What Can I Learn in an Online Master's in Health Education Program?
Health education master's programs help students gain a deep knowledge of major concepts, theories, and historical trends within the health education arena. These graduate programs generally emphasize the application of field concepts and theories, preparing students to develop and critique health education offerings and programs.
Many health education programs require field experience along with coursework. Online students generally complete an internship or job placement in their local community. These experiential components help learners gain practical skills and bolster their resume.
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What Common Courses Are Offered in a Master's in Health Education Program?
Specific course offerings and titles vary by program and school. However, most students earning a master's in health education online take at least some of the following courses.
Healthcare Statistics
This course explores differential and inferential statistics, along with their applications in healthcare and health education. Coursework covers topics related to data collection and dissemination, and students learn to interpret research findings in the field. Learners develop the skills necessary to contribute to quantitative research in health education.Public Health Leadership
Experienced health education professionals often pursue leadership roles. This course provides the core skills necessary to succeed as a leader in the field. Students explore topics including healthcare structures, costs, and program accessibility. Students also learn about relevant economic concepts and examine healthcare leadership from an ethical perspective.Health Education and Communication
Health educators need strong communication skills to effectively create and deliver health education programs. This course examines the fundamentals of health education programs. Learners also explore best practices for communicating culturally relevant and literate health education initiatives. Students analyze existing programs and develop their own campaign.Community Health Assessment
This course builds knowledge related to health behavior principles, issues in the healthcare system, and healthcare policies. Learners explore methods for assessing and improving community health. The class covers topics including disease prevention and the promotion of better health practices. Students may also analyze existing community health data.Health Program Development
Students in this course learn the fundamentals of designing a public health program. Participants examine methods for designing programs, and they learn how to implement health programs. Coursework explores core concepts in health education, leadership, and community health.
What Exams or Projects Should I Expect?
Students earning their master's in health education online must typically complete either a capstone or thesis project. Some programs may also require a comprehensive written or oral examination.
While completing capstone projects, students generally take a capstone seminar course, during which they work closely with a faculty member and sometimes other students. A common capstone project for health education students involves designing a healthcare program.
Thesis projects typically require students to work independently -- but under the supervision of a faculty advisor -- to complete a formal research project and paper. Thesis projects may involve fieldwork and research into trends in healthcare policy and education.
What Specializations Are Available in a Master's in Health Education Program?
Many health education master's programs offer students the opportunity to pursue a specialization or degree concentration. Available specializations vary by program, but the options below are common to many health education programs.
Community Health
This concentration prepares learners to promote community health. Students explore topics in community health assessment, and they learn to design and implement public health programs. Students also take courses in data analysis and evaluationSchool Health
This concentration prepares students for certification as school health professionals. Coursework typically meets state licensure requirements. Learners take courses on topics such as drug abuse and violence prevention, sexual health, and wellness.Workplace Wellness
This concentration prepares students to create and run employer-sponsored health and wellness programs, many of which incentivize employee participation. Coursework explores program development and issues specific to health promotion in the workplace.
What Can I Do with a Master's in Health Education Degree?
Earning a master's in health education can lead to a variety of careers. Graduates can pursue jobs in health education and related fields. Master's degree-holders often qualify for advanced positions with higher earning potential. The occupations below are common options for graduates with this degree.
Health Programs Management Director
These professionals often work in academic settings, such as universities and colleges. They often serve in university health centers and work alongside faculty and staff to create health and wellness programs.Adjunct Faculty
A master's in health education may qualify graduates to work as adjunct faculty at some colleges. Adjunct health education faculty members teach courses in their field. These professionals work on a contract basis.Wellness Consultant
Wellness consultants often work as independent contractors. These professionals help various types of organizations create and implement wellness programs for employees. Wellness consultants may also be called health coaches and employee wellness coordinators.School Health Educator
These health educators can work in public and private schools, alongside school nurses and other health practitioners. School health educators assess student wellness and design health programs to address the needs of the school community.Community Health Educator
Community health educators work in public health settings, such as hospitals and government agencies. These professionals educate the public about health issues. They also implement wellness programs and promote health initiatives.
How Much Can I Make With a Career in Health Education?
Although no degree guarantees a specific position or salary, professionals with a master's in health education often qualify for advanced roles with higher earning potential. The table below includes some careers in the field that master's degree-holders can pursue, along with the median salary of each. Individual salaries vary based on factors including experience and location.
Health Educators
Health educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. Community health workers collect data and discuss health concerns with members of specific populations or communities.
Median Annual Salary: $54,220
Job Growth 2018-2028: 10%
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Dietitians and nutritionists advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal.
