2026 Best Online PhDs in Health Sciences
Find the best online PhD in health sciences that stands out the most in student reviews.
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An online health sciences PhD prepares students to conduct advanced research, evaluate evidence, and address complex issues across healthcare and public health. Graduate feedback adds perspective to help you make the best decision for you.
Key Takeaways:
- The top three health science PhDs all earn ratings of at least 4.49 and the schools hosting them earn 100% recommendation rates.
- Importantly, higher tuition does not correspond with stronger reviews or earnings on this list.
- Some lower-ranked health sciences doctorates report the strongest earnings. Nova Southeastern ranks 11th but reports $87,828 in median earnings, while last-ranked George Washington reports $87,189.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online doctoral in health sciences degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few doctoral in health sciences qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
2026 Best Online PhDs in Health Sciences
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 100% | $11,632 | $74,019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rush University | 4.52 / 5 | 100% | $14,580 | N/A | ||
| University of Indianapolis | 4.49 / 5 | 100% | $11,635 | $83,550 | ||
| A.T. Still University of Health Sciences | 4.29 / 5 | 93% | $15,400 | $97,164 | ||
| The University of Findlay | 4.12 / 5 | 85% | $42,740 | $72,838 | ||
| University of Bridgeport | 3.82 / 5 | 83% | $14,155 | N/A | ||
| Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences | 3.66 / 5 | 81% | $16,402 | $82,682 | ||
| Wilkes University | 3.66 / 5 | 40% | $16,020 | N/A | ||
| Pacific University | 3.49 / 5 | 85% | $16,236 | $84,261 | ||
| Capella University | 3.48 / 5 | 57% | $16,314 | N/A | ||
| Nova Southeastern University | 3.45 / 5 | 72% | $11,362 | $87,828 | ||
| The George Washington University | 2.88 / 5 | 50% | $20,985 | $87,189 |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Students rated this as the #1 Best by Student Reviews. This PhD combines online coursework with required on-campus immersions each semester, giving the program a hybrid structure despite being housed within VCU Online.
- Students can concentrate in Biobehavioral Research, examining how biological, behavioral, psychological, social, and environmental factors influence health and well-being.
- The Health Care Quality Research concentration centers doctoral study on health care safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and quality improvement.
1 Student Review for Doctoral in Health Sciences Degrees
VCU is giving me an opportunity after having taken several gap years since graduating from Duke University as my undergraduate college. Although VCU's medical student body is relatively large in number, the communities within the classes and the administration... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray VCU as a largely positive, city-centered experience defined by diversity, approachable professors, and strong career preparation. Many students praise Richmond as an extension of campus, citing internships, networking, community engagement, and cultural exposure that translated into jobs, residencies, and practical confidence after graduation. Advising, small upper-level classes, and hands-on learning are recurring strengths. Students also note flexible scheduling, transfer access, and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. Criticisms focus on uneven instructional quality, disorganized administration, limited funding, rising costs, safety concerns in surrounding areas, parking and housing challenges, and some online or overcrowded experiences that left individuals feeling overlooked.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,472 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,632
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,632
- Program Length: 3 years
- Median Earnings: $74,019
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This health science PhD at Rush is 100% online and asynchronous with no required campus visits.
- Dissertation research is typically conducted at students’ own places of employment, often in academic or clinical settings, tying doctoral research directly to their existing professional environments.
- Rush uses a teacher-practitioner model, meaning instructors are experienced practitioners in their respective health fields as well as faculty members.
