2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in Health Education

What Is An Online Master's Degree in Health Education?

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 rigorous quality and educational standards set by independent accrediting agencies. Not only does accreditation demonstrate the program's quality, but it also makes graduates more attractive to potential employers and may 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’s 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. Meanwhile, accelerated options allow students to complete the program more quickly. 

An online format offers flexibility, enabling students to juggle work, family, and education. Asynchronous learning allows students to access course materials and complete assignments at their own pace, making it a perfect option for busy professionals or those with unconventional schedules.

Why Is Health Education Important?

Health education is a vital tool in fostering positive health outcomes, both for individuals and communities. Equipping people with the knowledge and skills to make well-informed choices about their health makes it possible to reduce the spread of diseases and promote healthier lifestyles. In general, health education empowers people to take ownership of their health and well-being, which can positively impact the broader community.

Health education fosters collective action and healthier environments, policies, and practices. By reducing preventable diseases and healthcare costs, they lessen the burden on healthcare systems and provide equitable access to information and resources for underserved communities and vulnerable populations.

What Does a Master's in Health Education Teach You?

A health educator degree program provides a deep dive into public health, health promotion, and the factors that influence health behaviors. Students become experts in designing evidence-based health interventions, conducting cutting-edge research, and understanding the complex social and cultural dynamics that impact health. 

Specializations in Health Education

Master's in health education programs often offer various specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to specific areas of interest. With diverse specializations, students can customize their degree to align with their career aspirations.

Common concentrations include:

• Community Health
• School Health
• Global Health Education
• Health Services Management
• Health and Wellness Coaching
• Environmental Public Health 
• Occupational Public Health

Common Courses in a Health Education Master's Curriculum

The master's in health education curriculum strikes a balance between theory and practice, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students develop skills in promoting health, preventing disease, and advocating for well-being in diverse settings.

Below are several courses that you can expect to find in a typical health education master's program:

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Health Education?

A master's in health education provides graduates with numerous career paths in the healthcare field. Potential roles include health educators, community health specialists, and public health program managers. 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.

For those seeking to delve into research and leadership roles, a Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH) or a PhD in Health Education can be a good choice. These doctoral degrees in education provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and training for success in academia, research, or high-level positions in public health organizations, enabling graduates to make a real difference in the healthcare landscape.

Here are several career options you can pursue with a master's in health education:

These careers offer opportunities to make a significant impact on public health, promote wellness, and contribute to better health outcomes in communities. Coincidentally, 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. 

Where Do Health Educators Work?

Health educators work in various settings, each offering unique opportunities to promote public health and well-being. Common workplaces for health educators include schools and colleges, where they provide students with essential knowledge about topics like nutrition, sexual health, and substance abuse prevention. Healthcare facilities rely on health educators to educate patients about chronic condition management, healthy living, and preventive care. They also work with community organizations and nonprofits to tackle specific health concerns within communities. In addition, health educators can work on developing and implementing public health initiatives for government agencies at the local and state levels. Alternatively, they might find themselves in corporate settings, where they promote employee wellness and develop workplace health programs. Their flexibility allows them to adapt their skills to fit a variety of settings while working towards the shared goal of enhancing the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

How To Become a Certified Health Education Specialist

Becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) involves a series of steps to meet the certification requirements. Here's a checklist to guide you through the process:

• Get a qualifying degree

To be eligible for CHES certification, you must have a bachelor's or master’s degree from an accredited institution in a health education or related field. Make sure the degree program aligns with the Eight Areas of Responsibility and Competencies for Health Education Specialists, which are the foundational knowledge areas for CHES certification.

• Prepare for the CHES exam

Review the CHES exam content outline provided by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC). Consider enrolling in a test preparation course or using study materials to get ready for the exam.

• Register for the CHES exam

Visit the NCHEC website to register for the CHES exam, pay the examination fee, and schedule your exam date.

• Pass the CHES Exam

Take the CHES exam and achieve a passing score. The exam assesses your knowledge of health education competencies and responsibilities.

• Complete the application process

Submit your application for CHES certification, which includes verifying your educational background and passing exam scores.

CHES certification 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.

Applying for a Health Education Master's Degree Program

A master's degree in health education typically requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While a bachelor’s 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, 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’re 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’s 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’s 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.