Median Annual Salary: $60,370
Job Growth 2018-2028: 11%
Health Specialities Teachers, Postsecondary
Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and technical subjects beyond the high school level.
Median Annual Salary: $97,370
Job Growth 2018-2028: 23%
Community Health Workers
Health educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. Community health workers collect data and discuss health concerns with members of specific populations or communities.
Median Annual Salary: $39,540
Job Growth 2018-2028: 13%
Online Master's in Health Education Program Accreditation
Higher education institutions in the U.S. can hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation being older and more prestigious. Programs at accredited institutions may also receive field-specific accreditation. For example, health education students can look for programs with accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
CAAHEP accreditation ensures that a health education master's program meets set academic standards. Additionally, candidates with a degree from a CAAHEP-accredited program may stand out in the job market.
How to Pay for a Master's in Health Education Degree
Although the task of paying for a master's in health education online program may seem daunting, students can pursue a variety of options to help fund their education. Some schools offer program-based funding opportunities, and all schools should help students determine their eligibility for state and federal financial aid.
Techniques for Financing a Master's in Health Education
Research Assistantships
Many health education programs provide research assistantships for graduate students. These programs partially or completely waive tuition in exchange for a student's assistance with faculty and department research projects.
Teaching Assistantships
Graduate students in health education often work as teaching assistants, helping full-time faculty members in the department in exchange for a stipend and/or tuition remission. Teaching assistants aid professors with the instruction and assessment of undergraduate courses.
Federal Loans and Grants
Health education graduate students often qualify for federal student aid. Many learners take out federal loans, which they must repay. Need-based federal grants are less common for graduate students than for undergraduates.
Best Online Master's Programs in Health Education 2022
#1 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida delivers academic programs online and on campus. The public institution's offerings include an online master's in health education and behavior for distance learners throughout the country. The flexible program helps professionals prepare for leadership roles while maintaining employment.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex health education issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. While completing the master's program, enrollees take core and specialized coursework to gain a solid foundation in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to health education careers.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants.
University of Florida Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 126
Total Online Programs: 68
Number of Online Students: 24,310
Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $27,335
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Florida International University offers an online master of public health program. The Florida university reports that 26,192 students take online classes. The accredited public health curriculum ensures that students receive a rigorous education employers value. The program offers the chance for students to develop advanced skills and training for public health careers. Learners receive one-on-one attention from faculty thanks to the school's student-to-faculty ratio of 27-to-1.
The school's website provides additional information about online student services. Graduate students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes it easier for master's students to cover the cost of their degree. The school reports a graduation rate of 63% for its programs.
Florida International University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 39,863
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 31
Graduate Tuition: $8,912/year in-state; $21,393/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,958
Average Net Price: $9,888
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of West Florida enrolls students in an online master's program. The university educates 3,951 students through its online courses. Online students can earn their master of public health at the school. The accredited curriculum sets high standards for academic excellence. The degree builds advanced knowledge and skills for public health careers. The university reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 21-to-1, giving students one-on-one time with instructors.
The school's website provides additional information about online student services. Distance learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. Combined, this makes the public health master’s degree an affordable option for learners who want to pursue a graduate education on a budget. The school reports a graduation rate of 46% for its programs.
University of West Florida Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 8,296
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 15
Average Cost Per Credit: 390
Graduate Tuition: $7,088/year in-state; $22,166/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,789
Average Net Price: $7,515
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The public institution delivers an online master of public health for distance learners. Professionals currently employed in the health education field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree.
Faculty advisors help graduate students customize their academic experience and explore issues facing professionals in the health education field. Enrollees develop specialized knowledge in the field and soft skills that apply to many professional roles. Master's courses cover industry-relevant topics to strengthen analytical and leadership skills.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options. The school offers institutional funding for eligible applicants.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 84
Total Online Programs: 25
Number of Online Students: 3,721
Per-Credit Tuition: $1,767
Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $28,278
Grants Transfer Credits: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of California, Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of California, Berkeley delivers undergraduate and graduate programs. The school has a total of two online master's programs.
The institution's online master of public health program is ideal for degree-seekers interested in health education careers. Learners currently employed in the field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Faculty advising, career counseling, and experiential learning programs prepare graduates for the workforce.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Students with financial need can qualify for federal aid, including grants and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
University of California, Berkeley Numbers:
Price Per Credit: $2,712
Students Receiving Aid: 63%
Students Receiving Loans: 22%
Total Master's Programs: 104
Total Online Master's Programs: 104
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
East Carolina University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Greenville campus. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school offers many master's programs online.