3 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Health Sciences Degrees
In my opinion, Rush University is the best place to pursue a doctorate in Audiology. It is located in an innovative medical facility, where you will see so many interesting cases. Everyone on the faculty is so kind and gets to know you on an individual... Read More
The Rush Medical College is a small community with a lot of faculty support. Its size makes it feel like a family, but can come with the administrative problems of a small staff. However, they are always working for us to make sure we have the best experience... Read More
Rush University Medical Center's Audiology Program is 1 of the top 10 in the nation. Students get the best preparation for entering the field as professionals.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Rush University are largely positive, with many describing strong faculty access, prompt feedback, and a supportive, close-knit environment within a major medical center. Reviewers repeatedly value hands-on clinical exposure, diverse and complex real-world cases, and practical preparation that clarifies career paths and builds confidence. Several also praise rigorous yet relevant coursework, strong professional networks, and individualized attention. Criticism centers on uneven administrative execution: limited financial aid, slow communication, scarce transparency around outcomes, safety concerns nearby at night, heavy workload, and, in one sharply negative review, serious claims of disorganization, poor instruction quality, and weak career preparation despite high cost.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 790 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $14,580
- Out-of-State Tuition: $14,580
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Students complete most DHSc coursework online but attend two required on-campus sessions in August.
- The standard online DHSc curriculum is designed so students can finish coursework in five semesters, then move into dissertation work that generally takes another one to two years.
- Students can complete the full online doctorate in as little as 2.5 years by taking 6-9 credits per semester, while an extended degree plan provides a slower alternative.
1 Student Review for Doctoral in Health Sciences Degrees
I chose the Krannert School of Physical Therapy over other programs for several reasons: 1) All of the faculty are still currently practicing physical therapy, 2) Students are out in the clinical setting within weeks of starting the program, including... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Indianapolis are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and consistent praise for small classes, accessible professors, and a close-knit campus that feels personal rather than anonymous. Many reviewers say faculty are supportive, flexible, and invested in career preparation, with several citing practical, hands-on learning, industry-connected instructors, and strong job or clinical outcomes. The school’s urban location is seen as a benefit because it expands networking, research, and extracurricular options while keeping a manageable campus environment. Concerns center on high private-school tuition, limited financial aid, uneven instructor quality in some areas, weaker weekend social life, and one severe complaint about safety and institutional response.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 403 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,635
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,635
- Program Length: 30 months
- Median Earnings: $83,550
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The DHSc replaces a traditional dissertation with an Applied Research Project, giving students a practice-oriented route for translating research into healthcare improvement.
- Online students can choose from five named concentrations 鈥� Fundamentals of Education, Global Health, Leadership and Organizational Behavior, Health Care Compliance, and Research Methods.
- The online DHSc program can be completed in about three years, with four start dates each year.
13 Student Reviews for Doctoral in Health Sciences Degrees
A.T. Still University (ATSU) was a great learning experience for me. The courses were rigorous and you have to do the work. There were no "easy A's." Each grade I received I earned. The faculty were helpful and always willing to provide any assistance... Read More
A.T. Still is committed to making doctors who are not just book smart but also people smart. We are groomed from day one to be empathetic and genuine in our interactions with every person, patient or not. I cannot say enough good things about my experience.... Read More
KCOM is an interesting medical school. It focuses on helping students, and I feel everyone of the staff and faculty aims to see us achieve our goals. It is not a school for "Gunners" so if you need competition to do well this is not the school for you.... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews of A.T. Still University of Health Sciences are largely favorable, with most describing a rigorous, fair education supported by accessible, knowledgeable faculty, small classes, and a collaborative culture. Many valued hands-on, clinical, and community-based learning, along with a whole-person approach to care that emphasized empathy, communication, and real-world readiness. Flexible online and hybrid formats were praised for fitting working schedules, though some said they reduced peer and faculty interaction. Recurring drawbacks include high tuition, limited diversity, occasional weak student services, sparse social life in smaller locations, technology issues, and inconsistent clinical placement or hands-on opportunities in certain areas.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 930 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $15,400
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,400
- Program Length: 3 years
- Median Earnings: $97,164
- Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Findlay’s Distance PharmD pairs 100% asynchronous didactic coursework with five required campus visits, including orientation, three one-week lab immersions, and a final NAPLEX/MPJE preparation camp.
- The four-year curriculum includes 300 hours of Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience and 1,440 hours of Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience, making experiential training a major component of the degree.
