10 Healthcare Jobs That Don’t Require Med School

If you are considering a job in healthcare, this is an ideal time to explore your options. Healthcare is the fastest growing industry in America. Whether you have the skills and sensitivity to administer hands-on care, or you prefer a more administrative role, the healthcare industry needs your talent.

In 2014, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that the coming decade would see the fastest employment growth in healthcare jobs over any other industry. America’s more than 75 million Baby Boomers (those born between 1946-1964) are leaving the workforce. They are also in need of increased medical resources as their physical needs change.   

Glassdoor’s measure of the 25 Highest Paying Jobs in 2016 saw physicians grab the #1 spot with a median base pay of $180,000.  To get the full picture of what many physicians bring home, their medical school expenses have to be factored in, and debt for new physicians averages a whopping $166,750.

If you are interested in a medical career, but the rigors and expense of medical school are beyond what you are willing to take on, consider applying to one of these jobs:

1. Surgical Technologist

These professionals ensure that operating rooms are sterile and stocked with equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. They also help prepare patients for surgery by disinfecting incision sites. Additionally, they support surgeons during procedures by handing them instruments and taking stock of their tools.

To qualify, candidates are required to enroll in a training program. It can take several months, or they can pursue an associate’s degree which takes about two years. Additionally, they can get certified in the field, which is optional but viewed favorably.  

National average salary: $43,560

Projected job growth through 2024 (the total for all occupations is 7%): 15%

2. Occupational Therapy Assistant

OTAs Work under the direction of an occupational therapist. They help patients recover skills they lost due to illness, injury or trauma. Patients may include children with development disabilities, adults with diseases like Parkinson’s or patients recovering from strokes or other types of brain injuries. OTAs help patients use equipment geared to address their specific needs and stretch and move in ways that benefit them. They also encourage patients and chart their progress.

To work as an OTA, candidates need an associate’s degree from an accredited program.

National average salary: $55,310

Projected job growth through 2024: 43%

3. Ambulance Paramedic

Paramedics respond to emergency calls, provide initial treatments, transport patients and report their status to hospital personnel. “Paramedic” is the highest level of certification one can earn for providing emergency ambulance care. The specific treatments a certified paramedic can enact vary by state.

To qualify, candidates in most states are required to have an associate’s degree in emergency medical technology plus certification.

National average salary:  $36,000

Projected job growth through 2024: 24%

4. Physical Therapist

PT’s help infirmed or injured patients to increase their mobility and manage their pain. PTs work with patients of all ages. Some are have been injured while playing sports and are trying to get back in the game. Some have suffered back or neck injuries, are struggling with arthritis or the loss of a limb and are trying to regain basic life skills. PTs see a wide range of patients and develop an individual plan for each. PTs help patients through a routine of movement that targets problem areas, builds strength and help patients achieve their mobility goals.

To qualify to work as a Physical Therapist, candidates need an undergraduate degree in a related field and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. All PTs also need to be licensed in the state where they practice.

National average salary: $66,180

Projected job growth through 2024: 34%

5. Major Gifts Officer

Hospital and healthcare MGOs have a portfolio of high-level donors and prospects with whom they maintain relationships. They meet with their prospects and inform them of new developments at the hospital (like the naming of new buildings and new research initiatives), so that if an exciting campaign or initiative is in the works, supporters can get involved. In addition to securing gifts to help fund the hospital, MGOs may consult their networks when the hospital needs volunteers’ leadership support. MGOs help broker opportunities for people who are eager to support their communities.

To qualify, MGOs usually need an undergraduate degree plus a solid track record of fundraising experience.  

National average salary: $80,733

Projected job growth through 2024: 7%

6. Registered Nurse

RNs are in demand in the US and around the world. Some of their responsibilities are to observe and record details about patients’ status and symptoms, to assist in administering medications and treatments, to help facilitate tests and analyze results, to advise patients and their families about at-home care and to consult with doctors and medical staff.  

Candidates have three options for pursuing their credentials: they can earn a diploma through an approved nursing program, secure an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or get a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). RNs also need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), and there may be additional certifying requirements that vary by state.

National average salary: $63,070

Projected job growth through 2024: 16%

7. Nurse Midwife 

Nurse Midwives represent one type of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Midwives perform physical exams, offer prenatal care and administer family planning information and medications. They also deliver babies and can be primary care providers for mothers and their newborns. Although they consult with physicians when necessary, midwives have a high degree of autonomy.

To qualify, nurse midwives need an RN. Most programs also prefer that candidate hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  Plus, candidates must earn a master’s degree in nursing. Individual states may require additional certifications.

Potential Salary: $107,000

Projected job growth through 2024: 31%

8. Physician’s Assistant

A physician’s assistant (PA) is similar to an APRN. PAs are qualified to examine patients, order tests, diagnosis medical issues and prescribe some medications. PAs always work in collaboration with medical doctors (MDs). PAs typically espouse a specialty such as surgery or pediatrics, and they usually work within that field.

To qualify for the job, PA’s need a master’s degree from a PA program plus they need to be licensed. Many PAs start out as registered nurses, EMT or paramedics and build on their medical training.

National Average Salary: $93,030

Projected job growth through 2024: 30%

9. Hospital Administrator

These professionals oversee hospital operations and keep everything running smoothly. They oversee staff hiring, ensure that the hospital is operating within its budget, ensure that the facility is functioning in a safe and legal way and make sure that the services are efficient and effective.  

To qualify, candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree in health management, health administration or a related field. A master’s degree is often preferred. In some cases, professionals with a nursing degree or similar medical backgrounds enhance their credentials and parlay their knowledge into an administrative role.

Potential Salary: $58,000 

Projected job growth through 2024: 17%

10. Audiologist

These professionals test patients’ hearing and balance, and diagnose ear-related issues. When they identify that patients have hearing loss, they try to find ways to help their patients cope. This may mean finding and fitting them for the right hearing aid. It also may mean pursuing lip-reading or sign language classes.

Working as an audiologist requires a doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D), which takes four years to complete after a bachelor’s degree has been secured. All states also require that audiologists be certified.  

National Average Salary: $67,280

Projected job growth through 2024: 29%

Methodology: Healthcare jobs reflected in this article were chosen at random. The national average salary for each represents salary data on Glassdoor as of 8/23/16. Potential salary reflects data points for job titles where Glassdoor has limited (less than 15) salary reports available. This report takes into account job title normalization that groups similar job titles. As a reminder, on Glassdoor, employees can anonymously and voluntarily share salary reports, including base salary and the option to share other pay details.