Best Online Public Health Degree Programs (2024)

An online bachelor's in public health degree can help prepare you for a thriving career in the health sector. Learn more about what you can expect from these programs.

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Updated on April 10, 2024

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Randy Schwartz, MSPH, has over 35 years of experience in implementing health promotion/disease prevention initiatives in state health departments and health organizations. He is currently president of Public Health Systems Consultants and serves as t...

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By

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.Read Full Bio

Writer

An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...

Edited by

Tyler EppsRead Full Bio

Editor & Writer

Tyler Epps is an editor for BestColleges. He writes and edits content about higher education, specializing in degree planning and college rankings. He is passionate about helping students prepare for college and navigate their educational journey. He...

Reviewed by

Randy Schwartz, MSPHRead Full Bio

Reviewer

Randy Schwartz, MSPH, has over 35 years of experience in implementing health promotion/disease prevention initiatives in state health departments and health organizations. He is currently president of Public Health Systems Consultants and serves as t...

Updated on April 10, 2024

Learn more about our editorial process

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Best Online Bachelor's Programs in Public Health

Public health majors learn how to protect communities from disease while educating people about healthy choices. Earning a bachelor's in public health prepares you for many in-demand public health careers.

While earning an online public health degree, you'll explore topics like community health, epidemiology, and health policy. Many online public health programs also incorporate an internship or practicum to provide hands-on experience.

If public health sounds like a good fit for you, check out our ranking of the best online public health programs.

Featured Online Public Health Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health Programs of 2024

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $350

Out-of-State | $350

Credits to Graduate: 180

OSU's online BS in public health comes from its College of Health, the first accredited school of its kind in Oregon. The program features two specialization options: health management and policy and health promotion and health behavior. You'll complete a 360-hour internship alongside your core, major, and specialization courses.

At OSU, the public health program offers four start dates per year, and your classes run asynchronously. Regardless of where you live, you pay the same tuition rates as your classmates.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$10,065

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

$13,446

Out-of-state

$27,297

Retention Rate

87%

Acceptance Rate

89%

Students Enrolled

33,193

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

52%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health Programs of 2024

University of Arizona

  • Tucson, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $525

Out-of-State | $525

Credits to Graduate: 120

Brought to you by the Zuckerman College of Public Health, UofA's online BS in public health is Arizona's only accredited public health program. In this program, you have the choice between three emphases: global health, health systems theory, and practice and public health practice. The program also includes a 250-hour internship.

Most of your online classes run asynchronously in an accelerated 7.5-week format, but you may take some synchronous courses as well. There's also no out-of-state tuition for online students at UofA.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$10,990

Out-of-state

$33,739

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

$12,106

Out-of-state

$32,290

Retention Rate

84%

Acceptance Rate

87%

Students Enrolled

48,274

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

56%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health Programs of 2024

Mercy College of Health Sciences

  • Des Moines, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $722

Out-of-State | $722

Credits to Graduate: 120

One of five online degrees available, MCHS' online BS in public health equips you with the skills to support health initiatives at various levels. The program features courses in health advocacy and promotion, along with a 45-hour practicum and a capstone with a written and presentation component.

The public health program also helps prepare graduates for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. You have three start dates to choose from, and the program features a mix of asynchronous and synchronous sessions.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$19,754

Out-of-state

$19,754

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

44%

Acceptance Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

951

Institution Type

Private

Percent Online Enrollment

81%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health Programs of 2024

Lake Washington Institute of Technology

  • Kirkland, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Five-Credit Course:

In-State | $580

Out-of-State | $2,098

Credits to Graduate: 180

LWTech's BAS in public health (BASPH) is a hybrid program that combines online classes with evening sessions two times per week. In the program, you'll take courses in public health leadership, research, and planning. You'll also complete a 90-hour internship as part of your public health capstone course.

While out-of-state students face a higher tuition rate than in-state students, LWTech offers out-of-state tuition waivers for students from many states to cover the majority of the difference. For admission, you need an associate degree from an accredited institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$3,029

Out-of-state

$8,105

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

Not provided

Out-of-state

Not provided

Retention Rate

Not provided

Acceptance Rate

Not provided

Students Enrolled

3,240

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

54%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health Programs of 2024

Central Washington University

  • Ellensburg, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Quarterly Tuition Cost:

In-State | $2,789.76

Out-of-State | $8,649.56

Credits to Graduate: 180

CWU's online BS in public health features a specialization in population health that helps prepare you to take on health issues in communities of different sizes. The program includes courses in environmental health and epidemiology, plus a culminating capstone project and presentation.

Along with CWU's flexible online classes, you can participate in internships and practical global opportunities. There's also the public health-run Community Response Lab. CWU charges all online students the same tuition rate, regardless of their state residency.

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state

$6,656

Out-of-state

$23,184

Average Graduate Tuition

In-state

$10,098

Out-of-state

$23,652

Retention Rate

69%

Acceptance Rate

88%

Students Enrolled

10,176

Institution Type

Public

Percent Online Enrollment

72%

Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.

Accreditation

Yes

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

What to Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Public Health Program

A public health program takes an interdisciplinary approach. You'll explore biology, epidemiology, statistics, and the sociological factors behind disease. Coursework also covers public health sciences, policy, and intervention strategies.

In public health programs, you often take part in internships and complete research projects as part of your studies. These requirements can provide valuable experience and a portfolio of work to help you stand out when applying for jobs or graduate programs.

An online bachelor's in public health program typically requires 120 credits and takes about four years of full-time study. The upper-division classes you take will mainly depend on your area of specialization, but most programs start with foundational public health courses.

Courses You Can Expect to Take in a Public Health Program

Principles of Epidemiology

In this course, you'll receive training in identifying disease patterns and risk factors.

Ethical and Legal Considerations in Public Health

This class covers the role of public health policy in ethical decision-making. Coursework often explores real-world examples and case studies.

Statistics for Public Health Professionals

Public health professionals must be able to interpret data. This course teaches statistical best practices applied to public health response.

Health Promotion, Education, and Communications

In this course, you will prepare for health educator careers by learning to develop intervention strategies to promote health and prevent disease.

Social and Behavioral Health

This course looks at how social and behavioral sciences are tied to community health.

Public Health Specialization Options

Many bachelor's in public health programs offer you the opportunity to concentrate in a specific area or field of public health. Possible options include the following:

  • Epidemiology

    You will focus on the distribution patterns and determinants of disease in and across different populations.
  • Environmental Health

    In this concentration, you'll delve into the natural and environmental conditions that affect human individual and population health.
  • Health Education

    This specialization focuses on tools and best practices for working with communities to prevent disease and injury and promote positive health behaviors and environments.
  • Health Services Administration

    With this option, you'll receive training in the leadership and management of healthcare infrastructure and facilities.
  • Maternal and Child Health

    Coursework focuses on the health needs of children and mothers.
  • Community Health

    Learners will study the conditions and principles of community health and health education.
  • Disaster Management

    You will gain the knowledge, training, and organizing skills needed to respond to emergent events and crises in public health.
  • Health Public Policy

    This concentration provides advocacy and leadership training, preparing graduates to shape public policy.

How to Choose an Online Public Health Program

Which online bachelor's in public health program is the best fit for you? When researching online programs, consider the following factors to narrow your choices.

Program Format

Online programs frequently use two distinct delivery methods. Asynchronous programs provide general work deadlines but allow you to complete assignments on your own time. In contrast, synchronous programs meet live at a specific time and follow a more traditional schedule. Many programs feature both types of course delivery.

Additionally, some programs offer part-time study options for working students. And others feature accelerated programs designed for students who need to complete coursework faster than traditional full-time studies.

