Dr. Leanne Skehan
Health Science Degree Online Bachelor's Program in Health Science
Program Overview Why get a health science degree?
The online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Sciences from Southern New Hampshire University helps you build the skill set needed to enter the allied health field or move into management positions in healthcare.
Skills you'll learn:
- Collaboration with diverse healthcare stakeholders
- Financial and strategic planning in healthcare
- Management strategies for operational efficiency
- Healthcare policy and ethical decision-making
- Interpreting data for continuous quality improvement
- Healthcare management principles to improve patient care
Courses & Curriculum Online health science courses for aspiring managers
Whether you're looking to start or continue your career in healthcare, our online health science degree program will help prepare you for your next step. The program will focus on skills essential to success in any number of roles within the industry.
Online health science degree courses
The online bachelor’s in health sciences focuses on written and oral communication, computational skills, critical thinking and societal and cultural context in 7 core classes.
Courses may include:
Healthcare Economics
Course ID:
HCM 320
Learn about the standard economic principles and tools that healthcare administrators need to utilize for effective decision making within the healthcare industry. Explores a framework for understanding government policies, legislation, pricing, profitability, market supply and demand, and risk issues within the healthcare economic system.
Healthcare Delivery Systems
Course ID:
HCM 340
This course provides an overview of the nature, organization, and function of the continuum of health services found in the United States. Emphasis is placed on the interrelation of cultural, economic, political and social aspects of health care delivery at the federal, state and local level. Topics include health care costs, accessibility of services, governmental influence on health care delivery, private industry role in health care, services for the medically indigent and elderly, ethical issues regarding transplants, reproductive technology, end of life decisions and funding.
Healthcare Reimbursement
Course ID:
HCM 345
This course explores some of the major issues facing the healthcare industry and the effect that public policy and business environment has on a healthcare organization. Emphasis is on supply and demand theory, reimbursement systems, managed care, charge-master management, Case-mix management, DRG prospective payment, insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, governmental regulations, accessibility, eligibility, budgeting, and planning. Students learn to use informational and research tools to make effective management decisions.
Healthcare Finance
Course ID:
HCM 400
This course provides an overview of the two main areas of Healthcare Finance, accounting and financial management. Topics explore include the healthcare financial environment, financial accounting principles, managerial accounting principles, financial management, long-term financing and capital investments.
Health Sciences Capstone
Course ID:
HCM 491
The capstone course is the culminating experience for the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. The capstone course provides students with the opportunity to integrate and synthesize the knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired throughout their course work and apply them in a comprehensive project within their clinical specialty, and to assess their level of mastery of the stated program outcomes of their degree program in Health Sciences. Students must have completed 111 credits prior to registration.
Ethical and Legal Considerations of Healthcare
Course ID:
IHP 420
Students in this course examine the role of health care policy and legal, regulatory, and quality control in ethical decision making in healthcare. Students explore concepts and principles of health care policy, legal control, ethical conduct, and regulatory environments and their application to the health care environment. The impact of health care policy and multicultural, socioeconomic, political, legal, and regulatory factors on health care systems is explored.
Healthcare Quality Management
Course ID:
IHP 430
The goal of this course is to introduce students to the management of operations and explore how healthcare organizations can use advance methods to improve healthcare processes, delivery, and outcomes. Specific focus will be on analyzing cycle times (e.g., patient wait times), measuring productivity, streamlining process flows, tracking outcomes and performance metrics, and generally improving health management processes and health outcomes. The process improvement will be measured by how it can improve quality of care and safety of healthcare delivery, reduce waste, and reduce costs. The role of technology and innovative approaches in improving continuing quality improvement in healthcare delivery will be presented.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Health Sciences curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: May 5, 2025 | June 30, 2025
Next term starts:
Mar. 3, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Supportive instructors with real-world experience
At SNHU, we value the hands-on, practical experience our faculty bring to the table. Our instructors offer relevant industry knowledge to help you understand and navigate the field.
Featured Faculty
Not only does Dr. Leanne Skehan have more than a decade of higher education experience, but she's also certified as a health education specialist, dietetic technician and health coach. Her recently co-authored works, “The Microbiome and Neurotransmitter Activity” and “A Multi-Faceted Approach to Weight Loss: A Case Report," have been published in multiple medical journals.
Position
Clinical Faculty, Health Professions
Joined SNHU
2015
Education
- Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health
- MS in Applied Clinical Nutrition from New York Chiropractic College
- MBA from St. Joseph’s College
- MA in Public Health from University of New England
- BS in Health Sciences from University of Southern Maine
- AS in Dietetic Technology from Southern Maine Community College
Read more about other online faculty at SNHU.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of a 30% online undergraduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Benefit from your employer
Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. And consider asking your employer about tuition reimbursement.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online health science degree?
