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.
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 consider pursuing 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 Health Sciences Degree Equips You with Healthcare Knowledge and Specialized Skills
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)
Explore Health Science Clubs and Other Online Student Communities at APU
The Association for Women in Science (AWIS)
The Pre-Health Student Society (PHSS)
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.
Welcome to your Online Learning Environment.
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Your eCampus homepage is the hub where you can view important information and access MyClassroom — an intuitive course platform designed for the modern learner.
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You have the flexibility to access your classes on any device — anytime, anywhere.
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The Course Homepage features a dynamic layout with integrated tools, seamless navigation, and helpful resources to support your educational goals.
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Everything you need is right on the Navigation Bar, giving you quick access to every part of your online class — including:
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Course Tools – easily access helpful tools for success.
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Discussion Threads – connect in meaningful conversations with peers and faculty, and share insights on what you’re learning.
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You’ll also have access to the Richard G. Trefry Library, which provides students, faculty, and staff with thousands of licensed materials to support your success.
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Myclassroom.apus.edu.
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
Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or pursuing advancement within your branch of service, AMU’s Career Services are here to help. Our coach-guided experiences empower you to translate your military skills into new opportunities, develop your professional strengths, and chart a course to your next mission.
Learn More24/7 Mental Health Support
Resilience is critical to mission success, and that starts with your mental health. AMU offers confidential, flexible, 24/7 access to support resources to help you manage stress, find balance, and stay mission-ready.
Learn MoreAdmissions & Advising Support
We understand the unique needs of military students. That’s why our admissions and advising teams provide personalized guidance from day one, helping you navigate enrollment, maximize your benefits, and plan your academic journey around your service commitments. We’re here to help you succeed wherever duty calls.
Learn MoreStudent Life
At AMU, you’ll be part of a strong, service-minded community that understands your goals and values. Through student organizations like the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and access to the university directory through ecampus, you’ll connect with peers and mentors who can help you build your professional network and lifelong camaraderie.
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 eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admission 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
Online courses start on the first Monday of every month and run for approximately eight weeks.
Submit your application online today.
- No Entrance Exams No GRE or GMAT required for master’s programs
- No Application Fee For undergraduate & master’s-level 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 Science
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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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.
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