The healthcare industry has always been a popular career choice for college graduates. However, the traditional paths to careers in healthcare – such as becoming a doctor, nurse, or administrator – are not the only options available. There are several non-traditional career paths that aspirants can pursue.
A recent study by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) found that nearly 30% of medical students are interested in pursuing a non-traditional career in healthcare.
While some healthcare jobs require a degree in medicine or a related field, professionals with other qualifications can also work in the healthcare industry and vice versa. If you’re looking for a healthcare career, you may be wondering if there are any non-traditional paths you can take. Keep on reading below to explore more.
1. Counseling:
Did you know that The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in this occupation by 2024?
Mental health counselors provide counseling and therapy to patients with mental health disorders. They may also provide consultation to schools, businesses, and other organizations. Young professionals can opt for online masters counseling programs to fuel their career in this field. However, many mental health counselors also have a master’s degree in social work, psychology, or counseling.
2. Public Health:
Public health professionals work to improve the health of communities and populations. They may work in various settings, including government agencies, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.
These professionals may have a degree in public health, medicine, nursing, or another field. However, many jobs in public health also require a license or certification. Besides, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth in this occupation by 2026.
3. Health Informatics:
Health informatics professionals work to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare by collecting, managing, and analyzing data. They may work in hospitals, insurance companies, or other healthcare organizations. Many health informatics professionals have a degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
4. Health Policy:
Health policy professionals work to develop and implement policies that improve the quality and delivery of healthcare. They may work in government agencies, think tanks, or healthcare organizations.
Many health policy professionals have a degree in public policy, law, or a related field. Besides, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 20% growth in this occupation by 2026. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, health policy has become an increasingly important area of focus.
5. Pharmaceutical Sales:
Pharmaceutical sales representatives sell prescription and over-the-counter drugs to physicians, pharmacists, and other customers. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, or other healthcare organizations.
Many pharmaceutical sales representatives have a degree in marketing, business, or a related field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% growth in this occupation by 2024. However, the median annual salary for this occupation is $91,977.
6. Biotechnology:
Biotechnology professionals use living organisms to develop products and processes for various industries. They may work in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, or other healthcare organizations.
Many biotechnology professionals have a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. However, many jobs in this field also require a license or certification. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% growth in this occupation by 2026.
7. Medical Writing:
Medical writers develop content for various medical publications, including journals, textbooks, and patient education materials. They may work for publishing companies, hospitals, or other healthcare organizations.
Many medical writers have a degree in journalism, English, or a related field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 27% growth in this occupation by 2024, while the median annual salary for medical writers is $64,080.
8. Physical Therapy:
Physical therapists provide care to patients with injuries or illnesses that limit their ability to move. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings. Many physical therapists have a degree in physical therapy, but some jobs also require certification. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 34% growth in this occupation by 2024. The median annual salary for physical therapists is $88,880.
9. Health Services Administration:
Health services administrators plan, organize, and manage the operations of healthcare organizations. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings.
Many health services administrators have a degree in business or public administration.
Interestingly, this was one of the few roles that weren’t impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% growth in this occupation by 2024. Also, the median annual salary for health services administrators is $98,350.
10. Medical Technology:
Medical technologists use laboratory equipment to test patient specimens for various diseases. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings. Many medical technologists have a degree in medical technology, but some jobs also require certification. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth in this occupation by 2026. The median annual salary for medical technologists is $75,240. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shortage of medical technologists, increasing demand and market.
Bottom Line:
Do you have what it takes to pursue a non-traditional healthcare career? Follow the career paths mentioned in the article to find out! There are many non-traditional career paths for healthcare aspirants. These occupations offer a variety of job opportunities and growth potential. With the right education and training, you can pursue a non-traditional career in healthcare.
