2024 Best Online Doctor of Health Science Programs [DHSc Degree]

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A Doctor of Health Science is an advanced degree that gives healthcare professionals the opportunity to continue their growth and development.

Best Online Doctor of Health Science Programs

If you enjoy working in healthcare and want to broaden your knowledge of the field, completing a doctoral degree in health science could be a strategic path forward.

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In this program, you may learn skills that are highly relevant to your current or future career. A Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) is designed to help professionals grow their leadership abilities and qualifications for an academic or clinical setting.

Online Doctor of Health Science Programs

Woman taking Online Doctor of Health Science

Doctor of Health Science degree online programs are strategic for healthcare professionals who want to move forward in their current field or want to conduct research or teach at the postsecondary level.

These programs tend to focus on practical knowledge and skills that are applicable to a variety of careers. Online health science doctoral programs typically include subjects like:

  • Management
  • Leadership
  • Ethics
  • Theories of learning
  • Regulations and policies

In order to enroll in a health science doctorate program, it’s often required that you hold a related master’s or doctoral degree.

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Some schools also require you to have a certain amount of professional experience in addition to your education. A doctoral degree in health science may be a good fit for those who are currently health professionals, such as:

  • Health administrators
  • Nurses
  • Therapists
  • Mental health specialists
  • Health practitioners
  • Health educators

When completing your degree, you can build on the skills you’ve developed in your previous advanced degrees and during your time in the workplace. A doctorate in this field may help you progress as a manager or administrator within a hospital, private practice, or community health clinic.

A doctorate in health science is also a logical option for students who are passionate about health education and research. After graduating, you may be qualified to work as a professor at a college or university. Some professionals opt to become an education administrator.

Common Online Doctor of Health Science Concentrations

Training & Development Manager discussing with the team

Health science doctoral programs can serve as a way for healthcare professionals to develop new skills and enhance their career paths.

If you have a more specific interest within the field, you may be able to enroll in a program with concentrations that allow you to focus your learning on that particular area. Typical concentrations include:

  • Education in Health Care. If you are dedicated to both health care and teaching, you may want to specialize in education, which teaches you about pedagogical practices, curriculum design, learning theory, and assessments.
  • Global Health. Rather than focusing on local or community health, you can explore health care in terms of world governments, policies, health organizations, and ethics.
  • Leadership and Organization. Many health science programs offer specializations with coursework in health informatics, organizational behavior, and healthcare quality in preparation for administrative or management roles.

Some programs have also begun to create new concentrations, such as telehealth, to align with the growth and innovations of healthcare technology.

Health Science Careers & Salaries

Health Science Careers & Salaries

Most students who enroll in doctoral programs in health science are established healthcare professionals. They are often seeking promotions or new positions in the field, either as a healthcare administrator or a health science educator.

After completing a health science program, you may qualify for jobs at community colleges or public and private colleges and universities. You may also be well-positioned to take on a role in a hospital, health clinic, government agency, or nonprofit.

Many of the jobs in this sector pay higher than average salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some potential positions that professionals with a background in health sciences may pursue.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Chief Executives $179,520
Training and Development Managers $120,130
Medical and Health Services Managers $101,340
Administrative Services Managers $100,170
General and Operations Managers $97,970
Postsecondary Education Administrators $96,910
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640
Social and Community Service Managers $74,000
Instructional Coordinators $63,740
Health Education Specialists $60,600

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that many careers in healthcare and postsecondary education will have steady or faster than average growth.

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For example, medical and health services managers (28% job growth), social and community service managers (12%), and postsecondary teachers (12%) are all projected to grow at a rate that’s much faster than average over the next ten years.

Doctor of Health Science Curriculum & Courses

People taking Doctor of Health Science, studying together

The required coursework in a doctorate in health sciences program will differ based on the school you attend. These are some of the courses that are common to many health science programs:

  • Leadership, Ethics, and Advocacy: In this course, you’ll learn about the challenges that face today’s healthcare leaders, with an emphasis on ethical considerations, self-awareness, and advocacy for social change.
  • Healthcare Operations Management: This class explores the concepts of operations management, including systems theory, project management, facility location and design, and budgeting.
  • Research Methods: This course teaches you how to use appropriate research and writing skills for effective communication and analysis.
  • Organizational Strategies: Students in this course learn about leadership in relation to healthcare organizations, especially in terms of marketing, communication, team-building, and conflict resolution.
  • Policy, Regulation, and Politics in Healthcare: This course covers topics like healthcare regulations, health insurance, and government-supported programs.
  • Diversity, Equity, and System Thinking: In this class, you’ll learn how to implement leadership strategies to promote healthy and dynamic workplace environments.
  • Strategies for Quality Improvement in Healthcare: This course focuses on quality management programs, specifically related to healthcare data and improving patient outcomes.
  • Human Resource Management in Healthcare: Students in this class learn about workplace laws, the functions of human resources, and the role of a supervisor.
  • Introduction to Biostatistics: In this course, you’ll learn how to interpret and analyze data related to medicine and public health.
  • Health Professional Education: This class focuses on teaching methods for health professional educators, including theories of learning and assessment.

If you select a particular concentration for your health science doctorate, your curriculum may differ from a more general program.

Admissions Requirements

Man preparing requirements for Doctor of Health Science

Although every university program has a list of specific requirements, here are some common criteria for admission:

  • GRE scores. Standardized test scores are no longer a universal requirement, but some graduate schools still ask for them.
  • Official transcripts. School records provide evidence that you completed a master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant field.
  • Letters of recommendation. You may request letters from instructors or supervisors who are familiar with your skills.
  • Statement of purpose. You can describe your goals and motivations.
  • Resume. You’ll share your related academic and professional experience.

Along with submitting a completed application, you may also be required to pay an application fee.

Doctor of Health Sciences Programs Accreditation

University offering Doctor of Health Science

It is strategic to enroll in a program or college that has received accreditation. In order to receive accreditation, programs must submit to a rigorous assessment conducted by an accreditation body.

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For schools that want to be recognized for their high academic quality, regional accreditation is widely recognized as the gold standard. Regionally accredited schools must meet stricter standards, so they often have high-quality educational programs available. You also have a higher chance of transferring credits from a regionally accredited school.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Doctor of Health Science financial aid

Pursuing a Doctor of Health Sciences degree requires an investment of both time and money. Fortunately, there are funding opportunities available for students who cannot afford to pay for the full cost of their degree out of pocket.

  • Federal aid. You can fill out the FAFSA with your income information to see if you qualify for federal student loans.
  • State aid. Many states offer grants or funding programs for students in specific fields and programs.
  • Employer programs. If you are working in the field, your employer may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement to help you pursue your degree.
  • Scholarships. You can research scholarship opportunities for students in your field.

It may also be helpful to contact the financial aid office at the college or university you are hoping to attend. Financial aid representatives can help you determine what forms of aid are available for the health sciences program.

What Is a DHSc Degree?

Health Services Managers working with the staff

A Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) degree is a terminal degree that prepares healthcare professionals to work in administration or postsecondary education. It is a professional doctorate that focuses on knowledge that can immediately be applied to a career.

DHSc programs are also interdisciplinary, meaning that they incorporate courses from many different areas. These include health education, research, and clinical practice. Students can develop a well-rounded awareness of all aspects of healthcare organizations. In most cases, people who pursue a DHSc are currently working in the field as clinicians, managers, or educators.

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Health Science?

Postsecondary Teacher and students, during class

DHSc online programs help students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in leadership positions in healthcare organizations. Possible employers include community organizations, colleges and universities, and clinical practices.

As a graduate of a health science doctoral program, you may be qualified for a position as a professor in postsecondary education or a healthcare administrator. Depending on your background and experience, you may also be well-positioned for other administrative, management, research, or education roles in the healthcare field.

How Long Is a Doctor of Health Science Program?

Woman completing her Doctor of Health Science online

An online DHSc program typically takes around 3 to 5 years to complete. There are a number of variables that could affect your graduation date, such as whether the program requires you to complete a dissertation, practicum, or residency.

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Condensed programs with courses broken into 10 week blocks rather than typical semesters can sometimes be completed in as few as 3 years if no dissertation is required. If you’ve already completed a master’s degree in health science, you may also have transferable credits that can shorten the time it takes to complete your DHSc.

What’s the Difference Between a DHSc vs. PhD in Health Sciences Program?

Students can choose to enroll in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) degree program. Although they are both highly respected degrees, there are significant differences between them.

DHSc PhD in Health Science
  • Prepares health professionals for careers in administration or education
  • Focuses on practical research and skills
  • Typically requires completion of a practicum or applied research project
  • Helps students become researchers, scientists, and scholars
  • Concentrates on theoretical research
  • Typically requires completion of a dissertation

Depending on the program you choose, a PhD may also take longer to complete than a DHSc, primarily due to the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of a dissertation.

Is a Doctor of Health Sciences Worth It?

