Healthcare Careers in the USA That Don’t Require a Medical Degree

…$36,740 per year

• Job growth: 6% projected from 2022 to 2033

Patient care technicians are essential in hospitals and long-term care facilities, offering hands-on support to patients and nurses alike.

14. Health Unit Coordinator

Health unit coordinators manage administrative tasks in hospital units, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Transcribing physician orders
• Coordinating patient admissions and discharges
• Managing communication between departments
• Maintaining patient charts

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Certificate programs in health unit coordination or medical office administration
• On-the-job training common

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $44,000 per year
• Job growth: Steady demand due to hospital expansion and administrative needs

This role is ideal for individuals who excel in organization and communication within high-pressure environments.

15. Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists assist in operating rooms, preparing equipment and helping surgeons during procedures.

Responsibilities

• Sterilizing instruments
• Setting up operating rooms
• Assisting during surgeries
• Ensuring patient safety and comfort

Education & Certification

• Postsecondary certificate or associate degree in surgical technology
• Certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $53,590 per year
• Job growth: 6% projected from 2022 to 2033

This is a high-responsibility role for those who thrive in clinical environments and want to be close to surgical care without becoming a surgeon.

16. Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays, under the supervision of radiologists.

Responsibilities

• Operating imaging equipment
• Positioning patients correctly
• Ensuring image quality
• Maintaining patient records

Education & Certification

• Associate degree in radiologic technology
• Certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $65,140 per year
• Job growth: 7% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for individuals interested in technology and diagnostic medicine.

17. Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational therapy assistants help patients develop, recover, and improve skills needed for daily living and working.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with therapy sessions
• Teaching adaptive techniques
• Documenting patient progress
• Setting up therapy equipment

Education & Certification

• Associate degree from an accredited OTA program
• Certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $62,940 per year
• Job growth: 25% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for those who want to help people regain independence and improve quality of life.

18. Respiratory Therapy Technician

Respiratory therapy technicians assist in treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.

Responsibilities

• Administering oxygen therapy
• Monitoring ventilator equipment
• Assisting with diagnostic tests
• Educating patients on respiratory care

Education & Certification

• Associate degree in respiratory therapy
• Certification through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $51,210 per year
• Job growth: 10% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is critical in emergency and chronic care settings, especially for patients with asthma, COPD, or COVID-related complications.

19. Nutritionist or Dietetic Technician

Dietetic technicians assist registered dietitians in planning and implementing nutritional programs.

Responsibilities

• Educating patients on healthy eating
• Monitoring dietary compliance
• Assisting with meal planning
• Collecting patient data

Education & Certification

• Associate degree in nutrition or dietetics
• Certification through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $34,000 per year
• Job growth: 7% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for those passionate about food, health, and wellness.

20. Health Educator

Health educators promote wellness and educate communities about healthy behaviors and preventive care.

Responsibilities

• Developing educational programs
• Conducting workshops and seminars
• Evaluating health needs
• Collaborating with public health officials

Education & Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in health education or public health
• Certification through the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $60,600 per year
• Job growth: 13% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is perfect for communicators who want to make a broad impact on community health.

21. Medical Equipment Preparer

Medical equipment preparers ensure that surgical and diagnostic tools are ready for use.

Responsibilities

• Cleaning and sterilizing equipment
• Performing routine maintenance
• Assembling devices
• Managing inventory

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• On-the-job training or vocational programs
• Certification may be required for specialized equipment

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $38,000 per year
• Job growth: 6% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy working with technology and logistics.

22. Community Health Worker

Community health workers serve as liaisons between healthcare providers and the public, especially in underserved areas.

Responsibilities

• Educating communities about health services
• Conducting outreach programs
• Collecting health data
• Connecting patients with resources

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• On-the-job training or certification programs
• Cultural competency and bilingual skills often preferred

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $46,190 per year
• Job growth: 15% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for individuals passionate about equity and public health.

23. Rehabilitation Aide

Rehabilitation aides support physical and occupational therapists in helping patients recover from injuries and surgeries.

Responsibilities

• Preparing treatment areas
• Assisting with patient exercises
• Transporting patients
• Maintaining equipment

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• On-the-job training or vocational programs
• No formal certification required

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $29,000 per year
• Job growth: 9% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is great for those interested in therapy and patient mobility.

24. Medical Transcriptionist

Medical transcriptionists convert voice recordings from healthcare providers into written reports.

Responsibilities

• Listening to audio recordings
• Transcribing medical terminology accurately
• Editing and proofreading documents
• Maintaining confidentiality

Education & Certification

• Postsecondary certificate in medical transcription
• Familiarity with EHR systems and medical language
• Certification through the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $34,730 per year
• Job growth: Declining due to speech recognition software, but niche roles remain

This role suits individuals with excellent typing skills and attention to detail.

25. Health Information Clerk

Health information clerks manage patient records and ensure data accuracy and security.

Responsibilities

• Filing and retrieving medical records
• Updating patient information
• Ensuring compliance with privacy laws
• Assisting with audits

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• On-the-job training or certificate programs
• Familiarity with HIPAA regulations

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $37,000 per year
• Job growth: Steady demand due to digital recordkeeping

This role is ideal for those who prefer administrative work in healthcare settings.

26. Dialysis Technician

Dialysis technicians operate machines that remove waste and excess fluids from patients with kidney failure.

Responsibilities

• Preparing dialysis equipment
• Monitoring patients during treatment
• Educating patients on procedures
• Maintaining safety protocols

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of a dialysis technician program
• Certification through the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $42,000 per year
• Job growth: 9% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for those interested in chronic care and patient monitoring.

27. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

CNAs provide basic care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and residential facilities.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with daily activities
• Monitoring vital signs
• Reporting changes in patient condition
• Supporting nurses and medical staff

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of a state-approved CNA program
• Passing a competency exam

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $35,760 per year
• Job growth: 5% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is foundational in patient care and offers a pathway to advanced nursing roles.

28. Medical Claims Examiner

Medical claims examiners review insurance claims to determine coverage and reimbursement eligibility. They play a vital role in the financial side of healthcare.

Responsibilities

• Evaluating insurance claims
• Verifying patient information and coverage
• Communicating with providers and insurers
• Detecting fraud or errors

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Training in medical billing and coding
• Certification through AAPC or AHIMA is beneficial

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $52,000 per year
• Job growth: Steady demand due to increasing insurance complexity

This role is ideal for analytical thinkers who enjoy working with data and regulations.

29. Health Coach

Health coaches guide individuals toward healthier lifestyles through personalized support and education.

Responsibilities

• Assessing client health goals
• Creating wellness plans
• Providing motivation and accountability
• Educating on nutrition, exercise, and stress management

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Certification through organizations like the National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC)
• Background in fitness, nutrition, or psychology is helpful

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $50,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to focus on preventive care

This role is perfect for those passionate about holistic health and personal development.

30. Telehealth Coordinator

Telehealth coordinators manage virtual healthcare services, ensuring smooth digital interactions between patients and providers.

Responsibilities

• Scheduling virtual appointments
• Troubleshooting tech issues
• Educating patients on telehealth platforms
• Ensuring HIPAA compliance

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Training in health IT or medical office administration
• Familiarity with telemedicine platforms

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $48,000 per year
• Job growth: Rapid expansion due to digital healthcare adoption

This role is ideal for tech-savvy individuals who want to be part of the future of healthcare delivery.

31. Medical Interpreter

Medical interpreters facilitate communication between healthcare providers and patients who speak different languages.

Responsibilities

• Translating medical terminology accurately
• Assisting during consultations and procedures
• Ensuring cultural sensitivity
• Maintaining confidentiality

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Fluency in English and another language
• Certification through the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $52,330 per year
• Job growth: 20% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is essential for improving healthcare access and equity for non-English-speaking populations.

32. Peer Support Specialist

Peer support specialists use their lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery to support others.

Responsibilities

• Providing emotional support
• Facilitating group sessions
• Assisting with recovery plans
• Connecting clients to resources

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Certification through state-approved peer support programs
• Personal experience with recovery is required

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $38,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to mental health initiatives

This role is deeply impactful for those who want to turn their personal journey into a source of hope for others.

33. Vision Therapist Assistant

Vision therapist assistants help patients improve visual skills through guided exercises and therapy.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with vision therapy sessions
• Documenting patient progress
• Educating patients on eye exercises
• Supporting optometrists

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• On-the-job training or certification in vision therapy
• Background in education or rehabilitation is helpful

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $40,000 per year
• Job growth: Niche but growing due to increased awareness of visual disorders

This role is ideal for those interested in developmental health and sensory integration.

34. Audiology Assistant

Audiology assistants support audiologists in testing and treating hearing disorders.

Responsibilities

• Preparing patients for hearing tests
• Maintaining equipment
• Assisting with hearing aid fittings
• Managing patient records

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• On-the-job training or formal programs

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $42,000 per year
• Job growth: Steady demand due to aging population

This role is perfect for individuals interested in auditory health and communication sciences.

35. Biomedical Equipment Technician

Biomedical equipment technicians maintain and repair medical devices used in hospitals and clinics.

Responsibilities

• Installing and calibrating equipment
• Performing routine maintenance
• Troubleshooting malfunctions
• Ensuring compliance with safety standards

Education & Certification

• Associate degree in biomedical equipment technology or electronics
• Certification through the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $55,090 per year
• Job growth: 6% projected from 2022 to 2033

This role is ideal for mechanically inclined individuals who want to work in healthcare technology.

36. Public Health Technician

Public health technicians assist in implementing community health programs and collecting data for research and policy development.