Distance degree-seekers can pursue an online MA in health education from the institution to prepare for health education careers. The degree can qualify graduates for promotions or raises. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many enrollees. Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Learners often pursue fellowships to fund their graduate education.
East Carolina University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 79%
Students Receiving Loans: 53%
Total Master's Programs: 72
Total Online Master's Programs: 72
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern State University of Louisiana delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Natchitoches campus. Online learners can pursue the school's distance education programs. The institution's online master's degree in health and human performance is ideal for students interested in health education careers.
Enrollees can receive academic advising from health education faculty members. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online health education program's scheduling flexibility. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. To fund their education, 48% of enrollees take out loans. Additionally, 97% of the institution's learners receive financial aid to pay for their education.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 88
Number of Online Programs: 53
Online Master's Programs: 21
Number of Online Students: 8,906
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of Illinois at Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Springfield delivers graduate programs in various fields. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master's programs. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable MPH in environmental health.
Master's students take core classes to gain foundational knowledge in the public health field. In addition to completing advanced courses, degree-seekers can customize the program through electives. Graduate students can pursue internships and faculty mentorships to prepare for the workforce and bolster their resume.
A master of public health can lead to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. Graduate students and alumni can receive professional assistance and resources from the institution's career counselors.
The school's average cost per credit is unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Learners can reduce the cost of earning a master's degree by applying for grants, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. Of the school's graduate students, 96% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Stillwater. The school offers 10 online master's programs and 25 online master's programs, which often benefit learners with personal or professional responsibilities.
The institution's master of public health prepares online degree-seekers to succeed in health education careers. After earning the master's degree in public health, graduates can launch a new career in the field. Master's students can access support services such as academic advising, career-planning resources, and faculty mentorship.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 90%
Students Receiving Loans: 42%
Total Master's Programs: 76
Total Online Master's Programs: 76
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s In Health Education Programs
University of Illinois at Chicago
- Chicago, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Chicago delivers undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution's offerings include an online master of public health for distance learners throughout the country. The master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions.
Faculty advisors help graduate students customize their academic experience and explore issues facing professionals in the public health field. The MPH program's rigorous curriculum fosters specialized and transferable skills. In addition to public health knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants. Online learners at the school can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
University of Illinois at Chicago at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 108
Total Online Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 7,719
Fee Per Credit: $750
Graduate Tuition In-State: $13,276
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $23,850
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Scholarships for Master's in Health Education Students
Who Can Apply: Applicants must be HOSA members who are enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in public health or a related field. HOSA considers applicants for a variety of available scholarships.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Students enrolled in a graduate program in health information management or a related field can apply for these awards. Applicants must be AHIMA members and hold a minimum 3.5 GPA.
Amount: $2,000
Who Can Apply: Master's students enrolled in a health education program at an accredited university can apply for this award. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit an essay and two letters of recommendation.
Amount: $1,000
Who Can Apply: Applicants must submit proof of enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program in health education or a related field. Applicants must also submit a formal application and a letter of recommendation.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Graduate students in health-related fields can apply for this fellowship. Fellows dedicate time to a public health community service project and develop leadership skills.
Amount: Varies
Professional Organizations and Resources
Students earning a master's in health education online can benefit from joining professional organizations. Students and professionals in health education can attend conferences, pursue scholarly publication, and take advantage of networking opportunities through these organizations.
ASHA connects health professionals, educators, clinicians, and administrators. Members develop programs and policies that improve the learning and lives of students. The association offers webinars and an annual conference.
Affiliated with the American Hospital Association, this organization provides health education resources, including professional development and networking opportunities. Members can access conferences, webinars, and volunteer opportunities.
This council provides programmatic accreditation to public health programs. CEPH also offers student resources and career opportunities in health education.
This student-focused organization oversees scholarship and grant opportunities, state and national conferences, and an alumni network. Members can also access publications and internship opportunities.
This organization represents health education centers across the country. Health education students can access a database of health education centers and can take advantage of continuing education opportunities.
NCHEC awards credentials to health educators, including the certified health education specialist designation. NCHEC's website offers study tools, exam resources, and information on continuing education opportunities.
This organization offers a collaborative platform for health professionals in various disciplines. Members can attend global events and access health education resources.
This online database of resources can help health education students design health education programs and campaigns. These free online resources can be adapted for any learning level.
SOPHE provides resources to help health educators improve public health. The society offers awards, fellowships, scholarships, and access to scholarly publications.
This government agency provides a variety of resources for health educators. The department offers information about programs and services, explanations of laws and policies, and access to grant opportunities.
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