2025 Most Popular Online Health Education Master's Programs
Our ranking shows the most popular online health education master鈥檚 programs. These accredited schools are ordered by the number of successful program graduates.
Key Takeaways:
- Western Governors University ranks #1 due to its 3,000+ program graduates.
- The University of Florida posts a 97% retention rate, demonstrating how the overwhelming majority of students continue their studies even after their first year.
- Texas State University reports a 95% recommendation rate based on well over 200 student surveys we've collected and verified.
If you want to understand how we rank our lists, please review our methodology.
2025 Most Popular Online Health Education Master's Programs
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Governors University | 3,054 | $10,070 | N/A | 74% | |
| Liberty University | 251 | $9,492 | $62,641 | 75% | |
| Spring Arbor University Online | 64 | $14,858 | N/A | 71% | |
| University of Florida | 64 | $17,050 | $68,408 | 92% | |
| New Mexico State University | 57 | $9,332 | N/A | 88% | |
| CUNY Lehman College | 22 | $28,215 | $79,956 | 91% | |
| Texas State University | 19 | $18,301 | N/A | 95% | |
| Purdue Global | 18 | $11,582 | $63,927 | 75% | |
| University of South Carolina - Columbia | 14 | $30,160 | $71,159 | 88% | |
| Eastern Illinois University | 13 | $22,695 | N/A | 87% | |
| American University | 12 | $30,000 | N/A | 90% | |
| Maryland University of Integrative Health | 11 | $16,240 | N/A | 68% | |
| East Carolina University | 9 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $15,300 | $79,276 | 92% | |
| University of Cincinnati | 8 | $13,524 | N/A | 86% | |
| Plymouth State University | 7 | $14,058 | N/A | 85% |
Analyzing The Most Popular Online Health Education Master's Programs
We rank programs by popularity by determining the number of health education master's graduates. This shows not only which programs are the most popular but also how many students were able to stick it out until the end, so it also measures success.
Schools that are graduating the most students in health education at the master's level can potentially result in better placement/practicum options as well as plenty of alumni who can help open doors. That鈥檚 why large schools like Western Governors or Liberty University are great options. They each boast massive online footprints, which means that the digital infrastructure of these health education programs have been tested and proven.
Does A Health Education Master's Program Online Pay Off?
Another one of the most practical ways to evaluate a health education master鈥檚 program is to look at the earnings of its actual graduates. Below, a graph shows what alums who completed these exact degrees are earning after four years.
Salary data for the health education master's degrees on our list isn't always available, but when it is, it shows us that even the early career salary range for many of the programs on this list exceeds the national median salary for health education specialists, which the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) currently places at .
The BLS notes that salaries vary pretty significantly depending on the chosen workplace setting. For example, health educators based in hospitals see median earnings around $82,870, while those in government agencies average closer to $68,390. Meanwhile, those working in community social-service roles average less. In other words, where you end up working is a worthwhile consideration when choosing the best master's in health education for you.
At the top of the range, graduates of CUNY Lehman鈥檚 online MA in Health Education & Promotion are reporting nearly $80,000 around four years out. This kind of salary outcome makes sense when you consider the employment trajectory into New York City school systems and public health agencies, where salaries track higher.
Outside of a major metro, however, East Carolina University is still showing almost the same earnings level. This goes to show that regional health systems, hospital education departments, and state public health offices can offer competitive routes to success as well.
Programs from public health schools 鈥� such as the University of South Carolina鈥檚 online MPH in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior or the University of Florida鈥檚 online MS in Anatomical Sciences Education 鈥� tend to land in the low $70s for median salary around four years out. These can often lead into roles involving population health management, curriculum development, evaluation, and grant-funded community interventions.
On the other hand, programs like those hosted by Liberty and Purdue Global report median earnings in the mid-$60Ks, which closely aligns with community health education and wellness-focused positions. These health education careers often have room for advancement as you take on managerial responsibilities or pursue CHES/MCHES certification.
MPH vs. MS/MA in Health Education
Even though all of the master's programs we include in our list fall under the umbrella of "health education," the degree title itself can reveal what kind of career preparation you'll receive.
Online MPH Programs
(e.g., U of South Carolina, New Mexico State, Texas State)
If you鈥檙e drawn to the big-picture side of health, where you鈥檙e thinking in terms of systems, policy, and interventions that reach thousands of individuals, you鈥檒l likely feel at home in an MPH in Health Promotion or Health Education. These programs often train you to design and evaluate health initiatives. You鈥檒l talk about population trends, learn how to measure behavior change at scale, and get comfortable interpreting the data that will justify funding decisions.
Online MS/MA in Health Education/Promotion
(e.g., Lehman, East Carolina, EIU, Cincinnati, Plymouth)
If the thing that energizes you is being close to the work itself, like working directly in schools, community health organizations, prevention coalitions, or with neighborhood partnerships, then the the MS or MA in Health Education or Health Promotion may resonate more. These master's degrees tend to be more hands-on and relationship-driven, preparing graduates to design workshops, coordinate wellness initiatives, and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the communities they serve.
We also have a couple of unique options on our list that we want to mention. We also included a couple of online MSN programs with Nursing Education concentrations (e.g., WGU, Spring Arbor), which makes the most sense if you already hold an RN but your passion lies in teaching future nurses. These curricula are aimed at those who want to shape clinical training and lead staff development programs inside hospitals. This would result in an educator role that鈥檚 involved in the daily clinical rhythms of healthcare.
And finally, there are hybrid programs like American University鈥檚 online health promotion management master's, which is intended for those who want to run entire departments. If you can picture yourself deciding what metrics matter, pitching strategy changes to leadership, and leading a team based on data results, then this is the type of curriculum that's intentionally built for you.
So, to review, a degree title can illustrate where your work happens, who you serve, and how you define impact:
MPH: I want to improve health across systems, policies, and populations.
MS/MA in Health Education: I want to work directly with communities and learners.
MSN in Ed: I want to shape the next generation of nurses and clinical teams.
Health Promotion Management: I want to lead, strategize, and steer the direction of health programming.
Considering Recommendation Rates
A high recommendation rate shows that students felt supported, seen, and able to finish. This is when students consistently say, 鈥淚 would choose this again.鈥�
The difference between a supportive online graduate experience and a frustrating one is usually not the content itself but how the content is held. This includes the cadence of feedback, the flexibility when life happens, and how faculty shape your experience.
For health educators, entering a graduate program that models healthy, sustainable support structures is crucial. The schools with the highest recommendation rates are the ones where students repeatedly felt prepared, respected, and not alone in the process, even if they are studying remotely.
An Expert's Take on Online Health Education
CEO & Founder, Able To Change Recovery
What skills do employers most value in health education graduates?
"Employers most value strong communication, leadership, and strategic planning skills. Outstanding graduates stand apart from ordinary graduates because they can identify needs and obtain necessary resources to solve problems. A thoughtful approach to community engagement is always noticed."
Do you think an online program adequately prepares students to design, implement, and evaluate community or workplace health initiatives?
"Online programs provide students with full preparation through their active application of learned material. Students who participate in fieldwork or volunteer activities during their studies develop better preparation for their future careers. Experience and theory together create confidence and competence."
"Students who participate in fieldwork or volunteer activities during their studies develop better preparation for their future careers."
What challenges do online students face in this field?
"Students who learn online tend to underestimate how much self-discipline it takes to maintain regular study habits. People stay motivated throughout their work because they reach their daily targets through milestone recognition. Short daily sessions of involvement lead to substantial progress."
What public health trends are shaping modern curricula?
"Public health education programs today focus on teaching health equity and preventive education methods which form the basis of modern curriculum requirements.
Modern programs implement sophisticated technological systems to deliver better services for their most vulnerable client base. Awareness of these trends allows graduates to stay relevant in a fast-changing world."
What certifications should students consider pursuing alongside their degrees?
"Students should pursue CHES early and consider advancing to MCHES once experienced. These credentials validate both professional competence and ongoing commitment to the field. They also open doors to policy and leadership opportunities."
EXPERT TIP
"My best advice: treat education as a lifelong pursuit. The most effective teachers continue their education through student and community and peer learning experiences. The profession continues to be meaningful because it offers both professional development and personal humility."
FAQs About Online Health Education Master's Programs
What Is An Online Master's Degree in Health Education?