Responsibilities

• Conducting surveys and screenings
• Educating communities on health issues
• Supporting epidemiological studies
• Managing outreach events

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Training in public health or health sciences
• Certification may be required for specialized roles

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $45,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to public health initiatives

This role is ideal for those interested in population health and community engagement.

37. Clinical Research Coordinator Assistant

Clinical research coordinator assistants help manage clinical trials and research studies.

Responsibilities

• Recruiting and screening participants
• Collecting and managing data
• Ensuring compliance with protocols
• Assisting with documentation and reporting

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Training in clinical research or healthcare administration
• Certification through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) is beneficial

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $52,000 per year
• Job growth: Strong demand due to medical innovation

This role is ideal for detail-oriented individuals interested in research and scientific advancement.

38. Genetic Counseling Assistant

Genetic counseling assistants support genetic counselors in helping patients understand inherited conditions.

Responsibilities

• Preparing patient records
• Coordinating appointments and testing
• Assisting with data entry and analysis
• Supporting patient education

Education & Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or health sciences preferred
• On-the-job training or certificate programs
• Familiarity with genetics and medical terminology

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $50,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to advances in genetic testing

This role is ideal for those fascinated by genetics and personalized medicine.

39. Infection Control Technician

Infection control technicians help prevent the spread of disease in healthcare settings.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring hygiene practices
• Conducting audits and inspections
• Educating staff on infection protocols
• Supporting outbreak investigations

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Certification in infection prevention and control
• Training in microbiology or public health is helpful

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $48,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to global health concerns

This role is critical for maintaining safety and preventing healthcare-associated infections.

40. Hospice Aide

Hospice aides provide comfort and support to terminally ill patients and their families.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with daily care
• Providing emotional support
• Monitoring symptoms
• Communicating with hospice teams

Education & Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• CNA certification often required
• Training in palliative care is beneficial

Salary & Outlook

• Median salary: $35,000 per year
• Job growth: Increasing demand due to aging population

Let’s break down how to get started in one of these healthcare careers that don’t require a medical degree. I’ll walk you through the key steps, using a few popular roles as examples. This will help you understand the general path, and you can adapt it to whichever role interests you most.

How to Get Started in a Non-Medical-Degree Healthcare Career

Step 1: Identify Your Interests and Strengths

Before diving into training or certification, reflect on what kind of work you enjoy:

• Do you prefer working directly with patients (e.g., CNA, EMT, phlebotomist)?
• Are you more comfortable behind the scenes (e.g., medical coder, health information technician)?
• Do you like technology (e.g., radiologic technologist, biomedical equipment technician)?
• Are you drawn to community service (e.g., health educator, peer support specialist)?

Knowing your preferences will help you choose a role that aligns with your personality and goals.

Step 2: Research Job Requirements

Each role has different entry requirements. Here’s a quick overview of what to look for:

• Education level: Some roles require only a high school diploma, while others need an associate degree.
• Training programs: Many community colleges and vocational schools offer short-term programs (6–12 months).
• Certifications: Most healthcare roles require certification from a recognized body (e.g., AAMA, PTCB, NHA).
• Licensing: Some states have specific licensing requirements, especially for roles like CNA or EMT.

Use job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn to see real-world listings and qualifications.

Step 3: Enroll in a Training Program

Once you’ve chosen a role, find an accredited training program. Here are some examples:

For Medical Assistant:

• Programs offered at community colleges or technical schools
• Duration: 9–12 months
• Includes clinical and administrative training

For Pharmacy Technician:

• Online or in-person programs available
• Duration: 4–6 months
• Prepares you for the PTCB exam

For Phlebotomist:

• Certificate programs at vocational schools
• Duration: 4–8 months
• Includes hands-on blood draw practice

Make sure the program prepares you for certification and includes practical experience.

Step 4: Get Certified

Certification boosts your credibility and employability. Here’s how to approach it:

• Study materials: Use textbooks, online courses, and practice exams
• Exam registration: Sign up through the certifying organization’s website
• Exam format: Usually multiple-choice, sometimes with practical components
• Renewal: Most certifications require renewal every 2–3 years with continuing education

Examples:

• AAMA for medical assistants
• PTCB for pharmacy technicians
• NHA for patient care technicians

Step 5: Apply for Jobs and Gain Experience

Start with entry-level positions to build your resume. Tips for job hunting:

• Create a professional resume highlighting your training and certifications
• Write a tailored cover letter for each application
• Use healthcare-specific job boards (e.g., Health eCareers, HospitalCareers)
• Network with instructors, classmates, and professionals in the field

Consider internships or volunteer roles to gain experience and make connections.

Step 6: Continue Learning and Growing

Healthcare is constantly evolving, so staying updated is key:

• Attend workshops and webinars
• Subscribe to industry newsletters
• Join professional associations
• Pursue advanced certifications or degrees if desired

Many roles offer upward mobility. For example:

• A CNA can become a licensed practical nurse (LPN)
• A medical assistant can specialize in cardiology or pediatrics
• A pharmacy technician can move into pharmaceutical sales or compounding