What Medical Degrees Can I Get Online for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Table of Contents

1. Top 5 Medical Degrees You Can Get Online for 2025
2. Do employers recognize online medical degrees?
3. How do online medical degree programs differ from traditional, on-campus ones?
4. How long does it take to complete an online medical degree?
5. What are the common requirements for enrolling in online medical degrees?
6. What are the technical requirements for online medical degrees?
7. How do you complete clinical hours in an online medical degree program?
8. What are the benefits of pursuing a medical degree online?
9. How do I choose the best online medical degree program?
10. How do online programs foster academic and career success?
11. Is an Online Pharmacy Degree a Viable Option?
12. What student support services are available to enhance online medical degree success?
13. What factors influence the credibility of online medical degree programs?
14. How do emerging technologies enhance online medical education?
15. How can you assess the affordability and quality of an online MPH program?
16. Could an accelerated online degree in biology offer a competitive edge?
17. What are the common challenges of pursuing online medical degrees?
18. Can professional certifications bolster career prospects?
19. What is the return on investment for an online medical degree?
20. Other Things You Should Know About Online Medical Degrees

Top 5 Medical Degrees You Can Get Online for 2025

You can choose from several paths within the medical field. But if you are looking for a medical degree that you can pursue while you juggle work and other personal responsibilities, you have a few options available online. Here are the top majors within the healthcare industry that you can pursue outside of the traditional setup:

1. Nursing

Nursing is one of the most in-demand healthcare professions, and many online programs now offer flexible pathways for students to enter or advance in the field. While nursing requires hands-on clinical training, many schools offer hybrid programs where coursework—such as anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care—is completed online, while clinical rotations are arranged at healthcare facilities near the student’s location. These programs make it easier for working professionals and career changers to earn a licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), or advanced nursing degree (BSN, MSN, DNP). Accelerated online programs are also the quickest way to become a nurse.

Career Pathways in Nursing

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Entry-level role providing basic patient care under RNs and doctors.
• Registered Nurse (RN): A higher level of patient care, with responsibilities in administering treatments, coordinating care, and educating patients.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Expands career opportunities, often required for hospital leadership roles.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) & Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Leads to advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Nurse Educator.

Salary & Job Outlook

• RNs earn an average annual salary of $94,480.
• Nurse Practitioners, who hold advanced degrees, earn an average of $128,490 annually.
• The demand for RNs is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, with even faster growth (40%) for nurse practitioners due to an increasing need for primary care providers.

2. Healthcare Administration

Healthcare administration is a rapidly growing field that focuses on managing the business side of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers. Unlike clinical roles, healthcare administration degrees can be completed entirely online because they focus on leadership, finance, policy, and management rather than hands-on patient care. Regular and accelerated healthcare administration degree online programs provide flexibility for working professionals and those looking to transition into healthcare leadership.

Career Pathways in Healthcare Administration

• Healthcare Administrator / Medical and Health Services Manager: Oversees daily operations, budgets, and staff at hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.
• Health Informatics Manager: Manages electronic health records (EHR) and healthcare data systems.
• Hospital or Clinic Director: Leads healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with regulations and improving patient care services.
• Policy Analyst or Healthcare Consultant: Works with government agencies, insurance companies, or consulting firms to improve healthcare systems.

Salary & Job Outlook

• Medical and health services managers earn an average of $134,440 per year.
• The employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 29% from 2023 to 2033, with about 61,400 openings, on average, each year. This job growth is much faster than the average for all occupations, due to an aging population and expanding healthcare services.

3. Radiology Technology

Radiology technology is a specialized healthcare field focused on medical imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to assist in diagnosing and treating patients. While radiologic technology requires hands-on clinical training, many programs offer a hybrid format where students complete coursework online and fulfill their clinical requirements at approved healthcare facilities. This flexible approach allows students to balance their studies with work or other responsibilities while still gaining the necessary technical and patient care skills.

Take note, however, that while radiology technology and radiology technician online programs sound similar, radiology technologists and radiology technicians differ in the scope of their training and responsibilities.

