Online Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences (AAS)
Develop career-relevant skills as you study the branches of science that collectively form the foundation of conventional healthcare. This health sciences program from American Military University (AMU) provides undergraduates with an entry point into the field of patient care.
Health sciences is a multifaceted discipline dedicated to the branches of study that underpin modern healthcare and human development. The Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences from American Military University (AMU) may be ideal for learners with previous medical training. AMU offers transfer credit for military service and education.
Coursework is designed to complement the experience of those trained in the medical and healthcare fields. Lectures, assignments, and virtual labs familiarize students with the foundational science behind patient care. Students enrolled in our online program will explore biology and evolution at the molecular level to gain a better understanding of the human body.
Coursework also provides varying perspectives on current trends and historical concepts related to:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Genetics
In addition, our associate degree program introduces students to the principles of both Mendelian and modern molecular genetics. Learners discuss the relationship between genes and disease.
This associate degree is stackable, creating a seamless transition into AMU’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Sciences. The program also prepares students to continue their education in other healthcare disciplines of their choosing.
Discover How This Associate Degree in Health Sciences Can Help You Pursue Your Goals
This associate degree program provides students with an educational background that serves as a foundation for further study in healthcare and related fields. Graduates may seamlessly transition to AMU’s health sciences bachelor’s degree program without repeating any courses.
Health sciences and general education courses may also align with prerequisites for degrees in specialized fields, such as physical therapy, nursing, and other health professions. Many courses include virtual labs modeled on real-world healthcare practices, offering practical insights into a wide range of settings.
You will:
- Undertake foundational coursework that serves as a springboard to higher learning in the health science field
- Become an 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
AMU’s online health sciences program provides a foundation for continuing education within healthcare-related disciplines. Students also gain real-world skills to help prepare them for military and civilian career opportunities.
Graduates may consider pursuing various allied health professions, including roles as:
- Combat or field medics, who deliver emergency care in war zones, stabilize injuries, administer medications, and transport wounded personnel using similar skills to EMT and paramedic professionals
- Medical assistants, who support military and civilian medical teams with patient intake and perform administrative tasks in addition to monitoring vital signs and providing basic care
- Medical laboratory technicians, who perform diagnostic testing on blood, tissue, and other specimens and may work in hospitals or private labs
- Health information technicians/medical records technicians, who work in military hospitals and civilian healthcare systems to manage patient records and healthcare data and ensure compliance with data security regulations
- Physical therapy specialists, who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help injured servicemembers and civilians recover mobility and function
- Healthcare administrators/medical office administrators, who coordinate military and civilian medical facility operations, scheduling, and supply chain management
NOTE: Completion of this program does not award any professional certifications, but may be helpful in preparing to earn such certifications.
AMU’s online program emphasizes career-relevant education. Students who earn this associate degree will develop technical, analytical, and leadership skills suitable for military and civilian healthcare roles.
Graduates are prepared to:
- Apply evidence-based practices, including tactical casualty care, across military and civilian medical roles
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills for briefings and patient handoffs, as well as the ability to prepare documentation that follows military protocols
- Advance academically and develop new skills that may help them qualify for increased responsibilities across garrison and deployed healthcare environments
- Engage in professional development
Browse Required Courses for This Associate’s in Health Sciences
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)
Build Lasting Connections While You Pursue Your Associate Degree in Health Sciences
Community is an important aspect of every academic journey. While this AAS in Health Sciences program consists of online courses, AMU brings learners together through numerous student activities and clubs. Students can network and discover additional educational opportunities through various organizations, such as:
- Association for Women in Science (AWIS)
- Pre-Health Student Society (PHSS)
- Public Health Club (PHC)
- Women in STEM (wSTEM)
Learn more about student activities and other ways to enrich your online learning experience at AMU.
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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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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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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AMU is here to support your student journey
Your mission matters, but so does your well-being. That's why we provide supportive resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 MorePursuing a Health Sciences Associate Degree is Affordable at AMU
Pursuing your AAS shouldn’t break the bank. AMU’s low tuition rates help make higher education affordable. Our no-cost ebooks, $0 application fee, and $0 transfer credit evaluations help to further reduce the cost of this health sciences associate degree. The online format also eliminates the need for expenses associated with traditional college life, such as on-campus housing and commuting.
- $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.
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Transfer Credits
AMU recognizes the value of your service and experience. Our generous transfer credit policy ensures that you get credit for prior college coursework, military education and training, exams, and certifications so you can save time, keep costs low, and stay focused on your education mission.
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In addition to special rates and grants for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families, we also participate in federal financial aid programs for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office team can help ensure you have the support you need.
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AMU students may explore private education loans or scholarship options to supplement their education funding. Before pursuing these options, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn about your eligibility. We encourage all borrowers to research their choices, review interest rates and repayment terms, and make an informed decision that aligns with their goals.
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As a leader in higher education for the nation’s military and a top choice for veterans using education benefits, AMU proudly accepts Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits. Our experienced Military Tuition Assistance team can help you understand your eligibility, apply your benefits, and make the most out of your available resources.
Learn MoreApply to AMU’s Health Sciences Program Today
AMU is proud to provide students with high-quality online programs designed for flexibility. Classes in this associate degree program start monthly and have no set login times, allowing learners to balance school with work and personal commitments. Students can participate in class discussions and complete weekly assignments from virtually anywhere with internet access.
Ready to get started? Review our admission requirements and submit your application 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 AMU 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 AMU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Health Sciences Degree Programs
An online health science associate degree program may combine weekly lectures with discussion forums. AMU’s AAS in Health Sciences also incorporates virtual lab assignments to engage students learning remotely. Online learning offers flexibility while maintaining academic quality, accommodating students with different schedules and responsibilities.
This program requires the successful completion of 60 credit hours.
A health science degree program provides a comprehensive overview of the branches of science that foster advancements in medical care, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Physiology
Alternatively, healthcare administration degree programs focus on leadership and management principles as they relate to healthcare facilities. Students pursuing these degrees discuss a broad range of topics, such as:
- Legal and ethical guidelines for handling patient information
- Finance and budgeting for healthcare facilities
- Health service delivery
- Healthcare data management
- Administrative tasks that support daily operations
AMU students have the unwavering support of a community that genuinely cares. We provide a variety of resources in over two dozen languages to support your mental and emotional well-being. Through partnerships with UWill and TalkCampus, students have round-the-clock access to mental health support and suicide prevention services.
Additionally, our University chaplains provide special assistance to active-duty servicemembers experiencing stress and PTSD.
Related Programs
American Military University offers more than 200 career-relevant degree and certificate programs online.
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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.
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