Is a Bachelor's in Health Science Worth it – (Pros VS. Cons)

Written By: Raymond Aguirre, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPN

If you are here, you may be considering getting a bachelor's degree in health science and asking, "is a bachelor's in health science worth it? Well, that is a question with no easy answer. The value of such a degree depends on many things, including your professional and personal goals. That said, there are good reasons to pursue a bachelor’s in health science degree. This article will outline 25 reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it and also seven reasons why it might not work for you. Hopefully, you will be able to make an informed decision after reading this article.

WHAT IS A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE?

A bachelor's in health science degree is an undergraduate degree that covers a variety of topics related to health and wellness. Students in a health science bachelor’s program will take courses in biology, chemistry, psychology, and sociology, among other subjects. The goal of this degree is to prepare students for a career in the healthcare field. However, it also includes coursework that enhances a student’s background in the liberal arts. A bachelor's in health science degree is somewhat of a generalist degree because it can prepare you for many types of careers, including careers in clinical and non-clinical settings.

RECOMMENDED BACHELORS IN HEALTH SCIENCE PROGRAMS

HOW LONG DOES A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE TAKE?

It typically takes four years to attain a bachelor's degree in health science. You can check out the curriculum plans of the University of Hartford and United States University for a sample curriculum of their bachelor’s in health science programs. As you will see, both programs require about 120 units, which amounts to about four years of full-time study. However, it may be possible for you to take more classes per semester and complete your degree faster. It is not uncommon for people to complete a bachelor’s in health science degree in three years or even less!

HOW MUCH DOES A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE COST?

Many factors would affect the cost of a bachelor's in health science. Your tuition will primarily depend on whether you attend a public or private institution. For example, Nova Southeastern University Florida, a private research university, can cost about $50,000 for a bachelor’s in health science degree if you add the per unit costs and fees. By contrast, public schools like California State University, Fullerton, which also has a bachelor’s in health science program, only cost about $3,506.25 per semester. Considering that there are two semesters every academic year and that it takes about four years to finish a bachelor’s in health science degree, tuition at CSU, Fullerton is $28,050. The takeaway lesson is this: conduct research before settling on a college of your choice.

WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE?

There are a few different things that you'll need to be admitted into a bachelor's degree program in health science.

• First, you'll need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Next, you'll need to take and pass a few college entrance exams, like the SAT or ACT.
• Finally, you'll need to submit your transcripts and letters of recommendation.
• If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to the school you are interested in attending. They will be able to assist you with what you need to do to be admitted into their program.

IS A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE WORTH IT? – THE PROS

(The following are the 25 reasons that will convince you why a Bachelor's in Health Science is worth it in 2023.)

REASON #1: A bachelor's in health science can lead to a stable and well-paying job.

The healthcare field is a rock-solid industry. It can withstand recessions and other forms of economic turmoil. That means that jobs are usually widely available. If you value stability in your career, then this is one reason why a bachelor's in health science is worth it.

REASON #2: A bachelor's in health science can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a difference in people's lives.

Health science is a broad field of study that covers many aspects of human health. Because of the generalist nature of a health science degree, you will develop a variety of competencies that allow you to help people in many ways. This can range from researching new treatments for diseases to working directly with patients in a clinical setting.

REASON #3: A bachelor's in health science is a versatile degree.

If you are the type of person who likes having a variety of options, then a bachelor's degree in health science can be a great fit for you. Having this degree can allow you to work in many settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research facilities. The chances of your career stagnating are probably low because you can choose to work in just about any healthcare setting.

REASON #4: A bachelor's in health science can help you advance your career and earn a higher salary.

Those with health science degrees have a wide foundation of knowledge in multiple healthcare disciplines. This means that it can prepare you for other careers, such as medicine, nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and more. Many careers in the healthcare field pay well, and this is one other reason why a bachelor's in health science is worth it.

REASON #5: A bachelor's in health science can provide you with the opportunity to work with top professionals in the field.

There are many intelligent people in the healthcare field. One of the top reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it is that you will have the opportunity to collaborate with these people. The knowledge you will acquire from this degree will make you an indispensable part of the healthcare team.

REASON #6: A bachelor's in health science can help you develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Research is a big part of a health science curriculum. Therefore, you will learn critical think critically and logically address problems, among many other skills that you can learn from a bachelor's in a health science program.

REASON #7: A bachelor's in health science can give you the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and equipment.

Healthcare is a dynamic field. Technological advances are constantly being created to enhance the quality of care delivered to patients. If this is something that excites you, then you can consider this as one reason why a bachelor's in health science degree is worth it.

REASON #8: A bachelor's in health science can help you learn how to communicate effectively.

No matter how far advanced the healthcare field gets, one thing that will never change is the importance of knowing how to communicate well. With a bachelor's in health science degree, you will develop skills that will help you become a more effective communicator with patients, families, colleagues, and the public.

REASON #9: A bachelor's in health science can prepare you for a career in management or administration.

A bachelor's of health science degree can teach you more than just clinical knowledge. This degree also includes leadership courses, which can help you acquire administrative positions. Depending on your university, you may even have the opportunity to focus on management with a health science degree if your heart is set on that career path.

REASON #10: A bachelor's in health science can provide you with the opportunity to work in interdisciplinary teams.

A bachelor's in health science degree is worth it if you like working with a diverse team of professionals. One of the best things about a health science degree is that your diverse knowledge makes you a valuable asset to any healthcare team.

REASON #11: A bachelor's in health science can help you understand the complexities of the human body.

Anatomy and physiology are some of the courses you may have to take in a bachelor's of health science program. This means that you will gain knowledge of how the human body works. While you may not be able to provide medical advice in the same way as doctors, your knowledge can still help be a health educator to members of the community.

REASON #12: A bachelor's in health science can give you the chance to work with patients of all ages.

One of the great things about a bachelor's in health science degree is that it does not limit who you can take care of. You can work with just about anyone who needs healthcare assistance. As you progress in your career, you may want to enhance your skills by becoming certified as a care manager in a specific population, such as geriatrics.

REASON #13: A bachelor's in health science can prepare you for a career in post-secondary teaching.

You may not be able to work as a college professor with a bachelor's degree in health science, but you will be prepared to become one. With more education, you will have the qualifications to pursue careers in teaching or research. These are fulfilling careers that can also pay very well.

REASON #14: A bachelor's in health science can help you develop a strong awareness of health issues.

One of the biggest reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it is that you learn to become more involved with current issues in healthcare. Despite the progress we have made in healthcare, there are still many problems that need to be addressed. A degree in health science can train you to look at these issues conscientiously and hopefully give you the skills to address some of these issues.

REASON #15: A bachelor's in health science can allow you to work in challenging environments.

If you are the type of person who values work that is stimulating, then a bachelor's in health science can help you achieve that. The evolving nature of healthcare means that you will never run out of opportunities to work on projects that will keep you engaged throughout your career.

REASON #16: A bachelor's in health science can be helpful if you are still unsure of your healthcare career path.

Perhaps you already know that you want to work in healthcare but still don't know where exactly you fit in. That's OK! One of the top reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it is because of its interdisciplinary nature, which means that you can study for a healthcare career and just specialize later on.

REASON #17: A bachelor's in health science can prepare you for a career as a social worker.

If helping vulnerable individuals and groups is your passion, you can leverage your health science degree to become a social worker. Going this route, however, may require you to pursue further education and acquire a Master of Social Work or MSW.

REASON #18: A bachelor's in health science can help you develop as a person.

One of the biggest reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it is that it can improve more than just your career. With all the skills you will learn with this degree, you will also learn to develop skills that can help you as a person. You will learn to communicate better and be a better collaborator.

REASON #19: A bachelor's in health science can help you become an entrepreneur.

This may not be something you are thinking about just yet, but one way you can put your health science degree to use is to start your own small business. You can consider starting your own wellness coaching company, selling health products, among many other health-related businesses.

REASON #20: A bachelor's in health science can help you learn how to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

The American healthcare system is a fragmented one. With a bachelor's in health science, you will have a strong understanding of this system and be able to help people by navigating through this maze-like system. People need more than just assistance with their medical needs. People need advocates who can guide them through the healthcare system to get the care they need.

REASON #21: A bachelor's in health science can prepare you for a career in public health.

The pandemic has truly elevated the importance of public health as a cornerstone of society. One of the biggest reasons why a bachelor's in health science is worth it is that it can lead to careers in public health. You may need some additional coursework or training to be more competitive in this field. However, a bachelor’s in health science degree is enough to provide you with many skills that you will need to become a competent public health professional.

REASON #22: A bachelor's in health science can give you the chance to work with diverse populations.

A bachelor's degree in health science won't just allow you to work with people of all ages. It will also let you work with various ethnic groups and subcultures within a society. The great thing about this is that there are many under-served groups in America, and you will be well-positioned to give them the attention they need with a bachelor's in health science degree.

REASON #23: A bachelor's in health science can help you develop an understanding of ethical issues in healthcare.

The healthcare field is filled with many so-called "gray areas". Although you will not be expected to solve these gray areas with a health science bachelor’s degree, you will have enough knowledge to make informed opinions. You may even have opportunities to sit on ethics committees at healthcare institutions to help decide certain matters.

REASON #24: A bachelor's in health science can allow you to pursue advanced study in a variety of areas.

