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

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

If you’ve clicked on this article, it may be because you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in health science. And perhaps, one question you may be asking is, “Is a master's in health science worth it?” While the ultimate decision on whether to attend a master’s in health science program rests on you, hopefully, this article will give you some information that will help you make an informed choice. This article will go over 25 reasons why a master's in health science is worth it and also 7 reasons why it may not be the right degree for you.

WHAT IS A MASTER'S IN HEALTH SCIENCE DEGREE?

A master's in health science degree is a multidisciplinary graduate-level degree. Students who pursue a master's in health science degree can study topics such as healthcare administration, public health, healthcare policy, and more. A master's in health science degree is a versatile degree that can prepare students for careers in different settings like hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and government agencies.

RECOMMENDED MASTERS IN HEALTH SCIENCE PROGRAMS

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

The length of time to complete your master’s degree in health science can take vary. Cleveland State University’s master’s in health science program, for example, has 36 units and takes two years of full-time study to complete. However, there are also master’s in health science programs, like the one from John Hopkins University, which takes only one year. John Hopkins University’s master’s in health science program focuses on population, family, and reproductive health, so you should consider them if you are interested in this particular specialty area.

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

The cost of a master’s degree in health science depends on the school of your choice. For example, St. John’s University has a 42-credit master’s in health science program that costs $1550 per credit. That is a total of $65100. On the other hand, St. Francis University also has a master’s in health science program that costs only $20250 plus a $45 technology fee per semester. When deciding to pursue a master’s in health science, you must research the costs of the master’s in health science programs you are considering because there are some big differences in the tuition fees of some schools.

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

Some typical requirements for applying to a master’s in health science program are as follows:

• A bachelor’s degree
• A GPA of at least 3.0 (Some schools may consider a lower GPA)
• A Resume
• An essay describing your reasons for a master’s in health science program
• Letters of recommendation (in some cases)
• A GRE (for some schools)

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

(The following are the 25 reasons why a Master's in Health Science is worth it in 2023.)

REASON #1: A master's in health science can help you advance your career in hospital settings.

One of the top reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it is because it can lead to advancement opportunities if you work in a hospital. Hospitals are highly structured organizations with many employees. It may be hard to stand out unless you have advanced credentials that some of your colleagues do not possess.

REASON #2: A master's in health science is an opportunity to change the lives of people, especially vulnerable ones.

A master’s in health science teaches you the skills to become a servant to others. Having a master’s in health science degree is more than just about money and career advancement. With a master’s in health science, you can also help those in need.

REASON #3: A master's in health science can help you land a job as a health services manager.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that jobs for medical and health services managers are expected to grow at a rate of 32% over the next decade. A master’s in health science puts you in a position to qualify for this kind of job. Although a bachelor’s degree may qualify you to become a medical or health service manager, a master’s in health science may make you a more competitive candidate.

REASON #4: A master's in health science can allow you to work in a variety of settings.

Another reason why a master’s in health science is worth it is because of its versatility. By having a master’s in health science degree, you can be assured that you will not be stuck working in just one place throughout your career. You can explore many types of health institutions, such as clinics and long-term care facilities.

REASON #5: A master’s in health science can help you develop leadership skills.

Master’s in health science degree programs are versatile, which means you can learn a lot of skills. One of those is leadership, and there are master’s in health science programs, such as the one at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, that may even let you specialize in healthcare leadership.

REASON #6: A master’s in health science can help you hone your communication skills.

Communication skills are very important in today’s interconnected workplace. And one of the biggest reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it is that you may learn to communicate better with this degree. Throughout a master’s in health science degree, you will have plenty of opportunities to discuss your ideas with professors and colleagues. By doing this, you will sharpen your ability to sharpen your writing and speaking skills.

REASON #7: A master's in health science can help you stay up-to-date on the latest technological trends and developments in healthcare.

Given the dynamic nature of healthcare technology, it may sometimes be difficult to keep up with the changes happening. Pursuing a master’s degree in health science will help ensure that your knowledge of health technology trends remains relevant and up-to-date.

