Online Health Science Certificates: Compare Programs & More
Are you interested in starting or transitioning into a healthcare career but unsure if a four-year degree suits you? Or are you an experienced healthcare professional who wants to add to your skill set and take on new roles? If you’re looking for a flexible way to bolster your healthcare resume, an online certificate in health science may be the perfect solution. Let EduMed help you discover how earning your health science certification can open doors to new opportunities in a wide array of allied healthcare specialties.
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Online Certified Health Science Professional Programs to Help You Advance
When discussing health science certificate programs, it’s important to distinguish between undergraduate and graduate certificates. Undergraduate certificates typically feature general health science curriculums that prepare students for various entry-level jobs in health services, while graduate-level certificates offer specialized training to current health professionals, allowing them to deepen their pool of knowledge and get ahead in their current careers.
One thing all certificate programs mentioned in this guide have in common is that they feature online components. In fact, it’s not uncommon for certificate content to be presented 100% online, often in an asynchronous format that allows students to log on and attend to their coursework according to their own schedules. To give you an idea of just what online health science certificates are all about, here are profiles for exemplary online graduate and undergraduate certificate programs.
Liberty University
The Undergraduate Certificate in Health Sciences offered through Liberty University Online provides a good example of the type of academic content and learning objectives featured in most undergraduate certificate programs. Coursework provides a foundational understanding of how the human body and its many systems work, and the roles each system plays in overall health. Students also gain practical skills to better communicate with patients and fellow health team members. Graduates are prepared to fill a wide range of entry-level positions in community and public health, health education, patient care services, medical office management, and more.
Duration: Varies by student’s chosen study pace.
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $250-390/credit (varies by courseload and military status)
Admission Requirements:
- Submit high school transcripts, GED test scores, or college transcripts showing completion of at least 12 earned college credits
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 1.5
- Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores for the TOEFL or approved alternative assessment
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Health Professions
- Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Drugs in Society
- Human Nutrition
- Health Promotion for Aging Populations
Northwestern University
Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies offers an undergraduate Health, Science, and Society Online Certificate designed for individuals interested in working in various health-aligned fields (research, education, etc.) or preparing for graduate or professional study in health- or medical-related areas. Students may start the program during any semester and must complete one course in each of four consecutive semesters. All course content is delivered online in an asynchronous format. Credits earned in the certificate program can be applied to a bachelor’s degree program in Northwestern’s School of Professional Studies.
Duration: One year
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $9,320 (total tuition and technology fees)
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED or equivalent from non-U.S. institution
- Official high school transcripts with conferred completion date, GED report, or official conferral of a bachelor’s or advanced degree from a regionally accredited institution (or its equivalent from a non-U.S. institution.)
- Statement of purpose
- Current resume or CV
Curriculum:
- The Evolutionary Biology of Human Anatomy, Health and Disease
- Bioethics
- Healthcare Disparities, Inequities, and Social Determinants of Health
- Culturally Responsive Healthcare
Arizona State University
The Online Science of Health Care Delivery Graduate Certificate available through Arizona State University Online provides students with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the safe and cost-effective delivery of health care services. Graduates commonly find work as clinicians, consultants, healthcare managers, or healthcare administrators. The curriculum consists of five classes each lasting seven and a half weeks, allowing students to complete all certificate requirements in less than a year. All credits earned in the certificate program can be applied to ASU’s Online Master of Science in Health Care Administration and Policy.
Duration: One year or less
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $969/credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or graduate degree
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of the applicant’s first bachelor’s degree program or an applicable master’s degree program
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources
- Current CV or resume
Curriculum:
- Health Care Systems and Design
- Health Economics, Policy, and Payment Models
- Population Health
- Biostatistics and Data Management (Elective)
- Clinical Decision Support and Evidence-Based Medicine (Elective)
- Fundamentals of Health Informatics (Elective)
- Leadership and Professionalism (Elective)
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Student Help Center: Common Health Science Certificate Questions Answered
If you’ve read to this point, you’ve likely got a foundational understanding of what health science certificate programs are about, but you also probably have a few questions yet to be answered. To help, here are the answers to five questions often asked by prospective students about online health science certificates.
What should I look for to ensure that the health science certificate program I’m looking at is a quality one?
