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Healthcare & Medical Careers
Healthcare careers combine patient care, diagnostics, and administration.
From hospitals and clinics to labs and home care, roles in this field support patients through a mix of science, communication, and hands-on skill. Training requirements vary widely by role and state.
Why Choose a Healthcare Career?
Healthcare offers a wide range of roles with different entry points, credential requirements, and schedules.
Top reasons to pursue a healthcare career:
- Many pathways: Short certificates through advanced degrees
- Role variety: Patient care, diagnostics, and administration
- Credential clarity: Clear licensing and certification requirements in many roles
- Community impact: Direct support for patients and families
Whether the focus is patient treatment, diagnostics, or healthcare administration, comparing credential requirements and local licensing rules is a useful first step.
Popular Healthcare & Medical Careers
Explore accredited programs and certifications for today’s most in-demand healthcare occupations:
- Registered Nurse (RN) – Provide patient care and coordinate treatment in hospitals and clinics
- Medical Assistant – Perform clinical and administrative duties in physicians’ offices
- Respiratory Therapist – Treat breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders
- Radiation Therapist – Deliver targeted radiation treatments in oncology care
- MRI Technician – Operate advanced imaging equipment to assist in diagnostics
- Phlebotomy Technician – Collect and prepare blood samples for testing
- Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) – Support rehabilitation and skill recovery
- Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) – Help patients regain movement and function
- Medical Technologist – Conduct lab testing and analyze diagnostic results
- Home Health Aide (HHA) – Assist patients with daily care in home settings
- Dental Hygienist – Provide preventive oral care and patient education
Each role includes specific training, certification, and advancement opportunities for 2025 and beyond.
Education & Training Options
Healthcare education is offered at every level, from entry-level certificates to professional degrees.
Typical learning paths:
- Certificate Programs (6–12 months): Quick training for support roles like phlebotomy or medical assisting
- Associate Degrees (2 years): For allied health and nursing programs
- Bachelor’s Degrees (4 years): Leadership and specialized clinical fields
- Online & Hybrid Options: Flexible schedules for working adults
Most programs include clinical externships or supervised practice to build real-world experience before entering the workforce.
Certification & Professional Credentials
Certifications verify your professional readiness and are required for most healthcare careers.
Common credentials:
- NCLEX-RN: Licensure for registered nurses
- CMA / RMA: Medical assisting certification
- ARRT: Radiologic and radiation therapy certification
- NBRC: Respiratory therapist licensure exams
- NBCOT / NPTE: Therapy and rehabilitation certification exams
Staying certified through continuing education ensures lasting career growth and specialization options.
Skills for the Role
Healthcare professionals must combine technical ability with compassion and communication.
Core skills:
- Empathy and patient care
- Team collaboration and communication
- Precision and attention to detail
- Time management under pressure
- Knowledge of medical software and equipment
These skills translate across all healthcare settings, from emergency care to administration.
Career Outlook
Healthcare occupations are projected to grow faster than average, adding millions of new jobs through 2034. Aging populations, chronic conditions, and technology-driven treatments will continue to drive demand.
High-growth sectors:
- Preventive and outpatient care
- Diagnostic imaging and lab science
- Home health and telemedicine
- Medical administration and records management
Healthcare is one of the largest employment sectors in the U.S., with demand that varies by occupation and region.
Related Resources
Compare healthcare programs and credentials.
Admissions, clinical requirements, costs, and licensing rules vary by school and state. Contact programs directly to confirm details.
Compare Careers in This Category
Certification and licensing requirements vary by state and employer. Training times reflect typical program or apprenticeship lengths and can differ by provider, prior experience, and local regulations. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board or prospective program.
