What Can You Do with a Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

What is a bachelor’s degree in health sciences, and what does it prepare you for?

A bachelor’s in health science is an undergraduate degree that combines coursework in biology, anatomy, public health, healthcare systems, and related fields to prepare students for a wide range of roles in the healthcare industry.

It equips graduates with the scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and understanding of health services needed to work in both clinical and non-clinical environments, as well as to pursue advanced degrees in specialized health professions. In fact, students often compare this path with other options in the field, like exploring jobs you can get with a health information management degree, since both areas emphasize data, systems, and organizational roles that are essential to modern healthcare.

Here are a few examples of what a bachelor’s degree in health science prepares you for:

• Entry-level healthcare roles: Graduates can work in positions such as health educator, medical laboratory technologist, or healthcare administrator, contributing directly to patient care or healthcare operations.
• Graduate or professional school: The degree provides the prerequisites for programs in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, and more.
• Public health and community wellness careers: Students gain skills to develop, implement, and evaluate health programs aimed at improving population health outcomes, with some complementing their studies through an accelerated home health aide online certification to broaden their expertise in direct patient care.
• Healthcare research and data analysis: The program fosters analytical abilities that prepare graduates to conduct studies, analyze healthcare trends, and support evidence-based decision-making.

How long does it take to complete a bachelor’s degree in health sciences?

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences typically takes about four years of full-time study to complete. Most programs require around 120 semester credits, which are spread across general education courses, core health science classes, and electives or concentrations.

This standard timeline applies to students who enroll full-time and follow the recommended course sequence without taking extended breaks. It provides students with both foundational science knowledge and applied healthcare skills needed for diverse career paths or graduate study.

However, the time to completion can vary based on factors like transfer credits, part-time enrollment, or participation in accelerated or dual-degree pathways. Students entering with an associate degree or significant prior coursework may finish in less than four years, while those balancing work or family responsibilities may take longer.

Online or hybrid programs often offer added flexibility, and some graduates even transition into the shortest online MBA in healthcare management to fast-track their leadership careers, but these pathways still require students to complete the same credit load to graduate.

What bridge or accelerated programs exist for health science graduates?

For health science graduates looking to advance their careers more quickly, bridge and accelerated programs offer a fast track to higher-level credentials and specialized roles. These pathways allow students to combine undergraduate and graduate coursework or leverage prior experience to shorten the time to a professional degree. Bridge or accelerated programs for health science graduates include:

• RN-to-BSN programs: These programs allow registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in a shorter time frame, often 12–18 months. Similar in concept to an accelerated health sciences online degree, they build on prior nursing education and clinical experience to expand leadership, research, and public health skills.
• BS-to-MPH programs: Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master of Public Health pathways enable students to complete both degrees in about five years instead of the usual six. They prepare graduates for roles in epidemiology, health policy, and community health leadership.
• BS-to-MHA programs: This option combines a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a Master of Health Administration, often completed in five years. It equips students for management and executive roles in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems.
• BS-to-DPT programs: These accelerated Doctor of Physical Therapy tracks allow qualified students to move directly from their undergraduate program into doctoral-level physical therapy training. They reduce the overall time to become a licensed physical therapist and begin practice sooner.
• BS-to-PA programs: Some universities offer combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Physician Assistant Studies programs, enabling students to finish in about five to six years. This pathway streamlines prerequisites and clinical preparation for entry into the PA profession.

What jobs can you get with a bachelor's degree in health sciences?

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences opens the door to a variety of careers in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Graduates can pursue direct patient care roles, healthcare management positions, public health initiatives, or use the degree as a stepping stone to advanced professional programs.

Below are some of the most common jobs you can get with a health science degree, along with their average U.S. salaries and typical job duties.