Having a strong base of knowledge is vital to having a successful healthcare career. Health science programs offer students the opportunity to develop competency in many subjects that can prepare them for more advanced healthcare careers. The strong foundations that health science degrees provide is one of the top reasons why a bachelor' in health science is worth it.

REASON #25: A bachelor's in health science can help you build a foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career.

A bachelor's in health science can be defined by one word: possibilities. There is no way to tell where one person's career will go. And that is the excitement that comes from pursuing a bachelor's in health science. If you are somewhat of an adventurous type, this might just be the degree for you.

WHY A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE MAY NOT BE WORTH IT FOR YOU? – THE CONS

Here are some reasons why a bachelor’s in health science may not be worth it for you.

REASON #1: The job market may be too saturated.

One reason why a bachelor's in health science is not worth it is that there may already be too many people with health science degrees. So unless you are confident that you will be able to stand out from the crowd, you should reconsider whether a degree in health science is truly right for you.

REASON #2: It's expensive.

A bachelor's in health science will likely cost you a lot of money. Public colleges are somewhat cheaper than private schools, but even so, tuition and fees will still be several thousand dollars. Unless you can find a relatively well-paying job after college right away, you may find yourself stuck with a lot of debt.

REASON #3: The hours can be long and unpredictable.

A health science bachelor's degree is probably not the field for you if you are set on just working a 9-5 job. Many healthcare jobs require long hours and/or irregular shifts. So if you are not prepared to work around the clock, this may not be the right career for you.

REASON #4: You might not be able to get the job you want.

Even if you do manage to find a job in healthcare, there's no guarantee that it will be the job you want. The job market is filled with qualified candidates just like you. Therefore, you might have to settle for something that's not your first choice. Unless you are willing to venture out a little bit, a bachelor's in health science is not worth it.

REASON #5: The work can be stressful.

Dealing with sick patients and their families can be emotionally draining. If you are not up for the challenge, you might want to consider a different line of work.

REASON #6: You'll need to keep up with changing technology.

The healthcare industry is constantly changing, and you'll need to keep up with the latest technology and procedures if you want to be successful in this field. Are you prepared to make a lifetime commitment to learning?

REASON #7: It's not always rewarding.

Helping others is very rewarding. However, working in healthcare isn't always glamorous or exciting. There will be days when you feel like you are just going through the motions or just putting out fires at work. A bachelor's in health science degree is not worth it if you don't think that you like to deal with some of the difficulties of being a healthcare professional.

WHAT ARE THE 3 MAIN REASONS BEHIND THE DEMAND FOR BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE HOLDERS?

A bachelor’s in health science degree is in demand and here are a few reasons why.

1. Growth in the baby boomer population.

It has been known for years that baby boomers are getting older and require plenty of healthcare services. This trend has not changed, and it has perhaps even accelerated. This is one major reason why healthcare jobs are increasing across the board. With a bachelor's degree in health science, you will be well-positioned to address this growing trend.

2. Healthcare is a dynamic field.

Change is constant in healthcare. And with change comes a demand for competent professionals who will help steer the direction of the industry. A bachelor's in health science provides the proper training and skills needed in the healthcare field. This is one of the reasons why there is a demand for a bachelor's in health science in today's job market.

3. A degree in health sciences creates versatile professionals.

The healthcare field requires many roles to function. Although specialists are critical to a well-functioning healthcare system, there is also a need for those with an interdisciplinary background to help coordinate and oversee everything.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE HOLDERS?

The average salary for a bachelor's in health science degree holder is $31.73/hour. This translates to $1,269 weekly, $5,500 monthly, or $66,000 annually.

Hourly	$31.73
Weekly	$1,269
Monthly	$5,500
Annual	$66,000
(Source: Payscale.com)

WHAT ARE THE 3 BEST JOBS YOU CAN GET WITH A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE?

Here is a list of just a few jobs that you can get with a bachelor’s in health science degree.

1. Health Educator:

Health educators work to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease. They develop educational materials and teach classes on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management. There are many communities where certain endemics are rampant. Your job will be to advocate for these communities by giving them the knowledge needed to become healthier citizens.

2. Community Health Worker:

Community health workers help people access social services and navigate the healthcare system. They also provide emotional support and connect people to resources in their community.

3. Public Health Research Assistant:

Public health research assistants work with scientists to collect data and conduct research on public health issues. This research is used to develop policies and programs that improve the overall health of the population. Although you may not work directly with patients often, your contributions will be indispensable for the entire society.

BONUS! 3 TIPS TO MAKE MORE MONEY WITH A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE?

There are several ways to boost your income with a bachelor’s in health science degree and below are some ways to do it.

