An online health education degree program can help prepare you for a fulfilling career in health education. Some health educators coordinate health promotion programs and engage in community outreach. These specialists educate individuals and organizations about health problems and preventative strategies.
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For example, a public health educator could lead stress management workshops at community centers and schools. Many public health educators address health disparities by working closely with vulnerable communities.
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If you want to help people lead happier and healthier lives, you might consider pursuing an online health education degree.
Online Health Education Degrees
Health education is an interdisciplinary field that blends education, medicine, and public relations. You can learn how to effectively coordinate, manage, and assess health promotion programs. These initiatives teach people about serious health issues and empower them to make healthier choices.
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Many public health educators promote social justice by working to reduce health inequalities. They aim to address these challenges by expanding access to healthcare and implementing health promotion initiatives for vulnerable groups. An online health education degree can teach you strategies to confront healthcare inequalities and educate people about health and wellness.
You can study a wide range of valuable topics, such as:
- Behavioral health
- Communication
- Environmental health
- Ethics
- Event planning
- Marketing
- Program assessment
- Public health
- Women’s health
You can use your health education degree to pursue a variety of career paths. The broad range of available opportunities means that you can specialize in the health issues or populations you feel most passionate about. For example, if you care deeply about women’s health, you might pursue work as a breast cancer or violence prevention program coordinator.
Possible job paths related to health education include:
- Community health coordinator
- Corporate trainer
- Public health educator
- Nutritionist or dietitian
- Health program coordinator
- Wellness consultant
- Middle or high school health teacher
The wealth of knowledge you could gain as a health education major can help prepare you for a health education or training position in numerous settings, such as:
- Businesses
- Clinics
- Community organizations
- Government agencies
- Hospitals
- Non-profit groups
- Outpatient care centers
- Public and private schools
In these organizations, some health educators provide one-on-one health consultations for individuals. Other professionals primarily develop and manage robust programs that reach thousands of people. And some jobs combine multiple types of health education, allowing you to work with both individuals and broader communities.
Health Education Careers and Salaries
A bachelor’s degree in health education may prepare you for diverse roles in different industries. Unsurprisingly, many health education majors pursue careers in the healthcare industry.
Other employers that may hire individuals with health education and community health degrees include civic groups, schools, government agencies, health and fitness clubs, and research institutions. Your experience, personal interests, and skills may influence your career path.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some potential positions related to health education, along with their median salaries.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $101,340 |
| Project Management Specialists | $94,500 |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $74,000 |
| High School Teachers | $61,820 |
| Dietitians and Nutritionists | $61,650 |
| Training and Development Specialists | $61,570 |
| Middle School Teachers | $61,320 |
| Health Education Specialists | $60,600 |
| Community Health Workers | $46,590 |
| Social and Human Service Assistants | $37,610 |
Numerous factors can impact your job qualifications and potential wages, such as certifications, education, skills, and work experience. Some school positions, for instance, may require a teaching license. You may increase your marketability by enrolling in an accredited degree program that allows you to participate in community health initiatives, internships, and other hands-on learning activities.
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that many of these positions will experience average or faster than average job growth over the next ten years. Overall employment for health education specialists and community health workers will rise by 12% during this period.
Health Education Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
An online health educator degree covers a range of healthcare-related topics. Curricula vary among institutions, but here are some of the foundational courses your program may offer:
- Communicable Diseases: This course provides a detailed overview of the causes, control, and evolution of human communicable diseases throughout history and in the modern day.
- Health Communication, Social Marketing, and Advocacy: You’ll learn how to advocate for better health policies and study ways to use social marketing to alter health behaviors.
- Healthcare Delivery Services: This class analyzes the evolution of the healthcare delivery system in the United States as well as future trends.
- Health Promotion and Lifestyle Modification: You’ll investigate the history of health promotion and discover resources for addressing common health issues, like immunization and tobacco use.
- Introduction to Health Education: You’ll learn about foundational concepts in health education and the typical responsibilities of professionals in this field, including administering services and evaluating the needs of communities.
- Policies and Ethics in Healthcare: This course teaches strategies for making ethical decisions and examines current ethical issues in public health education, like consent, privacy, and reproductive rights.
- Principles of Epidemiology: You’ll study infectious diseases’ characteristics, control, and transmission from a public health lens.
- Social and Behavioral Health: This class covers fundamental approaches and theories in social and behavioral science that affect current and past public health issues.
- Wellness Across the Lifespan: You’ll study how the stages of human development from childhood to old age impact health and wellness.
- Writing and Communication in the Health Sciences Professions: This course teaches you professional verbal and written communication skills for healthcare settings.
Your online health education program may also require you to take general education courses in areas like computer science, English, and math.
How to Choose an Online Degree in Health Education Program
Many schools offer health education degrees online. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind as you research available programs:
- Electives. A program that offers electives in your areas of interest may equip you with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to secure a preferred position.
- Graduation and placement statistics. It can be helpful to research each school’s graduation rates to get a sense of how many students complete the program. Some programs also provide information about the areas where their graduates find employment. This data can help you know that a program aligns with your professional goals.
- Internships. An internship allows you to gain valuable hands-on experience outside the classroom and can help you network with professionals in your field.
- Senior project. Many programs require a cumulative capstone project. This assignment allows you to draw on all the skills you’ve honed during your stories to produce an impressive final assignment. A quality senior project could appeal to potential employers.
- Support. A supportive learning environment may help you succeed. Some programs have small faculty-to-student ratios, enabling you to develop close relationships with your instructors. Your online program may also offer helpful resources like a career center, mental health counselors, and student advisors.
Determining which factors are most important to you may help you find the health educator program that best matches your needs and interests.
Admissions Requirements
Each program has a unique application process, but here are some common admissions requirements for pursuing an online health education degree:
- Minimum GPA from high school or a postsecondary program
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay that may need to respond to a provided prompt
- Transcripts from high school or a GED program
Some schools may also require you to submit SAT or ACT scores, but a growing number of programs no longer mandate standardized test results.
Accreditation
As you research health educator degrees, you may notice that some schools advertise themselves as regionally accredited institutions. A school with regional accreditation has demonstrated that it meets predetermined quality standards set by an external organization.
Enrolling in an accredited program can set you up for future academic and professional opportunities. Employers generally consider accredited schools more prestigious and trustworthy than unaccredited programs. Many graduate schools also only recognize bachelor’s degrees from accredited institutions.
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For additional information about regionally accredited organizations, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s website.
Health Education Licensure and Certifications
Most entry-level health educator jobs only require a relevant bachelor’s degree, but a health education certification or licensure could allow you to showcase your specialties and skills.
Here are examples of a specialized and a general health education credential:
- Asthma Educator Specialist: This certification demonstrates mastery of the cultural dimensions of asthma and the disease’s pathophysiology and management.
- Certified Health Education Specialist: The exam for this certification assesses your understanding of eight core areas of responsibility for public health educators, including advocacy, ethics and professionalism, and implementation.
Earning a health education license could boost your resume and open the door to new career opportunities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
As you research health and physical education degree programs, you can also check out financial assistance opportunities. These options are available to students who qualify and may reduce the upfront costs of your online degree.
You can see if you qualify for grants or student loans from federal and state governments. You could also be eligible for work-study programs that provide opportunities to work for your school or a local business. You can visit the Federal Student Aid website to determine your eligibility for government aid.
In addition, many schools offer grants and scholarships to students who meet certain requirements, such as a minimum GPA. If you’re currently working, your employer may also offer tuition assistance or reimbursement opportunities.
Health Education Professional Organizations
Joining a professional health education organization can provide many valuable opportunities for networking and professional development. Prominent professional organizations include:
- American Public Health Association (APHA): This organization promotes public health for all communities and individuals and offers many continuing learning opportunities for members.
- Health Care Education Association (HCEA): This association organizes conferences and networking events and provides resources for healthcare educators.
- Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE): This organization coordinates an annual conference, provides scholarships, supports advocacy efforts, and offers other opportunities for health promotion professionals.
A professional organization allows you to extend your learning and network outside the classroom.
What Is a Health Education Degree?
A health education degree is a bachelors program that gives you a solid foundation in community and public health education.
You’ll study the underlying causes of public health issues and learn strategies to tackle these challenges. This versatile degree prepares you to develop and evaluate health promotion initiatives in numerous settings, such as corporations, clinics, hospitals, and schools.
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You can gain proficiency in various subjects as you participate in coursework, internships, and other learning opportunities. A health education program can help prepare you for a meaningful career helping others improve their lifestyles, mental health, and well-being.
What Can You Do with a Health Education Degree?
A health education major can pursue a variety of challenging yet fulfilling career paths. Many graduates work in healthcare settings like hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation facilities. Other health educators work in civic organizations, community centers, government agencies, schools, and other areas.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that demand for health education specialists will rise by 8% over the next decade. You can choose between a variety of careers, enabling you to follow your passions. For example, people who enjoy working with children may seek employment as a school health consultant or youth outreach counselor.
Others may choose to continue their educations and earn an on-campus or online master’s in health education degree.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Health Education Degree?
The time it takes you to complete a bachelors in health education depends on several factors. If you enroll full-time in a program with traditional, 16 week semesters, you can typically complete your degree in 4 years.
Some online programs offer accelerated programs that include 8 week semesters and summer courses, allowing you to finish in less time. If you enroll in your online program part-time, it will likely take you longer to finish your degree.
What’s the Difference Between a Bachelor Degree in Health Education vs. Health Promotion?
Both a bachelor in health education and a bachelor in health promotion can help prepare you to educate individuals and communities about health issues. There are a few differences, though, between these majors.
A bachelors in health education emphasizes:
- Collecting data about public health
- Educating people about health issues
- Studying social and political factors
- Researching and developing policies
By contrast, a bachelors in health promotion centers on:
- Creating promotional materials like lectures and pamphlets
- Empowering individuals to adopt healthier behaviors
- Preventing illness
Your personal interests and goals can help determine the best degree path for you.
Is a Bachelor of Health Education Online Degree Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor of Health Education online degree is worth it for many students. Graduates may go on to advocate for increased access to healthcare, encourage healthy lifestyles, and raise public awareness of serious health issues.
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There is a growing need for health educators. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 12% job growth is expected for health education specialists and community health workers over the next ten years. You can also pursue health education opportunities in numerous settings and industries, including healthcare, education, public health, and community and social service.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Health Education Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Health Promotion. Each class is 7.5 weeks long. The curriculum consists of classes like Health Theory, Foundations of Health Education and Health Promotion, and Methods of Health Education. The program is designed to prepare students for the Certified Health Education Specialist exam.
ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arkansas State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion. This program shows how to empower people to control and improve their health. The coursework provides the skills to support positive physical, mental, and environmental lifestyles.
Arkansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Franklin University offers a BS in Health Education and Promotion that is designed for busy adults. The degree is 100% online. Courses are 6 or 12 weeks long and taught by instructors with real-world healthcare experience. Graduates of the program may sit for the CHES examination.
Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
At Mississippi University for Women, students can earn a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Health Education completely online. Potential courses include Biostatistics for Public Health, Social and Behavioral Aspects of Public Health, and Principle of Epidemiology.
Mississippi University for Women is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Pacific College of Health and Science offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and Promotion that can be earned 100% online. Students may earn additional certificates in Medical Cannabis and Health Coaching through electives. The program is designed to prepare students for the Certified Health Education Specialist exam.
Pacific College of Health and Science is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Purdue University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Promotion. Each course is 10 weeks long and typically requires 15 to 18 hours of study per week. Students may gain real-world experience through an optional internship. The program also offers an accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s track to help students get a head start on graduate school.
Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Saint Leo University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Promotion that can be earned on campus. The program uses an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning. The curriculum is designed to help students develop strong communication skills and learn how to apply evidence-based practices. It aims to prepare students for the CHES exam.
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education. Classes have no set meeting times, and students can access course materials at any time. There are six 8-week terms each year, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Test scores are not needed to apply.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.
Touro University offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a Health Education track. Courses are 100% online, and each one is 8 weeks long. Potential courses include Human Nutrition, Cultural Competence in Health Care, and Principles of Educating and Teaching Individuals and Communities. On average, the program takes 3.5 years to complete.
Touro University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Arkansas—Little Rock offers a BS in Health Education and Promotion. Students must also complete an 18 credit minor, with Exercise Science recommended by the program. Potential courses include Introduction to Epidemiology, Health Education Concepts and Applications, and Controversial Issues in Health Education.
UA Little Rock is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Florida offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Health Education. The curriculum emphasizes diversity and culturally appropriate methods of education. Courses are designed to be flexible and convenient but are taught by the same instructors that teach on campus and are designed to provide the same academic rigor.
The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Massachusetts—Amherst offers a BA with a concentration in Health Studies. The program is designed to help adults with prior college credits finish their degrees. Students may be able to receive credit for military training, professional certifications, and more. Prospective students can apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of New Mexico offers a fully online program for a BS in Community Health Education. Prospective students can apply at any time to start in the next 8-week term. Potential courses include Emotional Health and Interpersonal Relationships, Health Promotion Program Planning, and Principles of Epidemiology. Graduates of the program may take the CHES exam.
The University of New Mexico is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of North Carolina—Greensboro offers a BS in Public Health Education that can be earned completely online. This cohort-based program includes courses like Public Health and Health Care Systems in the US, Environmental Health, and Epidemiology. This is a degree completion program intended for those who already have an associate degree.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Walden University offers a BS in Health Studies with a concentration in Health Promotion and Wellness that is designed to prepare students for the CHES exam. Walden offers two different types of online courses: Tempo Learning, which is completely asynchronous, and Course-Based Learning, which provides a structured schedule.
Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Bachelors in Health Education Degree Online
An online bachelors degree in health education enables you to develop the abilities, cultural competencies, and knowledge necessary to teach individuals and communities about health issues.
You could have the opportunity to directly impact the lives of others by helping them adopt healthier lifestyles and preventative strategies. You might also help address health crises by advocating for new policies, coordinating health promotion programs, and providing individual counseling.
If you’re ready to start your journey toward a health education career, you can check out online health education degrees from accredited schools today to find programs that will support your career goals.