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $59,310* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Construction Worker | $46,730* | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) |
| Flooring Installer | $53,599* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Plumber | $62,970* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Welder | $51,000* | Optional (AWS certification preferred) | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Tile Setter | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Pipefitter | $60,900* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Steamfitter | $60,900* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Boilermaker | $73,340* | Varies (apprenticeship; state license in some areas) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Brick & Block Mason | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Cabinet Maker | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Ironworker | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Locksmith | $50,490* | Varies (state license in some areas) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Roofer | $50,592* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended; contractor license for business owners) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Sheet Metal Worker | N/A | Yes in many states (apprenticeship; trade license varies) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Insulation Worker | N/A | Optional (OSHA 10/30; apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Drywall Installer | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Woodworker | $43,886* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Manager | $106,980* | Varies (contractor license in many states) | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) |
| Home Inspector | $72,120* | Yes in many states (state license) | 2–6 months (state-approved course) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | Varies (state license or industry certification) | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) |
| Energy Auditor | N/A | Optional (BPI/HERS credentials often required) | 2–6 months (coursework + fieldwork) |
| Environmental Technician | N/A | Optional (HAZWOPER; industry certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate + fieldwork) |
| Water Damage Restoration Technician | N/A | Optional (IICRC WRT/ASD certifications) | 1–6 months (courses + on-the-job) |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appliance Repair Technician | N/A | Optional (EPA 608 for sealed systems) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Electrician | $62,350* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| HVAC Technician | $59,810* | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) |
| Refrigeration Technician | N/A | Yes (EPA 608; state license in many areas) | 6–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Lineworker | $92,560* | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) |
| Solar Installer | $51,860* | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) |
| Controls Technician | N/A | Optional (ISA/PLC certifications) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Home Security Technician | N/A | Varies (state low-voltage license in many areas) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Tower Technician | $70,500* | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $62,580* | Yes (industry safety certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Body Repair Technician | N/A | Optional (I-CAR/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $78,680* | Yes (FAA A&P license) | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) |
| Auto Mechanic | $49,670* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Automotive Technician | $49,670* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) |
| CNC Machinist | $56,150* | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Diesel Technician | $60,640* | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) |
| Gunsmith | $48,640* | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $58,710* | Optional (CDL required for many roles) | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) |
| Maintenance Technician | $48,620* | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) |
| Millwright | $65,170* | Optional (apprenticeship; NCCER beneficial) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Pilot | $170,956* | Yes (FAA Commercial Pilot License) | 12–24 months (flight school + hours) |
| Robotics Technician | N/A | Optional (FANUC/ABB OEM certifications) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $57,440* | Yes (CDL Class A or B) | 3–6 months (CDL program) |
| Freight Broker | $80,880* | Varies (FMCSA authority for business owners) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Motorcycle Mechanic | N/A | Optional (OEM/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Marine Technician | N/A | Optional (ABYC certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $39,530* | Yes (state CNA exam) | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) |
| Patient Care Technician | $39,530* | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $48,790* | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Home Health Aide | $34,900* | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) |
| Medical Assistant | $44,200* | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Mental Health Technician | $42,590* | Varies (state registration + employer training) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $62,340* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $62,340* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Assistant | $47,300* | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) |
| EKG Technician | $67,260* | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) | 3–9 months (certificate program) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $43,460* | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,660* | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $77,660* | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $89,340* | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,490* | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Surgical Technologist | $62,830* | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) |
| Optician | $46,560* | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) |
Emergency Services & Public Safety
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMT | N/A | Yes (state certification; NREMT) | 3–6 months (state-approved program) |
| Paramedic | $58,410* | Yes (state license; NREMT-P) | 12–24 months (advanced program + clinicals) |
| Firefighter | $59,530* | Yes (fire academy; EMT often required) | 6–12 months (academy + EMT) |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $50,250* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $44,640* | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Biller | $50,250* | Optional (CPB, CBCS, or CHBME) | 9–18 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Medical Coder | $50,250* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $68,340* | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) | 2 years (accredited associate degree) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,520* | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950* | Yes (state license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Personal Trainer | $46,180* | Yes (national certification required by many employers) | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) |
| Life Coach | $49,830* | Optional (ICF/CCE/NBHWC certification preferred) | 6–18 months (certificate) |
| Recovery Coach | $45,120* | Varies (state peer/recovery certification often required) | 6–12 months (certificate + supervised hours) |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Trainer | $38,750* | Optional (industry certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,320* | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) |
| Veterinary Technician | $45,980* | Yes (VTNE and state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beauty Professional | $35,250* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–15 months (state-approved school) |
| Cosmetologist | $35,250* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Esthetician | $41,560* | Yes (state esthetics license) | 4–9 months (state-approved program) |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | $39,168* | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) |
| Pastry Chef | $39,168* | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) |
| Travel Agent | $48,450* | Optional (IATA/CLIA or vendor certifications) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
Design & Creative Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | $61,300* | Optional (portfolio; degree helpful) | 1–4 years (certificate or degree) |
| Interior Designer | N/A | Optional (NCIDQ; licensure varies by state) | 2–4 years (degree in Interior Design or related) |
| Jewelry Designer | N/A | Optional (GIA/JA credentials) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Floral Designer | $36,120* | Optional (on-the-job or certificate) | 3–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper | $49,210* | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $67,310* | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) | 6–12 months (certificate program) |
| Paralegal | $61,010* | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Legal Secretary | N/A | Optional (NALS ALP/CLP certification) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
*Source: Data Date: May, 2024 BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024 National
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