In this article, we highlight the 30 best online bachelor’s in health sciences and nutrition degree programs.
Allied health professionals have important roles in healthcare organizations. They are directly involved with patients through the delivery of health services. They also increase the efficiency of doctors, dentists, and other healthcare specialists. Bachelor’s degree programs in allied health, health sciences, or health and nutrition are designed to equip students with a broad-based education in issues and trends facing the healthcare community. Graduates often assume leadership roles in the healthcare field.
Ranking Methodology
We examined 75 accredited colleges and universities that offer online bachelor’s degrees in:
- health
- health sciences
- nutrition
- sports nutrition
We gathered initial information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. From our list of schools, we reviewed college and program rankings published by Forbes magazine, The Princeton Review, and U.S. News and World Report. Of the schools recognized by one of these publications, we then chose the 30 most affordable institutions based on current undergraduate tuition prices published by NCES College Navigator. We listed the school on our list in order of affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for the 30 best online bachelor’s in health sciences and related programs.
#30 – Pacific University
Online Bachelor of Health Science
Forest Grove, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $39,858
Pacific University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in health science degree program that is for working adults. All coursework is delivered online with weekly interactive sessions for students and their instructors. The program is ideal for those working part-time and full-time jobs when attending traditional classes impossible. Online courses include:
- comparative healthcare delivery systems
- health policy and law
- leadership and ethics in healthcare
- statistical analysis and decision-making
Several certificate programs are available and work in relation with the bachelor’s program. Pacific University is a top-ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 22nd best regional university in the West.
#29 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate tuition: $30,386
An online bachelor’s in health science from Southern New Hampshire University is designed for individuals with an associate degree in allied health. It’s for those who want to become prepared for supervisory and management roles. All courses are available online with 24/7 access to course content. The program may be completed at your own pace, over six nine-week terms per year. Courses include:
- ethical and legal considerations of healthcare
- healthcare economics
- healthcare finance
- healthcare reimbursements
- health sciences capstone
Southern New Hampshire University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 101st best regional university in the North and the #1 most innovative school.
#28 – University of the Incarnate Word
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
San Antonio, Texas
Undergraduate tuition : $27,798
University of the Incarnate Word offers one of the more affordable accredited online health science programs. It has three concentrations. Students can tailor their bachelor’s degree to suit their career goals. Concentrations include:
- administration
- general studies
- nutrition
All courses are delivered online and include:
- bio statistics and the health sciences
- healthcare organizations and administration
- healthcare policy
- health sciences research
- information systems for the health sciences
- legal issues in healthcare
The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 44th best regional university in the West and the 10th best value school.
#27 – Nova Southeastern University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Undergraduate tuition : $27,660
The online bachelor’s in health science program at Nova Southeastern University offers a special track for those interested in pursuing a graduate degree in occupational therapy. The program offers a fully online curriculum that provides freedom and flexibility. Students can continue working while attending school. All classes are taught online and include:
- current issues in healthcare
- healthcare ethics
- history of the US health system
- introduction to epidemiology
- principles of leadership
- research design in healthcare
Nova Southeastern is an accredited institution, ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school #214 among the best national universities. The school’s online bachelor’s programs have also earned recognition.
#26 – Drury University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Springfield, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition : $24,905
The College of Continuing Professional Studies at Drury University offers one of the best online health science programs on our list. The degree is for:
- registered nurses
- radiological technologists
- emergency medical personnel
- physical and occupational therapists
It’s for those professionals who seek upward mobility in a healthcare organization. All courses are delivered online and include:
- financial basics for leaders
- foundations of organizational leadership
- health and wellness promotion
- negotiation and conflict resolution
- positive psychology
- social gerontology
Drury is an accredited private institution ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 11th best regional university in the Midwest and 18th best value school.
#25 – Grand Canyon University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Phoenix, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition : $17,050
Grand Canyon University’s online health science programs include the bachelor’s in health science in professional development and advanced patient care. This program is designed for healthcare providers who work directly with patients. Coursework is delivered entirely online. It can serve as a stepping stone towards a master’s program in public health or healthcare administration. Courses include:
- applied statistics for healthcare professionals
- healthcare systems
- leadership and vocation
- professional dynamics and allied health professions
- spirituality in healthcare
- transcultural healthcare
Grand Canyon University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national institution.
