Introduction
A health science degree is an excellent way to gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in the medical field. With a health science degree, you can enter a wide range of professions, from nursing and public health administration to pharmaceuticals and biomedical engineering. This article will explore the different career paths available with a health science degree and provide an overview of the qualifications, salary, and job outlook for each profession.
Become a Registered Nurse
One of the most popular careers for those who have a health science degree is nursing. Registered nurses (RNs) provide care to patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and private homes. In order to become an RN, you must complete a nursing program at an accredited college or university and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have earned your license, you can begin working as a registered nurse.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $73,300 in May 2019. The job outlook for RNs is also very positive, with an expected growth rate of 12% through 2028.
Work in Public Health Administration
Another career path available with a health science degree is public health administration. Public health administrators are responsible for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health programs. They work with government agencies, hospitals, and other organizations to develop policies and programs that promote health and prevent disease. To pursue a career in public health administration, you must have a Master’s degree in public health or a related field.
The average annual salary for public health administrators is $99,730, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for public health administrators is expected to grow 7% through 2028.
Pursue a Career as a Medical Researcher
Medical researchers study the causes, effects, and treatments of diseases and conditions. They typically work in laboratories and use advanced technology to conduct their research. To become a medical researcher, you must have a doctoral degree in a field related to medicine, such as biology, biochemistry, or genetics.
The average annual salary for medical researchers is $82,540, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for medical researchers is expected to grow 8% through 2028.
Start a Healthcare Consulting Business
If you have a health science degree and entrepreneurial spirit, you may consider starting a healthcare consulting business. Healthcare consultants provide advice and guidance to hospitals, clinics, and other organizations on how to improve the efficiency and quality of their operations. To succeed in this field, you must have extensive knowledge of the healthcare industry and be able to think strategically.
The potential earnings for healthcare consultants vary widely depending on the type of services they offer and the clients they work with. However, successful healthcare consultants can make six-figure salaries.
Launch a Career in Pharmaceuticals
Those with a health science degree may also consider entering the field of pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutical scientists develop drugs and medications to treat illnesses and diseases. To become a pharmaceutical scientist, you must have a doctoral degree in a field related to pharmacy, such as pharmacology, toxicology, or chemistry.
The average annual salary for pharmaceutical scientists is $117,160, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for pharmaceutical scientists is expected to grow 5% through 2028.
Become a Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators manage the day-to-day operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. They are responsible for overseeing budgets, personnel, and patient care. To become a healthcare administrator, you must have a Master’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field.
The average annual salary for healthcare administrators is $98,350, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for healthcare administrators is expected to grow 7% through 2028.
Enter the Field of Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineers use engineering principles and techniques to solve problems in the medical field. They design and develop medical devices, such as pacemakers, prosthetics, and diagnostic equipment. To become a biomedical engineer, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or a related field.
The average annual salary for biomedical engineers is $91,410, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job outlook for biomedical engineers is expected to grow 4% through 2028.
Conclusion
A health science degree provides many opportunities for career growth and advancement. From nursing and public health administration to medical research and healthcare consulting, there are a wide range of professions available to those who have a health science degree. With the right qualifications and experience, you can find a rewarding career in the medical field.
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