An online master's degree in health education is designed for individuals seeking to advance their expertise in public health, focusing on concepts such as health promotion, disease prevention, and community health improvement. Ideal for professionals in healthcare or education, this degree enhances your ability to impact public health policies and initiatives effectively.
Health educators are instrumental in advocating for healthier lifestyles, preventing diseases, and empowering people to make informed choices about their health. An online master's degree in health education offers the expertise and strategies needed to launch health education initiatives, craft educational materials, and work in various healthcare settings.
An online master's degree in health education offers students a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as public health, health promotion, behavioral sciences, program planning, and evaluation. Students also delve into subjects like epidemiology and biostatistics, which provide critical insights into health trends and enable the creation of effective interventions. Further, the program integrates technologies and digital tools to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a dynamic healthcare environment.
A key consideration when choosing an online health education master's program is accreditation. Accreditation indicates that the program meets the highest quality standards set by independent accrediting agencies. Accreditation can also makes graduates more attractive to potential employers and may even be required for professional certifications or licensure.
OnlineU only features accredited institutions on its website.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Health Education Master's Online?
Online health education master鈥檚 programs typically take two to three years of full-time study. The duration can vary based on factors such as the specific program requirements, your course load, and your own pace.
Many programs allow for part-time or accelerated options. Part-time students can take fewer courses each semester, which may extend the time to graduation. There are also accelerated options that allow students to complete the program more quickly.
What Can You Do With a Master鈥檚 in Health Education Online?
A master's in health education can potentially result in roles like health educator, community health specialist, and public health program manager. Additionally, graduates can obtain specialized certifications, such as Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or Certified in Public Health (CPH), to deepen their expertise and enhance their employability in specific areas of health education.
CHES certification, for example, is valid for five years. After that, you need to complete the recertification process to remain certified. This includes documenting continuing education and relevant work experience.
When you pursue a master's in health education online, you can consider these career avenues:
- teach individuals and communities about behaviors concerning health and well-being.
- develop and implement programs to encourage healthy behaviors and advocate for underserved populations who may lack access to essential health services and social support.
- conduct studies to identify the causes and patterns of diseases and injuries in populations. Then, they can use this data to inform policies and practices that promote public health endeavors and prevent future outbreaks.
- oversee the operations of healthcare facilities. Their goal is to make sure that patients receive the highest quality care possible.
These careers offer opportunities to make a significant impact on public health, promote wellness, and contribute to better health outcomes in communities. Many of them also come with higher-than-average salaries and solid job growth prospects.
What Is a Health Educator?
A health educator is a professional who works to improve health outcomes through education and behavior change. They create, deliver, and evaluate health education programs and initiatives that teach and empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions and adopt healthy behaviors. Health educators provide information on a wide range of subjects, including nutrition, disease prevention, sexual health, substance abuse, and mental well-being.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Master鈥檚 in Health Education?
A master's degree in health education typically requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While a bachelor鈥檚 in health education or a related undergraduate major may offer an advantage, many programs accept candidates from various academic backgrounds.
To apply for a master's degree in health education, candidates typically need to submit some materials along with their application. These may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, a statement of purpose outlining their career goals and interest in health education, and standardized test scores (GRE).
In addition to the usual application materials, prospective students may be required to meet certain prerequisites. These may vary but generally include prerequisite coursework in areas such as biology, psychology, or statistics. Applicants should carefully review the requirements and recommendations of the program they鈥檙e interested in to ensure they meet all necessary qualifications.
Is a Master's in Health Education Worth It?
Deciding whether a master's in health education is worth pursuing depends on your professional goals and aspirations. For the right person, however, a health education master鈥檚 degree may lead to a gratifying career that both creates a positive impact in a community and provides excellent compensation.
Pros
- Diverse career opportunities
- Impact on public health
- High job growth rates
- Degree鈥檚 versatility and flexibility
- Professional growth
Cons
- Financial investment
- Time commitment
- Certification requirements for certain employers
- Competitive job market
All in all, pursuing a master's degree in health education online can be a wise investment for those passionate about improving public health and wellness. The degree offers a range of career paths and the opportunity to make a positive impact on communities. That said, potential students should carefully consider the financial and time commitments, as well as the competitiveness of the job market, before embarking on this path.
