Different Types of Health Studies Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

As demand for skilled professionals in health-related fields continues to accelerate, selecting the right educational path is crucial for career success. Employment in health occupations is projected to grow significantly faster than average over the next decade, reflecting expanded healthcare needs and advancements in medical technology.

Understanding the variety of health studies degrees and the corresponding career outcomes can empower students to make informed decisions about their education and future earning potential. This article provides a detailed overview of the different types of health studies degrees available and outlines the salary expectations graduates may encounter across various specializations.

Key Points About Different Types of Health Studies Degrees and Their Salaries

Individuals with an associate degree in health studies often find entry-level roles such as health assistants or community health workers, with median salaries around $40,000 annually, but these positions may offer limited advancement without further education.
Bachelor's degree holders in health studies frequently access broader career opportunities including health educators and public health analysts, with median salaries averaging between $50,000 and $60,000, reflecting stronger demand in government and nonprofit sectors.
Advanced degrees like a master's in health studies significantly enhance earning potential and leadership prospects, with salaries often exceeding $75,000 annually, especially for roles in health program management or policy development where expertise and experience are highly valued.

What Are the Different Types of Health Studies Degrees Available?

Understanding the different health studies degree types and levels is crucial for students as it helps tailor education to their specific career goals and educational backgrounds. Each option offers distinct curricula and skill sets that cater to varied interests in healthcare fields, ensuring a better alignment with professional aspirations and earning potential.

Below are the main types of health studies degrees and what makes each unique, which can help students choose the path best suited for their ambitions and strengths.

Bachelor of Health Sciences: Provides foundational knowledge in biology, anatomy, physiology, and healthcare systems. Coursework typically covers medical ethics, disease prevention, and patient care management, preparing students for a variety of roles in the healthcare sector.
Bachelor of Public Health: Focuses on improving health outcomes at the population level. Courses emphasize epidemiology, health policy, and community health promotion, with a strong foundation in research and strategies for disease prevention.
Health Information Management: Combines healthcare and technology, teaching students about medical coding, electronic recordkeeping, and data security. Coursework prepares students to organize, analyze, and manage patient data in clinical environments.
Health Care Administration: Centers on the management and operation of healthcare facilities. Students learn about healthcare finance, policy, leadership, and organizational behavior, equipping them to oversee hospital or clinic operations.
Community Health Education: Trains students to design, implement, and evaluate health programs for diverse communities. Coursework includes educational strategies, program planning, and direct community engagement to promote wellness and prevent disease.
Clinical Care (e.g., Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy): Emphasizes direct patient care and rehabilitation techniques. Core subjects include physiology, patient assessment, and therapeutic interventions to prepare students for hands-on roles in clinical settings.

For students seeking alternatives, exploring 6 month online certificate programs high paying jobs can be an effective way to gain specialized skills and enhance career opportunities in healthcare without committing to a full degree program.

What Specializations Are Available in Health Studies Degrees?

Specialization is a vital factor when choosing a health studies degree because it shapes the educational experience and helps students focus on areas that best match their career aspirations. By selecting a targeted field, students align their studies with specific job markets and long-term professional goals, increasing their chances of success after graduation.

Below are some common Health Studies specializations that offer distinct career paths and skill development opportunities:

Health Sciences: Focuses on the scientific and clinical foundations of health, including biology, physiology, and disease prevention. Students develop strong analytical and research skills, preparing for roles in clinical practice, laboratory research, or graduate study in medical and allied health professions.
Public Health: Centers on improving community health through education, policy, and disease prevention. Key skills include program planning, epidemiology, and health communications, leading to careers like health educator, public health administrator, and policy analyst.
Healthcare Administration: Emphasizes management, leadership, and organizational skills needed to oversee healthcare facilities and systems. Graduates pursue roles such as hospital administrator, health services manager, and healthcare consultant, with strong job growth projected in this field.
Health Informatics: Combines healthcare knowledge with data analytics and information technology. Students learn to manage health data and improve patient outcomes, with career options including health informatics specialist, medical records technician, and clinical data analyst.
Therapeutic Recreation: Focuses on using recreational activities to enhance quality of life for the elderly or individuals with disabilities. Students gain skills in activity planning and patient assessment, leading to positions such as therapeutic recreation director in long-term care facilities.
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Prepares students to assist in diagnosing and treating communication disorders. Training includes clinical practice and communication science, leading to roles in educational, clinical, or private practice settings under licensed pathologists' supervision.

For those exploring options, knowing what are the easiest masters degrees can sometimes help decide a manageable path while specializing in health studies.

Unemployment rate for those with some college, no degree

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Health Studies Degree?

Knowing how long each health studies program takes to complete is essential for students to effectively plan their education, finances, and future career paths. Timelines can vary widely based on the degree type, enrollment status, and availability of accelerated options. Here is an overview of the main health studies degree types and their typical completion times.

Associate Degree in Health Studies: Typically completed in about 2 years of full-time study, this degree offers foundational knowledge and skills. Part-time students may take longer, while transfer credits can shorten the timeframe. Many community colleges also offer online or hybrid formats, providing flexibility.
Bachelor's Degree in Health Studies: Usually requires 4 years of full-time enrollment. Accelerated programs can reduce this to around 3 years, and students with associate degrees or prior credits may finish sooner. Online options are widely available, catering to working students.
Master's Degree in Health Studies: Often completed within 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study, though part-time students may take 3 or more years. Some schools offer accelerated tracks or online delivery, allowing students to balance work and study.
Doctorate in Health Studies: This is the longest path, generally taking 3 to 6 years beyond the master's degree, depending on research requirements and dissertation completion. Part-time and online pathways exist but may extend overall duration.

Are There Accelerated Health Studies Degree Programs?

Accelerated health studies degree programs are increasingly available across the United States, providing students with the option to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees more quickly than the traditional timelines. These programs often condense what would typically take six or more years into as little as five years by utilizing formats such as 8-week intensive courses, year-round academic terms, and generous acceptance of transfer credits.

This accelerated approach allows students to enter the workforce sooner and begin their careers earlier, a significant advantage especially in fields where starting salary ranges can vary between $45,000 and $65,000 depending on specialization. Notable examples include programs that enable the completion of both bachelor's and master's degrees simultaneously or provide graduate credit during undergraduate studies, effectively shortening the total time spent in school.

Key considerations for students interested in accelerated health studies programs include the intense workload and strict eligibility requirements. These tracks demand strong academic performance, often requiring a minimum GPA between 3.0 and 3.5, prerequisite coursework, and letters of recommendation.

While students maintain undergraduate status - including eligibility for undergraduate financial aid - until finishing their bachelor's degree, they generally move to graduate tuition rates afterward and may qualify for graduate assistantships.

Smaller class sizes and multiple start dates throughout the year often support working professionals balancing education with other commitments. However, the pace and volume of work require careful planning and commitment to succeed in such demanding environments.

When I spoke with a graduate of an accelerated health studies degree program, he reflected on the rigor and rewards of his experience. He shared that "the condensed courses pushed me to develop strong time management skills quickly," especially balancing clinical hours with coursework.

Although the accelerated pace was "sometimes overwhelming," having a dedicated academic advisor and a cohort of peers in similar situations helped sustain motivation. He noted that the early completion saved him valuable time and expenses, but cautioned that maintaining the necessary GPA while juggling personal obligations was a real challenge.

Ultimately, he felt the program prepared him well for the fast-moving healthcare environment and was grateful for the opportunity to advance his career more swiftly than traditional options would have allowed.

Are Online Health Studies Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online health studies degree programs have made considerable progress in maintaining academic standards that rival those of traditional campus-based programs. Both formats are typically accredited by recognized agencies, ensuring that their curricula, faculty qualifications, and assessment methods meet rigorous quality benchmarks. Research, including a systematic review of 59 randomized controlled trials, shows that online health studies programs are generally equivalent-and sometimes superior-to traditional ones in knowledge gains, skill acquisition, and student satisfaction.

