Health educators often have opportunities to positively impact people's lives. Bachelor's in health education graduates can work in a variety of healthcare settings. For example, health educators may work in wellness centers, counseling individuals on healthy life choices, or they may promote and implement sanitary and health protocols in remote countries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), health educators and community health workers earn a median salary of $48,140 per year. The BLS projects a 13% growth rate for jobs in this sector from 2019-2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This projection reflects the increasing demand for the services and expertise of health educators in improving individual, community, and global health outcomes.
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FAQ on Online Health Education
What degree does a health educator need?
Health educators typically need at least a bachelor's degree in health education or a related field, such as public health or education.
How much money does a health educator make?
According to BLS data, health education specialists earn a median annual salary of $56,500. The highest 10% of professionals earn more than $101,890 per year.
How many years is a health education degree?
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's in health education in four years.
What are the types of health education?
Health educators can specialize in fields including public health, wellness, and adolescent health.
Why Get a Degree in Health Education?
Graduates of health education programs can work in settings such as hospitals and wellness centers, schools, pharmaceutical companies, and international humanitarian organizations. In addition, a bachelor's in health education qualifies holders to pursue many graduate programs related to healthcare, social services, and education. Graduates often earn master's degrees in public health and social work.
Many colleges and universities offer online bachelor's in health education programs. Distance learners often save money on expenses such as housing, transportation, and campus fees. Many online students also continue working while earning their health education bachelor's degree.
How Much Does a Health Education Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, four-year public institutions cost $21,035 on average for the 2019-2020 academic year. Four-year private schools cost an average of $48,965 for the same year. Both numbers include tuition, fees, and room and board. Although costs vary by school, these figures can give students an idea of the typical cost to earn a bachelor's in health education on campus.
Without the expense of on-campus housing, online learners pay significantly lower amounts. For the 2019-2020 academic year, in-state public colleges charged an average of $9,349 for tuition and required fees alone. Private institutions charged $35,807 on average. Additionally, some public schools charge all online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
Students can use the calculation tool below to compare the cost of attendance between various colleges and universities. School websites often provide much of the required information. Online learners should also research technology fees.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Health Education Majors Make?
Several factors influence salary potential for health education specialists, including industry, state, and education level. According to BLS data, the highest-paying employers for health education specialists include the federal executive branch, wholesalers and merchants of nondurable goods, and companies offering accounting and payroll services.
Geographic location also impacts earning potential. The District of Columbia, Georgia, and Maryland offer the highest median salaries for health education specialists.
Some health education majors become dietitians and nutritionists. These professionals earn a median salary of $63,090 per year. Health education degree-holders can also pursue a master's degree in epidemiology to qualify for positions as epidemiologists, who earn a median annual salary of $74,560.
Courses in Health Education
Each health education program offers different courses. However, most curricula include classes in health promotion program planning, research methodologies, teaching principles, and effective communication. Some schools offer concentrations such as community health, the nutritional needs of infant and young children, and health systems administration.
In addition to preparing learners for careers, a health education bachelor's degree provides the academic foundation necessary for graduate studies. The list below features three courses common to many health education programs.
Foundations of Health Education and Health Promotion
The course provides an overview of the history and development of health education. Students also explore current health education philosophy and practice, along with cultural, political, and socioeconomic aspects of health promotion. Coursework introduces evidence-based practice and research tools and methods.
Methods of Health Education
In this course, degree-seekers gain an understanding of health education pedagogy. Students prepare to set appropriate learning objectives and devise student-assessment plans. Enrollees also learn how to structure a challenging yet positive learning environment and to select effective instructional and presentation methods.
Nutrition Science
Students in this course explore the science of food and nutrition. Graduates can use this knowledge to promote lasting dietary behavior changes. Enrollees explore topics such as the cultural aspects of food, the role of nutrients in maintaining optimal energy balance, and healthy dietary patterns. Degree-seekers examine sustainable dietary options that minimize the risk of chronic illness while promoting environmental health.
Certifications and Licensure for Health Education
Most health educators do not need a license to practice. However, some positions require additional credentials. For example, health educators may need a teaching license to work in school settings. Professionals can also pursue voluntary certifications to demonstrate expertise in the field. These credentials may qualify holders for leadership positions and higher salaries.
The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing administers this nationally recognized credential. Candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree in health education or a closely related field.
Applicants for this certification from the National Asthma Educator Certification Board must typically hold healthcare certification or licensure. Healthcare practitioners without these credentials can apply for the certification with at least 1,000 hours of relevant work experience.
Licensed or certified healthcare practitioners can pursue this credential from the American Council on Exercise. Candidates must complete the weight management specialist program and pass the tests at the end of each module.
Scholarship for Health Education
Health education majors can apply for financial aid opportunities from a variety of sources, including their institution. State and federal government agencies, professional organizations, and private nonprofits also award funding to students in health education programs.
Billy Kane Undergraduate Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Full-time health education students can apply for this scholarship from the Society of Health and Physical Educators. Applicants need a minimum 3.25 GPA.
Amount: $1,000
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Ron Brown Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports African American high school seniors with an excellent academic record and demonstrable financial need. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community service and acceptance to an accredited college.
Amount: $10,000 per year for up to four years
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Native Health Care Undergraduate Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Sophomore and junior healthcare students can apply for this award from the Udall Foundation. Applicants must show Native American or Alaska Native heritage.
Amount: Up to $7,000
Explore Here
Online Bachelor's in in Health Education Programs
#1 Online Health Education Degrees
Eastern Washington University
- Cheney, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Cheney, Washington, Eastern Washington University enrolls students in many online programs, including its online health education program. The public institution offers a variety of enrollment options, including online and in-person programs. The master of public health uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. During an online health education degree, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
The school charges an average per-credit fee of $304. Students pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant.
Eastern Washington University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,825
Online Bachelor's Programs: 33
Online Master's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 96%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Online Health Education Degrees
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in College Station, Texas A&M University offers a top-ranked online degree. At the public institution, degree-seekers take classes in-person and online. The master of public health in health policy and management trains students for careers in health education.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in the students' hands. During an online degree, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each enrollee's interests and career goals. Program participants benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
At the accredited institution, distance learners can use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should contact the financial aid office to see what funding options the qualify for.
Texas A&M University Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,451
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 38
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 82%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Health Education Degrees
Rutgers University–New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Rutgers University–New Brunswick enrolls students in many online programs, including its online master of public health in global public health program. The public institution offers a variety of learning formats, including in-person and online courses. With a public health degree, professionals pursue entry-level roles in diverse fields.
Designed with working students in mind, the flexible format makes it easier to earn a college degree. During the online program, learners gain career-focused knowledge and skills. Participants work closely with faculty advisors to design a custom degree plan based on their interests and professional goals. The school's support services include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online enrollees can pay for school with scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should talk to a financial aid counselor to learn more about what kinds of funding opportunities are available and what they may qualify for.
Rutgers University–New Brunswick Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 11,925
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Online Health Education Degrees
The University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its Tucson campus, the University of Arizona enrolls students in an online public health program, one of the best of its kind. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the public institution. The bachelor of science in public health uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. During online classes, participants strengthen their communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. The school supports online enrollees through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
The university reports that distance learners typically pay $1,050 per credit. Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant. Applicants should contact the financial aid office to see what funding options they qualify for.
The University of Arizona Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 18,590
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Online Master's Programs: 27
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Health Education Degrees
The University of Missouri-Columbia
- Columbia, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public postsecondary school, the University of Missouri-Columbia is one of the best online schools in the country. It features many programs at the bachelor's and master's levels, including online degrees. Among these options is the bachelor of health science in public health. The school features an admissions rate of 81%.
The bachelor's programs rank among the best in the nation for quality and affordability. Students can access support services online and in person. Degree-seekers can access peer tutoring to excel in their classes. The University of Missouri-Columbia has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
The University of Missouri-Columbia at a Glance:
Student Graduation Rate: 71%
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 89%
Students Awarded Loans: 38%
Average Net Price: $15,850
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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