• Medical Assistant ($44,200): Medical assistants perform administrative and basic clinical tasks such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, scheduling appointments, and assisting physicians during exams. They work in physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, and hospitals.
• Clinical Laboratory Technologist ($61,890): Clinical technologists perform complex laboratory tests to diagnose diseases, analyze bodily fluids, and support physicians in patient care decisions. They are employed in hospital labs, research facilities, and diagnostic laboratories.
• Health Educator ($63,000): Health educators design and implement programs that promote wellness and healthy living. They assess community needs, create health campaigns, and work in schools, public health departments, and nonprofits, with some professionals expanding their qualifications through accelerated health information management programs online to combine education expertise with data-driven healthcare solutions.
• Community Health Worker ($51,030): Community health workers connect underserved populations with healthcare services, provide education, and advocate for patient needs. They work in nonprofits, public health agencies, and community clinics.

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences can lead to diverse career opportunities in patient care, public health, laboratory science, and healthcare management. Some positions require only an undergraduate degree, while others call for additional certifications or graduate study, but in each case, your health science background provides a strong foundation.

The chart below highlights these career paths side by side, showing average salaries and the core skills needed for each, making it easier to compare options and plan your next steps.

Do health science majors need internships or clinical hours to get jobs?

While not always mandatory, internships and clinical hours can significantly improve job prospects for health science majors. Many entry-level healthcare roles, especially those involving direct patient interaction or technical skills, prefer or require candidates with hands-on experience.

Internships, practicums, and volunteer work allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, build professional networks, and develop practical skills that employers value.

Even in non-clinical roles such as healthcare administration, public health, or health education, internships can set candidates apart in a competitive job market. They showcase a candidate’s initiative, familiarity with industry operations, and ability to collaborate effectively within healthcare environments.

Additionally, internship supervisors can offer mentorship and provide firsthand insights into potential career paths, including advanced options like the fastest online master’s degree in healthcare management programs for those seeking leadership roles.

What skills do you gain from a bachelor's degree in health sciences?

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences equips graduates with a mix of technical knowledge, analytical ability, and interpersonal skills that are valuable across healthcare and related industries. Key skills for healthcare professionals include the following:

• Scientific literacy – understanding human anatomy, physiology, and disease processes, enabling evidence-based decision-making.
• Data analysis – interpreting health data and statistics.
• Communication skills – conveying complex medical information clearly to patients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking – applying research and clinical knowledge to address real-world health challenges.
• Ethics and cultural competence – adhering to professional standards while working effectively with diverse populations.
• Leadership and teamwork – collaborating in interdisciplinary healthcare teams; over 60% of health sciences graduates work in team-based environments.

What is the average salary with a bachelor’s degree in health science?

The average salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in health science is about $80,389 per year in the United States, according to recent data. This works out to roughly $38.65 per hour, though actual earnings can vary widely based on job title, location, industry, and years of experience.

Entry-level positions in administrative or support roles typically start at a lower salary, while specialized or leadership positions often command higher compensation. For those who choose to continue their education, it’s worth noting that master of health administration salary levels are often substantially higher, reflecting the advanced leadership and management responsibilities that come with graduate-level qualifications.

Some career paths associated with a health science degree can earn significantly more than the average. For example, roles in healthcare administration, health informatics, or specialized clinical support may offer salaries well above $100,000 annually with additional training or experience. This variation means graduates have multiple pathways to increase their earning potential over time.

Can health sciences graduates work outside of healthcare?

Health sciences graduates are not limited to traditional clinical roles. Many pursue fulfilling careers in diverse sectors thanks to their strong foundation in communication, data analysis, and critical thinking. These skills transfer well to industries that intersect with health, business, policy, and technology. For example, just as students often wonder "what can you do with a patient care technician certificate" to understand career versatility, health sciences graduates also have the flexibility to branch into roles that extend beyond direct patient care.

Here are some non-clinical career paths and their average salaries in the U.S.:

• Health Policy Specialist: Approximately $83,600 annually
• Public Health Policy Analyst: Median total pay around $131,000
• Health Informatics Specialist: Average salary of $91,300, with top earners reaching up to $126,000
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Average salary about $80,700, with high earners reaching $100,000+ depending on location
• Public Health Specialists: Between $131,000 and $152,000 annually

By leveraging their interdisciplinary strengths, health sciences graduates can forge rewarding and lucrative careers beyond traditional healthcare, making meaningful contributions across multiple industries.

