Pursuing a degree for a career in healthcare can open doors to numerous career paths, from direct patient care and administration to research and technology, with many opportunities for professional advancement.
In an era where the healthcare industry is continually expanding and evolving, a focused degree provides the foundation for a career that has a significant and lasting impact on people's lives.
The term "degree in healthcare" is broad, encompassing many distinct educational tracks. Students typically pursue a specific credential, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Bachelor's in Health Sciences (BHS), or an undergraduate degree that serves as a stepping stone to a graduate program. These qualifications open the door to a wide array of essential roles within the industry.
These roles involve hands-on work with patients. Examples include Registered Nurses (RNs), who provide and coordinate patient care, and Physical Therapists, who help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage pain.
Medical and Health Services Managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the business activities of healthcare providers.
Beyond physical therapy, this category includes Occupational Therapists, who use the therapeutic application of everyday activities to help patients with injuries or disabilities participate in the things they want and need to do. It also includes Speech-Language Pathologists, who treat individuals with communication and swallowing disorders.
With a master's or doctoral degree, individuals can become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Physician Associate/Assistant (PA). These professionals coordinate patient care and may provide primary and specialty healthcare services. Other technical roles include Radiologic Technologists, who perform diagnostic imaging, and Clinical Laboratory Technologists, who perform medical tests.
The healthcare sector is projected to experience growth much faster than the average for all occupations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the health care and social assistance sector is expected to add approximately 2.1 million jobs between 2022 and 2032. This remarkable growth is primarily driven by the needs of an aging population and a rising prevalence of chronic conditions. An estimated 1.9 million job openings are projected each year in healthcare occupations due to both industry growth and the need to replace workers who exit the field.
Compensation in the healthcare field is competitive and varies based on the specific role, level of education, and experience. In May 2023, the median annual wage for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations was significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations.
Physicians and Surgeons: Equal to or greater than $239,200
Physician Assistants: $130,020
Nurse Practitioners: $126,260
Physical Therapists: $99,710
Registered Nurses: $86,070
The healthcare field is constantly evolving with new research, technologies, and treatments. This environment encourages and often requires professionals to engage in lifelong learning to stay current. Many roles offer pathways for specialization and professional growth. For example, a registered nurse may pursue an advanced degree to become a Nurse Practitioner, or a physical therapist might specialize in sports medicine or geriatrics. This continuous development allows individuals to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and advance in their careers.
Working in healthcare offers a sense of fulfillment that comes from directly impacting the well-being of others. Professionals in this field often form meaningful connections with patients and their families, providing care and support during challenging times. They also contribute to broader public health initiatives, medical research, and the development of innovative treatments that improve the health of entire communities. This ability to make a positive difference is a significant contributor to job satisfaction for many healthcare professionals.