Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Updated February 27, 2024
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An online healthcare certificate prepares graduates for in-demand roles as medical assistants and health information technicians.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistants and health information technicians will both see much faster than average projected job growth from 2019-2029. Earning an online healthcare certificate builds the knowledge and skills required for these high-demand careers.
An online learning format appeals to working professionals and busy students balancing school with other responsibilities. Distance learners complete flexible coursework while meeting any clinical requirements in their local areas. Students on a budget can research the most affordable option for their certificate program without limiting their options to local schools.
Our list ranks the top online healthcare certificate programs to help prospective applicants find the best fit for their budget and career goals. This article also explores common healthcare certificate courses, career paths for graduates, and professional certifications in healthcare.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
The online health information management certificate at Charter Oak State College ranks high among programs of its kind. From its campus in New Britain, Connecticut, the public institution offers certificate programs in 17 areas.
With career-focused classes, the health information management program introduces participants to industry-relevant topics while providing insights into professional roles. Certificate-seekers gain hands-on experience to provide career-specific training. Enrollees choose classes based on their schedule, needs, and career goals. The leadership in health care administration certificate program uses full-time and part-time schedules for distance learners. Busy students benefit from the flexibility to balance school with work and other obligations.
Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for assistance. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant.
#2 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Cedar Crest College
Allentown, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cedar Crest College offers an online healthcare administration certificate that provides a flexible route to training for the healthcare administration field. Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, the private institution offers 11 certificate options.
With career-focused classes, the healthcare administration program introduces participants to industry-relevant topics while providing insights into professional roles. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible online classes and several enrollment options meet the needs of multiple learners. Remote enrollees choose from full-time and part-time options in the online health care management certificate program. This flexibility appeals to busy students and working professionals.
Learners can contact the financial aid office for information about assistance and eligibility guidelines for certificate programs. The school connects students with financial aid resources, including scholarships and federal aid programs. According to the school, 100% of the student body receives financial aid and 51% graduate within six years.
#3 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Champlain College
Burlington, VT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Champlain College offers an online certificate for students interested in healthcare administration careers. Learners enroll in 19 certificate programs offered from the Burlington, Vermont, campus of the private institution.
With industry-tailored classes, the healthcare administration program builds key knowledge and skills while providing insights into the profession. Certificate-seekers can also boost their career training with workshops, events, and internship opportunities. Enrollees can modify the program based on their schedule. The online healthcare administration undergraduate certificate program offers tracks for full-time and part-time leaners. Working professionals and busy students benefit from the flexible options.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for distance learners to submit the FAFSA and receive aid. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Currently, 100% of the student body receives some form of financial aid and the school has a 65% graduation rate.
#4 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Joseph's College of Maine’s online certificate in healthcare administration is an attractive option for students seeking flexible training relevant to the healthcare administration field. The private institution, located in Standish, Maine, offers two certificate programs.
Participants in the healthcare administration program benefit from industry-tailored classes, deepening their knowledge of the healthcare administration field while providing insight to industry professions. Certificate-seekers participate in experiential learning opportunities to gain relevant skills for their career path. Flexible enrollment options help learners make progress toward their certificate. The online health administration certificate program offers full-time and part-time tracks. Busy students rely on this flexibility to balance school with work and other responsibilities.
Distance learners can contact the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for certificate programs. The school's financial aid options include external scholarships, internal funding opportunities, and federal financial aid. According to the most recent data, 98% of enrolled students use financial aid, while the school has a 67% graduation rate.
#5 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online certificate in healthcare administration at Colorado Christian University appeals to students seeking career training in a flexible format. From its campus in Lakewood, Colorado, the private institution lets learners choose from 12 certificate options.
With industry-tailored classes, the healthcare administration program introduces participants to foundational topics and offers industry insights. Certificate-seekers can also participate in experiential learning opportunities focused on their career goals. Flexible class schedules and enrollment options meet the needs of diverse learners. The online healthcare administration certificate program offers full-time and part-time tracks. This flexibility allows busy students to balance school with work or other obligations.
Learners can contact the financial aid office for information about assistance and eligibility guidelines for certificate programs. The school offers internal and external funding opportunities, which include scholarships and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 100% of enrollees receive financial aid and the overall graduation rate is 55%.
#6 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online healthcare administration certificate at Roger Williams University offers a flexible route to healthcare administration career training. Learners choose from seven certificate programs offered by the private institution from its Bristol, Rhode Island, campus.
The healthcare administration program offers industry insights and career-focused training throughout its curriculum. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. The online health services administration certificate offers both full-time and part-time enrollment. This flexibility appeals to busy students and working professionals.
The financial aid office works with distance learners to find scholarships, grants, and other funding sources. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities, including scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Currently, 100% of enrollees receive financial aid and the school has a 67% graduation rate.
#7 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Wayne Community College
Goldsboro, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The online healthcare administration certificate at Wayne Community College uses online classes to train students for healthcare administration careers. At the public institution, learners choose from 44 certificate programs offered from the Goldsboro, North Carolina, campus.