REASON #8: A master's in health science can provide you with the opportunity to teach and mentor others.

A master’s degree in health science can qualify you to teach college-level courses. If you like the idea of teaching, then this could be one of the top reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it for you. There are plenty of health science teaching positions, especially in community colleges.

REASON #9: A master's in health science can help you pursue a Ph.D. or other advanced degree in healthcare.

If you plan on pursuing further education in the health sciences, a master’s degree in health science can offer a path to do just that. Having a master’s in health science qualifies you to apply for the Ph.D. program, and some, like Rush University, even let you finish your Ph.D. in health sciences online.

REASON #10: A master's in health science can allow you to work abroad and experience different cultures.

Traveling and schooling are two things that sometimes go hand in hand. If you like the idea of going abroad while sharpening your knowledge, then that could be one of the biggest reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it. Healthcare is needed in just about every corner of the globe, which means that you can enjoy the benefits of being able to see different countries while pursuing your master’s in health science program.

REASON #11: A master's in health science can help you gain a better understanding of the complex issues facing healthcare today.

Healthcare can be mystifying for a lot of people. A master’s in health science will help ensure that you are part of a small group of people in society who understands the intricacies of the healthcare industry. Knowing how the health industry works allows you to develop educated opinions that can help address some of the issues in today's healthcare industry.

REASON #12: A master's in health science can give you the chance to work with some of the world's leading experts in healthcare.

Having a master’s in health science is worth it if you value the idea of collaborating with experts and other thought leaders in the healthcare industry. With a master’s degree in health science, you may be able to gain access to people who are actively shaping today’s healthcare industry. This can include medical professionals, policymakers, and executives.

REASON #13: A master’s in health science can give you credibility as a health journalist or reporter.

Health reporters play a crucial role in today’s society. They keep the public informed about current happenings in health matters. They also educate us on ways to safeguard our health. A master’s degree in health science can give you the knowledge and skills needed to write about health-related matters that protect and promote the health of the public.

REASON #14: A master’s in health science can lead to research opportunities.

If you like researching health topics, then a master’s degree in health science just might be for you. There are plenty of areas in health science that need further research, such as disease prevention, nutrition, and health equity. Whatever healthcare subject interests you, a master’s in health science can open up opportunities for you to conduct potentially groundbreaking research.

REASON #15: A master’s in health science can lead to a career with potentially less liability than other health professions.

A lot of healthcare professions are prone to liability. This is because many jobs in healthcare involve direct contact with patients, where safety is a top concern. The jobs you can get with a master’s in health science do not always involve patent care, though. One reason why a master’s degree in health science is worth it is that it allows you to work in healthcare without having to shoulder some of the risks that some clinical professionals have to face.

REASON #16: A master’s in health science gives you a better understanding of the science behind human disease.

The coursework in a master’s of health science program covers a wide range of topics. Thus, a master’s in health science can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the biological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to human disease.

REASON #17: A master’s in health science does not limit you to a narrow set of careers.

A master’s degree in health science is a multidisciplinary field. This means that you are qualified to take many different kinds of jobs in healthcare. If you value having multiple career options, then perhaps a master’s degree in health science might be a great fit for you.

REASON #18: A master’s in health science can help give you a strong educational foundation if you want to pursue clinical careers in the future.

Having a master’s degree in health science is worth it if you have plans to pursue certain clinical careers in the future. Let’s say you want to become a pharmacist or a doctor at some point. Having a master’s in health science can help prepare you for these advanced careers. A master’s in health science gives you the skills and the knowledge to be a well-rounded clinical in the future.

REASON #19: There is plenty of master’s in health science programs that are online.

One of the best things about pursuing a master’s in health science is that you do not have to leave your other life commitments behind. There is plenty of master’s in health science programs that you can complete through online universities. These degrees are just as credible and educational as any brick-and-mortar master’s in health science program.

REASON #20: A master’s in health science program can lead to a career in social services.

One of the top reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it is that it can open up opportunities in the field of social services. Whether you choose to work in a non-profit organization or a government agency, you can find fulfillment working in the field of community and social services.

