Top Hybrid and Online Post Bacc Programs

Published on: Dec 11, 2024

WRITTEN BY

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Baran Erdik

Postbaccalaureate programs, designed for career advancement or academic enhancement, have evolved to offer flexible formats, notably hybrid and online options.

These innovative approaches combine virtual learning with in-person components, providing accessibility and convenience. Offering a bridge to further education, these programs are ideal for career changers, pre-medical students, and those aiming to bolster their medical or graduate school applications.

The appeal lies in their adaptability to diverse schedules and the opportunity to acquire essential skills. This article introduces the top hybrid and online postbaccalaureate programs, empowering individuals with tailored pathways toward their professional and academic aspirations.

The Advantages of Hybrid and Online Post Bacc Programs

Hybrid and online postbaccalaureate programs are flexible and easily accessible. These programs are ideal for students who are looking for a non-traditional learning environment. Those who are working full time, caring for family, or simply feel that they learn better with this academic format, will benefit greatly from hybrid and online options.

Even though hybrid and online programs are considered convenient, you’ll still find programs that maintain the same rigorous academic standards as the in-person options. Prestigious schools like Columbia, Drexel, Northwestern, and more offer strong curricula, mentorship, and hands-on experiences like internships and research options.

While students may not get the same face-to-face interaction as in a typical classroom, these alternative learning programs offer strong support systems. Post bacc programs may offer support in the form of virtual office hours, online discussion boards, and events to help students connect with each other.

Understanding Post Bacc Programs

Postbaccalaureate programs are a great way to continue your learning journey. They have certificate programs and pre-health programs. Certificate programs teach specific skills while re-health programs are for those who want to be doctors or other medical workers.

These programs include biomedical science, health science, computer science, and medical education. Biomedical science programs offer the study of advanced life sciences while health science programs cover broader healthcare topics.

Computer science programs focus on technology in healthcare and medical education programs train people for jobs in teaching and administration in medicine. Each of these programs is designed to match different career goals in postbaccalaureate education.

Featured Hybrid and Online Post Bacc Programs

From biomedical science to medical education, these programs offer flexibility and accessibility. Find your tailored pathway to success with our curated list of featured programs.

1. Drexel University Postbaccalaureate and Pre-Medical Program

Type of Program: Hybrid
Curriculum and Specializations: Courses prepare you for medical school, focusing on subjects like biology, chemistry, and other sciences.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Offers personalized advice for pre-health students, academic help, and access to many student services at Drexel.
Student Life and Resources: Fun student activities, chances to do research, and career help for future healthcare workers.
Contact Information: Students are encouraged to reach out on their website.

2. UCSF Post Baccalaureate Program

Type of Program: Hybrid
Curriculum and Specializations: Rigorous pre-medical coursework with specializations in medical sciences and research-oriented fields.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
Unique Features: Comprehensive pre-health advising, world-class academic advising, and access to UCSF's renowned medical research facilities.
Student Life and Resources: Vibrant student life, research opportunities, and dedicated career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can inquire for more information via their website.

3. Northwestern University Postbaccalaureate Health Professions Program

Type of Program: Online
Curriculum and Specializations: Comprehensive pre-medical coursework with specializations in medical sciences, preparing students for advanced health professions.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Robust pre-health advising, extensive student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Engaging student life, research opportunities, and dedicated career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can request more information through Northwestern University's official website.

4. Columbia University School of Professional Studies Postbaccalaureate Program

Type of Program: Hybrid
Curriculum and Specializations: Intensive pre-medical curriculum with specializations in medical and health sciences.
Admissions Requirements:
- Baccalaureate degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Personal statement
- Possibly an interview
Unique Features: Expert pre-health advising, extensive student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Rich student life, research opportunities, and dedicated career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can request more information through their website.

5. Colorado State University Online Postbaccalaureate Pre-Health Program

Type of Program: Online
Curriculum and Specializations: Pre-medical coursework covering essential sciences and health-related topics.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Possibly an interview
Unique Features: Dedicated pre-health advising, online student services, and academic support resources.
Student Life and Resources: Virtual student community, access to online library resources, and career development assistance.
Contact Information: Prospective students can inquire for more information through their website.

6. Post-Baccalaureate Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania

Type of Program: Online
Curriculum and Specializations: Rigorous pre-medical coursework with a focus on medical sciences and related disciplines.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Specialized pre-health advising, comprehensive student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Access to virtual student communities, research opportunities, and robust career development support.
Contact Information: Prospective students can find more information and contact details on the University of Pennsylvania's official website.

7. UNC Wilmington Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Premedical Studies

Type of Program: Online
Curriculum and Specializations: Comprehensive pre-medical coursework with a focus on medical sciences.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Specialized pre-health advising, robust online student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Virtual student community, online research opportunities, and dedicated online career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can get more information through their website.

8. UC Berkeley Extension Post-Baccalaureate Health Professions Program

Type of Program: Hybrid
Curriculum and Specializations: Comprehensive pre-medical coursework with specializations in medical sciences and health professions.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Expert pre-health advising, extensive student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Access to UC Berkeley's vibrant campus life, research opportunities, and dedicated career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can inquire for more information through their website.