Student Reviews of Online Health Education Programs
After finishing my bachelor degree at a different university I thought I was done with school but curiosity got me interested in alternative medicine and I looked into Everglade University as they offer the program and they were immediately giving me information on the program, what I could expect from starting the program as well as informing me about the whole process to getting enrolled. The staff at Everglade actually went beyond their way to make sure I could get enrolled in the semester that... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am so impressed with the Health Studies (Health Promtion) Master's program at the University of Alabama. With the program being offered completely online, it was possible for me to continue my education while maintaining my work/life balance as a single mother. Communication is key to being successful in an online program and every individual I have come in to contact with, from admissions staff, to professors, has been prompt and knowledgable in repsonding to my questions. The material covered... Read More
Review Date: 12/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently working on my master's in health sciences. As a full time mom, employee, and student, this master's program is completely offered online. I am able to complete all work assignments, while taking care of my family. If you are seeking for a graduate program that allows you to continue the current life that you are living, l highly recommend Cleveland State University. They have many graduate degrees that are fully or partially offered online. This was one of the best academic decisions... Read More
Review Date: 3/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Liberty University is a very good school. The school guides you to achieve your academic pursuit in a Godly approach. The lecturers are excellent and are ready to provide assistance when you need help. I recommend Liberty University to this generation because many of them have gone astray.
Review Date: 1/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This was my first experience with online education! I work full-time & appreciated the gentle prompts to sign up for classes. Staff was always available to answer questions about educational requirements, registration or financial concerns. The customer service was impeccable and I always received a response from someone within 24 hours, even if I had contacted the wrong department! It was almost as if their goal was to make me their number one priority! Instructors were no less magnificent & were... Read More
Review Date: 3/16/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The professors are vary flexible when personal situations arose, which allowed me to complete my courses even after the original due date. This enabled to me to keep going to school and complete my degree even during tough situations.
Review Date: 8/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I had some amazing professors. They were always available to me when I had questions. I enjoyed the classes themselves because they provooked thought and required you really take a step back and contemplate and compile your thoughts. The professors require you do really engage in the class even though it is a distance learning program. I would highly recommend this online program to anyone that is considering a Master's degree in School Health.
Review Date: 3/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The program has great professors that enjoy imparting knowledge. Dr. B. is smart, experienced on her field but also has a natural talent for teaching. All the professors and staff are professional and dedicated.
Review Date: 1/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Texas State has an excellent program. The teachers are approachable and willing to answer any questions students have. Teachers in the department provide numerous resources online for students to utilize when writing literature reviews and other assignments.
Review Date: 2/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Arizona State's Masters of Science in the Science of Health Care Delivery program is wholly unique in both its partnership with the Mayo Clinic and its effective approach to teaching innovation in addition to general academia. By promoting collaboration and a holistic approach to the health care system, the MS program offers all the educational and professional tools needed to invoke effective change in health care.
Review Date: 1/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Many people do not know what exactly a degree in Health Education entails. The University of Florida department of Health Education and Behavior aims to "bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding of health to promote healthier living." I have been exposed to numerous topics and methodologies that train me to do just that. I have enjoyed my courses as well as my instructors. The atmosphere of the degree program is positive, supportive, and encouraging as we all share a common... Read More
Review Date: 5/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of South Carolina is a wonderful place that has multiple opportunities for graduate students to be involved and practicum opportunities. The faculty come across a variety of specialities so there is a little bit for everyone.
Review Date: 6/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending the University of Michigan School of Public Health was an invaluable learning experience with incredible personal and professional advancement opportunities. Our curriculum and practicum opportunities helped me develop a public health lens.
Review Date: 3/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed the experience at Ithaca but I believe the value to be overpriced.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Beautiful campus and great class sizes. I made great friendships with my instructors and maintain contact even years later.
Review Date: 8/10/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My degree was in health education and special education with the purpose becoming a headmaster of chancellor. It was a great university and the program of education was excellent. I liked the teachers and the student and the community. I did not live on campus but there was always something fun and exciting to do. The library was a great place to study. The advisors were really helpful and the teachers were understanding and supporting.
Review Date: 12/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes