Online Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences (AAS)
Gain career-relevant skills as you explore the fundamentals of biology, chemistry, anatomy, and genetics. This health sciences associate degree from American Public University (APU) helps students prepare for further study related to the medical and healthcare fields.
Program Overview
Students who pursue the Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences will lay the groundwork for additional education. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including biology, chemistry, anatomy, and genetics.
Current and aspiring healthcare professionals might consider our online health science program a steppingstone to learn more about fields like public health, nursing, and exercise science. After successful completion of this associate degree program, you will have the foundational knowledge necessary to pursue a bachelor’s degree in your chosen discipline.
Build a Strong Academic Foundation in Health Sciences and Healthcare
This health sciences degree program provides foundational knowledge that prepares students for further study in healthcare-related disciplines. General education and health science program courses may align with prerequisites for nursing programs or other pre-professional tracks. Many courses also include virtual laboratories that are inspired by the work of practitioners in various health professions.
You will:
- Undertake foundational coursework that serves as a springboard to higher learning in the health sciences
- Become a more effective communicator
- Apply skills learned on the job or in the healthcare services field to college-level study related to the health sciences
- Understand how military training integrates with general education learning
This program familiarizes students with the scientific principles that shape the healthcare industry. Coursework develops foundational skills to help students prepare for a range of professions within the medical and allied health fields.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Medical assistants, who perform clinical and handling healthcare administration tasks, including taking vitals, preparing exam rooms, and supporting provider-patient communication
- Pharmacy technicians, who assist pharmacists with filling prescriptions, managing inventory, and answering patient questions in retail, hospital, or long-term healthcare facilities
- Medical laboratory technicians, who collect samples, conduct diagnostic tests, and report results in labs or clinics
- Health information technicians, who manage patient information and records, help ensure confidentiality, process claims, and handle medical billing
- Physical therapist technicians, who help licensed physical therapists guide patients in regaining mobility, strength, and function
APU’s associate degree program examines how scientific inquiry applies to real-world settings. Coursework helps students build career-relevant skills, preparing them for professional opportunities in the healthcare field.
Learners engage in problem-solving and critical-thinking exercises as they:
- Apply concepts from behavioral and biological sciences to support patient care and allied health practices through labs and exams
- Build effective communication skills to relay important information to patients, families, and healthcare teams across various settings, promoting collaboration and safety
- Develop career-specific competencies appropriate for various allied health professions
- Prepare to pursue higher education, specialized certification, or advanced roles to reach career goals
Browse Core Courses for the Associate Degree in Health Sciences
Graduates may transition directly into APU’s health sciences bachelor’s program with no duplicated coursework.
The lessons and laboratory exercises focus on the organization of the human body; homeostasis; basic chemistry; cell biology; genetics and heredity; and the integumentary, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems. It also includes a virtual laboratory component.
This is a time- and resource-intensive course. Students intending to pursue a career in the health sciences should verify that the BIOL250 and BIOL251 course sequence meets the requirements of their intended program prior to enrollment.
NOTE: Students may take either BIOL201 or BIOL250/BIOL251 for credit, but not both versions of anatomy and physiology. (Prerequisites: CHEM133 or SCIN131, and MATH110, MATH111, or MATH225)
Topics covered in this course include an introduction to the molecular basis of life; the biology of the cell; genetic and molecular biology; evolution; and the variety of life on Earth. This course includes virtual laboratories that complement the topics and concepts covered in the lectures.
This course includes virtual laboratories that complement the topics and concepts covered in the lectures. NOTE: This course requires students to purchase additional materials that are not covered by the undergraduate book grant. Please refer to the Course Materials section for additional details. (Prerequisite: BIOL133)
All Course Requirements for Health Sciences
Explore Health Science Clubs and Other Online Student Communities at APU
The Association for Women in Science (AWIS)
The Public Health Club (PHC)
Women in STEM (wSTEM)
Members can discuss current issues in the medical field and build connections with other students pursuing healthcare careers.
Learn more about APU’s student organizations and other ways to get involved.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
APUS signature skills.
Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.
The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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APU is here to support your student journey
We know your well-being is vital to your success. That's why we offer a range of supportive resources to help you throughout your academic journey.
- Career Coaching
- 24/7 Mental Health Support
- Admissions & Advising Support
- Student Life
Career Coaching
Get individualized guidance to help you explore career options, strengthen professional skills, and prepare for the next step in your journey. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing fields, or advancing your professional knowledge, our career services team is here to help you translate your goals into action.
Learn More24/7 Mental Health Support
Your well-being is essential to your success. That’s why APU offers access to confidential, flexible, and around-the-clock mental health support. Through our partnerships with telehealth apps, you can connect with peers and professionals anytime you need to manage stress, maintain balance, or find motivation.
Learn MoreAdmissions & Advising Support
From your first course to the day you graduate, our admissions and advising teams are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll receive personalized assistance with enrollment, program selection, and degree planning from professionals who understand the needs of adult learners.
Learn MoreStudent Life
At APU, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Enrich your college experience and expand your network by getting involved in any of our student organizations. From cultural and social organizations to program-specific honor societies, you’ll find a group to help you thrive during and after your studies.
Learn MoreAPU’s Health Sciences Program Provides an Affordable Education
American Public University is committed to making higher education more accessible. Low tuition rates, generous transfer credit opportunities, and additional savings help make this associate degree in health sciences affordable. Our online programs also eliminate the need for expenses associated with on-campus programs, like transportation, housing, and meal plans.
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
APU Removes Barriers
Quality Education Shouldn’t Break the Bank
We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
- Financial Aid
- Private Loans & Scholarships
- Military & Veteran Benefits
Transfer Credits
APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.
Learn MorePrivate Loans & Scholarships
In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.
Learn MoreMilitary & Veterans Benefits
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Take the First Step Toward Earning Your Health Science Degree
Ready to get started? Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT® required for undergraduate programs7
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Pursuing an Associate’s in Health Sciences
AA typically stands for Associate of Arts. An Associate of Arts in Health Sciences is an undergraduate degree program offering general education and introductory coursework. This helps students understand the foundations of human health and well-being.
Associate of Science (AS) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs each have different focuses and outcomes. For example, Associate of Science programs help students prepare to pursue bachelor’s degrees. AAS programs equip students with practical, real-world skills. Still, either type of associate degree may be suitable for a learner interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree (sometimes referred to as a four-year degree).
American Public University’s AAS in Health Sciences includes courses that allow for a seamless transition into our health sciences bachelor’s degree program.
Healthcare offers a broad range of career opportunities with different educational requirements. Certain roles, such as that of a physician, occupational therapist, or physical therapist, require advanced education. Still, there are entry-level career opportunities in nursing, healthcare administration, and other allied health professions that do not require advanced education.
Some careers in healthcare may also require professional licensure and/or certification.
With more than 200 career-relevant degrees and certificates, APU makes online education accessible and affordable.
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Interested in a specific program or wondering about the application process? Fill out the quick form below, and we’ll follow up with details tailored to your goals. Click here if you are a current student and need assistance.
Consumer Information
Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.
The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