Career Pathways in Radiologic Technology

• Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech): Operates imaging equipment and works closely with doctors to capture diagnostic images.
• MRI or CT Technologist: Specializes in advanced imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT).
• Radiation Therapist: Works with oncology teams to administer radiation treatments to cancer patients.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Uses ultrasound technology to assist in medical diagnoses, often specializing in obstetrics, cardiology, or vascular imaging. You may also check out online sonography programs to learn more about how to become a diagnostic medical sonographer.

Salary & Job Outlook

• Radiologic technologists earn an average of $75,250 per year. Diagnostic medical sonographers earn an annual average salary of $89,020.
• Employment in radiologic technologists is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, with about 16,000 openings, on average, each year. This is driven by an aging population and increased demand for diagnostic imaging.

4. Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory therapy is a critical healthcare field focused on diagnosing and treating patients with breathing disorders, such as asthma, COPD, and respiratory infections. Because respiratory therapy involves hands-on patient care, most programs follow a hybrid model, where students complete coursework online and gain clinical experience at approved hospitals or medical facilities. This setup allows for the flexibility of online learning while ensuring students receive the practical training required for certification and licensure.

Career Pathways in Respiratory Therapy

• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT): Provides treatments, manages ventilators, and works with doctors to assist patients with respiratory conditions.
• Pulmonary Function Technologist: Specializes in conducting lung function tests to diagnose respiratory diseases.
• Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Therapist: Works in neonatal or pediatric units to help newborns and children with breathing difficulties.
• Sleep Disorder Specialist: Focuses on diagnosing and treating sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea.

Salary & Job Outlook

• Respiratory therapists earn an average salary of $80,340 per year.
• Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13% from 2023 to 2033, with over 8,200 openings, on average, each year. This job growth is much faster than the average for all occupations, due to an aging population and an increase in respiratory illnesses.

5. Physician Assistant

Physician assistants (PAs) are advanced healthcare professionals who diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and assist in surgeries under the supervision of a physician. While most PA programs require in-person clinical training, some schools now offer hybrid options, where students complete coursework online before participating in hands-on clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities. These hybrid programs provide flexibility for students, especially those transitioning from other healthcare roles.

Career Pathways in Physician Assistance

• Primary Care PA: Works in family medicine, diagnosing and treating common illnesses and managing long-term conditions.
• Emergency Medicine PA: Assists in emergency rooms, performing procedures like suturing wounds and stabilizing trauma patients.
• Surgical PA: Supports surgeons in the operating room by preparing patients, assisting during procedures, and managing post-operative care.
• Specialty PA: Works in fields like cardiology, dermatology, orthopedics, or oncology, providing specialized patient care.

Salary & Job Outlook

• Physician assistants earn an average salary of $130,490 per year, making it one of the highest paid medical jobs.
• Employment for PAs is projected to grow 28% from 2023 to 2033, with about 12,900 openings projected each year, on average. 

Do employers recognize online medical degrees?

Most employers recognize online medical degrees, as long as they come from accredited institutions and meet the necessary certification and licensure requirements. The rise of online education in healthcare has made it possible for students to earn degrees in fields like nursing, healthcare administration, respiratory therapy, and more through flexible and high-quality programs. However, the key factor employers look for is accreditation—programs approved by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are widely accepted in the industry.

For hands-on medical professions like nursing, physician assistant studies, and radiologic technology, most online programs follow a hybrid format, where students complete coursework online but fulfill clinical requirements in person. Employers value this real-world training, ensuring that graduates have the practical skills and experience needed to succeed. In fields like healthcare administration, public health, and medical coding, where hands-on clinical work isn’t required, fully online degrees are just as respected as traditional ones.

How do online medical degree programs differ from traditional, on-campus ones?

Both online medical degree programs and traditional on-campus programs provide the education needed to enter healthcare fields, but they differ in terms of learning format, flexibility, and hands-on training requirements. Online programs are designed for students who need more flexibility, often offering asynchronous coursework (where students complete assignments on their own schedule) or synchronous classes (live virtual lectures with set meeting times). This makes online programs ideal for working professionals, parents, or career changers who need to balance their education with other commitments.