9. Guilford College Postbaccalaureate Pre-Health Program

Type of Program: Online or Hybrid
Curriculum and Specializations: Pre-medical coursework covering essential sciences and health-related topics.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Unique Features: Specialized pre-health advising, dedicated student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Engaging campus life, research opportunities, and career development assistance.
Contact Information: Prospective students can request more information through Guilford College's website.

10. Arizona State University Online Postbaccalaureate Health Professions Program

Type of Program: Online
Curriculum and Specializations: Pre-medical coursework with a focus on medical sciences and health professions.
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- Prerequisite coursework
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Possibly an interview
Unique Features: Expert online pre-health advising, comprehensive virtual student services, and personalized academic advising.
Student Life and Resources: Engaging virtual student community, online research opportunities, and dedicated online career services.
Contact Information: Prospective students can request more information through their website.

Selecting the Right Program

Selecting the right post bacc program for you can take quite a bit of time and research. It’s helpful to know, on a general level, what your academic objectives and career goals are. Another thing to consider is the state of your personal situation and what type of program might support your schedule and learning style best.

In addition, take note of the requirements you’ll need to fulfill and ways in which this post bacc program can bolster your graduate school applications. The best post bacc program is the one that supports your career growth and creates a clear pathway to professional success.

Success Stories

Jacquelyn Faris, a kinesiology major, discovered her interest in physical therapy after completing an internship. She loves the patient interactions that being a physical therapist provides and the opportunity to get to know her patients.

When asked what her advice to other students would be, Faris said: ‘Work hard and make yourself stand out in interviews.’

She was accepted into her first-choice graduate school, Northern Arizona University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the Flagstaff campus. She started in fall of 2018.

-Jacquelyn Faris, ASU Pre-Health Advising Program

Jacquelyn F. ASU Pre-Health Advising Program

I chose to apply for the UC Berkeley Extension post-bacc health professions program to strengthen my academic track record to apply to medical school and for its wonderful pre-health advising. All of the students I met in the program were there for a chance to improve themselves or to find a new career path.

The post-bacc program and advisers helped me choose courses, write personal statements, do MCAT prep, do mock interviews and so much more. I highly recommend the program for students needing a little boost before applying to professional health schools.

In five to 10 years, I will be a practicing physician working in underserved and/or impoverished communities, restoring wellness, balance and good health. For those starting this post-bacc program, reach out to your adviser for help early on. They are there to help you succeed. For those who are on this journey and may have some doubt about making it, please do not ever give up. Keep the passion alive, stay focused and don't forget what your end goal is.”

David H. UC Berkeley Post-Baccalaureate Health Professions Program

Navigating Financial Aid and Scholarships

Researching program-specific scholarships is key, as some are tailored for hybrid or online students. Many institutions offer specific scholarships catering to the unique needs of online learners, while federal and private loans provide financial support. Grants, often need-based, can also alleviate the cost burden.

Federal aid programs, such as the FAFSA, can open avenues for financial assistance. By understanding these options, prospective students can strategically navigate financial aid, making quality education more accessible and affordable.

The Application Process

When applying to hybrid and online post bacc programs, you’ll need to showcase your background, experiences, and motivations clearly. Highlight relevant academic and professional achievements, emphasizing your commitment to the chosen field. Address how the program aligns with your continuing education and professional school goals. Adhere closely to admissions requirements, demonstrating your ability to meet academic standards. Craft a compelling personal statement, linking your experiences to program objectives. Utilize recommendation letters that attest to your readiness for the program.

Conclusion

Hybrid and online post bacc programs play a pivotal role in shaping the path toward a career in health professions or advancing to medical school. These programs can offer flexible and accessible avenues for skill development, prerequisite completion, and overall academic enhancement.

If you want to work in healthcare, you may find online and hybrid programs helpful. It's really important that you look into different programs thoroughly, picking the one that matches your career goals and learning style. Once you’ve found the right post bacc program that will support your career goals, you’ll be well on your way towards the career of your dreams—making your mark on the world.

Sources:

Written by:

Hussian Ali

Hussian Ali is a senior medical writer with over a decade of experience writing for a variety of health and wellness, and education channels.

Hussian Ali

Contributing Writer, Medical Careers

Knowledge: Health and wellness

Reviewed by:

Dr. Baran Erdik, MD, MHPA

Dr. Baran Erdik is an M.D. with specialized training in Internal Medicine/Cardiology. Dr. Erdik traveled the world, working as a physician in New Zealand, Germany and Washington State. Dr. Erdik completed a Master’s in Healthcare Administration and Policy from Washington State University, graduating summa cum laude and now consults with healthcare facilities. In his "spare time", Dr. Erdik is a professor at the American Vision University in California.

Dr. Baran Erdik, MD, MHPA

Internist and Cardiologist

Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD) - Yeditepe University

Knowledge: Internal medicine, cardiology, healthcare policy