What certifications should you get if you have a bachelor's degree in health sciences?

Earning certifications after completing a health science degree can boost employability, expand skill sets, and open doors to specialized roles. Many certifications can be completed in a matter of months and help graduates stand out in competitive healthcare job markets. Valuable certifications for health science degree holders include:

• Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES): The Certified Health Education Specialist credential validates expertise in health education program planning, implementation, and evaluation. This certification is ideal for those pursuing careers in public health or community wellness.
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Demonstrates skills in managing patient records, scheduling, and healthcare office operations. It is especially useful for graduates aiming for administrative roles in medical facilities.
• Personal Trainer Certification (e.g., NASM, ACE): Authorizes individuals to design and lead fitness programs for clients. This certification pairs well with health science backgrounds focused on wellness and preventive health.
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC): Proves proficiency in medical coding for billing and insurance purposes. It is valuable for roles in healthcare administration, insurance companies, and medical offices.
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Trains individuals to provide urgent medical care in emergency situations. This certification can be a gateway to careers in paramedicine or advanced emergency response roles.

For those considering advanced studies later, jobs with a masters degree in emergency management is also worth exploring since pairing certifications with graduate-level training can prepare individuals for leadership roles in disaster response, public health preparedness, and organizational resilience.

What is the job outlook for graduates with a bachelor's degree in health sciences?

Graduates with a health sciences degree can expect a strong job outlook, supported by consistent growth in the healthcare sector. Overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations until 2033, with about 1.9 million openings projected each year, on average.

This demand is fueled by an aging population, advances in medical technology, and an increasing emphasis on preventive care. For health science graduates, this means a wide range of opportunities in both clinical and non-clinical roles, as well as the flexibility to specialize in high-demand areas.

This growth is not confined to a single niche; it extends from direct patient care to administrative and public health roles, with some graduates even advancing into leadership through accelerated healthcare MBA online programs, all contributing to the overall strength of the healthcare workforce.

The chart below illustrates this distribution across different healthcare and social assistance industries:

Here’s what graduates have to say about their health science degrees:

Other things you should know about getting a bachelor’s degree in health science

Is a bachelor’s degree in health science worth it?

A bachelor’s degree in health science can be highly worthwhile for students seeking flexibility in the healthcare field. It provides a broad academic foundation that can lead to careers in administration, public health, research, or entry-level clinical roles. Graduates can also use it as a stepping stone to advanced degrees like medicine, physical therapy, or physician assistant studies.

With healthcare employment projected to grow faster than average through 2033, the degree offers strong long-term career prospects. While outcomes vary depending on career path, the versatility of this degree makes it a solid investment for many students.

Can you work in healthcare without a license with this degree?

Yes, many jobs in healthcare do not require a license, and a health science degree can qualify you for them. Non-licensed roles include healthcare administration, medical and health services coordination, public health outreach, research assistance, and health education.

These positions allow graduates to work in the healthcare sector without undergoing state licensing exams or extensive postgraduate clinical training. However, licensed positions such as nursing or physical therapy require additional education and credentials. The degree’s flexibility lets you choose between entering the workforce immediately or pursuing licensure later.

How competitive are health science degree programs?

Competitiveness depends on the school and program type. Some universities have open or rolling admissions, while others, especially those tied to pre-professional tracks like pre-PT or pre-PA, may have stricter GPA and prerequisite requirements. Programs with limited clinical placements or specialized concentrations often accept fewer students, increasing competition.

Applicants can improve their chances by maintaining strong grades in science courses, gaining volunteer experience in healthcare settings, and submitting well-crafted personal statements. Ultimately, preparation and early planning are key to securing admission.

Can you study health science online?

Yes, many accredited institutions offer fully online or hybrid health science programs, making the degree accessible to working adults or those with family obligations. Online programs cover the same core curriculum as in-person programs, though certain concentrations may still require in-person labs or practicums.

This flexibility allows students to balance education with other commitments while advancing their careers. Employers generally value accredited online health science degrees as long as the program meets academic and professional standards.