The program offers industry-tailored classes that help participants deepen their knowledge of the field while gaining industry insights. Certificate-seekers work with faculty mentors to individualize their program and pursue experiential learning opportunities. Flexible course options make it easier for learners to fit classes around their other responsibilities. The online medical office administration certificate program offers tracks for full-time and part-time students. This flexibility helps busy enrollees balance school with work and other responsibilities.
Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to find out more about eligibility for assistance. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. According to the school, 63% of enrollees receive financial aid and the graduation rate is 45%.
#8 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Granite Falls, MN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The flexible healthcare administration certificate at Minnesota West Community and Technical College provides an online route to healthcare administration training. From its main campus in Granite Falls, Minnesota, the public institution operates 71 certificate programs.
Participants in the healthcare administration program deepen their knowledge of the field through industry-tailored classes. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. The online healthcare supervision and leadership certificate offers both full-time and part-time enrollment. These flexible options appeal to working professionals and busy students.
The financial aid office helps learners identify funding sources for certificate programs. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. With 92% of all enrollees receiving financial aid, the school boasts a 45% graduation rate.
#9 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Columbus State University
Columbus, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Columbus State University offers an online healthcare administration certificate that appeals to students seeking flexible healthcare administration career training. From its campus in Columbus, Georgia, the public institution offers certificate programs in 15 areas.
The healthcare administration program emphasizes industry-specific knowledge and professional insights throughout the curriculum. Certificate-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities to gain healthcare administration career training while in the program. Flexible enrollment options help learners make progress toward their certificate. Full-time and part-time students participate in the online healthcare manager certificate program. Working professionals and busy enrollees benefit from the flexible options.
When preparing for educational costs, learners should consult with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for assistance. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities, including scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. According to the school, 92% of enrollees receive financial aid and the graduation rate is 38%.
#10 Best Online Healthcare Certificate Programs
Lenoir Community College
Kinston, NC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The online healthcare administration certificate at Lenoir Community College ranks high among programs of its kind. Located in Kinston, North Carolina, the public institution offers 63 certificate options.
The healthcare administration curriculum challenges participants with industry-tailored classes which offer insights into the healthcare administration profession. Certificate-seekers can also add hands-on training to their skills through workshops, events, and internships. Flexible coursework options allow learners to find a format that fits their schedule. Full-time and part-time students take classes as part of the medical administrative assistant certificate program. This flexibility makes it easier for busy enrollees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
When preparing for educational costs, learners should consult with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for assistance. The school administers federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant for qualifying students. Out of the total student body, 73% receive financial aid and the school reports a 30% graduation rate.
Online Healthcare Certificate Program Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
What Is an Online Healthcare Certificate?
An online healthcare certificate trains learners in medical assistance, healthcare terminology, healthcare records management, and medical coding. During a certificate program, students strengthen their administrative and clinical abilities, learning how to interact with patients, perform basic healthcare assessments, and maintain medical records.
After a one-year certificate program, graduates meet the requirements for many allied health careers. With an online healthcare certificate, professionals can pursue careers as medical assistants, medical office assistants, and health information technicians.
Online medical certificate programs combine remote classes with practical training. Distance learning students complete clinical training through online simulations, virtual laboratory projects, and in-person supervised experiences in their local areas. Programs work with online learners to meet these requirements at approved sites close to the student's home.
What's the Difference Between a Healthcare Administration Certificate and an Associate Degree?
A healthcare administration certificate and an associate degree in healthcare administration both prepare graduates for allied health careers. However, the options differ in important ways. For example, certificate programs often take one year or less to complete, while an associate degree takes two years. Many schools offer both certificate and associate programs.
A certificate covers fundamental topics and meets the requirements for some entry-level roles. An associate degree offers more in-depth education, including general education requirements, and leads to more career-oriented opportunities, like administrative coordinator or operations assistant. After earning certificates, graduates can sometimes transfer their credits toward associate degrees in healthcare administration, depending on accreditation.
What Can You Do With a Healthcare Certificate?
A healthcare certificate trains students to work in hospitals and doctor's offices in roles like medical office assistant, medical secretary, nursing assistant, or administrative assistant. Medical assistants conduct basic health assessments and maintain patient records, while health information technicians manage medical records. Below are a few jobs that healthcare certificate-holders can pursue.
Health Information Technician
Health information technicians, also known as medical records technicians, manage medical and patient data for healthcare organizations. They check health records for accuracy and transfer information from paper records into electronic systems. Health information technicians also enter codes to submit patient information for insurance reimbursement.
Most health information technicians hold certificates. Students pursuing these certificates learn about medical coding systems, healthcare reimbursement procedures, and medical terminology. The largest employers of health information technicians include hospitals and doctor's offices.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform clerical tasks in office settings. They schedule appointments, assist customers, and organize files. These assistants also schedule meetings, manage ingoing/outgoing mail, and maintain filing systems.
Office assistants in medical settings — also known as medical secretaries — help physicians and provide clerical support in medical offices. A medical office assistant program covers medical records, terminology, and medical coding knowledge, training graduates for these roles. The healthcare industry employs the most administrative assistants of any field.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in many different healthcare settings. They maintain medical records, measure vital signs before doctor's visits, and assist physicians during health assessments. Medical assistants also schedule appointments and prepare materials for laboratory tests.
Most medical assistant employers require candidates to have at least a certificate. During a medical assistant certificate, learners study health information systems, medical terminology, and medical office assistance. These professionals work in outpatient care centers, hospitals, and doctor's offices.
Choosing an Online Program
How can you choose the right online healthcare certificate program for your needs? By considering factors like your budget, career goals, and schedule availability. Researching a prospective program's job placement rate can also help you make informed decisions. Learn more about choosing an online program with the following links.
Accreditation for Healthcare Programs
Accredited online healthcare certificate programs meet the requirements for professional certification, and many employers only hire graduates from accredited programs. As a result, prospective applicants should always choose regionally accredited schools.
Several specialized agencies grant accreditation to allied health schools, including The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The U.S. Department of Education recognizes CAAHEP and ABHES as accrediting agencies for health programs.
What to Expect From a Healthcare Certificate
During a healthcare certificate, learners complete general healthcare courses in medical terminology, human anatomy, and health information systems. They also take specialized courses, such as medical assisting or medical coding. These classes build the knowledge and skills required for allied health careers.
Healthcare Curriculum
- Customer Service: Customer service is a core skill in medical assisting and medical office assisting. In this course, learners examine the best customer service practices in healthcare, including soliciting customer feedback and managing complaints.
- Healthcare Research and Quality: Healthcare organizations use research and data analysis to improve quality of care and patient outcomes. This course covers quality improvement approaches, applying research in practice, and enhancing healthcare procedures through data analysis.
- Health Finance and Economics: Students in this course explore financial management and economics in healthcare, providing a general overview of the financial side of the healthcare system. Topics include profit analysis, capital budgeting, and healthcare consumption.
- Health Information Systems: Healthcare organizations increasingly rely on technology to manage data and improve performance. Students in this course examine healthcare information needs, computer-based analytical tools, and patient information management.
- Medical Legal Issues: Healthcare practitioners must study medical law and ethical issues to ensure compliance. Coursework in this class covers privacy rights, healthcare legislation, and court rulings on medical care. This class prepares practitioners for clinical and record management responsibilities.
- Navigating the U.S. Healthcare System: Learners in this class explore regulatory agencies, hospital systems, and health insurers and how they operate in the United States. Coursework examines the mechanisms for delivering health services and compares the U.S. healthcare system to international systems.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Healthcare Certificate?
Many community colleges, vocational schools, and technical schools offer healthcare certificate programs. Most online healthcare certificate programs take 6-12 months to complete. Online medical certificate programs typically require around nine months of coursework.
During a healthcare certificate, students complete coursework in medical terminology, health information record management, and healthcare compliance. They also gain practical training through simulations, laboratory assignments, and clinical practicums. This blend of classroom and experiential learning prepares certificate graduates for careers in healthcare.
Pursuing Healthcare Certifications Online
It is important not to confuse certificates with certifications. Certificate programs train students in particular areas through coursework, assignments, and exams, while certifications recognize professionals who are skilled in particular fields. Certificates are similar to degrees, while certifications are for working professionals.
Professional certifications help healthcare professionals stand out in the job market. For example, certified clinical medical assistants and certified electronic health records specialists can point to their certifications to demonstrate their experience and training.
Private organizations deliver certifications, while certificates are conferred by schools. Most certifications require previous training, such as a certificate or work experience, but they don't offer training themselves. Candidates pursuing healthcare certifications online must pass an exam to earn the credential, and many certifications require renewal every 2-3 years. Recertification may require continuing education credits or additional exams.
Healthcare Organizations
Professional organizations can help students and early-career professionals advance their careers. These organizations provide professional development support, career resources, and networking opportunities.
Professional organizations often specialize in areas within the healthcare field. For example, the Association for Healthcare Administrative Professionals and the American Health Information Management Association represent medical assistants and health information technicians. Meanwhile, the American Association of Healthcare Administration Management and the American College of Healthcare Administrators advocate for healthcare administrators.
Medical Office Administration Careers
A healthcare certificate prepares graduates for careers as medical records technicians, medical assistants, and health information technicians. In these roles, professionals blend their clinical and administrative training to help hospitals and doctor's offices run smoothly. Online healthcare certificate programs can also lead to careers as medical secretaries and administrative assistants.
The information below covers median salary data for common medical careers among individuals with healthcare certificates.
| Career | Median Salary (2020) |
|---|---|
| Medical Records and Health Information Technician | $44,090 |
| Administrative Assistant | $40,990 |
| Medical Assistant | $35,850 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Healthcare Certifications Can I Get Online?
Online healthcare certification options include certified clinical medical assistant and certified electronic health records specialist credentials. Additionally, many colleges offer online healthcare certificates for medical assistants.
What Is the Fastest Online Medical Certification to Get?
Online medical certificate programs train graduates for careers as medical assistants, health information technicians, and medical coders. Many programs take one year or less to complete.
What Healthcare Certification Pays the Most?
Allied health careers that require certification, including sonographer, respiratory therapist, and radiologic technician, earn above-average salaries. Earning a healthcare certificate can also lead to employment as a medical assistant.
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