REASON #21: A master’s in health science can be a good way to prepare for a public health career.

Public health professionals are always going to be in demand. Whether we are dealing with the coronavirus or the monkeypox virus, or some other pathogen, we are always going to need competent people in public health. You can be one of these important people with a master’s in health science degree.

REASON #22: A master’s in health science can lead to a management or executive career in home health agencies.

One of the biggest reasons why a master’s in health science is worth it is because it can prepare you for a career in home health agencies. With hospitals discharging more people at a faster rate than ever before, there is a huge need for home health agencies that can competently provide skilled services. While there is no substitute for good work experience, a master’s degree in health science can provide you with the foundation you need to be a great leader in the home health industry.

REASON #23: A master’s in health science may give you opportunities to participate in panels or groups that shape healthcare policies at your workplace.

Hospitals and other large healthcare organizations typically have a governing body that determines rules and regulations. Having a master’s degree in health science gives you the credibility to be part of these groups. By participating in policy panels, you can shape the way care is delivered to patients and the community.

REASON #24: A master’s in health science can lead to a career as a nutritionist.

Nutritionists are professionals who help people with their diets. Because of the big impact food has on our health, nutritionists are vital in keeping society healthy. A master’s in health science can help you become a nutritionist, especially if you combine it with a certification as a nutritionist.

REASON #25: A master’s in health science can open up opportunities to become a subject matter expert.

Subject matter experts are people who are consulted by organizations and companies on specific matters. If you have a master’s in health science, you may be contacted by healthcare companies that need the expert opinion of someone with a healthcare background. A master’s in health science is worth it if this is something that interests you.

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

(Now that you have gone through the 25 reasons why a Master's in Health Science is worth it, here are 7 reasons why it may not be the right degree for you.)

REASON #1: A master’s in health science may be out of your budget.

A master’s in health science is not worth it if you are running on a tight budget. Going to graduate school to pursue your master’s in health science may require you to take out a loan, which you will have to pay for years after you have graduated. If you do not have a sponsor or scholarship, paying off a student loan can be quite difficult.

REASON #2: It can be time-consuming to pursue a master’s in health science.

Completing a master’s in health science degree takes time. You may have to spend a lot of time studying for exams, participating in group discussions, and completing projects. All of these things can eat up time off from your personal and professional life. If you feel like you have limited time as it is, chances are that a master’s in health science might not be worth it.

REASON #3: A master’s in health science may not be necessary for the jobs you want.

A master’s in health science degree is not worth it if your career path does not require you to have it. Maybe you've been employed at a company for years and are already on the shortlist of candidates for a major promotion. Maybe you’d be better off learning more about your company’s operations than taking a detour towards pursuing a master’s in health science degree.

REASON #4: A master’s in health science does not always guarantee that you will get a promotion.

A master’s degree in health science does boost your chances of getting noticed by your employers and potentially getting promoted. However, unless there is a specific policy in a company or organization’s handbook stating that a master’s in health science is required for a particular position, there is no guarantee that you will get promoted. It may not be worth pursuing a master’s in health science if your only goal is to get a promotion at work.

REASON #5: Pursuing a master’s in health science degree might not be the right move if you have small children or have family members who need your care.

Even if you think that a master’s in health science would help your career, you may need to consider other more important priorities, such as kids or other family members. One option is to pay for childcare, but the costs of childcare nowadays can be very expensive. Their needs should be a top priority. Unless you feel like you can effectively balance family life with school, a master’s in health science may not be worth it, at least for the time being.

REASON #6: Some employers may see a master’s in health science as too broad.

One of the benefits of a master’s in health science is its versatility. But sometimes, this same versatility that a master’s in health science degree offers can be seen by some employers as being too general. Keep this in mind if you are considering enrolling in a master’s in health science program.

REASON #7: You are not sure if a healthcare career is for you.

A master’s in health science is not worth it if you are undecided about going into healthcare. Healthcare jobs can be demanding, and unless you are fully prepared for this reality, you may want to reconsider investing your time and money towards a master’s in health science program.

