When most people think about a career in healthcare, they picture a surgeon with decades of education working in an operating room. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always need a college degree to find success in the healthcare sector. In fact, there are various roles within healthcare that not only offer competitive salaries and benefits but also come with promising career prospects. For example, I am a technologist that performed SEO for Physical Therapy clinics in my first role in the healthcare field. These careers also all come without the prerequisite of a four-year degree or having to do continuing education. In this discussion, we’ll explore the top 11 healthcare jobs where you can achieve both financial and job security without the burden of higher education. Let’s dive right in!
1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Pay:
Starting salaries for CNAs typically range from $23,000 to $29,000, with more experienced CNAs earning up to $35,000 or more. A CNA can be a great stepping stone to becoming a Registered Nurse. Both CNAs and RNs are in-demand, hands-on medical professionals with a positive career outlook.
Career Outlook:
Employment for CNAs is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
What They Do:
CNAs work under the supervision of nurses and are responsible for various tasks, such as taking vital signs, assisting with patient mobility, and general caregiving. They also often serve as the primary point of contact between patients and the healthcare team, which adds an extra layer of patient interaction and engagement to their role.
First Steps:
To become a CNA, you’ll need to complete a state-approved training program, which typically lasts 4 to 12 weeks, followed by a state certification exam.
Requirements:
Entry into a CNA training program commonly requires a high school diploma or GED. Additionally, a successful background check and some health prerequisites like immunizations may be necessary.
2. Medical Assistant
Pay:
The average pay for Medical Assistants is around $35,000, but this can vary widely depending on location and experience.
Career Outlook:
Employment for Medical Assistants is expected to grow by 23% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than average.
What They Do:
Medical Assistants handle a variety of clinical and administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, taking patient history, and drawing blood. They serve as a vital link between the doctor and patient.
First Steps:
Most Medical Assistants complete a certificate program, which can be done in a year or less. There are a number of schools that offer programs to obtain the right credentials to enter this exciting and fast growing career path.
Requirements:
High school diploma and completion of an accredited Medical Assistant program, followed by a certification exam.
3. Pharmacy Technician
Pay:
Pharmacy Technicians earn an average salary of $33,000 to $41,000 per year.
Career Outlook:
Employment is projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in managing prescriptions, inventory, and customer service.
First Steps:
Training typically includes a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology.
Requirements:
Usually after passing an exam, most states require certification.
4. Dental Assistant
Pay:
Dental Assistants can expect to earn between $29,000 and $41,000 annually.
Career Outlook:
Employment for Dental Assistants is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
Dental Assistants work alongside dentists, handling tasks like equipment sterilization, patient care, x-rays, and administrative duties.
First Steps:
Certificate or diploma programs in dental assisting are available, and some states require licensure.
Requirements:
High school diploma and completion of a dental assistant program. Certification varies by state.
5. Home Health Aide
Pay:
Salaries range from $25,000 to $34,000 per year.
Career Outlook:
Expected to grow by an astonishing 34% from 2019 to 2029 due to an aging population.
What They Do:
Home Health Aides provide personal care for patients in a home setting, helping with tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management. As the baby boomer generation begins to age, many are opting to live at home vs a nursing home or assisted living facility. Helping the aging population or those with disabilities with their daily living tasks can be very rewarding.
First Steps:
Training typically consists of a short course, often provided by the employing agency.
Requirements:
No formal education is typically required; however, certification may be needed for working with specific populations.
6. Medical Transcriptionist
Pay:
The annual salary for Medical Transcriptionists ranges from $27,000 to $36,000.
Career Outlook:
Employment is expected to decline by 2% from 2019 to 2029, partially due to advancements in technology in the healthcare industry.
What They Do:
Medical Transcriptionists convert voice recordings from healthcare providers into written reports.
First Steps:
It usually requires completion of a medical transcription training program and potentially a certification exam. Having a background in medical terminology is a bonus.
Requirements:
High school diploma, followed by a specialized training program in medical transcription.
7. Medical Biller and Coder
Pay:
Salaries typically range from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
Career Outlook:
Employment is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
Medical Billers and Coders manage patient medical records, insurance billing, reimbursements,and coding information for medical procedures.
First Steps:
You’ll generally need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in medical billing and coding.
Requirements:
High school diploma, followed by a post-secondary educational program. Certification is often encouraged but not always required.
8. Physical Therapist Aide & Occupational Therapist Aide
Pay:
Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist Aides can expect to earn between $25,000 and $38,000 annually.
Career Outlook:
Employment is expected to grow by 21% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
Physical Therapist and OT Aides assist PTs and OTs in providing care, handling tasks like equipment setup and patient assistance.
First Steps:
Most Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist Aides are trained on the job, although some vocational schools offer programs. Learn more about how to become a Physical Therapy Aide.
Requirements:
High school diploma, on-the-job training is generally sufficient.
9. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Pay:
EMTs earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year.