An online health science degree can help prepare you for any number of roles in the allied health field. This includes positions as varied as lab technicians, dental hygienists, sonographers, medical assistants, occupational therapy assistants, physical therapy assistants, radiographers and more.
Plus, with courses on economics and finances, delivery systems, law and ethics, and healthcare quality management, you can develop skills you need to succeed as a medical and health services manager.
Occupations
Earning your bachelor's in health science online could help prepare you for leadership roles like:
Laboratory Manager
Ensure labs operate efficiently and effectively by scheduling staff, reordering supplies and maintaining all necessary security protocols and standard of quality.
Practice Manager
Develop and implement programs and services in hospitals or other healthcare settings, including personnel administration, training and coordination of medical staff and other related functions.
Program Director
Design, maintain and ensure effectiveness of departmental programs or teams — focusing on organization, administration, evaluation, development and maintaining high standards of patient quality.
Clinical Coordinator or Director
Direct work activities of medical, nursing, technical, clerical, service, maintenance and other personnel, and provide evaluations and recommendations for optimum performance.
Operations Manager
Establish work schedules and assignments for staff according to workload, space and equipment availability to optimize operational efficiency.
Health Services Manager
Ensure effective use of resources, staff, equipment and services by monitoring the use of diagnostic services, inpatient beds, facilities and general departmental needs.
29%
Increase in medical and health service management positions through 2033, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
$110,680
Median annual pay for medical and health service managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
In order to advance in my career as a medical lab technician, I needed to obtain a bachelor’s degree. A degree in health sciences has now given me the opportunity to seek a more administrative role within the clinical laboratory setting.
Erin Deleski '21
Frequently Asked Questions
What is allied health?
According to the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions – or ASAHP – allied health can be defined as all "health professions that are distinct from medicine and nursing,"2 including, but not limited to:
- Cardiovascular technology
- Clinical laboratories
- Dental hygiene
- Diagnostic medical technology
- Medical assisting & office management
- Neurodiagnostic technology
- Nuclear medicine technology
- Occupational therapy assistant
- Physical therapy assistant
- Radiography
- Radiation therapy technology
- Respiratory therapy
- Sonography
- Surgical technology
The allied health classification encompasses a wide range of roles under the broad umbrella of healthcare – and accounts for as much as 60% of the entire U.S. healthcare workforce.2 Right alongside nurses and physicians, these professionals are making a major impact on the present and future state of healthcare.
Every day, medical personnel affect patients' lives on an immediate and personal level. By earning a health sciences degree, you can gain the skills and experience you need to help transform the healthcare system from within. The BS in Health Science may open doors to take on a leadership role, using data to improve process at their employer's healthcare institution.
Can you become a nurse with a health science degree?
A health science degree does not lead to nursing licensure.
If you're interested in becoming a nurse, you'll need to start by earning an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing. SNHU partners with many community colleges that offer associate degrees in nursing. After meeting admission requirements (including RN licensure), you can opt to seamlessly transfer credits to one of our online RN to BSN or online MSN degree programs.
What can you do with a BS in Health Science?
A Bachelor of Science in Health Science from SNHU can help open doors to leadership roles in a variety of healthcare settings.
A graduate of the program will have the ability to think strategically about the many facets of business – from delivery systems and reimbursement to ethical and legal considerations and finance – then apply them to healthcare organizations.
In an industry where team-based care and accountability is the standard, graduates of the BS in Health Science program are uniquely qualified to demonstrate interdisciplinary leadership in the healthcare setting of their choice.
You can gain the knowledge and skills you need to keep up in a fast-moving, complex industry where reform, legislative changes and interdisciplinary, highly educated teams are commonplace.
What is a typical health science salary?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical and health services managers was $110,680 in 2023 – well above the median annual salary for all occupations in that same time period.1
With that said, there is a wide range of salary expectations for medical and health service managers, as pay expectations vary greatly depending on the setting. Some of the top industries and their annual median salaries in 2023 include state, local and private hospitals ($128,740), government ($125,590), outpatient care centers ($104,710), physician's offices ($102,360) and nursing and residential care facilities ($97,490).1
What education do you need for health science?
While many allied health employees can find entry-level work with an associate degree, leadership or management-level roles often require a bachelor's.
While not required, you also have the option to continue on to a master's program. Graduates of the online BS in Health Science would be well-suited candidates for an MBA in Healthcare Management or our online master's in healthcare administration.
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm (viewed Sept. 30, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm#tab-5 (viewed Sept. 30, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2 What is Allied Health – ASAHP, on the internet, at http://www.asahp.org/what-is (viewed (viewed Sept. 30, 2024)