Additionally, 77% of academic leaders surveyed by the Babson Survey Research Group believe online education outcomes are equal to or better than in-person instruction. While online programs offer notable advantages like increased flexibility, cost savings, and broader access to diverse populations, traditional programs continue to be valued for direct mentorship, hands-on lab experiences, and established professional networks.

Recent trends indicate growing employer acceptance of online health studies degrees, particularly when these are earned from accredited, reputable institutions. Although some employers still favor graduates from traditional programs for roles requiring intensive clinical or laboratory work, the majority now prioritize the quality and accreditation of the institution over the degree's delivery format.

Accreditation remains crucial for graduate school admissions and employment prospects, underscoring the importance for students to verify a program's status before enrolling. Ultimately, the credibility of a health studies degree depends far more on the reputation and accreditation of the granting institution than on whether the credential was earned online or on campus.

Online-only undergrads studying in-state

How Much Does Each Type of Health Studies Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding tuition differences across health studies degree levels is crucial for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Costs vary widely based on degree type, institution, program format, and residency status, so prospective students need to carefully review these factors before committing. Below is a summary of typical tuition ranges for various health studies degrees to aid in this comparison.

Associate Degree in Health Studies: Average annual tuition ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 at public community colleges, while private institutions may charge up to $15,000 per year. Public schools generally offer lower rates for in-district residents, and many students qualify for federal Pell Grants, state grants, or institutional scholarships.
Bachelor's Degree in Health Studies: Tuition at public universities typically falls between $9,000 and $15,000 per academic year for in-state students, rising to $20,000 to $30,000 for out-of-state or private schools. Online programs can offer reduced costs, and merit-based scholarships may provide up to $14,000 over four years for high-achieving students.
Master's in Health Studies: Total program tuition often ranges from $15,000 to $45,000 at public institutions, with private universities charging between $30,000 and $50,000. Pricing is influenced by program length, delivery mode (online versus in-person), and residency. Common financial aid includes graduate assistantships, federal loans, and employer tuition reimbursement plans.
Doctoral Degree (PhD or Professional Doctorate) in Health Studies: Annual tuition varies widely, typically $10,000 to $20,000 for residents and $20,000 to $35,000 for non-residents at public universities. Private institutions and specialized schools may exceed $50,000 per year. Many doctoral students receive funding through fellowships, research assistantships, or scholarships.
Medical and Health Professional Degrees (MD, DPT, PA, etc.): Medical school tuition averages $41,000 to $77,000 annually at public institutions and can reach $80,000 at private schools. Other professional degrees, such as Doctor of Physical Therapy or Physician Assistant programs, range from $45,000 to $147,000 for the full program. Financial support commonly includes federal loans, need-based grants, and service-based scholarships like those from the National Health Service Corps.

When discussing tuition costs, a graduate of a health studies degree program shared that her approach was a blend of strategic scholarships and part-time employment, which significantly eased the financial burden.

She recounted, "I was fortunate to secure a scholarship that covered about half my in-state tuition, and working on campus helped manage living expenses." Reflecting on the investment, she noted that those years of disciplined financial planning paid off through career opportunities and salary growth that far exceeded her initial costs. Her experience underscores the importance of exploring all financial aid options and balancing work with studies to make pursuing a health studies degree financially feasible and rewarding.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Health Studies Degree?

The level of your health studies degree significantly shapes the career opportunities and roles you qualify for in the healthcare field. Higher degrees generally open doors to more advanced positions with greater responsibilities and earning potential. Below is a list of common jobs associated with each type of health studies degree to help you understand potential career paths.

These roles vary widely by degree, reflecting differences in required skills and work settings.

Associate Degree in Health Studies: Graduates often begin with entry-level jobs such as medical assistants, phlebotomists, pharmacy technicians, or emergency medical technicians. These positions typically involve clinical or administrative support tasks within hospitals, physician offices, or clinics. Many students explore the most affordable associate degrees online to start their careers cost-effectively.
Bachelor's Degree in Health Studies: Degree holders can pursue a broader range of roles including health educator, health program coordinator, medical lab technician, and community health worker. Responsibilities may include designing health programs, teaching wellness classes, or conducting lab analyses. Common work environments are schools, non-profits, and healthcare facilities.
Master's Degree in Health Studies: This level prepares graduates for advanced jobs such as health services manager, public health specialist, and clinical research coordinator. These roles often focus on overseeing healthcare operations, policy development, and managing research projects, with employment in hospitals, government agencies, or research institutions.
Doctoral Degrees or Advanced Clinical Certifications: With these credentials, individuals qualify for leadership, research, or specialized clinical roles like physicians, clinical psychologists, or biostatisticians. Job duties may involve providing patient care, conducting scientific research, or analyzing health data, often resulting in higher earning potential.

How Do Salaries Differ by Health Studies Degree Type?

Degree level often plays a crucial role in determining earning potential within health studies, with higher degrees generally opening doors to better salaries and career advancement. Understanding these salary differences can help students make informed educational and career decisions, especially when choosing between various programs and institutions.

The following list outlines typical salary ranges for different health studies degree types and key factors such as industry, location, and responsibility levels that influence pay.

Associate Degree in Health Studies: Graduates with an associate degree typically qualify for entry-level roles like medical or dental assistants. Average annual salaries range from $40,000 to $50,000, depending on occupation and geographic location. While earning potential may be limited without further education, gaining experience and certifications can lead to modest salary increases.
Bachelor's Degree in Health Studies: A bachelor's degree allows access to a variety of positions such as health educators, clinical research coordinators, and technicians. Starting salaries generally fall between $46,000 and $62,000 per year, with some roles like health educators earning around $56,500 annually. Salaries vary significantly based on the specific industry, region, and job duties.
Master's Degree in Health Studies: Those holding a master's degree often pursue specialized or leadership roles in healthcare organizations. Salary ranges typically span from $65,000 to $90,000, with advanced roles sometimes exceeding $100,000 annually. Higher education often leads to greater long-term earning potential, especially for those moving into administration or research roles.
Doctoral Degree (PhD or Professional Doctorate) in Health Studies: Doctoral graduates often become professors, principal researchers, or high-level administrators. Salaries vary widely by position, with professors earning approximately $114,792 per year and biomedical scientists around $106,190. Doctoral degrees generally offer the highest salary ceilings and opportunities for advancement in academia and specialized research.

Location, experience, and industry sector also strongly affect salaries across all degree levels, with urban medical centers and biotechnology firms frequently offering higher compensation. For students exploring options, including those searching for online schools accepting financial aid, leveraging such detailed salary insights can guide smarter educational choices.

Is There High Demand for Health Studies Degree Holders in the Job Market?

The demand for health studies degree holders in the U.S. job market is strong and continuing to grow, influenced by several key factors. Advances in emerging technologies such as telehealth, artificial intelligence, and advanced diagnostics have expanded opportunities for graduates who are proficient in both healthcare and technology, particularly in health informatics and medical laboratory technology.

Workforce needs also play a significant role; ongoing nursing shortages and an aging population create additional openings, especially in specialized care and education roles. Regional differences further impact demand-rural and underserved areas often experience higher needs for professionals like physical therapists, occupational therapists, and community health workers, who may also benefit from local incentives.

Salaries reflect this variability, with clinical roles generally offering higher median wages than community health or administrative positions. For example, respiratory therapists earn a median pay of $80,450, while dietitians and nutritionists average $66,450, and home health aides make around $34,900.

For students exploring career options, there are diverse and growing pathways stemming from a health studies degree. Job growth projections indicate that allied health professions such as physical therapists and speech-language pathologists could see growth rates between 12% and 18% through 2032-2033, well above average.

Focusing on high-demand specialties and earning relevant certifications can further enhance employability and salary potential. Those interested in broadening their qualifications might consider dual major programs, which have been shown to increase opportunities and adaptability in the healthcare sector.

