Health Science careers form a significant part of the US economy, with exuberant growth predicted in this sector. Often, up-and-coming health scientists begin their career by studying for a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. Afterward, graduates can pursue exciting careers in a wide variety of settings, including healthcare centers, hospitals, health departments, and private companies.
Typically, a bachelor’s in Health Sciences places a strong emphasis on biostatistics, research, and epidemiology, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the healthcare industry.
But before you start applying to schools, let’s see if the field is right for you. This guide will explore eight fulfilling and high-paying roles in the dynamic field of health sciences to see if anything piques your interest.
Growth in the healthcare industry
Healthcare generates millions of new jobs, significantly more than any other industry or sector of the marketplace. Many of the fastest-growing occupations are healthcare-related, and wage and salary employment in healthcare is projected to increase significantly, outpacing other industries.
Plus, there’s a feeling of satisfaction from working in a field that cares for others, that even a healthy paycheck can’t buy.
High-paying health sciences jobs
That being said, the income available in specialized healthcare jobs is significant, with lots of room for growth. Let’s explore some of the highest-paying positions you can get with only a bachelor’s degree. No masters required!
1. Health Services Manager
Health Services Managers oversee the operations of healthcare facilities, departments, or specific clinical areas.
With a median annual salary of around $104,280 and a projected growth of 28% from 2022 to 2032, this role requires leadership, healthcare knowledge, communication, and organizational skills. You will work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and healthcare organizations, managing staff, budgets, and patient care, ensuring compliance with healthcare laws and regulations, and implementing policies and procedures to improve efficiency and quality of care.
2. Radiation Therapist
Radiation Therapists administer radiation treatments to patients, primarily those with cancer. They earn a median salary of about $85,560 annually, with job growth expected at 6% from 2022 to 2032. Necessary skills include technical expertise, attention to detail, patient care, and communication. Employment settings include hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, where responsibilities involve preparing patients for radiation treatment, operating radiation equipment, monitoring patients’ responses, and maintaining detailed treatment records.
3. Dental Hygienist
Dental Hygienists provide preventive dental care, including cleaning teeth and educating patients on oral hygiene. With a median annual salary around $77,810 and a projected growth of 11% from 2022 to 2032, this role demands skills in dental care, patient interaction, communication, and manual dexterity. They work in dental offices, clinics, and educational institutions, performing tasks such as cleaning and polishing teeth, taking X-rays, applying sealants and fluoride treatments, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene.
4. Clinical Laboratory Technologist
Clinical Laboratory Technologists perform laboratory tests to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They earn a median salary of about $60,780 per year, with an expected job growth of 7% from 2022 to 2032. Key skills include analytical abilities, laboratory techniques, and attention to detail. Typical workplaces are hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and research facilities, where they analyze body fluids and tissues, operate sophisticated lab equipment, interpret test results, and maintain accurate records.
5. Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists evaluate and analyze work environments to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations. Earning a median salary of $77,580 per year and with a projected growth of 6% from 2022 to 2032, they need knowledge of safety regulations, risk assessment, and problem-solving. They work in corporate settings, government agencies, and manufacturing plants, conducting safety inspections, developing safety programs, investigating accidents and incidents, and ensuring compliance with OSHA standards.
6. Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nutritionists and Dietitians advise proper diet, nutrition, and healthy eating habits. With a median salary around $61,650 per year and job growth expected at 7% from 2022 to 2032, required skills include nutritional knowledge, counseling, and communication. Employment locations include hospitals, clinics, private practice, and public health organizations, where they assess patients’ nutritional needs, develop personalized meal plans, educate clients on healthy eating habits, and conduct nutrition research.
7. Health Educator
Health Educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness and develop programs to improve public health. They earn a median salary of about $60,600 per year, with a projected growth of 7% from 2022 to 2032. Essential skills include teaching, communication, and public health knowledge. They work in schools, community health organizations, and government agencies, designing and implementing health education programs, conducting community health assessments, developing educational materials, and evaluating program effectiveness.
8. Biomedical Equipment Technician
Biomedical Equipment Technicians install, maintain, and repair medical equipment. They earn a median salary around $49,280 per year, with an expected growth of 5% from 2022 to 2032. Necessary skills include technical proficiency, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting. Work environments include hospitals, clinics, and medical equipment manufacturers, where they install new medical equipment, perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot and repair equipment, and keep detailed service records.
Start your Health Science career at UB
A degree in Health Science from University of Bridgeport opens doors to many high-paying, rewarding careers. The program’s value and versatility provide graduates with the skills needed for various roles in the healthcare industry. Explore these career paths for a rewarding future in health science.