Proper accreditation is a major indicator of academic quality in postsecondary education, including health science certificate programs. You’ll be looking for two types of accreditation during your search: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation of U.S.-based colleges and universities is administered by several national and regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. You can check the current accreditation status by using the DoE’s accreditation record search engine.
How long will it take to earn my online certificate in health science?
One of the major benefits of choosing a certificate over a full degree is that certificates require substantially less time to earn; this being said, with the great variety of types of online health science certificates, it’s no surprise that completion times vary from program to program. The two factors that affect program lengths the most are the total credits needed and the student’s study pace (full-time, part-time, self-paced). Generally speaking, most undergraduate health science certificates can be earned in around one year, while graduate health science certificate completion times can range from several months to two years.
How much will my health sciences certificate program cost?
The costs of online health science certificate programs also vary by program, with most coming in around $5,000 but going up to $15,000. The biggest factors affecting costs for certificate programs are the same as those for degree programs, including whether the school is public or private and the student’s sate residency status. Additionally, tuition rates for graduate certificates tend to be higher than those for undergraduate certificates.
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my online certificate in health science?
Yes. Most of the financial aid available to health science degree students is also available to certificate students. Popular types include scholarships and grants (both in-house and external), employer tuition reimbursement opportunities, work studies, and student loans. Contact the financial aid offices at the schools you’re considering to find out about the funding resources you may be eligible for.
Can I transfer the credits earned in my online health science certificate program into a degree program?
In many cases, yes. Schools that offer health science certificates often allow students to transfer course credits earned in their certificate programs into degree programs in the same or similar academic field. It’s important to note, however, that transferability may only be possible between certificate and degree programs offered by the same school.
Career Details for a Certified Health Science Professional
As we mentioned above, undergraduate certificates in health science prepare students like you to take on a wide range of entry-level jobs in the healthcare field and get an early boost to your resume. Graduate-level health science certificates prepare current healthcare professionals to gain knowledge and skills in many specialized practice areas, providing foundational coursework leading to continued study to prepare for professional and clinical occupations in public health, postsecondary education and research, and even in becoming a physician.
Below are five entry-level careers popular with undergraduate health science certificate holders. Remember that a health science graduate certificate will often prepare students for senior-level careers in the same fields.
Community Health Worker
Community health workers promote wellness by providing counseling services that help individuals adopt healthier lifestyles. They also aid patients and clients by advocating for them with healthcare providers, insurers, and social services agencies. Community health workers are employed in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations. A strong background in health science could help a lot in a role like this.
Healthcare Sales and Marketing Representatives
Healthcare sales and marketing representatives work for manufacturers and distributors of medical and healthcare products and services (medical devices, pharmaceuticals, health insurance, etc.) in various promotional, marketing, and sales roles. Success in this career requires self-discipline and motivation, strong communication skills, and a solid understanding of the healthcare industry. A health science certificate may make you more appealing to employers and customers alike, as it would allow you to talk the talk of the medical professionals you sell to.
Health Education Specialist
Health educators create and maintain health education programs that promote illness prevention and healthy lifestyles for individuals, families, and communities. Strong communication skills are particularly important for establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships within the community and for making presentations at conferences, workshops, schools, and in other settings. For those seeking to help their community, getting certified in health science may allow you to do a lot of tangible good.
Health Information Technologist
Health information technologists design, develop, implement, and manage computerized records systems used to collect and store clinical data for healthcare facilities and organizations. They may also advise clients and train staff in systems use. Graduate health science certificates offer current HITs the opportunity to advance into jobs in related specialized fields like health informatics.
Medical and Health Service Managers
Medical and health service managers are the businesspeople in the healthcare industry. They plan, institute, and carry out the business policies and activities for health services providers in a wide range of settings. Undergraduate health science certificate holders are often employed in entry-level managerial assistant roles. For those with a degree in business seeking a high-ranking administrative position in the healthcare field, a health science graduate certificate can be a great choice.
Top Rated Online Health Science Certificates
One of the best ways to start your search for online certificates in health science is to look at what the top schools offer. To make your search easier, we’ve identified the best certificates out there today. The rankings below were selected by considering several program elements essential to students, including academic quality, affordability, study convenience, support services, and more; further details can be seen by clicking the ”About Rankings” button.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent
- Kent State’s Health Science Certificate program offers personalized access to industry experts and peer networking opportunities that enhance professional connections and future job prospects.
