Top Healthcare Careers with High Salaries and Quick Entry

The healthcare industry presents numerous opportunities for aspiring professionals seeking lucrative careers without the lengthy educational commitments of medical school. These roles offer competitive salaries with minimal educational investments, often requiring only an associate's degree or certification.

Physical Therapist Aide (PTA)

Average Salary: $60,050 annually.

PTAs assist physical therapists by helping patients with therapeutic modalities such as exercises and equipment. Accreditation requires passing the National Physical Therapy exam from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Surgical Technologist

Average Salary: $62,480 annually.

Surgical Technologists prepare operating rooms and provide necessary instruments to surgeons. Candidates need an associate's degree and Certified Surgical Technician certification, with a projected employment growth of 5% over the next decade.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

Average Salary: $66,050 annually.

OTAs develop and improve skills for daily living. This role requires an associate's degree and passing a national licensing exam, anticipating a 3% growth rate over the next ten years.

Cardiovascular Technologist

Average Salary: $67,260 annually.

Cardiovascular Technologists assist in diagnosing and treating heart conditions, necessitating an associate's degree and licensure from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The industry is set to grow at a 3% rate.

MRI Technologist

Average Salary: $78,980 annually.

MRI Technologists operate machines to create diagnostic images. Required qualifications include an associate's degree in radiologic technology and certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Radiologic Technologist

Average Salary: $78,980 annually.

This role involves performing diagnostic imaging exams, excluding MRIs and ultrasounds. It requires an associate's degree and ARRT licensure, with a predicted job growth of 5% in the next decade.

Respiratory Therapist

Average Salary: $80,450 annually.

Respiratory Therapists treat patients with breathing difficulties and are projected to experience a 12% job growth over the coming decade. An associate's degree and the Certified Respiratory Therapist exam are required.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Average Salary: $89,340 annually.

These professionals use ultrasound for imaging of body structures, including prenatal ultrasounds. This role anticipates a 13% growth rate over the next ten years, reflecting high demand in the healthcare sector.

Radiation Therapist

Average Salary: $101,990 annually.

Radiation Therapists administer treatments to cancer patients. They require an associate's degree in radiation therapy and ARRT licensure.

Medical and Health Services Manager

Average Salary: $117,960 annually.

Managers oversee healthcare facility operations, typically benefiting from a bachelor's degree in health administration or a related field.

These roles exemplify the diverse opportunities in the healthcare industry, anticipating robust job security due to increasing demand and significant job openings from retirements and transitions. This growth ensures a secure pathway for those entering the field with the right qualifications.