Overall, the outlook for health studies degree holders entering the workforce is positive, with ample chances to find roles in both clinical and technology-driven settings.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Health Studies Degree?

Choosing the right degree level in health studies is a critical decision that directly influences your career trajectory and personal circumstances. Making an informed choice ensures your education aligns with your professional goals and the time and resources you are willing to invest. To guide this decision, consider the following key factors:

Career Goals: Your intended career path should drive the degree level you pursue. Entry-level roles often require an associate degree, while positions in health education, public health, or administration may need a bachelor's or master's degree. Advanced clinical or leadership roles frequently call for doctoral credentials.
Salary Expectations: Higher degree levels typically lead to greater earning potential. For example, bachelor's graduates can expect entry-level salaries around $40,000-$60,000, while master's holders may earn above $80,000. Doctorates often open doors to six-figure salaries, especially in academia or specialized fields.
Time Commitment: Degree programs vary in length, with associate degrees taking about two years, bachelor's four years, master's two additional years, and doctorates requiring three to six years. Assess your willingness to dedicate this time to your education before deciding.
Cost and Return on Investment: Higher degrees usually require more financial investment but often offer better job stability and salary growth. Consider tuition, fees, and related expenses alongside expected career benefits to determine value.
Specialization Options: Many programs offer concentrations like public health, healthcare administration, or informatics. Choosing a specialization can improve your competitiveness for specific roles and align your studies with personal interests.
Accreditation and Program Quality: Selecting an accredited program is essential for certification and licensure eligibility. Investigate graduation rates and job placement statistics to judge the effectiveness of your chosen program.

What Health Studies Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Aileen: "Finishing my associate degree in health studies was a pivotal moment that launched my career as a community health worker. I feel proud knowing the work I do directly supports families navigating complex health challenges. What resonated most during my studies was the focus on cultural competence, which has been essential in connecting with diverse patient populations. I continue to grow professionally with every interaction and feel deeply fulfilled by contributing to the wellbeing of my neighbors."

Diego: "After earning my master's in health studies, I found doors opening to leadership roles in healthcare policy and administration. The coursework challenged me to think critically about systems and disparities, and I grew both professionally and personally as I learned to advocate for better health equity. My confidence as a health strategist has soared, and I now lead initiatives that influence local healthcare services. This degree truly equipped me with the tools to drive change on a large scale and remain passionate about improving community wellness."

Camilla: "Completing my bachelor's degree in health studies gave me an incredible foundation not only in understanding public health principles but also in applying them directly within community settings. The program's emphasis on real-world experience helped me secure an internship that turned into a full-time position, where I now organize health awareness campaigns for underserved populations. I truly appreciate how this degree balances scientific knowledge with practical skills, empowering me to make a meaningful impact every day. It's rewarding to see the positive changes in people's lives thanks to our outreach efforts."

Other Things You Should Know About Health Studies Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary growth for health studies degree holders over time?

Graduates with health studies degrees typically see steady salary growth as they gain experience and advance in their careers. Entry-level positions might start at $40,000 to $50,000 annually, but with several years of work and possible further education, salaries can increase to $75,000 or more, especially in management or specialized roles.

Do health studies degrees lead to high-paying administrative positions?

Yes, many health studies graduates pursue administrative roles such as healthcare managers or health services directors. These positions often offer salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000, depending on the organization size and location, making them lucrative career options for degree holders.

How do salaries for health studies graduates compare to other health-related fields?

Salaries for health studies graduates generally fall in the mid-range compared to other health-related professions like nursing or pharmacy. While health studies roles offer solid pay, specialized medical or clinical degrees often command higher starting salaries.

Are there regional differences in salaries for health studies professionals?

Yes, salaries for health studies professionals vary by region, with urban areas and regions with higher healthcare demand typically offering higher wages. For example, health studies graduates in large metropolitan areas often earn more than those in rural settings due to cost of living and market competition.