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Our Allied Health degree completion program is offered entirely online.
This degree completion program is offered entirely online for students with an associate's degree and state license or certification in a health-related field.About our program Accordion Closed
The online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences- Allied Health program empowers students who have completed an associate’s degree and obtained their state license or certification to elevate their careers in health-related fields. This innovative curriculum is ideal for working professionals.
In our program, students delve into foundational health promotion and disease prevention concepts, sharpening their critical thinking and problem-solving skills while enhancing their ability to communicate effectively with diverse teams. This comprehensive approach equips students to collaborate to provide exceptional, patient-centered care.
Our curriculum emphasizes leadership and interprofessional education, essential skills for navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare landscape. We infuse diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice principles throughout the program, ensuring we equitably serve students from all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. This includes understanding and addressing health disparities and advocating for equitable healthcare.
The Allied Health program also addresses the critical issue of career burnout. We provide a range of practical strategies and tools to help students manage stress and maintain their personal health and well-being. By fostering resilience and a balanced approach to work-life integration, this program ensures students feel prepared to thrive in their careers.
Whether aspiring to become educators in their field or seeking to advance in their current roles, students will emerge from this program ready to lead, inspire, and make a meaningful impact.
What can I do with this degree? Accordion Closed
With your degree, you’ll have access to meaningful careers in a wide range of healthcare settings. This Allied Health degree gives you the flexibility to explore multiple career paths:
- Direct Patient Care: Work on the frontlines of healthcare
- Wellness Consultant: Guide individuals into healthier lifestyles
- Program Coordinator: Manage healthcare programs for specialized populations.
- Community Health Worker: Work for non-profits, hospitals, schools, or government agencies to promote healthy living habits
- Allied Health Instructor: Train the next generation of healthcare workers
- Patient Advocate: Ensure patients understand their treatment plans and receive quality care
- Nursing Care Institution Administrator: Oversee the operations of nursing care facilities
- Assisted Living Manager: Manage day-to-day operations of assisted living facilities
- Hospice Care Coordinator: Provide compassionate care for patients with terminal illnesses by managing interdisciplinary teams, coordinating care, and offering support to patients and families.
- Rehabilitation Specialist: Help patients recover from injuries or surgeries by working with healthcare providers to develop personalized recovery plans.
- Palliative Care Specialist: Focus on symptom management and improving quality of life for patients with serious illnesses through a holistic, patient-centered approach.
- Healthcare Leadership Coach: Help emerging leaders in healthcare develop their skills in communication, team building, and strategic planning to improve organizational effectiveness and patient care outcomes
- Occupational Therapist: Continue your education and become an Occupational Therapist. Graduates of NAU’s Allied Health program receive preferred admission to the NAU Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. Occupational therapists help people do what they want to do and need to do in the activities of everyday living. Watch this video to learn more about the profession.
Admission requirements Accordion Closed
To be admitted to this program, you must:
- have or be currently pursuing an allied health associate’s degree through a regionally accredited college
- secure state certification or licensure upon completion of your associate’s degree
- GPA of 2.5 or higher
Meet an Allied Health student Accordion Closed

FAQs Accordion Closed
What is Allied Health?
Allied health encompasses a diverse range of professions that extend beyond nursing and physician roles. These professionals are essential to the healthcare system, focusing on the identification, evaluation, and prevention of diseases and disorders. Allied Health responsibilities may include providing dietary and nutrition services, supporting rehabilitation efforts, and managing health systems. Examples of allied health professionals include diagnostic medical sonographers, paramedics, medical technologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, radiographers, and respiratory therapists. In addition to these well-known roles, there are many lesser-known allied health professions that play a crucial role in delivering essential healthcare services and support. Please reach out if you have questions about your specific field of Allied Health!Is earning the Associate’s degree required?
Yes. This program is designed for students who have completed a regionally accredited associate degree in a health-related field. While NAU does not offer the clinical or discipline-specific coursework included in your associate program, we provide a seamless pathway to build on your existing education and advance your career. The great news is that you can start taking NAU coursework even before finishing your associate degree! Just make sure to complete your associate degree and obtain the necessary certification or licensure before enrolling in the capstone course, HS 460C, which is the final step in your journey. This program is tailored to help you achieve your goals while recognizing the hard work you’ve already accomplished.
Can I work on my Associate’s degree at the same time?
Yes, you can! However, you must complete your Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) degree before enrolling in the capstone course.Do I need a license or certification for this program?
Yes. In this program, you can earn credit hours simply by holding a relevant license or certification in your field —giving you a major head start toward completing your degree. You will need to have a current license or certification before enrolling in the capstone course, HS 460C, where you’ll put all your knowledge and expertise into action.Should I choose an emphasis?
This decision is entirely up to you! If you choose an emphasis, it should align with your associate’s degree. The emphasis you select will appear on your official transcript. If you prefer not to have an emphasis, you can select the General Allied Health option.Which classes will I take?
During your time at NAU, you’ll complete the Health Sciences Core, a set of 30 units designed to build your knowledge and skills for a successful career in Allied Health. Courses include:- Human Diseases
- Mind-Body Health
- Stress Management
- Epidemiology
- Organization & Administration of Health Services
- Current Health Issues
- Leadership and Interprofessional Teamwork for Health Professionals
Do I have to earn the AGEC (Arizona General Education Certificate?
No. Students may take NAU online courses to meet specific liberal studies course requirements. Students who do transfer in the AGEC automatically fulfill NAU’s liberal studies and diversity requirements. Health Sciences advisors assist students individually to determine their best course of action to complete the program.
When should I apply to NAU?
Applications are accepted year round. This program requires two separate applications, one to the department and one to the university. Due to specific prequalification requirements, students should consult with an NAU Online Allied Health admissions specialist prior to applying for admission to this program. Qualified students may apply and start taking coursework any semester.
How much does it cost to attend NAU?
The total cost includes tuition, fees, course textbook(s) and materials, residency status of student (Arizona vs. out of state), and the number of courses needed to complete the degree. NAU has one of the lowest tuition rates of any college in Arizona. For detailed, current information on tuition and fees, refer to NAU’s website at nau.edu/sdas and click on “Tuition & education costs”.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Students who wish to use financial aid to cover their education expenses need to apply for it two to three months prior to their desired start term. Students may contact a financial advisor at (602) 728-9506 or 1 (800) 426-8315, ext. 4951. NAU scholarships are also available. Refer to NAU’s financial aid website for more information.
Where and how are NAU courses held?
All NAU coursework for this program is delivered online. No travel to the main NAU campus in Flagstaff is required. Refer to the final page of this packet for more information about taking online classes through NAU.
Can I transfer to NAU-Flagstaff to complete this degree?
Yes. Students may transfer to the NAU Flagstaff campus to complete the program if they wish. The online format allows students who cannot attend college in a traditional setting to complete this program no matter where they live.