Cost

Cost is a major factor for many students, but calculating the cost of an online degree can be challenging. In addition to tuition, you'll need to factor in required fees, technology costs, textbooks, and other expenses.

In general, public colleges are more affordable than private schools — especially for in-state students at public schools. However, some online programs offer the same tuition rate to in-state and out-of-state students. Make sure to research the total cost of a program and your financial aid opportunities.

Location

As an online student, you can choose the best program for your needs, regardless of location. However, earning an online bachelor's degree in public health close to home can provide some advantages.

If you live close to campus, you can use the school's network and resources to plan internships and clinical hours and receive on-campus mentoring through student services. Otherwise, you may need to find your own program-approved placements at a location near you.

Accreditation

Accredited institutions meet high standards for academic quality, and online college accreditation is no different. Make sure that you're applying to schools that hold institutional accreditation.

When it comes to public health, it's also a good idea to look for programmatic accreditation. The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredits undergraduate and graduate public health programs. Check out a list of CEPH-accredited schools on its website.

Student Support

Online students can typically access many types of student services. Some schools offer dedicated support services for online learners, such as mentoring, internship placements, writing support, and career guidance. As an online student, be sure to check that your prospective program offers some form of support.

Featured Online Public Health Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Admission Requirements for an Online Public Health Program

Online bachelor's in public health programs usually maintain similar admission requirements as their on-campus counterparts. In addition to the requirements listed below, some programs may require you to complete an interview.

  • Application

    Typical online college application forms ask for personal information, as well as information related to academics and extracurriculars. Many schools utilize the Common App or Coalition App, which allows you to apply to multiple colleges with one application.
  • Test Scores

    While this requirement is becoming less prevalent, many schools still require you to submit standardized test scores.
  • Letters of Recommendation

    Letters of recommendation help give the school a better introduction to your abilities. Former teachers or mentors generally write these letters, but you may also ask for letters from work supervisors.
  • Essays

    College essays provide a writing sample for admissions departments to look at and give you a chance to stand out. Essay topics are often provided by the university.
  • Official Transcripts

    Official transcripts detail your academic performance and previous college experience (if you have any). Schools also use college transcripts to determine how much transfer credit to award you.

Is a Bachelor's Degree Enough to Find Work in Public Health?

Yes, many jobs in public health are available to you if you have a bachelor's degree, including health education specialists and medical and health services managers. However, if you want to work in federal positions or leadership roles at large firms such as the World Health Organization, you may need to pursue a master's degree in public health.

Large hospital systems may also require a master's in health administration or a related field. Another important element in advancing your career is work experience. Many master's and doctoral programs in public health require professional experience for admission.

Featured Online Public Health Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor's in Public Health Programs

How much can you make with a bachelor's in public health?

Your earning potential with a public health degree depends on several factors, including your job title, industry, and location.

With a bachelor's in public health degree, you can pursue several different career paths, including health education specialist and environmental specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earned median salaries of about $63,000 and $79,000, respectively, in 2023.

Is a bachelor's in public health worth it?

Earning a bachelor's in public health is worth it for many students. Public health positions like health education specialist and community health worker are projected to grow faster than average from 2022-2032, according to BLS projections.

What can you do with a bachelor's in public health?

With a bachelor's in public health, you can work in public health, education, or the social services field. Popular public health jobs include public health educator, community health worker, and disease prevention specialist. Additionally, with a master's in public health, you can work as an epidemiologist, community health intervention strategist, or health policy analyst.

A public health degree can also prepare you for careers or graduate study in fields like social work, counseling, and advocacy.

Do you need to obtain licensure or certification to work in public health?

Most public health careers do not require a license, but professional certification can be helpful in some career paths. For example, employers often look for health educators who hold the certified health education specialist credential. Similarly, some states require certification for community health workers.

Research the requirements for public health workers in your state to determine if certification will help further your career.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 26, 2024.

Best Online Public Health Degree Programs (2024)

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