- The program benefits from a partnership with Cleveland Clinic providing students access to world-renowned care, on-site sports physical therapy, and registered dietitians, supporting optimal health and wellness.
- Students can accelerate career advancement by gaining specialized knowledge recognized by employers, improving competitiveness for promotions and niche healthcare roles.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,684 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sinclair Community College
- The Health Information Management Technician Certificate program at Sinclair offers most courses fully online, providing flexibility for students to complete coursework remotely.
- There is no waiting list for the program; students register on a first-come, first-served basis each semester, allowing for prompt enrollment without delay.
- Students in this certificate program are not required to complete clinical rotations or background checks as part of their studies, simplifying entry and reducing upfront barriers (though employers may require them for hiring).
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,684 Avg. Aid Amount
- 32% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,447 Avg. Aid Amount
- 90% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Florida
- The program offers a specialized focus on ethical decision-making in AI applications within public health and healthcare, ensuring students are prepared for responsible AI use.
- Students develop applied skills in high-demand AI technologies with direct relevance to public health practice and healthcare settings.
- The certificate is embedded within a university-wide AI initiative, connecting students to a growing interdisciplinary AI community and resources across UF Health and its colleges.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,447 Avg. Aid Amount
- 90% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Cowley County Community College
Arkansas City, KSProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,280 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cowley County Community College
- The Health Science Certificate program at Cowley College includes a Career Series Voucher, providing valuable certification exam preparation that enhances job readiness.
- The program prepares students for a variety of national certification exams, offering specialized career tracks like Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and Certified Patient Care Technician.
- Students gain hands-on training with electronic health records systems and industry-recognized certifications, boosting employability in diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,280 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $7,666 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Utah State University
- The Health, Wellness, and Equity Certificate program at Utah State University offers students access to expert faculty across multiple health-related departments, enriching interdisciplinary learning and application.
- The program emphasizes addressing health disparities and promoting equity, preparing students to design impactful health and wellness programs that meet community needs.
- Students benefit from cross-disciplinary collaboration and practical skills development, positioning them for diverse roles in health-related fields focused on wellness and social justice.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $7,666 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,875 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain
- The Health Science Certificate program offers need-based financial aid to qualified applicants, ensuring accessible education for all students.
- The program is designed by industry experts to provide practical, in-demand technical skills aligned with current healthcare standards.
- Students can save money by applying their existing healthcare experience toward the certificate, enhancing earning potential without redundant coursework.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,875 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,778 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of South Alabama
- The Health Science Certificate program at the University of South Alabama offers specialized career tracks in various health science fields, providing targeted skill development for specific professional roles.
- The program is designed to enhance student success through dedicated support services and academic guidance related to admission, progression, and graduation specific to health sciences disciplines.
- Students benefit from interprofessional introduction courses that build early awareness of career opportunities and the value of higher education within health sciences, aiding informed decision-making and motivation.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,778 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Fort Smith, ARProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,240 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- The Health Science Certificate program at UAFS offers an accelerated B.S.N. pathway that enables students to earn their degree in as little as 15 months, accelerating career entry.
- The program features experienced faculty teaching in modern classrooms and laboratories, ensuring high-quality, hands-on learning essential for professional success.
- A formal partnership with Arkansas Colleges of Health Education guarantees qualified UAFS students an admissions interview for advanced graduate health programs, facilitating smooth academic and career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,240 Avg. Aid Amount
- 37% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,230 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Neosho County Community College
- The Health Information Technology program at Neosho County Community College is accredited by CAHIIM, providing graduates with industry-recognized credentials that enhance employment credibility and professional opportunities.
- Students benefit from training aligned with American Health Information Management Association standards, ensuring comprehensive skills in managing health information systems, medical coding, and legal/ethical healthcare data handling.
- Graduates have diverse employment prospects across numerous healthcare settings including hospitals, insurance companies, long-term care, and consulting firms, offering strong job placement potential in various professional environments.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,230 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,079 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Otero College
- The Health Navigator program offers a distance learning option with full online access to faculty support, enabling flexible study from home.
- Scholarships and financial aid are available for qualified students to help reduce the cost of the Health Navigator program.
- The program is delivered cooperatively among three rural colleges, allowing students to take courses locally then complete the degree online through Otero Junior College.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,079 Avg. Aid Amount
- 43% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/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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