One major difference is how clinical training is handled. While programs like healthcare administration, public health, and medical billing can be completed fully online, clinical-based fields such as nursing, respiratory therapy, and radiologic technology use a hybrid model. This means students take courses online but complete in-person clinical rotations, lab work, or internships at approved healthcare facilities. In contrast, traditional on-campus programs provide face-to-face instruction, on-site labs, and direct interactions with faculty and peers in a structured classroom setting.

Both formats can lead to successful careers in healthcare, but online programs offer greater flexibility, while on-campus programs may provide more hands-on, in-person learning experiences from day one. Choosing between them depends on the student’s learning style, schedule, and career goals.

How long does it take to complete an online medical degree?

There is no fixed time for completing online medical degrees. It depends on the specific program, degree level, and field of study. Generally, online medical degrees follow the same timelines as traditional on-campus programs, but some offer accelerated or self-paced options for added flexibility.

• Certificate & Diploma Programs: Entry-level healthcare certifications, such as medical billing and coding, pharmacy technician, or medical assisting, can be completed in 6 months to 1 year.
• Associate Degrees (ADN, Respiratory Therapy, Radiologic Technology): These typically take 2 years and prepare students for roles such as registered nurses (ADN-RN) or radiologic technologists.
• Bachelor’s Degrees (BSN, Healthcare Administration, Public Health): A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Healthcare Administration degree takes about 4 years, though accelerated BSN programs for those with prior degrees can be completed in 12–24 months.
• Master’s Degrees (MSN, Health Informatics, Physician Assistant Studies): Most master’s programs, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA), take 1.5 to 3 years to complete.
• Doctoral Degrees (DNP, DHA, PhD in Public Health): Advanced degrees like a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) can take 3 to 6 years, depending on part-time or full-time enrollment.

What are the common requirements for enrolling in online medical degrees?

The admission requirements for online medical degree programs vary based on the type of degree and career path you’re pursuing. While some entry-level programs have minimal prerequisites, others—especially those leading to clinical roles—require prior education, certifications, or work experience.

The common admission requirements for online medical degrees include:

• High School Diploma or GED: Required for associate and bachelor’s degree programs in fields like nursing, medical billing, and healthcare administration.
• Prerequisite Courses: Some programs require coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, or math, especially for healthcare-related degrees.
• Minimum GPA Requirements: Many schools require a GPA of 2.5 or higher, though competitive programs may have stricter requirements.
• Professional Licensure or Certifications (For Advanced Degrees): Programs like an RN-to-BSN or MSN require applicants to hold a valid nursing license (RN) before enrolling.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require standardized test scores like the SAT, ACT, GRE, or TEAS (for nursing programs), though many schools are moving toward test-optional admissions.
• Letters of Recommendation & Personal Statement: Many programs ask for references from employers or instructors and a statement outlining career goals.
• Background Checks & Immunizations: Clinical-based programs often require a criminal background check, drug screening, and proof of vaccinations before students can begin clinical hours.

What are the technical requirements for online medical degrees?

Enrolling in an online medical program means you’ll need the right technology to access coursework, participate in virtual labs, and communicate with instructors. Most programs use learning management systems (LMS) like Blackboard, Canvas, or Moodle to deliver lectures, assignments, and exams. To ensure a smooth learning experience, here are the key technical requirements:

Essential Hardware & Devices

• A Reliable Computer: A desktop or laptop with at least 8GB of RAM, a multi-core processor, and a solid-state drive (SSD) for fast performance.
• High-Speed Internet: A stable broadband connection (at least 10 Mbps) for streaming lectures, attending live classes, and uploading assignments.
• Webcam & Microphone: Many courses require video conferencing for virtual lectures, discussions, and proctored exams.

Required Software & Applications

• Updated Web Browser: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for accessing the online learning portal.
• Microsoft Office or Google Workspace: For writing papers, creating presentations, and collaborating on assignments.
• Video Conferencing Tools: Programs like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet for attending live classes and meetings.

Specialized Tools for Medical Programs

• Virtual Labs & Simulations: Some programs, like nursing, radiologic technology, and medical coding, require access to anatomy simulations, medical imaging software, or coding platforms.
• Electronic Health Record (EHR) Training Systems: Healthcare administration and informatics students may need EHR simulation software to practice managing patient records.

Before starting an online medical degree, check with your school to ensure your device and internet setup meet the technical requirements for your specific program. Having the right tech setup will ensure a seamless and productive online learning experience.

How do you complete clinical hours in online medical degrees?

Many online medical degree programs require clinical hours to provide hands-on training in real healthcare settings. While coursework can be completed online, clinical experiences ensure students gain practical skills, patient interaction, and real-world healthcare experience, which are essential for professions like nursing, respiratory therapy, radiologic technology, and physician assistant studies.

You can complete clinical hours through the following options:

• Local Clinical Placements: Many online programs partner with hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities nationwide to arrange clinical training near the student’s location.
• Student-Led Site Selection: Some programs allow students to find their own approved healthcare facility to complete their clinical hours, often with guidance from faculty.
• Simulation Labs & Virtual Training: Certain programs, especially in nursing and medical imaging, incorporate high-tech simulations and virtual reality labs to supplement in-person training.
• Preceptor/Mentor Supervision: Students are often assigned a licensed healthcare professional (such as a nurse, respiratory therapist, or physician) to oversee their training and evaluate their skills.
• Intensive On-Campus Sessions (For Hybrid Programs): Some hybrid programs require students to attend short, intensive clinical residencies at the university’s campus for hands-on practice.

Clinical hours are essential for licensure and certification, ensuring that online medical students receive the same level of practical training and patient care experience as their on-campus counterparts.

What are the benefits of pursuing a medical degree online?

Earning a medical degree online offers many advantages, especially for students who need flexibility while balancing work, family, or other commitments. Online programs provide access to high-quality education, career advancement opportunities, and innovative learning tools without requiring students to relocate or commit to a rigid class schedule.

Here are the key benefits of pursuing online medical degrees:

• Flexible Learning Options: Many programs offer asynchronous courses, allowing students to study at their own pace, or hybrid models that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training.
• Career Advancement: Online medical degrees provide a pathway to higher-paying healthcare jobs, whether through a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), a master’s in healthcare administration (MHA), or specialized certifications.
• Access to Top Programs Nationwide: Students can enroll in accredited, high-quality programs from leading institutions without needing to relocate.
• Cost Savings: Online programs often cost less than traditional on-campus degrees, with lower tuition fees, no commuting costs, and the ability to continue working while studying.
• Innovative Learning Tools: Many programs use virtual simulations, telehealth training, and interactive case studies to enhance learning and prepare students for real-world healthcare settings.
• Work-Study Balance: Online programs cater to working professionals, making it easier to earn a degree while maintaining a full-time job in the healthcare field.

How do I choose the best online medical degree program?

Choosing the best online medical degree program requires careful consideration of your career goals, accreditation, program format, and support services. Not all online programs are created equal, so it’s important to evaluate key factors to ensure you’re getting a quality education that meets industry standards.

• Check Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Accreditation ensures the degree meets licensing and certification requirements. So, if you are asking: Is an online nursing degree credible? The answer lies in the accreditation.
• Consider Your Career Goals: Choose a program that aligns with your desired career path. If you want to work in nursing, respiratory therapy, or radiologic technology, look for hybrid programs with hands-on training. If you’re pursuing healthcare administration, public health, or medical coding, fully online programs may be a better fit.
• Look at Program Format & Flexibility: Decide whether you need asynchronous courses (self-paced) or synchronous classes (live virtual lectures). Working professionals or parents may benefit from accelerated or part-time options.
• Review Clinical Training Requirements: If your program requires in-person clinicals or internships, check whether they arrange placements near your location or if you must find one yourself.
• Compare Costs & Financial Aid Options: Tuition can vary widely, so research scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs to minimize costs.
• Check Student Support Services: Look for programs with strong academic advising, career services, and tech support to help you succeed in an online learning environment.

How do online programs foster academic and career success?

Many online medical programs are designed with dedicated academic support and career services that boost student success. Institutions offer virtual tutoring, streamlined communication with faculty, and interactive study groups to enhance learning outcomes and mitigate the isolation often associated with remote education. Additionally, comprehensive career centers provide networking opportunities, internship placement assistance, and ongoing professional development resources that prepare graduates for today’s competitive healthcare market. Some programs also furnish detailed information on tuition-related matters, including insights on the cost of medical assistant program, to help students make informed financial decisions.

