Overview
Like many education-related fields, health education is growing rapidly right now. While it is easy for the average person to engage in unhealthy habits such as eating excessive fast-food and staying inside playing video games, health educators combat these habits by advocating for healthy alternatives. Health is important, and health educators are continually thinking of new and exciting ways to remind students of this importance every day.
Due to the immense impact health education has on overall national wellness, many positions encourage applicants to have a master’s degree. These master’s programs teach students how to educate people about health in various ways and in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations. Course focus on areas such as research methodology, communication strategies, health evaluation, and more. Many programs will include the opportunity for students to participate in fieldwork and even conduct their own research.
There are several different degrees that can come from completing a health education program. Students may graduate with a master of education, master of public health, master of science, or other related degrees. This means that there are many specific career choices in this field, and professionals can work anywhere from schools to community centers to hospitals.
Online degrees are almost universally accepted. In fact, many well-respected programs now offer online degrees in health education.
Yes, many schools offer online programs in health education. That said, it is essential to find a program that is accredited.
A master’s degree in health education takes around 2 years to complete. Of course, some students finish faster by taking on heavier course loads.
For those who hope to become health educators, a master’s degree is often a great asset even when it is not a requirement, and many candidates with master’s degrees will have a higher starting salary. In that sense, it is a worthwhile investment. The ability to help people live healthy lives and effect wellness across the globe is also personally rewarding.
Most importantly, health educators ensure that people are connected to the resources that will keep them living healthy lives. Ultimately, graduates with master’s degrees in health education can change the world for the better by changing the way we view wellness and by advocating for better overall health.
For more more resources and career information related to this degree, please read our career guide here.
