Have you been asking yourself, “What can I do with a health science degree?” That’s actually a good thing because it means you’ve been putting some thought into your career. So, what jobs are available and how much will you be making? Those are great questions, so listen closely.
What can I do with a health science degree?
A degree in health science means nothing if you don’t go to the right school. Only degrees from accredited colleges count, so don’t enroll somewhere that hasn’t been properly vetted. Meanwhile, understand that your degree level dictates which jobs you can get.
For example, bachelor’s degrees can’t do all the things that master’s degrees can and vice versa. That means you’ll have to finish at least four years of school to do any of the following things:
- Dental assisting
- Anesthesia
- Nursing
- Occupational therapy
- Pharmaceuticals
Your job prospects also depend on which classes you take. That’s because some careers require additional training after graduation or specialized learning during class. So, ask your admission counselor for more information and pursue your ideal path.
Top jobs and salaries for health science grads
Most people in the health science field have at least a bachelor’s degree. So, we’re going to focus on that demographic primarily. These are the 5 highest-paying jobs in that arena:
#1. Respiratory Therapist
This job is set to rise in the next few years, especially with COVID-19 in the air. The minimum for this position is an associate’s degree but you also have to become licensed in your state.
AVERAGE SALARY: $60,200+ per year
#2. Dietician
These pros help promote healthier eating habits to reduce health problems like diabetes and obesity. You may need additional training for some positions though, especially those at a hospital.
AVERAGE SALARY: $60,300+ per year
#3. MRI Technician
As an MRI tech, you’ll perform X-rays on patients to assist physicians with diagnoses. You only need an associate’s degree to get a job but your employer may ask you to pick up other skills along the way.
AVERAGE SALARY: $61,200+ per year
#4. Occupational Health Tech
These experts set the standards for workforce safety. You must have a bachelor’s degree to get this job but the field is predicted to grow by as much as 8% by 2026.
AVERAGE SALARY: $69,300+ per year
#5. Registered Nurse
RNs need at least a bachelor’s degree to get hired because they work closely with doctors. In fact, they’re found in almost every healthcare facility due to their well-rounded knowledge of coordinated care.
AVERAGE SALARY: $71,700+ per year
You can make a lot more money if you work for the right employer. Plus, you can also save money on your degree by attending an online college that lets you work at your own pace.
What can I do with an online health science degree?
These days, employers are looking past the names on an applicant’s diploma. Therefore, online degrees in health science are generally accepted as legit. In fact, some employers prefer it because it shows that you have experience with virtual learning. So, don’t disregard online degrees because they could be your ticket to getting a higher-paying job even faster.