What Can You Do With a Master’s in Health Science?

FAQs about Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (MSHRS)

If you’re passionate about advancing health, wellness, and rehabilitation but aren’t sure what your next academic step should be, a Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (MSHRS) from The Ohio State University may be the perfect fit. 

Many prospective students wonder: What can you do with a master’s in health science? or What can I do with a rehabilitation science degree? This flexible, fully online graduate program allows you to specialize in research, education, or advanced practice, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in healthcare innovation, administration, or community health. 

Below, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions about the program — from how long it takes to complete a master’s in science, to what makes Ohio State’s online rehabilitation science degree unique. 

What can you do with a master’s in health science?

Graduates with a master’s in health science can pursue diverse career paths in healthcare administration, research, education, and leadership. The MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program is designed to help you build expertise that extends beyond clinical practice — preparing you for roles such as clinical research coordinator, rehabilitation consultant, academic educator, or program manager. 

Whether your goal is to advance in your current role or transition into a new field, this degree provides a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, health systems, and research methodology. 

Does this program prepare students for clinical practice or licensure?

No. The MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program is not designed for clinical licensure or hands-on patient practice (e.g., physical or occupational therapy). Instead, it emphasizes developing leadership and analytical skills that support rehabilitation science research, policy, and education — ideal for professionals wondering what you can do with a rehabilitation science degree beyond clinical care. 

What’s the difference between the research and advance practice tracks?

Students can choose between two pathways: 

• Research Track: Best for those interested in research or academic careers. You’ll complete a traditional thesis that builds advanced skills in study design and data analysis. 

• Advanced Practice Track: Designed for professionals who want to apply evidence-based knowledge to real-world problems. You’ll complete a culminating project rather than a thesis. 

Both tracks offer flexibility to customize your coursework in alignment with your professional goals in health and rehabilitation sciences. 

Can I take courses outside of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences?

Yes! With advisor approval, students can take electives in other areas such as public health, healthcare administration, or education. This flexibility helps you tailor your studies to your career aspirations and broaden your skill set — making the MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program one of the most customizable online health science master’s degrees available. 

Specialized areas of interest for the degree can include (but are not limited to): 

• Aging 

• Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology 

• Food/Nutrition Science 

• Health Care Education 

• Health Care Informatics 

• Health Care Leadership 

• Health Care Management 

• Injury Biomechanics 

• Medical Coding and Health Care Data Analytics in Practice 

• Medical Laboratory Science 

• Research (within various applied health professional fields) 

• Sports Biomechanics

• Usability and User Experience in Health Care

What does a non-research thesis or culminating project involve?

In the advanced practice track, your capstone project might include initiatives like quality improvement plans, leadership portfolios, systematic reviews, or curriculum design. These projects translate your classroom knowledge into real-world impact within healthcare or community-based settings. 

How long does it take to get a master’s in science?

If you’re wondering how long does it take to get a master’s in science, it’s really up to you and how quickly, or slowly, you want to go and what pace makes sense for you, but most students complete Ohio State’s MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program in about two years. The flexible online format allows you to progress part-time or full-time, depending on your professional and personal commitments. 

How many credit hours are required?

The program typically requires 30 credit hours for completion. Students pursuing additional certifications or electives may take slightly more. Your academic advisor will help create a plan that fits your timeline and goals. 

How many courses will I take each semester?

Students usually take 1–3 courses per semester. Many courses are asynchronous, meaning you can complete them on your own schedule. This flexibility makes Ohio State’s MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences one of the most accessible and affordable options for those seeking an online health science degree without compromising academic rigor. 

Are summer classes available?

Yes, summer enrollment is available and can help accelerate your degree progress. Students often use summer terms to complete independent study or capstone project hours under faculty mentorship. 

Will this program help me get into a professional program like OT or PT?

While the MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences degree itself doesn’t lead to licensure, it can strengthen your application for occupational therapy (OT) or physical therapy (PT) programs. It demonstrates your mastery of rehabilitative science, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice — all of which are valuable assets in advanced professional studies. 

Is this program a good fit if I want to work in sports rehabilitation?

Absolutely. The MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program can be tailored to your interests in sports rehabilitation, performance science, or biomechanics. Through electives and projects, you can focus your studies on athletic recovery, injury prevention, or human performance to prepare for specialized roles in sports and wellness settings. 

Is the MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program offered online or on campus?

Students can choose between on-campus or fully online options. The online master’s in rehabilitation science provides maximum flexibility for working professionals who want to earn their degree from a respected, accredited university. 

What makes this online MS in Rehabilitation Science program unique?

Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences stands out for its balance of flexibility, affordability, and customization. With only 30 required credit hours, students can focus up to 16 of those credits on an area of specialization — from assistive technology to injury biomechanics or medical coding. 

As one of the top-ranked universities in the nation, Ohio State offers a research-driven, affordable online health science degree that empowers students to elevate their careers and improve the health outcomes of their communities.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (or international equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 3.0. A background in a health-related discipline is preferred, but applicants from diverse fields are welcome — especially those who demonstrate clear professional goals aligned with health and rehabilitation sciences.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re exploring what you can do with a master’s in health science or searching for a flexible online rehabilitation science master’s degree, Ohio State’s MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program offers a nationally respected, affordable path to advance your career.

Learn more about how this degree can prepare you for leadership, research, and innovation in the health and rehabilitation professions. Connect with one of our expert Enrollment Advisors who can help you navigate your next steps or apply to start your next chapter today.