An online bachelor’s degree in health education may provide students with in-depth training on the fundamentals of healthcare, nutrition, and community wellness. In this four-year program, students may learn how to promote wellness, develop health education programs, and assist people with locating healthcare services. Program coursework may include general education requirements alongside major-specific health education classes such as medical law, health care ethics, and health communications.

Health education graduates may choose to enter the workforce by seeking entry-level employment or enroll in a graduate degree program. Baccalaureate-level graduates may find employment in healthcare, community health programs, colleges, public health programs, and private businesses.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 37% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for baccalaureate-level health education degree programs may integrate general education courses, core health education classes, and chosen electives. These courses may teach students how to identify elements of health education, promote health and fitness in a community, and implement health education programs. Core health education classes may include the following:

• Introduction to Health Education
• Methods of Community Health Promotion
• Community and Public Health
• Health Care Ethics
• Cultural Diversity in Health and Fitness
• Medical Law
• Health Communications

Career Options

Baccalaureate-level graduates may discover career opportunities in colleges, health care facilities, public health departments, community health organizations, and private businesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in health education are projected to increase by 37% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Nutritionist
• Personal Care Assistant
• Weight Loss Specialists
• Personal Trainer
• Patient Relations Representative

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a bachelor’s degree program may consider enrolling in a graduate degree program in the same or related field. A master’s degree in health education may provide individuals with advanced training required to design and implement health initiatives in communities, schools, and healthcare facilities. Employers may require a bachelor’s degree at minimum to be eligible for entry-level health education careers.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook