Online Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health
Rural communities face unique public health challenges that require leaders who are passionate and connected to their communities. Graduates of the University of Cincinnati's Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health program will be prepared to educate, advocate for, and lead rural communities with a compassionate and mindful approach to their distinct needs.
Program Overview
In rural communities, making a meaningful difference means being there for your neighbors and helping out when it matters most. This is never more true when it comes to rural population health where dedicated and passionate members of the community often make the biggest impact.
In the University of Cincinnati's Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health program, you'll learn to be more than just a healthcare professional. In this program, the skills that you gain will prepare to you to be an influential leader with comprehensive knowledge of community engagement, rural health policy advocacy, and health challenges facing rural populations. Equipped with a collaborative approach to public health, graduates of this program will be ready to build stronger and healthier rural communities for generations to come.
Whether you choose a career that's close to home or with an organization that works in rural population health, the dedicated faculty at the University of Cincinnati are ready to help you get started in this inspiring and fulfilling field.
Online Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health
High-Quality Education
Students enrolled in the Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health program will complete a curriculum designed to give them the skills to address public health needs in rural areas. This program places particular emphasis on communication strategies with these unique populations, but students will take courses in other areas such as:
- Child and maternal health
- Health literacy for low literacy areas
- Policy, advocacy, and lobbying for rural communities
- Zoonotic diseases in rural areas
- Nutrition for low resource areas
- Chronic disease management
Students enrolled in this program will also have the advantage of working with nationally acclaimed faculty who have extensive experience working in rural community health and have worked with agencies such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In addition to coursework that will teach evidence-based principles of rural health, students will gain knowledge of specific health issues in rural areas from individuals with real-world experience in the improvement of rural community wellness.
Flexibility
- 100% online - no campus visits required
- Option to transfer credits
- Part-time and full-time scheduling, so you have the flexibility to balance work and family obligations while completing your degree
Support from Application through Graduation
At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:
- Enrollment Services Advisor: Your go-to resource during for any questions about the admission process and first-term enrollment
- UC Clermont Academic Advisor: Provides student support for academic planning, curriculum navigation, and graduation
- Student Success Coordinator: Helps you stay informed about university policies, dates, and deadlines so you stay on track
- Access to Resources: Access to university resources that will support you through your program including online learning expectations and resources, health and wellness resources, UC Clermont Advising, and UCO academic support
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of Cincinnati’s online Associate of Applied Science in Rural Population Health is open to all students with a high school diploma or GED and the desire to succeed in college. Although admission is open, students accepted into the program must meet the academic standards of the program to advance to upper levels of study.
First-Year:
- You are currently a high school senior or have a high school diploma, GED, or home-school equivalent.
- As a first-year student, you will need to take an English and mathematics placement test if you have not obtained the minimum ACT/SAT score required for exemption. These tests do not affect your admission; however, the results are essential for your proper placement in classes. You must complete placement tests before you register for English or mathematics courses. All placement tests are given free of charge.
Transfer:
- Transferability is based on school accreditation, course/content comparability (including evaluation of practical assignments), year taken, and final grade.
- Submit all official transcripts for every school attended. Learn more about requesting your transcripts.
- If you have earned fewer than 24 semester or 36 quarter college credits, you must submit high school transcripts as part of your transfer application.
Application Deadlines
| Term | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
Spring 2027 Summer 2027 Fall 2027 |
November 15, 2026 March 15, 2027 July 15, 2027 |
January 11, 2027 May 10, 2027 August 23, 2027 |
Tuition and Fees
The University of Cincinnati's online programs allow students to pursue degrees without having to quit their jobs. Our online courses offer the same quality education found on campus in a modern format that fits students’ tight budgets and busy schedules.
The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program.
To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.
Ready to get started?
We offer over 130 degrees from undergraduate to doctoral programs. Each program is supported by a team of Enrollment Services Advisors (ESAs) who are here to help answer any questions you have.