#24 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in Allied Health
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate tuition : $12,744
National University’s online bachelor’s in health science focuses on allied health. It also serves as a stepping stone for health professionals who want to pursue a graduate program. All courses are delivered online and are taught by university professors. These courses include:
- care and outcomes management
- healthcare research
- healthy aging
- introduction to biomedical statistics
- issues and trends in healthcare
- management for health professionals
Students can also select a concentration in health informatics to help tailor their degree towards career goals and personal interests. National University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #114 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#23 – Walden University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Studies
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Undergraduate tuition : $12,075
Interested in online bachelor’s in sports nutrition or health program? Walden University offers an undergraduate degree in health studies that can be earned entirely online. All classes are delivered online and taught by experienced professors and industry experts. Ten available concentrations, including a self-designed option, are available. Students can tailor their degree towards personal interests and career goals. Online courses include:
- concepts of health promotion
- current issues in healthcare policy and practice
- ethical and legal issues in healthcare
- health informatics
- principles of epidemiology
- public and global health
Walden has been recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university.
#22 – Azusa Pacific University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Azusa, California
Undergraduate tuition : $12,000
One of the more affordable online health science programs on our list is the bachelor’s in health science at Azusa Pacific University. Students may select from six emphasis areas. Students can tailor the focus of the degree to suit personal interests and career goals. These emphasis areas include:
- general psychology
- healthcare leadership
- healthcare management
- human services
- organizational dynamics
- psychology in the healthcare profession
The program takes two to four years to complete and includes courses:
- like bioethics
- chemistry for the health sciences
- introduction to health and disease
- nutrition and wellness
- U.S. healthcare systems
Azusa Pacific is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 183rd best national university in the country.
#21 – University of Arizona
Online Bachelor’s in Nutritional Sciences
Tucson, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition : $11,403
Interested in nutritional biology and food science? The University of Arizona offers a program that might appeal to those pursing an online bachelor’s in sports nutrition degree. Students major in nutritional sciences. They can take advantage of one of many emphasis areas designed to help boost career choices. All courses are delivered online and include:
- fundamentals of food science
- nutrition and metabolism
- nutrition and the life cycle
- principles of human nutrition in health and disease
- survey nutrition careers
The University of Arizona is a nationally ranked institution according to major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 124th best national university and the 60th top public school in the country.
#20 – Eastern Michigan University
Online Bachelor’s in Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Undergraduate tuition : $10,417
Several online bachelor’s in sports nutrition programs are available from Eastern Michigan University. In fact, students may major in dietetics or human nutrition, depending on personal interests and career goals. The human nutrition program is entirely online and includes courses like:
- advanced topics in nutrition
- development of the entrepreneurial dietician
- medical nutrition therapy
- methods and strategies for community-based nutrition services
- outcomes management
- sports nutrition
- vitamins and minerals
Eastern Michigan is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs have earned recognition in the most recent edition of Best Colleges.
#19 – Indiana University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Bloomington, Indiana
Undergraduate tuition : $10,388
Indiana University offers one of the most affordable online health science programs on our list. The BS in health sciences prepares students for careers in the healthcare industry or for graduate health-related programs. Four optional tracks are available so students can tailor their health sciences degree to better suit their career goals. These concentration areas include:
- gerontology
- global health and rehabilitation studies
- preparation for graduate health professions programs
- rehabilitation and disabilities studies
All courses are delivered online and taught by university professors with industry experience. Indiana University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s online bachelor’s programs are ranked 39th out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#18 – Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Online Bachelor’s in Allied Health Leadership
Clarion, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate tuition : $10,190
Clarion University offers a unique degree that covers some of the same content found in sports nutrition degree programs online. The school offers an allied health leadership bachelor’s degree. It focuses on preparing students with the knowledge needed to become:
- healthcare managers
- health and nutrition educators
- medical sales personnel
Online coursework is designed to accommodate working students with busy lives. Flexible online courses include:
- health education
- health and personal performance
- research methods in allied health
Clarion is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the North. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #120 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#17 – University of Alabama
Online Bachelor’s in Human Environmental Services–Food and Nutrition
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Undergraduate tuition : $10,170
The University of Alabama offers one of the most affordable online bachelor’s in sports nutrition programs on our list. This 100% online program is for individuals who love science and want to learn more about the importance of human nutrition. In fact, this program is the first step towards becoming a registered dietitian. All courses are delivered online and are taught by the same professors who teach on campus. These courses include:
- applied nutrition
- community nutrition
- introduction to human nutrition
- introduction to research in food and nutrition
- nutrition care process
- nutrition education
- quantity food production and services
University of Alabama is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #164 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#16 – Arizona State University
Online Bachelor’s in Nutrition Communication
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition : $10,158
Individuals interested in an accredited online bachelor’s in sports nutrition may find the undergraduate program at Arizona State University appealing. It’s offered by the School of Nutrition and Health Promotion. The bachelor’s in nutrition communication combines education, journalism, and writing with expertise in health-related topics. Successful degree candidates may pursue positions as:
- journalists
- product development consultants
- public relations representatives in health organizations
All courses are delivered online and include:
- computer applications in nutrition
- cultural aspects of food
- development of healthy cuisines
- history of human nutrition
- human nutrition
- introductory nutrition
ASU is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online bachelor’s programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed and published in Best Colleges.