1. Get a job in the healthcare industry.

There are many different types of jobs available in the healthcare industry, and each one comes with its own set of responsibilities and compensation packages. If you want to make more money with your health science degree, consider pursuing a career in the healthcare industry.

2. Consider going into management or administrative roles.

Consider going into management or administration within the healthcare field if your goal is to make a higher salary. Healthcare managers and administrators typically earn much higher salaries than entry-level positions.

3. Pursue a higher degree.

If you are looking to boost your earnings potential, consider pursuing a higher degree in health science. A master's or doctorate degree will open up even more doors and opportunities for you within the healthcare industry.

IS A BACHELOR'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE WORTH IT FOR YOU – MY FINAL THOUGHTS

Even after reading through all this information, you may still be wondering, "Is a bachelor's in health science worth it?” That is OK because there are pros and cons to this type of degree. On one hand, you have seen in this article 25 reasons why a bachelor's health science is worth it, and honestly, there may be more. However, it also has drawbacks, and you should definitely weigh these cons against the benefits. Deciding on your education and your career should be taken seriously. Ultimately, the decision to pursue a bachelor’s in health science degree lies with you.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

1. What Is The Best Age To Do A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree?

Age should not be a factor if you want to pursue a bachelor's in health science degree. If your heart is set on pursuing this degree, you can go for it anytime you like.

2. How Hard Is It To Get Into A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program?

The answer will vary from one college to another. Contact the schools you are considering and find out what their specific admission requirements are.

3. Do I Need Work Experience To Get Into A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program?

Some may require it, but not all. Contacting specific schools can provide better information about work experience requirements during the admissions process.

4. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program?

The minimum GPA for to get into a bachelor’s in health science program is typically 2.0. However, some schools will consider lower GPAs with certain conditions.

5. Can I Get Into A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program With A Low GPA?

Yes, you can! If you have a low GPA, call the schools of your choice and see if there are alternative ways to get into their health science program even if your GPA is under their minimum requirement.

6. Are Online Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Programs Worth It?

It most definitely could be. However, the answer depends on your goals and where you see your career going in the future.

7. Are Scholarships And Grants Available For Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Programs?

There are many scholarship programs available for bachelor's in health science programs, in addition to federal financial aid. For example, websites like CollegeScholarships.org specifically list private scholarships for health science majors. In addition, you can also speak with your college's financial aid office for other grants available specifically for students pursuing a bachelor's in health science degree.

8. Can Bachelor's In Health Science Students Have A Life?

Absolutely! With good time management skills, you can have a life while being in a bachelor's in health science program.

9. Can I Work Part-Time And Successfully Complete The Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program?

Working part-time while in a bachelor's in health science program is doable. Many students work even though they are in college.

10. Can I Work Full-Time And Successfully Complete The Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Program?

You can do anything you set your mind to. Many people complete their bachelor's in health science degrees while working full-time. It does not matter what degree you choose. What matters is your level of determination in achieving your educational goals even if you have other obligations in life.

11. Do Students Fail In Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Programs?

You can fail a bachelor's in health science program if you do not complete the required coursework in a timely and satisfactory manner.

12. Will I Ever Regret Getting A Bachelor's In Health Science Degree?

It's all about perspective. Even if you do not find happiness or success in healthcare, you can still learn a lot from a bachelor's in health science degree that you can apply to other industries.

13. How Much Does A Bachelor's In Health Science Graduate Make Per Hour?

A bachelor's in health science graduate earns an average salary of $31.73/Hour.

$31.73

14. How Much Does A Bachelor's In Health Science Graduate Make Per Year?

A bachelor's health science graduate makes about $66,000/year.

$66,000

15. Will Bachelor's In Health Science Graduates Be Paid Less In The Future?

The healthcare field is a growing industry with endless growth opportunities. That means that those who work in this industry will likely earn more, rather than less.

16. Are All Bachelor's In Health Science Graduates Successful In Their Careers?

Everybody defines success differently and it is hard to say whether everyone who has a health science degree is successful. Ultimately, what matters is YOUR success.

17. Are Bachelor's In Health Science Graduates Happy With Their Jobs?

Healthcare jobs can be stressful, but those people with a bachelor's in health science that are passionate about helping others will find happiness in their careers.

18. Can Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Holders Become Rich?

There is a potential to make a lot of money with a bachelor's in health science degree because some positions pay well. For example, medical and health services managers make an average salary of $101,340.

19. What Are Some Bachelor's In Health Science Degree Alternatives?

Some related fields include public health, nursing, medicine, physical or occupational therapy, and social work. Keep in mind though that if you go into alternative career routes, you may need to pursue further education.

20. What Is The Difference Between A Bachelor's In Health Science And A Master's In Health Science?

A bachelor's in health science degree is an undergraduate degree while a master's in health science is a more advanced graduate degree.