Career Outlook:
Employment is expected to grow by 6% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
EMTs provide immediate medical care during emergency situations, transporting patients to medical facilities.
First Steps:
Completion of an EMT-basic training program, which often takes less than one year. If a hospital job is not for you but you want to work in the medical field, this path is a great on to explore.
Requirements:
High school diploma, EMT-basic training program, and licensure in the state of employment.
10. Veterinary Assistant
Pay:
Pay typically ranges from $25,000 to $38,000 per year.
Career Outlook:
Employment is expected to grow by 16% from 2019 to 2029.
What They Do:
Veterinary Assistants handle animal care duties in veterinary offices, assisting in procedures and taking care of animals.
First Steps:
Typically, training is on-the-job, although some vocational programs are available.
Requirements:
High school diploma. On-the-job training is usually provided.
11. Phlebotomist
Pay: Phlebotomists typically earn an annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $40,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
Career Outlook: Employment for phlebotomists is expected to grow by about 17% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and the need for blood tests for diagnosis and treatment.
What They Do: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. They are skilled in various blood collection techniques and play a critical role in patient care by ensuring that blood samples are taken safely, efficiently, and with minimal discomfort to patients.
First Steps: To become an entry-level phlebotomist, you typically need to complete a postsecondary non-degree program in phlebotomy. These programs are often available at community colleges and vocational schools and usually take less than a year to complete.
Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enter a phlebotomy program. After completing an accredited program, phlebotomists usually obtain a professional certification. In addition to technical skills, they must have excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Bonus! 12. Technologist
Pay:
Annual salaries for Health Technologists typically range from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, specialization, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay is right around $51,000.
Career Outlook: Employment for Health Technologists is projected to grow by 13% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
What They Do: Health Technologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating patients. They operate sophisticated medical equipment, perform diagnostic tests, and assist physicians and healthcare professionals in patient care. Their responsibilities may vary based on their specific field, such as radiology, laboratory technology, or respiratory therapy.
First Steps: A postsecondary nondegree award or an associate’s degree in health technology or a related field is typically required. Many roles also require professional certification.
Requirements: Postsecondary education in health technology or a related field. Certification is often necessary, and requirements can vary depending on the specialty. Health Technologists must also possess a strong understanding of medical technology, patient care, and data management.
Why Choose a Non-Degreed Career in Healthcare?
Flexibility in Career Pathways
One of the most compelling reasons to consider a healthcare career that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree is the flexibility it offers. You don’t need to commit to several years of higher education to start your career in the medical field. Many roles offer on-the-job training, allowing you to earn while you learn. Most of these medical jobs also don’t require the hassle of ongoing education. For example, a physical therapy aide is not required to take ongoing Physical Therapist CEUs a licensed PTA is required to have. Becoming a Physical Therapy Aide is also a great pathway to becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant. Long term, many of these paths can turn into high paying and fulfilling careers.
Affordability
Avoiding the cost of a four-year degree can save you tens of thousands of dollars in tuition and additional expenses like books and housing. This makes these roles financially accessible to a wider range of people. The industry is seeing more and more people choosing career paths entering professions like massage therapists and dental hygienist requiring different, more affordable education requirements.
Job Security
Healthcare is an ever-growing field with a constant demand for workers. Jobs in the healthcare sector are more secure and less susceptible to economic downturns, making it generally considered recession-proof. If you are looking for a long term career vs just a new job, the medical field may be a step in the right direction for you.
Rapid Career Advancement
Many healthcare jobs that don’t require a degree have clear paths for career advancement, offering you the opportunity to gain additional certifications or move into supervisory roles. This enables you to continually grow in your profession without the need for formal education.
Making an Impact
Perhaps the most gratifying aspect of healthcare careers, degree or no degree, is the direct impact you can have on individuals’ lives. Whether you’re a Home Health Aide helping the elderly maintain their independence or a Dental Assistant ensuring a smooth and effective dental procedure, your work genuinely matters.
Work-Life Balance
While healthcare roles can be demanding, many jobs offer flexible schedules, including part-time options, night shifts, and more, allowing for a work-life balance that suits your lifestyle.
Variety of Roles
From clinical settings to administrative roles, the healthcare field offers a variety of jobs that can suit different skills, interests, and personalities. Whether you’re interested in patient care or more drawn to the business side of healthcare like billing and coding, there’s likely a role that’s a good fit for you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a healthcare career without a degree doesn’t mean you’re compromising on job satisfaction, financial stability, or career growth. In fact, these roles offer a unique combination of advantages that make them an attractive choice for many individuals.
Healthcare offers numerous opportunities for individuals looking for stable and rewarding careers without the necessity of a degree. From clinical roles like medical assistants to non-clinical positions such as medical billing and coding specialists, there’s a range of options that provide competitive salaries and promising job outlooks. Investing in certifications or specialized training can further enhance employability and career growth in these fields.