#15 – Ohio State University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Columbus, Ohio
Undergraduate tuition : $10,037
Ohio State University offers affordable online health science bachelor’s degrees that prepare graduates for leadership roles in health-related careers. The bachelor’s in health sciences program is 100% online and does not require campus visitations. All courses are taught by doctoral professors with research experience in various health-related industries. Courses include:
- application of ethical decision making in healthcare
- health promotion and disease prevention
- individual differences in patient and client populations
Ohio State is a nationally ranked university by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online bachelor’s programs ranked #7 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#14 – University of Missouri
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Columbia, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition : $9,509
One of the top online health science bachelor’s degrees on our list is from University of Missouri. This completely online program is well-suited for individuals with existing college credit who want to complete a bachelor’s degree in a non-clinical health-related field. All courses are delivered online and include:
- clinical ethics
- healthcare in the United States
- healthcare leadership and organization
- health science seminar
- introduction to research
- public health principles and practice
University of Missouri is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 111th best national university in the country. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #159 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#13 – Kansas State University
Online Bachelor’s in Dietetics
Manhattan, Kansas
Undergraduate tuition : $9,350
Interested in an affordable online bachelor’s in sports nutrition or dietetics? Kansas State University offers a unique program for students who want to become registered dietitians. Also, the program serves as a stepping stone towards entry into a graduate degree program in dietetics. All courses are delivered online and are taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Courses include:
- basic nutrition
- careers in nutrition and dietetics
- financial management in dietetics
- food production management
- introduction research in dietetics practice
- life span nutrition
Kansas State University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university.
#12 – University of Wisconsin–Stout
Online Bachelor’s in Food Science and Technology
Menomonie, Wisconsin
Undergraduate tuition : $9,203
One of the most affordable online health science programs on our list is at the University of Wisconsin–Stout. The program may be completed online and offers a unique blend of:
- science
- food
- the culinary arts
This program is designed for individuals interested in food product development and enhancing the safety of food. Required courses include:
- food analysis
- food engineering
- food quality
- food science
- nutrition
- unit operations in food processing
University of Wisconsin is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 69th best regional university in the Midwest and 15th top public school. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #111 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#11 – Northern Kentucky University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Highland Heights, Kentucky
Undergraduate tuition : $9,120
One alternative to sports nutrition degree programs online is the bachelor’s in health science. This program is for individuals interested in gaining well-rounded knowledge of the healthcare system. Northern Kentucky University offers clinical and non-clinical tracks designed to prepare students for career advancement in a variety of health-related organizations. Required courses include:
- aging in today’s society
- concepts of quality patient care
- global perspectives of healthcare
- leadership development
- statistics for business applications
Northern Kentucky University is a regionally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school #82 among best regional universities in the South.
#10 – University of South Dakota
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Vermillion, South Dakota
Undergraduate tuition : $8,457
The University of South Dakota offers an online bachelor’s in health science that is accredited and affordable. All required coursework is offered online. The program has six academic pathways designed to qualify students for entry into a graduate program. Some of these pathways include:
- healthcare advancement
- healthcare studies
- pre-professional studies
- undergraduate research
Courses include:
- healthcare delivery
- health literacy and culture care
- introduction to public health
- principles of healthcare
- professional communication and relationship-centered care
- principles of healthcare
University of South Dakota is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university and top public school.
#9 – University of Northern Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in Dietetics
Greeley, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition : $8,166
One alternative to online health science bachelor’s degrees is nutrition studies. For those interested in becoming registered dietitians, University of Northern Colorado offers an online bachelor’s in dietetics. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Dietetics and Nutrition Education. It adheres to the competencies described by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The program mirrors the on-campus program and is delivered entirely online. Courses include:
- advanced nutrition
- introduction to foods
- medical nutrition intervention
- nutrition applications in foodservice
- professional development
The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #179 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#8 – University of Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in Dietetics
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition : $7,692
Accredited sports nutrition degree programs online can include a bachelor’s in dietetics like the one offered by University of Colorado. This program is designed for individuals who want a bachelor’s degree in dietetics to qualify to become registered. In fact, the school offers dietetic internships that allow students to become registered dietitians. All courses are available online and include:
- community nutrition
- introduction to foods
- medical nutrition intervention
- nutrition application in foodservice
- nutrition in the life cycle
- professional development
The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 39th best regional university in the West and 9th top public school.
