Health science is an area that applies knowledge from science and research in the medical field to improving health care. Careers related to health sciences are wide-ranging. Some career options for graduates in the field are biotechnology research, therapeutic services and diagnostic services. Graduates from a health sciences program can go on to work in dental offices, medical establishments, laboratories or consulting firms. Below are five of the highest-paying careers for graduates with a health sciences degree.
Physician’s Assistant
PayScale reports that the median annual salary for a physician’s assistant, or PA, is $85,000. PAs who work in emergency medicine tend to make the most money. A PA can perform many of the same routine tasks as a doctor, seeing patients who have standard concerns so that the physician can focus on more complex or unusual issues. A PA program may be entered after 2 years of taking prerequisite courses and gaining experience in the field. The program usually awards a master’s degree after students complete 3 years of classroom instruction and clinical rotations. To become a PA, you must also pass the certification exam and become licensed in the state in which you will work.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists usually earn between about $50,000 and $85,000 per year. Dental hygienists assist with dental procedures, clean patients’ teeth and educate patients about oral hygiene. A common education for a dental hygienist involves earning a bachelor’s or associate’s degree through an accredited program. All dental hygienists must become licensed within their state. Some may also be required to earn a master’s degree.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
A diagnostic medical sonographer can enter the field earning about $50,000 a year. Within 5 to 10 years, someone in this career path is typically earning an annual salary of $65,000 to $70,000. This occupation involves preparing and operating ultrasound equipment, explaining the procedure to patients and facilitating test results. A sonographer then passes the information gathered to a physician for interpretation. Sonographers must usually complete a Bachelor of Health Science program, and many work in radiology or obstetrics and gynecology.
Physical Therapist
The median income for a physical therapist is about $67,000, according to PayScale. Physical therapists help patients recover from illness, surgery or other medical conditions. They provide exercises, massage and touch therapy and other treatments to help patients physically function as normally as possible. A physical therapist must earn at least a bachelor’s degree and complete a certification exam. Physical therapists are also required to be licensed in their state.
Dietitian
On average, dietitians earn between $40,000 and $70,000 a year. As a dietitian, you will evaluate the nutritional needs of your clients, assist them with developing meal plans and monitor their diet. Dietitians may work in a one-on-one setting or as a supervisor for a health clinic or community organization. Dietitians must hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and they may be required to obtain a license in certain states.
If you graduate with a degree in health sciences, you can work in a variety of settings. Many occupations in this field are lucrative and satisfying. Most professions that require a health sciences degree also necessitate some form of specialized training, certification or licensing, however. Before embarking on an education in the health sciences field, you should consider your specific interests and your ultimate career goals.