Is an Online Pharmacy Degree a Viable Option?

For prospective students considering a pharmacy career, specialized online programs can provide a flexible pathway while integrating critical hands-on components through hybrid learning models. Evaluate each program’s accreditation, curriculum design, and clinical placement opportunities to ensure that theoretical instruction is effectively paired with practical experience. Investigating program-specific details can also aid in understanding cost-efficiency and anticipated career outcomes. Explore options like PharmD online programs for insight into affordable paths that maintain industry standards.

What student support services are available to enhance online medical degree success?

Successful online medical programs often supplement academic coursework with comprehensive student support services. Institutions offer dedicated academic advising, career counseling, and mentorship programs to assist students in navigating course challenges and clinical placements. Enhanced virtual tutoring sessions, peer discussion groups, and career networking events further help students build industry connections. Additionally, some institutions provide specialized short-term training tracks, such as quick medical assistant programs, to boost practical skills and improve job readiness.

What factors influence the credibility of online medical degree programs?

When evaluating an online medical degree, consider accreditation by recognized bodies, the qualifications of faculty, and the strength of clinical partnerships. Assess whether the program incorporates rigorous academic standards alongside structured practical training. An institution’s reputation, peer reviews, and demonstrable outcomes in job placements further indicate its credibility. Notably, graduates from programs that emphasize robust professional preparation often secure some of the best paying jobs in healthcare administration, reflecting quality and industry alignment.

How do emerging technologies enhance online medical education?

Advances in digital tools are reshaping the delivery of online medical education by creating more immersive and interactive learning environments. Virtual simulation labs, telehealth training modules, and augmented reality experiences enable students to practice clinical skills in a controlled, technologically advanced setting. These innovations minimize the gap between remote study and hands-on patient care by providing virtual patient scenarios, real-time feedback, and collaborative case reviews. Furthermore, integration with industry-standard equipment, as seen in programs from the best schools for ultrasound technician, demonstrates a commitment to aligning curriculum with current healthcare practices.

How can you assess the affordability and quality of an online MPH program?

Evaluating an online MPH program involves comparing tuition rates, hidden fees, and available financial aid options to ensure a strong return on investment. Prospective students should consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum rigor, and student support services when assessing program quality. Benchmarking against institutions known for cost efficiency can be highly beneficial; for instance, reviewing the cheapest online MPH program offers insights into competitive pricing while maintaining educational standards.

Could an accelerated online degree in biology offer a competitive edge?

In an increasingly competitive healthcare job market, accelerated online programs in biology provide a streamlined path to acquiring essential scientific and analytical competencies in a reduced timeframe. Such programs enable students to quickly build a robust foundation that can support advanced medical studies or specialized roles in biomedical research and allied health services. This accelerated approach demonstrates proactive commitment and flexibility, traits that employers value highly. For those seeking a fast-tracked educational experience, exploring opportunities like the quickest biology online degree can help ensure that their academic investment aligns with long-term career objectives.

What are the common challenges of pursuing online medical degrees?

While online medical degrees offer flexibility and convenience, they also come with unique challenges that students must navigate. From balancing coursework with personal responsibilities to meeting clinical requirements, here are some common hurdles online medical students face and how to overcome them.

• Lack of Hands-On Interaction. Many healthcare fields require practical skills and patient interaction, which can be difficult to develop through online learning. So, choose a hybrid program that includes in-person clinical rotations, lab work, or internships to gain hands-on experience. 
• Staying Motivated & Self-Disciplined. Online learning requires strong time management and self-motivation, as there’s no traditional classroom setting to keep students on track. You need to create a study schedule, set deadlines, and use productivity tools to stay organized and focused. 
• Technical Difficulties & Learning Curve. Students may face issues with internet connectivity, software compatibility, or unfamiliar online learning platforms. Ensure you meet the technical requirements, test your system before classes start, and take advantage of tech support services offered by your school.
• Limited Networking & Peer Interaction.  Unlike in-person programs, online students may have fewer opportunities to connect with classmates, professors, and healthcare professionals. Join virtual study groups, participate in discussion forums, and engage in online networking events to build relationships in the field.
• Meeting Clinical & Lab Requirements.  Some programs require on-site clinical training, which may be challenging for students who live far from designated healthcare facilities. Pick a program that offers local clinical placements or allows you to arrange clinical hours at a facility near you.

