Graduate Programs in Health Sciences
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 15% growth in health care jobs in the next 10 years. Become a leader in this growing industry. If you are currently studying or working in health care and you want to advance your degree or career in areas such as evidence-based practice, cultural diversity, leadership, policy and communication, our programs are for you. We offer flexible and affordable options that will prepare you to become an educator and leader in health-related professions.
The deadline to enroll for spring 2023 is Dec. 10, 2022.
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Master of Science in Health Sciences
Our M.S. in Health Sciences program is preparation for leadership roles in health-related professions. In this comprehensive, 30-credit hour program, you can expect to learn about interdisciplinary communication, health services quality measurement, culturally aware leadership and evidence-based analysis to effectively work in professional and academic environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, health care corporations, universities and more.
Education requirements: Baccalaureate or higher degree in a field of study related to health sciences.
Certificate of Graduate Study in Health Professions Education
Prepare yourself to deliver college-level and clinical education in the health professions with our 18-credit interdisciplinary certificate. The courses support your understanding of and competencies with communication, research methods, teaching, curriculum development and assessment, and leadership in current academic or health care settings.
Education requirements: Any graduate student or graduate student-at-large wishing to add these skills to their experience.
Why Choose NIU?
Flexibility
It’s easy to make these programs work with your schedule because they’re flexible. Classes are available 100% online or you can choose in-person offerings. You complete the coursework at your own pace, either full or part time.
Value
We provide an affordable graduate education that you can tailor to meet your specific goals. With only 30 credit hours required for our master’s program, you save time and money at NIU. Also, we've eliminated the more expensive out-of-state tuition rate for both undergraduate and graduate studies.
Personal Attention
When you study here, you receive individual attention and assistance, whether you’re on campus or online. Your courses are taught by faculty with diverse research experience and interests including K-12 nutrition education, patient education, rehabilitation counseling/education, interpersonal skills in telehealth and more.
"The M.S. in Health Sciences has given me views of health care including research, communication and how to teach to those entering health care fields. Personally, I appreciate the wide array of courses available to fit my professional goals. I feel fully prepared to teach at a higher skill level and with better pedagogical reasoning skills because of my work in this program."Abigail Swidergal
2020 graduate, M.S. in Health Sciences
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the NIU Planning and Cost Estimator to get a customized estimate of your costs.
No, we do not require an internship or clinical experience.
Yes, our graduate programs in health sciences will make you a stronger applicant for a Ph.D. program and for leadership positions.