- The university provides dedicated placement support to help arrange experiential sites and preceptors near students’ home communities.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray The University of Findlay as a school where many students value small classes, accessible professors, and a close-knit environment that feels personal rather than anonymous. Students frequently praise caring faculty, strong advising, responsive communication, safety, and hands-on or field-based learning that supports career readiness. Several reviewers also highlight flexible scheduling, online engagement, and accelerated pathways that help them balance work or finish sooner. The main criticisms are steep private-school tuition, limited resources compared with larger universities, uneven program quality, concerns about practical training depth in some areas, few assistantship options, and isolated complaints about unfair treatment, weak institutional support, and scholarship inconsistency.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 257 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $42,740
- Out-of-State Tuition: $42,740
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $72,838
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 58%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Compare Online PhDs in Health Science To Find the Best Fit
Median Earnings can be useful when comparing online health sciences doctorates, as the graph above shows, but the field makes the metric especially important to put in context.
Many doctoral students enter with established healthcare experience, and programs can differ substantially in terms of research emphasis, professional orientation, and the type of advancement they are designed to support. Earnings therefore shouldn't be read as a prediction of what completing the doctorate will add to your salary. Instead, consider them alongside the degree type, curriculum, research model, and how closely each program aligns with the next stage of your career.
Student satisfaction can carry particular weight in a health sciences doctorate because the experience extends well beyond completing online courses. Research supervision, faculty communication, dissertation or applied-project support, cohort interaction, and any required clinical or campus experiences can shape several years of doctoral study.
Recommendation Rate and Review Rating capture different dimensions of that experience, so neither should stand alone as a measure of program quality. Used together, they can help you identify schools worth investigating more closely for mentoring, research support, program structure, and overall fit.
Standout Features of the Best Online PhDs in Health Sciences: An Editorial Analysis
Grant Writing Built Into Doctoral Research
Wilkes University
Wilkes requires students to practice one of the harder parts of an academic research career, which involves securing support for it. A dedicated grant writing and publication course asks students to prepare a fundable grant application connected to their dissertation study. That requirement sits within a broader research sequence that starts dissertation planning early and progresses through chair-guided seminars, a competency exam, proposal development, IRB preparation, and dissertation implementation.
A Capstone Designed for Publication
The George Washington University
At the end of the program, GWU's online doctoral students finish with a manuscript prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. That shifts the capstone from an internal graduation requirement toward a piece of scholarship intended to enter the professional literature. The structure may be especially useful for health professionals who want evidence of scholarly writing or publication experience as they move into leadership, education, or academic roles.
A Practicum-Based Alternative to Dissertation Research
Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern replaces the traditional dissertation with an internship or practicum, making its online DHSc program one of the more explicitly practice-oriented options in the list above. NSU gives students a route to demonstrate doctoral-level learning through applied professional experience. Its concentration choices reinforce that practitioner focus, particularly specialized options such as Telehealth and Advanced Anesthesiology. The structure may appeal to experienced health professionals who want doctoral preparation for leadership or specialized practice but do not need a dissertation-centered pathway to support their goals.
FAQs About Choosing the Best Online PhD in Health Sciences
What Is the Difference Between an Online PhD in Health Sciences and Other Online Health Sciences Doctorates?
A PhD generally emphasizes original research and preparation for roles in scholarship, teaching, or research leadership, but health sciences doctoral programs, online or in-person, can take several forms.
This ranking, for example, also includes:
- Doctor of Health Science (DHSc)
- Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc)
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Their goals can differ substantially. That's why it's important to carefully compare the degree type and culminating requirements closely rather than assuming every health sciences doctorate serves the same career goal.
Do Online Health Sciences Doctorates Require a Dissertation?
Not always. Dissertation requirements vary considerably across the programs in the list above.
Rush and Wilkes use traditional dissertation-centered models, while A.T. Still replaces the dissertation with an Applied Research Project. Nova Southeastern uses an internship or practicum instead, and George Washington culminates in a manuscript prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
The given format can shape both the amount and type of research you complete. For example, if you want to pursue academic research, a dissertation-heavy program may fit better, while an applied doctoral project may be more relevant if your goal is to solve problems within healthcare practice or leadership.
