An online master’s degree program in health education may provide individuals with advanced professional training in health and wellness education. These one to two-year programs may teach students how to collect community data to create local wellness programs geared towards the needs of citizens, and create social media and marketing campaigns to promote health education programs. Program coursework may include both specialized electives and major-specific courses including foundations in health education, health education administration, and health education ethics.

Graduates may either seek employment or pursue a doctoral degree program in health education or related field. Master’s-level graduates may obtain employment in government wellness initiatives, community health programs, schools, universities, and healthcare facilities.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 37% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level health education programs may include select specialized electives alongside core health education classes. These courses may teach students how to formulate health and wellness programs, integrate health into communities, and become leaders in the health education field. Core health education courses may include the following:

• Foundations in Health Education
• Health Education Ethics
• Health Education Program Planning
• Health Education Training
• Administration of Health Education Programs
• Leadership in Health Education
• Introduction to Health Professions

Career Options

Students who obtain a master’s degree in health education may pursue a career in healthcare facilities, schools, universities, community wellness centers, and in government programs. 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 Trainer
• Health Teacher
• Diabetes Educator
• Weight Loss Specialist

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree may have the opportunity to enhance their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in health education may prepare individuals for university teaching positions and leadership health and wellness roles within communities. Employers may require a master’s degree in addition to licensure to qualify for select teaching positions.

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