Inside California's Online Health Science Degrees
If you know you want to work in healthcare but aren’t sure which path to take, earning an online health science degree can introduce you to the field through coursework in biology, social science, and strategic planning. For California residents, this EduMed guide explains how health science programs work, how much they cost, and which schools stand out and why.
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Comparing Programs
Health science programs blend sciences and humanities to give you a well-rounded perspective on healthcare. You’ll take hard-core science classes such as human anatomy and chemistry, humanities courses such as healthcare ethics and healthcare communication, and electives that allow you to put your own stamp on your studies.
Except for labs, most health science programs can be completed online. A health science program is a great option if you’re interested in healthcare but aren’t sure exactly which aspect you want to pursue, if you already have a certificate or associate degree and want to take your education to the next level, or if you want a broader healthcare education in preparation for graduate school.
Carrington College
The Associate in Health Studies program at Carrington College allows you to build on your prior education and earn a degree that you can leverage in the professional world. To be admitted, you’ll need a prior healthcare-related certificate (at least 24 semester credit hours) from an accredited institution. Since the program is both online and asynchronous, you’ll be able to balance academics with work and other responsibilities.
Carrington College participates in federal and state financial aid programs. The school also provides academic and career services, such as library access, resume building, interview preparation, externships, and career fairs. Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
Duration: As few as 10 months, depending on how many credits you’ve already completed
Mode: Online
Cost: $16,306
Admissions Requirements:
- Certificate in a healthcare field from an accredited institution
- Minimum of 24 credits
- 2.0 GPA
- Reliable Internet and email access
Curriculum:
- Nutrition
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Interpersonal Communication
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Sacramento State University
Sacramento State’s Bachelor’s in Health Science is designed for students who want a career in the allied health professions. The program allows students to tailor their studies to meet their specific goals, so graduates are equipped with all necessary prerequisites to pursue clinical or nonclinical professions, including occupational therapy, nursing, physician assistant, and public health. The degree consists of 120 units.
Health science students at Sacramento State are eligible for merit- and need-based Health and Human Services scholarships. The school supports scholars through robust student services, including student health and counseling services, a Veterans Success Center, and a career center. Sacramento State is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Duration: Four years
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,764 for one to six units; $3,042 for more than six units
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma, GED, or passing score on the California High School Proficiency Examination
- Completion of the 15-unit comprehensive “a-g” college prep courses with a grade of C- or better
- Transcripts
Curriculum:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Chemistry
- Health Psychology
- Nutrition and Food
Southern California University of Health Sciences
When it comes to versatility, the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree completion program at Southern California University (SCU) shines. In addition to its flexible asynchronous online format, the program features eight concentrations.
Fully online options include:
- health promotion
- human genetics and genomics
- functional anatomy
- integrative nutrition and wellness
Students even have the option to work with the program director or their academic advisor to create a customized concentration. Graduates planning to become physician assistants (PAs) are guaranteed an interview with SCU’s PA program if they meet certain requirements.
The SCU program includes a fixed-rate tuition guarantee. The school offers scholarships and participates in various financial aid programs. SCU holds institutional accreditation through the WASC.
Duration: About two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $28,320
Admissions Requirements:
- At least 60 credits from an accredited U.S. college
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0
- Residency in any state except Delaware or the District of Columbia
Curriculum:
- Biology
- Health issues and policies
- Information literacy
- Critical thinking
- Cultural and social understanding
California Health Science Program FAQs
A health science degree might feel like the right fit for you, but you probably still have some unanswered questions. Below, we’ve compiled the questions students typically have and provided the answers that will help you take the next step toward your online health science degree.
Does it matter if the health science program I choose is accredited?
Yes, accreditation matters. Accreditation is a seal of quality granted to a school or program by a sanctioned accrediting agency. It ensures that your education meets certain standards. Accreditation also affects whether your credits will transfer and if you can access federal financial aid.
There are two types of accreditation, programmatic and institutional. Health science programs don’t have programmatic accreditation, so you’ll be looking to make sure the school you attend holds a solid institutional accreditation. The foremost regional accreditation agency in California is the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
How much do health science degrees cost in California?
The cost of the degrees featured on this page ranges from $3,042 for a full semester towards a bachelor’s degree at Sacramento State University, to $28,320 for a two-year degree from SCU.
However, the answer to this question depends on several factors. First, are you pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree? Second, do you have college credits from a certificate program or previous studies to apply to your degree? If you’re going for an associate degree, community colleges offer the biggest bang for your buck. California community colleges have the lowest community college tuition in the nation, at $46 per unit.
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my health science degree in California?
Yes, you’ll have a variety of financial aid options to choose from. Grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans are available to help make tuition affordable. If you’re already working in healthcare, check to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
Minimizing the amount of time you spend in school, and the corresponding expenses for parking, meal plans, and activity fees, cuts expenses too. Look for fast-track programs designed to get you out of school quickly.
What types of classes will I take in a health science program in California?
Most programs cover the basics, including anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biology, and psychology. You’ll also probably take at least one math class, such as introduction to statistics, and if you end up in a field like health informatics, you’ll be glad you did.
Electives give you the opportunity to customize your health science program to match your interests. For example, if gerontology appeals to you, then courses such as Aging Issues in Contemporary America or Strategies for Optimal Aging will be appealing.
What can I do with a health science degree?
You can seek out careers in sectors such as clinical support, administration, public health, and research, with job options like health educator, patient navigator, health services manager, and clinical research coordinator. It also serves as a strong foundation for advanced degrees like physician assistant, physical therapist, or medical doctor. A health science degree gives you lots of choices.
Once you’ve graduated, you may need to obtain licensure or certifications for some of these positions. A license is a credential required by a governmental entity to work in certain professions. Most require prospective practitioners to pass an exam and submit an application for licensure. Certification proves you have expert knowledge in your field. To become certified, you must pass an exam.
Health Science Career & Salary Outlook in California
Community Health Workers
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $46,320 | $58,050 | $88,590 |
| Bakersfield-Delano, CA | $44,330 | $49,610 | $76,620 |
| Chico, CA | $38,290 | $47,240 | $59,290 |
| Fresno, CA | $45,150 | $52,520 | $78,740 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | $46,340 | $56,030 | $74,230 |
| Modesto, CA | $46,280 | $60,800 | $73,230 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $37,770 | $52,770 | $64,160 |
| Redding, CA | $38,490 | $46,300 | $59,020 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | $40,990 | $50,950 | $80,500 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA | $46,790 | $57,060 | $81,940 |
| Salinas, CA | $47,000 | $56,810 | $71,410 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA | $43,120 | $52,350 | $98,390 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA | $51,720 | $72,710 | $139,310 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $55,680 | $69,630 | $87,660 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $46,850 | $80,290 | $82,520 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA | $47,510 | $59,470 | $76,390 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $44,720 | $52,000 | $76,310 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma, CA | $48,940 | $64,720 | $80,320 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $45,870 | $50,830 | $73,970 |
| Vallejo, CA | $48,250 | $61,130 | $81,730 |
| Visalia, CA | $44,460 | $63,960 | $78,850 |
| Yuba City, CA | $46,170 | $60,610 | $69,110 |
Source: Community Health Workers, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 22 entries | Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Community Health Workers
| Area ↕︎ | Curr. Jobs ↕︎ | Proj. Jobs ↕︎ | New Jobs ↕︎ | Growth % ↕︎ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 67,200 | 76,600 | 9,400 | 14.00% | 8,000 |
| California | 8,600 | 10,300 | 1,700 | 19.80% | 1,100 |
Source: Projections Central
Top Online Health Science Programs in California
University of the People
Program Details
- Location: Pasadena, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $614Avg. Aid Amount
- 28/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of the People
- Tuition-free model with only a $60 application fee and low per-course assessment fees.
- Scholarships and grants may be available for students who need help covering fees.
- Full-time students can complete the Health Science bachelor’s degree in four years, with flexible online study.
Program Details
- Location: Pasadena, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $614Avg. Aid Amount
- 28/1Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-East Bay
Program Details
- Location: Hayward, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $11,435Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-East Bay
- The program offers a flexible, advisor-guided elective plan tailored to students’ specific career goals.
- Students gain specialized preparation through upper-division courses in epidemiology, health law, bioethics, environmental health, and health policy research.
- A required capstone in Health Sciences provides integrative, practice-oriented experience that strengthens readiness for health-sector employment.
Program Details
- Location: Hayward, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 65%Students W/ Aid
- $11,435Avg. Aid Amount
- 22/1Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-Stanislaus
Program Details
- Location: Turlock, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $11,550Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-Stanislaus
- The 18‑month accelerated degree‑completion format lets transfer and allied health students finish quickly.
- Three specialized concentrations—Health Leadership and Administration, Health Informatics and Data Analytics, Speech‑Language and Hearing Sciences—offer targeted career preparation.
- The upper‑division major is uniquely designed to articulate with allied health associate degrees, enabling smooth transfer to Stanislaus State.
Program Details
- Location: Turlock, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 76%Students W/ Aid
- $11,550Avg. Aid Amount
- 18/1Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-Long Beach
Program Details
- Location: Long Beach, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 72%Students W/ Aid
- $11,350Avg. Aid Amount
- 23/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-Long Beach
- Offers an approved distance education option, allowing flexible completion for aspiring school health educators.
- Provides a clear specialized career track to become credentialed California middle or high school health teachers.
- Backed by regional WSCUC approval, enhancing program credibility and graduates’ professional recognition.
Program Details
- Location: Long Beach, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 72%Students W/ Aid
- $11,350Avg. Aid Amount
- 23/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Touro University Worldwide
Program Details
- Location: Los Alamitos, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $7,920Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Touro University Worldwide
- TUW waives the $60 application fee and includes no extra fees for textbooks, library, technology, or parking.
- Eligible undergraduates can receive the Achieve Your Success Scholarship, and Health Sciences students may also qualify for a $1,000 program scholarship.
- The online BSHS offers accelerated 8-week terms with six start dates annually, enabling students to begin quickly and finish flexibly.
Program Details
- Location: Los Alamitos, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 82%Students W/ Aid
- $7,920Avg. Aid Amount
- 10/1Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-Channel Islands
Program Details
- Location: Camarillo, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $11,546Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-Channel Islands
- The program includes an AS-T transfer option, allowing eligible transfer students to complete the degree in 60 units.
- It offers specialized emphases in Community Health and Preclinical, giving students a more targeted academic path.
- Students can pursue a healthcare administration master’s pathway within the department, extending career and graduate-study opportunities.
Program Details
- Location: Camarillo, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 70%Students W/ Aid
- $11,546Avg. Aid Amount
- 16/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Modesto Junior College
Program Details
- Location: Modesto, CA
- ACCJCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 61%Students W/ Aid
- $4,557Avg. Aid Amount
- 32/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Modesto Junior College
- The program is 100% online and designed for working respiratory care practitioners, offering convenient degree advancement.
- It features an accelerated 15‑month upper‑division format with coursework scheduled across four terms, enabling faster completion.
- The program holds provisional accreditation from CoARC and provides advanced preparation for leadership, education, research, and specialized clinical practice roles.
Program Details
- Location: Modesto, CA
- ACCJCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 61%Students W/ Aid
- $4,557Avg. Aid Amount
- 32/1Student/Faculty Ratio
California State University-Sacramento
Program Details
- Location: Sacramento, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 71%Students W/ Aid
- $12,036Avg. Aid Amount
- 24/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected California State University-Sacramento
- Fully online, flexible degree-completion format tailored for working adults seeking career advancement.
- Curriculum includes built-in prerequisites and customizable electives supporting entry into advanced clinical programs like nursing and PA school.
- Program is part of Sacramento State’s College of Continuing Education, offering access to university-level health science faculty and student support resources.
Program Details
- Location: Sacramento, CA
- WSCUCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 71%Students W/ Aid
- $12,036Avg. Aid Amount
- 24/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- Location: Redding, CA
- ACCJCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 59%Students W/ Aid
- $6,692Avg. Aid Amount
- 28/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Shasta College
- The program is fully online and CAHIIM-accredited, preparing graduates for the RHIA certification exam.
- It offers clear enrollment pathways from Shasta’s HIT associate degree into the bachelor’s program, easing advancement.
- The curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students for management-level roles across diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- Location: Redding, CA
- ACCJCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- 59%Students W/ Aid
- $6,692Avg. Aid Amount
- 28/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Smith Chason College
Program Details
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 78%Students W/ Aid
- $5,805Avg. Aid Amount
- 21/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Smith Chason College
- Grads are eligible to sit for SPI, CCT, and ARDMS registry exams, strengthening professional credentials.
- The program offers hybrid learning with online lectures, in-person labs, and clinical training for flexibility and real-world skills.
- Students complete a 6-month externship, gaining extensive hands-on clinical experience before entering the workforce.
Program Details
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- ACCSCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- 78%Students W/ Aid
- $5,805Avg. Aid Amount
- 21/1Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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