#7 – University of Mississippi
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
University, Mississippi
Undergraduate tuition : $7,444
University of Mississippi offers online health science bachelor’s degrees that prepare students for a professional career or entry into graduate level programs. The online bachelor’s in health sciences program has two completion tracks:
- healthcare operations
- healthcare practitioner
The healthcare practitioner track is for individuals who are licensed, certified, or registered healthcare professionals. All courses are delivered online and include:
- cultural competency in healthcare
- health promotion and implementation
- introduction to research
- organizational behavior in healthcare
- survey and settings of healthcare delivery
University of Mississippi is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 135th best national university and the 64th top public school.
#6 – Bellevue University
Online Bachelor’s in Health Science
Bellevue, Nebraska
Undergraduate tuition : $7,050
Bellevue University’s online bachelor’s in health science degree program offers flexibility. Students can tailor their major to meet personal interests and career goals. All courses are delivered online. Two emphasis options are available in eldercare and science. Online courses include:
- applied statistics
- health communication
- introduction to psychology
- medical ethics and leadership
- medical terminology and documentation
- nutrition through the life span
- wellness for life
Bellevue University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #72 out of more than 1,200 of those surveyed by U.S. News.
#5 – American Public University
Online Bachelor’s in Public Health
Charles Town, West Virginia
Undergraduate tuition : $6,880
The bachelor’s in public health is designed for those with an interest in nutrition and health issues facing various populations. The American Public University offers an online bachelor’s in public health that may be completed entirely via distance learning. All classes are delivered online and include:
- administrative management
- health and wellness
- improvements to health and the quality of human life
Three concentration areas allow students to tailor their degree to suit personal interests and career goals. These concentrations include:
- emergency management
- environmental health
- and public administration
American Public University’s online bachelor’s programs have been ranked #58 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News and World Report.
#4 – University of South Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Public Health
Tampa, Florida
Undergraduate tuition : $6,410
One alternative to earning an accredited online bachelor’s in health science is to major in public health. The University of South Florida offers a bachelor’s in public health program that may be completed entirely online. All courses are delivered online, and the program mirrors the on-campus degree. Classes include:
- biostatistics in society
- critical issues in public health
- emerging infectious disease
- foundation to professional writing in public health
- healthcare ethics
- special topics in public health
- sports nutrition
University of South Florida is ranked by major publications like U.S News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 159th best national university and 83rd top public school.
#3 – University of West Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Pensacola, Florida
Undergraduate tuition : $6,360
University of West Florida offers one of the most affordable online bachelor’s in health science programs on our list. Two areas of specialization are offered so students may tailor their degree towards career goals and interests. These specializations include healthcare administration and public health. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Courses include:
- current issues in the health sciences
- current topics in health informatics
- data analysis in the health sciences
- health ethics and professionalism
- legal fundamentals of healthcare and public health
- understanding U.S. healthcare
University of West Florida is a nationally ranked institution according to major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The online bachelor’s programs rank #212 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#2 – University of Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Health Education and Behavior
Gainesville, Florida
Undergraduate tuition : $3,876
University of Florida offers a type of online health science bachelor’s degree for students interested in health education and the promoting a healthy lifestyle. All courses are delivered online. Several specialization classes are available in:
- minority health
- trends in international health
- women’s health issues
Required courses include:
- foundations in health education
- methods and materials in health education
- personal and family health
University of Florida is a top-ranked institution. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 50th best national university and the 14th top public school. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#1 – Brigham Young University
Online Bachelor’s in Public Health–Health Education and Promotion
Rexburg, Idaho
Undergraduate tuition : $3,830
Brigham Young University offers the most affordable online health science bachelor’s degree on our list. The undergraduate program is for individuals interested in public health and the delivery of health education to communities and populations. All classes are administered online by university professors, and a total of 120 credits must be completed. These classes include:
- essentials of human nutrition
- health behavior theories and models
- hospital and health administration
- introduction to community health
- research methods and program evaluation
BYU is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 10th best regional college in the West.
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