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

These are three of the main reasons why a master’s in health science is in demand.

1. Demographic shifts require more healthcare professionals:

There's no denying that the demographics of the United States are shifting. As the population continues to change, healthcare professionals are increasingly in demand. These trends are being driven by several factors, including an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and a growing focus on preventive care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, it requires a constant supply of competent professionals. You can be one of these professionals with a master’s in health science degree.

2. Healthcare is becoming more accessible:

Increased healthcare access is a good thing, but it has also created an increased demand for healthcare services. In addition to the people who now have insurance due to the Affordable Care Act, the growing use of telehealth services has placed healthcare within the grasp of so many people. Although a master’s in health science degree will not give you the license to treat patients directly, there are many jobs you can take to support clinicians who provide medical care to others.

3. Preventative care is a top priority in healthcare:

One of the goals set forth by the United States Health and Human Services in its Healthy People 2030 initiative is to encourage more people to utilize preventative care services. Accomplishing this goal requires a lot of community education. With a master’s degree in health science, you will be well-positioned to meet this goal.

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

The average salary for master's in health science degree holders is $37.50 per hour or $78,000 per year. This is equivalent to $1500 per week or $6500 monthly.

Hourly	$37.50
Weekly	$1,500
Monthly	$6,500
Annual	$78,000
(Source: Payscale.com)

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

Here are three of the best careers with a master’s in health science:

1. Hospital Administrator:

A hospital administrator is a professional who oversees the daily operations of a hospital. They are responsible for ensuring that the hospital runs smoothly and efficiently and that patients receive the best possible care. Administrators also work to ensure that the hospital staff is properly trained and that all hospital policies and procedures are followed. In addition, administrators often work with the hospital's marketing and finance departments to ensure that the hospital can meet its financial goals.

2. Health Insurance Company Executive:

A health insurance company executive is a person who manages or oversees the operation of a health insurance company. The executive is responsible for the company's financial stability and profitability, as well as its compliance with laws and regulations. The executive also sets the company's strategic direction and oversees the implementation of its business plans, among many other responsibilities.

3. Pharmaceutical Company Executive:

Pharmaceutical company executives are responsible for the overall operation of a pharmaceutical company. This includes developing new products and overseeing manufacturing, marketing, and sales. In addition, they may coordinate with government agencies like the Food and Drug Administration to ensure that the company is producing high-quality drugs.

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

Below are three ways to make more money with a master’s in health science.

1. Use your master’s in health science degree to start a business:

If you have entrepreneurial ambitions, a health science degree can give you the knowledge and skills you need to start your own business. You could open a home health care agency or start a consulting firm that helps businesses develop employee wellness programs.

2. Use your master’s in health science degree to get a promotion:

If you're already working in the health care field, getting a master's in health science can help you qualify for a promotion. You could use your new knowledge and skills to move into a position with more responsibility, or you could become a manager or supervisor in your current organization.

3. Leverage your master’s in health science degree to expand your professional network:

One benefit of having a master’s in health science degree is that you become a more recognized professional in your field. Use this increased recognition to network with decision-makers and leaders in the healthcare industry. You may find people who are willing to work with you and give your more opportunities to earn more money.

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

So, is a master's in health science degree worth it? Deciding to pursue a master’s in health science can be a big decision. In this article, you learned about 25 reasons why a master's in health science is worth it and also 7 reasons why it may not be the right degree for you. Hopefully, the information we’ve given has at least given you a bit of clarity. Whatever you choose to do, just keep in mind your success does not just lie in a master’s in health science degree but in your determination to grow as a professional.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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

There is no best age to pursue a master’s in health science degree. However, there is such a thing as the right time to pursue a master’s in health science degree. The right time can happen at any age, and only you and your assessment of your situation can answer that.

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

Getting into a master’s in health science program can be easy if you already have a bachelor’s degree. If you already have a healthcare background, your chances of getting into a master’s in health science program are even better.

3. Is The GRE Required For Those Wishing To Pursue A Master's In Health Science Degree?

Some schools may require a GRE to enter a master’s in health science program. However, some master’s in health science programs don’t require it. The best thing you can do is look at the websites of the master’s in health science programs you are interested in and research their requirements.

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

Work experience is not always required to enter a master’s in health science program. However, it may help to have some healthcare background just so you know what you are getting into.

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

A GPA of 3.0 is a typical requirement to enter a master’s in health science program. However, there may be some master’s in health science programs willing to take a GPA lower than that. One example is Touro University, Nevada, which accepts a GPA of 2.75.

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

Depending on how low your GPA is, it may or may not be possible to get into a master’s in health science program. However, if your GPA is far below the threshold of your chosen master’s in health science program, you have the option to raise it a little bit by enrolling in a few courses at a community college and getting good grades in those classes.

7. Are Online Master's In Health Science Degree Programs Worth It?

An online master’s in health science program can be worth it if you take advantage of all the learning opportunities (i.e., discussion groups, reading assignments, and projects) made available to you.

8. Are Scholarships And Grants Available For Master's In Health Science Degree Programs?

There are various scholarships and grants for students of master’s in health science programs. The best people to talk about scholarship opportunities at specific master’s in health science programs are financial aid personnel.

9. Can Master's In Health Science Students Have A Life?

Students in a master’s in health science program can have a life if they can learn good time management skills.

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

Working part-time while completing a master’s in health science is doable. Many students continue to work even while attending a master’s in health science program.

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

It is possible. However, you may want to consider an online master’s in health science program to better balance schooling with your full-time work schedule.

12. Do Students Fail In Master's In Health Science Degree Programs?

It is possible to fail your master’s in health science program if you do not meet the requirements of your courses.

13. Will I Ever Regret Getting A Master's In Health Science Degree?

If you take advantage of all the learning opportunities in a master’s in health science program, it's not likely that you'll regret your master’s in health science degree.

14. How Much Does A Master's In Health Science Graduate Make Per Hour?

People who possess a master’s in health science degree earn $37.50/hour on average.

$37.50

15. How Much Does A Master's In Health Science Graduate Make Per Year?

A master’s in health science graduate earns an average of $78,000/per year.

$78,000

16. Will Master's In Health Science Graduates Be Paid Less In The Future?

The economy can be unpredictable at times, and that could affect how much graduates of master’s in health science programs can earn. However, the healthcare industry is somewhat resistant to economic instability, which means that the chances of being paid less are not very likely.

17. Are All Master's In Health Science Graduates Successful In Their Careers?

There are no standardized surveys that measure career satisfaction amongst master’s in health science graduates. However, it would be fair to say that a master’s in health science leads to many job opportunities that can lead to success.

18. Are Master's In Health Science Graduates Happy With Their Jobs?

Every graduate of a master’s in health science program is different, and it may be difficult to judge whether all of them are happy with their jobs.

19. Can Master's In Health Science Degree Holders Become Rich?

Master’s in health science degree holders qualify for certain executive positions that pay very well, so yes, it is possible to become rich. However, not all people with a master’s in health science become very wealthy.

20. What Are Some Master's In Health Science Degree Alternatives?

Some alternatives to a master’s in health science include social work, health administration, or nursing.

21. Would I Benefit From A Master’s In Health Science If I Already Have A Bachelor’s In Health Science?

Yes, because a master’s in health science can expand the knowledge you have learned in your bachelor’s in health science program.

22. What Student Activities Are Ideal To Be Involved In While Pursuing A Master’s Degree In Health Science?

You can start volunteering or working at healthcare organizations while pursuing a master’s degree in health science. Ideally, you would want to enter organizations that you intend to work in after you graduate from your master’s in health science program.

23. Can I Apply To A Master's In Health Science Program If I Am A Medical/Nursing/Dental/Pharmacy Student?

You can apply to a master’s in health science program while you are going through a medical/nursing/dental/pharmacy program. However, you might have a difficult time balancing two programs at the same time.