. When ranking the online programs, we considered tuition costs, graduation rates, accreditation, and online course availability, as well as services available to online students. We utilized information from each school’s online and print materials and data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. The list below describes each school’s online public health degree requirements.
Methodology
Best Online Public Health Programs
Deciding which college to go to is no easy task, so ACO evaluated more than 3,500 colleges to give you the information you need to make the search more manageable. Our college rankings are based on statistical data from trusted sources, eligibility criteria and various ranking factorsData Sources:
Each college must be located in a state (US territories and Washington DC were excluded)
Each college must have at least one online program 1
Each college must have a maximum four-year tuition of $25,000 or a maximum two-year tuition of $5,000
Ranking Factors:
Affordability
Quality
Flexibility
Program
Several individual data points were objectively evaluated to calculate a score for each ranking factor listed above. For affordability, the most impactful data points were tuition2 and grants; for quality, graduation and acceptance rates; for flexibility, part-time enrollment options; and for program, degrees granted in that specific program area. Each score was then weighted, with affordability being the most highly weighted factor for all ACO rankings.
1 Best Vocational Programs included data for both online and campus programs.
2 Both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates were used in our methodology; however, our rankings tool currently only displays in-state rates.Notes:
A dash in our Rankings Tool indicates IPEDS data was not available.
Tuition displayed in in-state and per year unless stated otherwise.
With over 15,000 online students, Brigham Young University-Idaho has one of the largest online student bodies in the nation. While a formal public health degree isn't offered, students interested in the field may want to consider the online bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. Through this 4-year program, students can design their own program by choosing courses from 2 or more disciplines. They can also pursue a minor or a cluster in public health, while specializing in health promotion or healthcare administration. This highly-customizable program lets students study and prepare for their specific career goals and interests.
At Northern Arizona University, the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences: Public Health degree can be earned entirely online and is tailored to working students. The degree requires 120 credit hours; transfer students may bring in up to 64, making this ideal for students who already possess an associate degree. Students gain an understanding of the U.S. health system, concepts in policy and law, and societal and behavioral influences on human health. They go on to work in environments such as clinics, colleges, or county health services departments.
Kent State University students can choose from several options to pursue an online bachelor's degree in public health. Four concentrations are available: allied health, clinical trials research, health promotion and education and health services administration. Undergrads can also add a certificate in public health. After completing the degree, graduates will be parepared to work in a variety of settings, including public health departments, clinics, community health organizations and insurance companies.
Missouri Southern State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Health Science Business/Life-Health as a degree completion program. This distance learning option is aimed at transfer students who already hold an associate degree but who do not have a background in health. The curriculum teaches students about issues and principles related to public health, such as epidemiology and environmental problems, as well as arming them with practical business skills to use in administrative roles. The degree requires 124 credits to complete.
For those interested in pursuing a career in public health, Bellevue University offers an online health science degree. This multi-disciplinary program combines the studies of health, illness and disease prevention and offers 2 areas of emphases so students can develop specialized skills. One option is the science emphasis which focuses on the life sciences and the second option is the eldercare emphasis which focuses on the growing elderly population and prepares students for the National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB).
Youngstown State University offers its online bachelor's in public health program in 2-, 3- or 4-year formats, depending on how many credits a student has previously earned; 120 credits total, including general education requirements, are necessary to graduate. Students can choose from one of two tracks: environmental health and safety or health education/promotion; throughout the program they must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. Many students choose to go on to graduate studies, as well as to careers in health education, community practices, and health policy and management.
Originally a women's college, Mississippi University for Women has since expanded to include men, and has 2 online bachelor's degree options in public health. The Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education is designed both for freshmen and for transfer students who hold an associate degree; the latter may transfer up to 62 credits. The online Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Health Education is for students who hold an associate degree in allied health; they may transfer up to 43 technical credits toward the baccalaureate degree. Both 124-credit programs train students to work in a variety of jobs that promote and improve public health.
Founded with non-traditional students in mind, National University has been offering online courses and programs for over 2 decades. Its bachelor's of science in public health is an online option for those looking to work in public health but need flexibility while pursuing their degree. Offered in either an entirely online or hybrid format, this program covers key topics such as personal health, human anatomy, human sexuality, health informatics and microbiology, to name a few course examples. 180 quarter units are required to earn this degree, the majority of which must be completed at National University.
While the majority of its students study on-campus, the University of North Carolina Greensboro's distance learning offerings has expanded in recent years. The online degrees are often more affordable than the on-campus counterparts, so students interested in degrees like a bachelor's in public health are starting to opt for online study. UNCG's online public health program gives students a strong foundation in the field, preparing them for health careers that focus on alleviating health disparities. Through elective courses, students can focus more on their desired niche, leaving some room for specialization.
Delaware State University is a smaller school that caters to non-traditional students. Nearly half of the student body lives off campus and many of these students don't commute and opt for online learning formats. Those interested in the public health field can look into the online bachelor in public health degree. Structured the same as the on-campus version, the BS in public health is entirely online and prepares students for various entry-level positions such as STD prevention specialists, employee wellness coordinators or state immunization program coordinators. A senior capstone project is required, giving students valuable experience prior to beginning their public health career.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
A bachelor’s degree in public health prepares students for a variety of careers and for further studies. Public health professionals work for government agencies, healthcare providers, health insurance companies, community agencies and nonprofits, and businesses. The U.S. has an aging population and rising rates of health problems such as addiction, cancer, and obesity; these issues drive demand for public health professionals and fuel the faster-than-average job growth. While a bachelor’s degree does not guarantee a particular salary, many jobs in public health pay annual salaries of more than $40,000.
Job Description Community health workers typically work for community or government agencies. These professionals collect data about the health-related issues and outcomes of a particular community. They inform the public, healthcare providers, and health educators about their findings and the healthcare needs of the community. They also conduct outreach programs and help community members access health-related services.
Job Description Addiction counselors specialize in helping individuals and their families overcome the effects of substance abuse. They help clients enter and maintain recovery. These counselors work in a variety of settings, including schools, prisons, hospitals, substance abuse centers, and community agencies. Addiction counselors may also lead community educational programs on addiction.
Job Description Organizations that employ social workers include human service and public health agencies, healthcare providers, and hospitals. Some public health social workers assess client needs and help them access health-related resources. Healthcare social workers also help clients understand and cope with their diagnosis, condition, or illness. Other social workers develop and improve healthcare programs and services.
Job Description Health education specialists work in settings such as hospitals, schools, public health departments, health insurance companies, businesses, and nonprofits. They promote wellness by teaching people about health topics and illnesses. These educators may also help individuals with chronic illnesses learn to manage their conditions. Some health educators create educational materials, manage educational programs, and train other health educators.
Job Description Dietitians and nutritionists use their expertise regarding nutrition to help people develop healthy lifestyles and eating habits. They assess each client’s health needs and provide ways to improve their health. Some nutritionists run public educational programs. Nutritionists need a bachelor’s degree and must complete a supervised internship.
Sources: BLS 2018
Job openings and salaries in public health vary significantly by location. As the three most populous states, California, Texas, and Florida are among the five states with the highest employment levels of community health workers. Public health workers in the District of Columbia earn the highest salaries, averaging $66,290. Professionals in the San Francisco area, which has a high cost of living, earn an average of $64,200 per year. Dietitians, the highest-paid professionals listed above, earn an average salary of $72,130 in California and $92,930 in Amarillo, Texas.
Alabama
Median Annual Salary: $42,470
Number Currently Employed: 960
Projected Job Growth: +17.5 percent
Alaska
Median Annual Salary: $45,080
Number Currently Employed: 120
Projected Job Growth: +17.1 percent
Arizona
Median Annual Salary: $37,870
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
Arkansas
Median Annual Salary: $35,750
Number Currently Employed: 340
Projected Job Growth: +22.9 percent
California
Median Annual Salary: $47,150
Number Currently Employed: 6,700
Projected Job Growth: +13.4 percent
Colorado
Median Annual Salary: $42,540
Number Currently Employed: 730
Projected Job Growth: +31.3 percent
District of Columbia (DC)
Median Annual Salary: $66,290
Number Currently Employed: 790
Projected Job Growth: +20.4 percent
Connecticut
Median Annual Salary: $47,100
Number Currently Employed: 620
Projected Job Growth: +15.3 percent
Delaware
Median Annual Salary: $37,950
Number Currently Employed: 290
Projected Job Growth: +15.4 percent
Florida
Median Annual Salary: $39,060
Number Currently Employed: 2,360
Projected Job Growth: +28.1 percent
Georgia
Median Annual Salary: $37,560
Number Currently Employed: 1,030
Projected Job Growth: +25.8 percent
Hawaii
Median Annual Salary: $45,320
Number Currently Employed: 490
Projected Job Growth: +17.3 percent
Idaho
Median Annual Salary: $33,900
Number Currently Employed: 500
Projected Job Growth: +20.2 percent
Illinois
Median Annual Salary: $37,190
Number Currently Employed: 2,680
Projected Job Growth: +5.5 percent
Indiana
Median Annual Salary: $42,540
Number Currently Employed: 1,180
Projected Job Growth: +16.6 percent
Iowa
Median Annual Salary: $39,510
Number Currently Employed: 690
Projected Job Growth: +18.7 percent
Kansas
Median Annual Salary: $42,120
Number Currently Employed: 470
Projected Job Growth: +10.3 percent
Kentucky
Median Annual Salary: $37,550
Number Currently Employed: 830
Projected Job Growth: +15 percent
Lousiana
Median Annual Salary: $40,480
Number Currently Employed: 730
Projected Job Growth: +13.9 percent
Maine
Median Annual Salary: $36,070
Number Currently Employed: 200
Projected Job Growth: +0.5 percent
Maryland
Median Annual Salary: $44,400
Number Currently Employed: 1,550
Projected Job Growth: +12.6 percent
Massachusuetts
Median Annual Salary: $43,990
Number Currently Employed: 3,270
Projected Job Growth: +10.4 percent
Michigan
Median Annual Salary: $40,090
Number Currently Employed: 2,020
Projected Job Growth: +15.8 percent
Minnesota
Median Annual Salary: $40,340
Number Currently Employed: 1,390
Projected Job Growth: +15.5 percent
Mississippi
Median Annual Salary: $31,920
Number Currently Employed: 750
Projected Job Growth: +9.6 percent
Missouri
Median Annual Salary: $38,280
Number Currently Employed: 1,410
Projected Job Growth: +23.4 percent
Montana
Median Annual Salary: $37,720
Number Currently Employed: 190
Projected Job Growth: +16 percent
Nebraska
Median Annual Salary: $35,880
Number Currently Employed: 640
Projected Job Growth: +19.7 percent
Nevada
Median Annual Salary: $42,670
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
New Hampsire
Median Annual Salary: $43,450
Number Currently Employed: 190
Projected Job Growth: +22.2 percent
New Jersey
Median Annual Salary: $51,480
Number Currently Employed: 1,500
Projected Job Growth: +13.3 percent
New Mexico
Median Annual Salary: $33,680
Number Currently Employed: 540
Projected Job Growth: +14.5 percent
New York
Median Annual Salary: $45,070
Number Currently Employed: 4,490
Projected Job Growth: +25.9 percent
North Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $39,210
Number Currently Employed: 800
Projected Job Growth: +19.8 percent
North Dakota
Median Annual Salary: $48,110
Number Currently Employed: 150
Projected Job Growth: +26.8 percent
Ohio
Median Annual Salary: $41,250
Number Currently Employed: 1,550
Projected Job Growth: +14.1 percent
Oklahoma
Median Annual Salary: $45,160
Number Currently Employed: 1,560
Projected Job Growth: +11.2 percent
Oregon
Median Annual Salary: $39,800
Number Currently Employed: 640
Projected Job Growth: +14.3 percent
Pennsylvania
Median Annual Salary: $40,430
Number Currently Employed: 1,740
Projected Job Growth: +12.4 percent
Rhode Island
Median Annual Salary: $44,200
Number Currently Employed: 100
Projected Job Growth: +11.8 percent
South Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $40,970
Number Currently Employed: 290
Projected Job Growth: +17.5 percent
South Dakota
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
Tennessee
Median Annual Salary: $37,910
Number Currently Employed: 920
Projected Job Growth: +27.2 percent
Texas
Median Annual Salary: $42,700
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
Utah
Median Annual Salary: $45,940
Number Currently Employed: 610
Projected Job Growth: +33.7 percent
Vermont
Median Annual Salary: $32,280
Number Currently Employed: 400
Projected Job Growth: +11.8 percent
Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $41,790
Number Currently Employed: 530
Projected Job Growth: +21.3 percent
Washington
Median Annual Salary: $40,870
Number Currently Employed: 1,770
Projected Job Growth: +16.1 percent
West Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $26,990
Number Currently Employed: 490
Projected Job Growth: +13.3 percent
Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary: $40,280
Number Currently Employed: 900
Projected Job Growth: +11.3 percent
Wyoming
Median Annual Salary: $45,440
Number Currently Employed: 90
Projected Job Growth: +14.9 percent
What Courses Can be Taken for an Online Public Health Degree?
An online bachelor’s degree in public health requires general education courses and core and elective major coursework. However, specific requirements vary by program. The program can award a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts and may emphasize a specific area of public health, such as public policy, epidemiology, or public health education. Check school websites for specific course offerings, including required courses and electives.
Introduction to Public Health
As an introduction to the field of public health, this course explores the history, central theories, ethical principles, and standard practices of public health practitioners. The course introduces the structure of the U.S. and global health systems and covers the essential services these institutions provide. The course may also introduce core topics such as epidemiology, environmental health, and healthcare policy, as well as current challenges in the field.
Global Public Health
This course examines global public health systems and the challenges these systems face. Students explore healthcare issues that transcend national borders, such as disease epidemics. This course may address current topics in global health, including climate change, infectious diseases, and infant mortality. Students analyze how national and multinational public health systems, as well as individual healthcare practitioners, respond to public health challenges and maintain the health of diverse populations.
Disease Prevention and Epidemiology
This introductory course examines the history of human disease and disease prevention and covers the transmission, biological effects, and mortality rates of specific diseases. The course explains the characteristics of disease prevention, transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Learners examine methods public health officials use to track diseases. Additional topics include the psychological, social, cultural, and behavioral aspects of disease transmission and prevention.
Public Health Law and Policy
This introduction to healthcare policy explores how local, state, and federal government institutions make health-related laws and regulations. Students learn about societal and political factors that influence healthcare policy. Students analyze the impact of health policy on the overall health of populations. This course may also explore health policy and advocacy through a social justice lens.
Statistics and Research Methods
This course introduces students to the quantitative research methods used in public health. Students learn basic statistical tools and concepts, which are necessary to read and interpret public health research and data. Students learn about the statistical methods public health officials use to collect and analyze public health data and to assess and respond to needs.
How to Choose the Best Online Public Health Program
When selecting an online public health degree, consider cost and degree requirements. Also ensure each prospective program aligns with your career goals and offers the relevant concentration, electives, and experiences. Additional indicators of quality programs include accreditation, faculty achievements, and community partnerships.
How do I know if a program qualifies me for the job I want after graduation?
Look at the educational requirements listed in online job postings for the type of position you plan to pursue after graduation. Talk to hiring managers from relevant organizations about attributes they seek in candidates. Many hiring managers attend college recruitment events or provide college students with informational interviews.
What is the difference between a BA in public health and a BS?
A BA typically requires coursework in social sciences, including sociology, psychology, and political science. This degree may emphasize public policy or public health education. BS course requirements include scientific subjects relevant to public health, such as biology, chemistry, and computer science. This degree may focus on areas like epidemiology or research.
What concentrations or electives do public health programs offer and why do they matter?
Look at available electives and specializations to determine whether a concentration matches your interests and career goals. Bachelor’s programs in public health may offer concentrations in areas such as healthcare policy, health education, public health research, epidemiology, community health, global health, and environmental health. These concentrations prepare students for different careers.
What kinds of field experiences or final projects should I expect?
Most degrees in public health, including online programs, require a practicum or capstone project. These requirements provide opportunities to apply classroom learning to the practical situations. Students may work with a community agency or public health provider to observe and perform supervised public health tasks.
How do I know if a program is good enough to get me a job or into graduate school?
Accreditation offers a good indication of program quality. Both graduate schools and employers prefer candidates with degrees from regionally accredited schools. In addition to institutional accreditation, look for programs with specialized accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health. Rankings, faculty profiles, and graduate testimonials also provide information about a program’s quality and reputation.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Public Health Programs
Online students may pay for college with a combination of earnings, savings, loans, grants, and scholarships. Many online students fund their education through a full-time job, while others rely on student loans. Students should pursue financial aid through their school and should apply for scholarships and grants, which do not have to be repaid. Many organizations sponsor scholarships to encourage students to enter public health careers.
AFDO is a nonprofit organization that works to streamline government regulations. AFDO awards three $1,500 scholarships to students in their third year of college who have at least a 3.0 GPA. Applicants must display an interest in food, drug, or consumer product safety and must demonstrate leadership capabilities. Applicants must submit an official transcript and two letters of recommendation from faculty members.
An international student association, HOSA promotes healthcare career opportunities and works to improve healthcare delivery. The organization partners with the online platform STEM Premier to provide scholarships to students entering a variety of health professions, including careers in public health. Applicants must be HOSA members and must join Stem Premier to apply for scholarships online. Scholarship amounts vary.
NIH offers scholarships to undergraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are interested in careers in health-related research. The program awards up to $20,000 per year for college costs, paid summer research training at NIH, and one year of paid employment and training after graduation. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and must earn a minimum 3.3 GPA. The application process includes letters of recommendation and phone interviews.
This statewide association of public health professionals awards scholarships that support students aspiring to careers in the field. TPHA announces the number of scholarships and the award amounts in the spring of each year. Applicants must be high school students with a minimum 2.5 GPA and must either belong to TPHA or have an immediate family member who belongs. Applicants must plan to pursue a degree leading to a career in public health.
The Society for Public Health Education awards three $2,500 scholarships to undergraduate or graduate students with financial need. Applicants must be SOPHE members, excellent students, and committed to entering a career in public health education. Applicants must have completed at least one-third of their major requirements. Applicants must write a statement and submit a letter of recommendation from a faculty member.
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