Are Online PhDs in Health Sciences Completely Online?
Some are, but "online" does not always mean you will never visit a campus. Rush offers a fully online, asynchronous PhD with no required campus visits. By comparison, the Indianapolis requires two on-campus sessions, Virginia Commonwealth incorporates campus immersions each semester, and Findlay鈥檚 distance PharmD includes orientation, laboratory immersions, and a final licensure-exam preparation visit. And those are just a few examples from above.
Before enrolling, check not only whether coursework is online but also whether the program requires residencies, clinical experiences, labs, orientations, or other in-person components.
How Should I Use Student Reviews When Comparing Online Health Sciences Doctorates?
Student reviews can help you evaluate aspects of doctoral study that are difficult to capture through tuition or curriculum data alone, including faculty responsiveness, advising, administrative support, online course quality, and the experience of completing research or clinical requirements. Our ranking uses verified student reviews. These are firsthand experiences, which can be valuable when you're making such a huge decision about your future.
We strongly suggest using both the review ratings as well as recommendation rates alongside other program-specific factors (e.g., dissertation support, concentrations, residency requirements, and research opportunities) to make the best choice for your personal situation and goals.
Student Reviews of Online Health Sciences Programs
As a full-time online student at Purdue Global University, I have had only positive experiences. Reliable academic support is one of this institution's most valuable resources. Since my initial enrollment, I have been working with the same academic advisor for more than six years. My scholastic career has greatly benefited from that degree of consistency since my adviser is fully conscious of my objectives, development, and difficulties. The availability of support services is yet another noteworthy... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Bad teachers and poor support from the administration. They only teach you how to paraphrase others.
Some teachers have huge egos, demonstrate obsolete knowledge, and give unjustified bad grades to support what they believe is a "quality" of teaching. Mediocrity seems to be the goal!
Review Date: 7/19/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I attended NY Medical College, which is a Touro school, for my MPH and had a great experience. The coursework was rigorous and the professors were helpful, accessible, and expected excellence. So I didn't hesitate to pursue my doctorate at Touro. I completed 4 courses before I withdrew -- the courses were almost identical to the classes I already took for my MPH, except a bit more volume of work was required. It was difficult to get in touch with professors and in a couple of cases when I emailed... Read More
Review Date: 2/18/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This school is truly amazing. I am honestly shocked at how quickly I adjusted to medical school. I'll talk to my friends at other medical schools and realize that I am the only one who actually loves being in school and loves what I'm learning. I'm so glad I came here.
Review Date: 11/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Walden University is a trusted university with a solid social change program. Highly recommended to anyone. You can be assured of dedicated lecturers and professors who are ready to provide assistance at every level of your studies. You can also be assured of lasting friendship with faculties as well as fellow students
Review Date: 5/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The four year doctorate program for Audiology provided a good mix of classroom and hands-on experience. The lack of exposure to multiple hearing aid manufacturers was disappointing as there was a significant learning curve in the real world experience. Additionally, there was very little funding for scholarships or tuition help, which would have been very valuable for a program that is requiring three to four additional years.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The AuD program at CMU is the longest running AuD program in the country. The supervisors are nice and recognize that we're there to learn, although some of them are under the impression that you should have no life because you're in graduate school, which most people think is wrong. However, they don't necessarily ask you before placing you off campus, up to an hour away (one way) and that can cause a lot of hassle. The on campus clinic is really nice. They do usually give a graduate assistantship... Read More
Review Date: 8/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have to emphasize that my negative remark is unfortunate . The culture of the office of Financial Aid at Walden University ( culture of disorganization and miss-information ) will jeopardize your academic efforts . The customer service is not as good as it should be (crew members do not enforce any written policies ) it is all about ripping you . On the academic front I have nothing bad to say , the teachings , the materials are excellent and they offer great degrees . Be on top of your academic... Read More
Review Date: 9/22/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
Online learning is not for everyone. It works well for busy adults. It took me 7 years to get through my PhD program at Capella. I am very satisfied with the experience though challenging at times it was well worth it. The professors and mentors range from extremely helpful to not helpful at all. I must say I only had 2 professors that I didn't care for over the 7 years. I was fortunate to get a decent mentor with no change. I do recommend Capella to those with the motivation and dedication to stay... Read More
Review Date: 2/6/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This is a very flexible program with feasible assignments. The online program gives a sense of distance from the class and the institution but the technology helps bridge that gap. Instructors are fair in assignments and evaluation, and easily contacted. Financial aid is efficient in applying awards.
Review Date: 9/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Graduate Program I am offering at Walden University is PhD in Public Health on self sponsorship. Walden University has been my chosen institution as it offers online degrees thus offering the great opportunity for students who are time poor to advance their education and at the same time working and looking after their families. I have completed two quarter semesters and my academic performance is outstanding, scoring more than 90% in all courses I have completed including Biostatistics (PUB-6125).... Read More
Review Date: 11/27/2012
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Being a part of the University of the Rockies' Master's and Doctoral programs has been life-changing in a positive way. My professors, advisors, access wellness, and support staff have been wonderful. My life has been enriched by each one. The knowledge gained through coursework, and interacting with fellow students online and in residency, has inspired and enlightened my life. The university's motto: Rise Above is appropriate. I have been given hope, tools, and wings. Thank you.
Review Date: 11/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love our school. The support of the faculty and classmates ( as well as upperclassmen) are nothing short of remarkable. Studying medicine is stressful, and the workload can be overwhelming at times but it's good preparation for becoming a doctor. All of our lectures are recorded and can be watched online, although as a commuter campus I feel that certain classes should be exclusively online for the sake of convenience. That being said, I am very happy with PCOM as a whole and am proud to be a student... Read More
Review Date: 8/31/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Walden University has been a great experience. The staff is very supportive and are always availanle to assist. The faculty and instruction methods are very thorough. I can say nothing but excellent things about my Walden experience.
Review Date: 12/31/2012
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall this school challenges you in just about everything you have to do as a student. The administration can be frustrating at times, but I take it as an opportunity to learn how to respond in the face of adversity. Medical school is not intended to be easy. Otherwise, everyone would become a doctor. I have learned much about myself as well as the necessary science to succeed as a future physician by going here.
Review Date: 10/15/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros: 1. Very accessible faculty and mentor ship opportunities 2. Very strong Family Medicine Department 3. Lots of clinical practice and opportunities 4. Amazing surrounding city and area! Cons: 1. School does not use a lot of technology in its courses. If you want to podcast your classes and access online learning materials, you will not find much of this at OHSU. If you like showing up to class and interacting with students and teachers in person, this is actually a pro, as the lack of technology... Read More
Review Date: 7/24/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UC provides a solid educational experience. I have had few complaints about the academic merits of this institution. However, beyond that primary focus the university is lacking in some technological and administrative aspects. Their are frequent problems with lecture hall displays, computer-based evaluations, and online assignments. The attempts at "Inter-professional Education" are an extensive waste of time and your tuition dollars. The Global Health Track within the medical school is shamelessly... Read More
Review Date: 5/17/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
A.T. Still University (ATSU) was a great learning experience for me. The courses were rigorous and you have to do the work. There were no "easy A's." Each grade I received I earned. The faculty were helpful and always willing to provide any assistance needed. The doctoral project was the most challenging. Although a dissertation was not required, the Applied Research Project (ARP) consists of the same elements of a dissertation. The literature review, proposal, data collection, data analysis, and... Read More
Review Date: 4/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Good online program PhD. program in biomedical informatics
Review Date: 1/14/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Phoenix Online Doctor of Health program is all-encompassing. The online courses offer the convenience of independent study with opportunities for team building experiences through the Learning Team exercises. Also, the in-class residencies provide additional learning experiences (with in-person meeting of classmates topping the list). The online courses are time-consuming, yet challenging. This program demands a high level of time management skills, yet flexible to meet the schedule... Read More
Review Date: 8/28/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No