So, you hate your job. The latest Labor Department forecasts might help. According to its calculations, employment growth is expected to increase up to 0.7% annually from 2016-2026. Particularly, healthcare hiring will grow at exponential rates in the ensuing decade.
According to Labor Department projections, demand is slated to increase for home health aides (46.7%), personal care aides (37.4%), physicians assistants (37.4%), and nurse practitioners (36%). So, if you’re looking for a change, consider a job in the healthcare industry. Best of all, these 5 high-paying healthcare jobs don’t require advanced degrees.
High-Paying Healthcare Jobs For Those With Bachelor’s Degrees
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about a third of Americans have college degrees, the highest level ever recorded. The breakdown: 21% have Bachelor’s degrees, while 9.3% have advanced degrees. Those with advanced degrees purportedly enjoy higher earnings and greater job security. People with advanced degrees earn an average of $92,525 annually. This is compared to $65,482 for those with Bachelor’s degrees.
However, Bachelor’s degree holders need not fret. Here are 5 high-paying healthcare jobs that may well change your life.
Physician’s Assistant ($90,000 – $115,000 annually)
To become a physician’s assistant, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree in a healthcare or science discipline. You’ll also need to attend an accredited physician’s assistant (PA) program and pass the Physician’s Assistant National Certification Exam. If your Bachelor’s degree is in a discipline other than healthcare, breathe easy. Any work experience you have as an EMT, nurse’s aide, or medic will count when you apply for PA school. Most PA programs award Master’s degrees, but many still offer Bachelor’s degree PA programs.
Radiation Therapist ($80,000 – $ 125,000 annually)
To get into this lucrative field, you can either earn an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy. If you already have a Bachelor’s degree in another discipline, have no fear. You can enter the radiation therapy field by enrolling in an associate’s degree program. Read how one woman successfully switched from a career in finance to one in radiation therapy.
Critical Care Nurse ($55,000 – $90,000 annually)
According to Payscale, critical care nurses earn as much as $95,000 annually. This is a good option if you already have an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in nursing. To earn an adult CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) certificate, you’ll need at least 2 years experience (1750 hours) in adult critical care. You’ll also need to pass the CCRN exam.
The good news? You can take online classes to prepare for it. If you prefer caring for younger patients, you’ll need at least 2 years experience (1,040 hours) in pediatric acute care. Of course, you’ll also need a passing grade on the CCRN exam.
High-Paying Healthcare Jobs For Those With No Degrees
Licensed Practical Nurse ($30,000 – $50,000 annually)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for licensed practical nurses (LPN) is $45,030 annually. To become an LPN, you can either enroll in a certificate or Associate’s degree program. This career switch is perfect for those who already work in assisted living or home health care. Many colleges now offer flexible 12-month LPN certificate programs for working adults.
Nursing Assistants or Personal Care Aides (up to $35,000 annually)
If you’re in a minimum wage rut, take heart. Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics projections (mentioned above), the demand for nursing assistants is expected to skyrocket in the next decade. Nursing assistants typically earn an average hourly wage of $14 to $17. To become a nursing assistant or aide, you’ll need a high school diploma and CNA training. Did you know that some nursing homes and long-term care facilities offer free CNA training in New Jersey?
Vitalis Consulting Is Your Partner In The Healthcare Industry
So, if you’re contemplating a career change, we’re here to help. Want to get more information about changing careers? Our professional team can answer your questions. Not sure about wading into a particular field? Rest assured that we’ll put our experience to good use on your behalf. At Vitalis, we specialize in transitions and new opportunities. So, if you’re ready to take the plunge, contact us. It may be the most important decision of your life.