What Can You Do with an Associate in Health Sciences?

Introduction: Why Health Sciences Is a Smart First Step

If you're interested in starting a meaningful career in healthcare but aren’t ready to commit to a four-year degree, earning an Associate in Health Sciences (AS in Health Sciences) could be the ideal launching pad. This online associate degree equips you with a foundation in anatomy and patient care principles—skills that are in high demand across the healthcare field.

The Rising Demand for Allied Health Professionals

The U.S. healthcare system is growing rapidly, and so is the demand for health professionals in support roles. With an increasing need for affordable and accessible care, allied health careers like medical assistants, patient care technicians, and health information technicians are playing a crucial role in hospitals, clinics, and community organizations. An AS in Health Sciences prepares you to join this vital workforce and contribute to the health and well-being of your community.

How an Associate Degree Opens the Door to Healthcare Careers

Unlike longer academic paths in medicine or nursing, an associate degree can be completed in about two years—often faster with transfer credit or accelerated formats. It offers a balance of applied science, general education, and health sciences courses designed to give you immediate job-ready skills, as well as a stepping stone toward further learning in healthcare or public health fields.

What Is an AS in Health Sciences?

Degree Overview and Curriculum Focus

An AS in Health Sciences is an undergraduate health sciences program that blends foundational science courses like biology, chemistry, and physiology. You’ll also study ethics, psychology, and sociology to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and health outcomes.

Many programs include laboratory components and virtual simulations to build hands-on knowledge in anatomy and patient interaction. Whether you’re interested in nutrition, health care, or administrative roles, this curriculum equips you with adaptable skills that can be used across various healthcare settings.

How This Degree Prepares You for the Field or Further Study

With its focus on applied knowledge, an AS in Health Sciences qualifies graduates for entry-level employment in roles that support physicians, nurses, and administrative teams. It also lays the groundwork for transferring into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), bachelor of science in public health, or even healthcare administration degrees later on.

Because it includes general natural science and social science coursework, this degree meets many of the prerequisites needed for clinical or non-clinical bachelor of science programs, while offering the chance to explore different healthcare environments firsthand.

Comparing AS in Health Sciences to BS and AAS Degrees

While a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Sciences offers more in-depth specialization and leadership preparation, an AS degree provides flexibility and speed. Compared to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), which often focuses on technical or vocational training, an AS in Health Sciences includes more general education courses, allowing easier transfer into a four-year program.

This makes the AS a strong fit for students who want to enter the workforce quickly but still keep the door open for further academic credit hours and advanced certification or licensure down the line.

Career Paths with an AS in Health Sciences

Community Health Worker

If you’re drawn to education and public outreach, becoming a community health worker could be a great fit. These professionals help individuals access care, adopt healthy behaviors, and understand chronic disease management—often working in nonprofit or public health environments.

Rehabilitation Aide or Therapy Assistant (Support Role)

These support professionals help physical therapists, occupational therapists, or speech-language pathologists by preparing equipment, assisting patients during therapy, and keeping records. It’s an excellent entry point for those considering further education in rehabilitation sciences or applied science disciplines.

Where You Can Work with This Degree

Hospitals and Outpatient Clinics

Many graduates with an AS in Health Sciences find employment in hospitals and outpatient clinics, supporting both clinical and administrative functions. Whether assisting patients during appointments or updating electronic health records, these environments provide valuable experience and career growth.

Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities

Rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities are constantly in need of trained support staff. Your knowledge in anatomy, patient care, and compliance makes you a great fit for roles that aid in patient recovery and day-to-day functioning.

Health Insurance Companies and Billing Offices

Healthcare isn’t only delivered in hospitals—it’s also managed behind the scenes in insurance, medical billing, and administrative organizations. An AS in Health Sciences helps prepare you for roles in claims processing and patient data analysis.

Community Health Organizations and Public Health

Graduates can contribute to public health initiatives in nonprofits, health departments, or community outreach settings. These roles often involve patient education, care navigation, and improving access to essential health services.

Physician Practices and Specialty Clinics

Smaller private practices and specialty clinics—such as pediatrics, orthopedics, or cardiology—benefit from team members with a broad health science background. You may assist with intake, patient communication, data tracking, and basic clinical tasks.

Skills You’ll Gain in an AS in Health Sciences Program

Anatomy Knowledge

Your coursework will cover key terminology related to medicine, the human body, physiology, and biology—foundational to any healthcare role. Understanding how systems function and how to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals is essential for success.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Healthcare is a profession built on trust and compassion. You’ll develop strong communication and collaboration skills through case studies, simulations, and interaction with peers—essential traits for working with patients, families, and colleagues.

Understanding of Health Systems and Patient Records

You’ll gain insights into how healthcare systems function, how patient data flows, and how to use technology to manage medical records and ensure accuracy in documentation—critical for patient safety and operational efficiency.

Ethics, Compliance, and Patient Privacy (HIPAA)

Courses emphasize ethics, patient confidentiality, and federal regulations like HIPAA. Understanding legal frameworks and ethical behavior is a must for maintaining trust and integrity in the healthcare setting.

Advancing Your Education Beyond the AS Degree

Transferring into a BS in Health Sciences or Healthcare Administration

Many students use their AS in Health Sciences as a stepping stone to a bachelor of science degree. With transfer-friendly policies and credit hour alignment, you can continue into a BS in Health Sciences or healthcare administration program—broadening your career options and salary potential.

Pathways into Nursing, Allied Health, or Public Health

Your associate degree can also help you qualify for nursing school, radiologic technology, paramedic programs, or a public health bachelor's. It provides the science, mathematics, and behavioral science base required for more specialized or licensed roles.

Preparing for Certifications or Licensure Programs

Many certification programs accept applicants with an AS degree as a foundation. Depending on your state and goals, you may pursue paths in medical assisting, pharmacy tech, or coding and billing to further validate your skills.

Why Choose LAPU for Your AS in Health Sciences?

100% Online Program with Flexible Scheduling

LAPU’s online associate degree format allows students to learn from anywhere (in any of our authorized states), balancing education with work and family responsibilities. With asynchronous classes and access to support services, students can manage their time while staying on track to graduate.

Transfer-Friendly, Student-Centered Admissions Process

Whether you're transferring from another campus, starting fresh, or returning to finish your degree, LAPU makes it easy to apply and bring in prior credit hours. Advisors walk you through the process to help maximize your investment and streamline your path.

Christian Foundation and Purpose-Driven Learning

LAPU integrates faith-based values and a commitment to community service into its academic experience. This creates a nurturing environment that encourages ethical leadership, service to others, and a mission-driven approach to healthcare.

Affordable Tuition with Financial Aid Options

LAPU is committed to accessible education through competitive tuition, financial aid, and military benefits. Transparent pricing and dedicated financial advisors ensure you understand the full picture of your investment.

Conclusion: Launch Your Healthcare Career with Confidence

Choosing to earn your AS in Health Sciences is more than just earning a degree—it’s the beginning of a career focused on healing, service, and impact. You’ll develop valuable skills, build foundational knowledge, and explore a variety of meaningful paths in the healthcare field.

Whether you want to work with patients, manage records, or educate your community, this degree equips you to serve others with compassion and competence—while positioning you for long-term growth in a resilient and rewarding industry.

Explore LAPU’s Online AS in Health Sciences Program

Are you ready to begin your journey toward a purposeful career in healthcare?

LAPU’s Associate in Health Sciences program offers a flexible, faith-integrated, and fully online experience that helps you prepare for jobs in today’s healthcare landscape—or take the next step toward a bachelor of science degree.

Connect with an advisor, explore LAPU’s online programs, and start building a future filled with learning, service, and professional growth.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is LAPU’s AS in Health Sciences program fully online?

Yes. LAPU’s Associate in Health Sciences program is 100% online, designed for flexibility and accessibility. Students can complete their coursework asynchronously—making it ideal for working adults, parents, or those balancing other responsibilities.

What kinds of jobs can I get with this associate degree?

Graduates are qualified for roles such as community health worker, rehabilitation aid or therapy assistant. Many also work in administrative or support positions across hospitals, clinics, and insurance organizations.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Most students complete their AS in Health Sciences in about two years. However, you may finish sooner if you transfer prior credits or take accelerated courses through LAPU’s online health sciences program.

Can I transfer into a bachelor’s program later?

Absolutely. The AS in Health Sciences is structured to transfer seamlessly into bachelor’s programs, including the BS in Health Sciences or BS in Healthcare Administration at LAPU. Students can apply their earned credit hours toward a four-year degree for continued growth.

Does this program include clinical experience or internships?

While LAPU’s program does not include in-person clinical rotations, students develop valuable practical skills through interactive online coursework, simulated case studies, and applied learning projects that mirror real healthcare settings.