Despite these challenges, online medical degree programs provide a valuable and accessible path to careers in healthcare. With proper planning, time management, and a proactive approach to hands-on training, students can successfully complete their degrees and enter the medical field with confidence.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Medical Degrees

• Earning my nursing degree online was the best decision I ever made. The flexibility allowed me to study while working full-time, and the hybrid program ensured I got hands-on clinical experience at a hospital near me. Now, I’m a registered nurse, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to learn on my own schedule! Danielle
• I was hesitant about studying healthcare administration online, but the experience exceeded my expectations. The program was engaging, the instructors were incredibly supportive, and I could apply what I was learning directly to my job in a medical office. Thanks to my degree, I landed a promotion before I even graduated! Louie
• Pursuing my respiratory therapy degree online allowed me to balance my education with my family responsibilities. The coursework was challenging but manageable, and I was able to complete my clinical training at a local hospital. Now, I’m working in a field I love, helping patients breathe easier every day! Cory

Can professional certifications bolster career prospects?

Obtaining professional certifications alongside an online medical degree can significantly enhance your career profile and set you apart in a competitive job market. Specialized credentials validate your expertise and familiarity with industry standards, thereby increasing trust among employers and patients. For instance, examining the pathway outlined in how to become a certified medical assistant might provide targeted benefits for those interested in clinical roles. Emphasizing certification can also lead to improved job stability, higher earning potential, and accelerated career advancement within the healthcare field.

What is the return on investment for an online medical degree?

Evaluating an online medical degree involves analyzing upfront tuition, reduced ancillary costs, and potential long-term earnings. Students should compare the program fees against accelerated course timelines and career placement rates, while factoring in industry standards and local job market trends. Additionally, specialized fields, such as online medical billing and coding, provide a cost-efficient pathway that often leads to prompt employment opportunities, enhancing overall value.

Key Findings

• Growing Demand for Healthcare Professionals: The overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the 4% average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033, with about 1.9 million openings projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently. 
• High Earning Potential: Graduates with online healthcare degrees can earn competitive salaries, such as RNs, who earn an average annual salary of $94,480, and healthcare managers, who earn an average annual salary of $134,440.
• Online Healthcare Degrees Are Widely Accepted: According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, among employers that capture the degree modality of their new hires, 87% hired college graduates with online degrees. Moreover, there is no difference in the salaries of new hires with traditional degrees and those with online degrees.
• Faster Degree Completion Options: Many online medical programs offer accelerated pathways, allowing students to graduate in less time compared to traditional on-campus programs.
• Diverse Career Paths Available: Online medical degrees lead to careers in nursing, public health, medical billing and coding, health informatics, and respiratory therapy, among others.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Medical Degrees 

Can I transfer credits from a previous school to an online medical degree program?

Many accredited online medical programs accept transfer credits, especially for general education and prerequisite courses. However, core medical courses and clinical training requirements may have stricter transfer policies.

Are there financial aid options available for online medical degrees?

Yes, students in accredited online medical programs can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA), scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs. Some schools also offer payment plans to help with tuition costs.

Can I work while completing an online medical degree?

Yes, many students work while studying online, especially in flexible programs with asynchronous coursework. However, clinical-based programs may require in-person training, which could affect work schedules.

Do online medical degrees prepare students for certification exams?

Yes, accredited programs are designed to meet state and national certification requirements for fields like nursing (NCLEX-RN), medical coding (CPC), respiratory therapy (CRT/RRT), and healthcare administration (FACHE).

References:

• Gray, K. (2024, January 30). Employers See Online Degrees as Comparable to In-Person Degrees. National Association of Colleges and Employers. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: United States. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Healthcare Occupations. BLS.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Medical and Health Services Managers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physician Assistant. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Radiologic and MRI Technologists. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Registered Nurses. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Respiratory Therapist. BLS.