Top 5 Fastest-Growing Healthcare Jobs That Don't Require a Degree
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Top 5 Fastest-Growing Healthcare Jobs That Don't Require a Degree

Updated: Mar 30

Popular Healthcare Careers on the Rise That Don't Require a Bachelor's Degree

 

Home Health Aides are among the fastest-growing careers in healthcare.
Home Health Aides are among the fastest-growing careers in healthcare.

The healthcare industry offers numerous rapidly growing career opportunities that don't require a bachelor's degree. These roles are essential to patient care and the efficient operation of healthcare facilities. Below is a countdown of the top five fastest-growing healthcare jobs, ranked from least to most popular, along with their projected growth rates and median annual salaries.


5. Surgical Technologists

  • Projected Growth (2022–2032): 15.1%

  • Median Annual Salary (2023): $60,370


Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations by preparing operating rooms, arranging equipment, and helping doctors during surgeries. They play a critical role in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring that surgeries proceed smoothly. An associate degree is typically required for this position.


4. Pharmacy Technicians

  • Projected Growth (2022–2032): 6%

  • Median Annual Salary (2023): $40,300


Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing prescription medications to customers or health professionals. Their duties include measuring amounts of medication, packaging and labeling prescriptions, and organizing inventory. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with on-the-job training or completion of a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology.


3. Medical Assistants

  • Projected Growth (2022–2032): 14%

  • Median Annual Salary (2023): $42,000


Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings such as physicians' offices, hospitals, and clinics. Their responsibilities include recording patient information, measuring vital signs, and assisting physicians with examinations. Most medical assistants complete a postsecondary education program, which can be completed in about a year.


2. Medical Records Specialists

  • Projected Growth (2022–2032): 8%

  • Median Annual Salary (2023): $48,780


Medical records specialists, including medical coders and health information technicians, organize and manage health information data. They ensure the accuracy, accessibility, and security of both paper and electronic systems. While a postsecondary certificate is common, some positions may require an associate degree.


1. Home Health Aides

  • Projected Growth (2022–2032): 21.7%

  • Median Annual Salary (2023): $33,530


Home health aides provide essential care to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairments by assisting with activities such as bathing, dressing, and housekeeping. They often work in clients' homes or residential facilities. This occupation is expected to grow significantly due to an aging population. A high school diploma is not always required, but training and certification may be necessary depending on the state.


These careers not only offer promising growth prospects but also provide opportunities to make a meaningful impact on patient's lives without the need for a four-year degree.


Fastest-Growing Healthcare Jobs Without a Bachelor's Degree



 

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