Medical & Health Services Manager discussing with the team

Yes, a Doctor of Health Sciences is worth it for many students. A DHSc can help health professionals qualify for positions as postsecondary teachers or healthcare administrators. Both of these career paths are projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to have above average growth in the coming years.

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For instance, medical and health services managers are expected to see 28% job growth over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Graduating from a DHSc online program can also help you build a personally and professionally rewarding career. In an administrative or education role, you may be helping to design the future of healthcare. You may also work toward improving the quality of care and patient outcomes.

Universities Offering Online Doctor of Health Sciences Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

A.T. Still University

AT Still University

A.T. Still University offers a fully online program for a Doctor of Health Sciences. The program emphasizes scholarship, leadership, innovation, and interprofessional education. The curriculum consists of 70 required credits with the option to complete an additional 12 credits in the student’s chosen specialty. Graduates often pursue roles in clinical trials, health policy, healthcare administration, health research, or healthcare informatics.

A.T. Still University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bay Path University

Bay Path University

Bay Path University offers a Doctor of Health Science. This program is designed for healthcare professionals in diverse specialties pursuing career advancement and leadership opportunities. Students can select one of 12 specialty focus areas according to their professional goals. All classes are offered in a convenient online learning format.

Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Campbell University

Campbell University

Campbell University offers a Doctor of Health Sciences. The program aims to graduate professionals with the skills to serve as leaders and innovators in the field of healthcare. The curriculum covers key concepts, like public health policy, health administration, and interprofessional education. Classes are held fully online and utilize an accelerated, 8 week format.

Campbell University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Drexel University

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a Doctor of Health Science. This program may be an excellent next step for students looking to deepen their research, teaching, and leadership skills in the field of health sciences. The curriculum is designed to build expertise in research design, data analysis, evidence-based practice, and teaching methodologies. The program is housed entirely online.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Health Sciences. In addition to rigorous coursework, the program provides opportunities for students to gain valuable hands-on experience through a final research project and clinical practicum hours in the field. Classes meet 100% online, and each one is 8 weeks long. On average, students can complete the program’s 60 required credit hours in 3 years of full-time study.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a Doctor of Health Sciences. The program’s flexible online format and part-time schedule is designed with working professionals in mind. The curriculum consists of 54 credit hours. Classes cover topics such as population health, patient-centered care, lifespan development, and workplace ethics.

MCPHS University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers an online program for a Doctor of Health Science. Students pursuing advancement in their careers as health care practitioners, administrators, and educators may find an ideal next step in this program. The curriculum consists of 55 credit hours. The program offers concentrations in Education, Global Health, and Telehealth.

Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pacific University Oregon

Pacific University

Pacific University offers a 100% online program for a Doctor of Healthcare Science. This program equally emphasizes students’ work as both scholars and practitioners in the field.

The program requires the completion of 36 credits, which can typically be done in 4 semesters. The curriculum consists of courses like Healthcare Operations Management, Evidence-Based Practice in Medicine, Quality Improvement in Healthcare, and Inclusive Practice.

Pacific University Oregon is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Touro University

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University offers an online program for a Doctor of Health Science. The program aims to graduate students with the skills to address the individual and organizational challenges affecting healthcare today. On average, students can complete the program’s 48 credit hours in 2 years of full-time study. The program allows the transfer of up to six approved credits from outside institutions.

Touro University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Bridgeport

University of Bridgeport

The University of Bridgeport offers a Doctor of Health Sciences that can be earned online. The program offers three concentrations: Clinician, Education, and Clinical Nutrition. The curriculum covers key concepts, like evidence-informed care, health education, research methods, and public health and policy. Students can potentially finish the program’s required credits in 40 months.

The University of Bridgeport is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Getting Your Doctor of Health Sciences Online

Man pursuing Doctor of Health Science online

Careers in healthcare have a promising future, and earning a Doctor of Health Sciences online can help prepare you for senior or leadership roles in the field.

Finding the best program for your personal needs and interests is key. Whether you want to specialize in health science from the perspective of leadership, education, or global health, there are many high-quality programs available online.

If you are looking to move up as a healthcare administrator or educator, you can begin by researching accredited schools. You may soon be on your way to the next step of your journey as a healthcare professional.

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Kama Offenberger
WRITTEN BY
Kama has a master's degree in English from Virginia Tech and a bachelor's in English from Concord University. She previously taught college-level English composition, literature, and English as a second language courses. She is now a full-time writer in the education field, with a particular focus on educational technology and pedagogical best practices for English language learners.