Salaries for healthcare occupations are constantly changing. For more up-to-date information about your region please visit Monster.com or the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Salaries listed below are based on national averages from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE     (back to top)

Massage Therapy - Massage techniques have their roots in Eastern and Western traditions date back more than 3,000 years. They involve the use of techniques to reduce stress, compliment athletic performance, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, and positively affect one's emotional and mental well-being. Massage therapy is currently being practiced in fitness centers, private clinics, spas, cruise ships, as well as in client's homes.
Academic Requirements: At least 500 hours in the classroom and National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

Naturopathic Medicine  - Naturopathic Physicians practice homeopathic medicine, which is reliant on natural remedies, and use manipulative techniques and Asian medicine to treat the body.  These physicians are general practitioners who are trained in the healing properties of proper nutrition, botanical medicine, and stress management.
Academic Requirements: Presently, the American Naturopathic Medical Certification and Accreditation Board (ANMCAB) is the only national certification board in the United States specializing in naturopathic medicine. 

CLINICAL LABORATORY SERVICES     (back to top)

Cytotechnologist - A laboratory professional who studies cells and cellular abnormalities.  They use the microscope to analyze slides of human cells to search for cause or abnormalities that indicate a cell is malignant, pre-malignant or diseased.  By observing the nuclei and cytoplasmic structures within cells, cytotechnologists can identify malignancies. 
Academic Requirements: Training programs in cytotechnology exist at the baccalaureate, post-baccalaureate certificate, and master's levels.  Usually, students are accepted into an accredited hospital or university-based program after their sophomore or junior year of college.
Salary: $49,026
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Cytotechnologist may practice in various settings, sometimes working closely with pathologists.  Hospital and private laboratories provide excellent opportunities as do public health facilities, clinics, medical schools, federal institutions, research, and industry facilities. 

Histological Technician & Histotechnologist - Histologic technicians and histotechnologists are clinical laboratory workers who prepare body tissues for microscopic examination by pathologists (medical doctors specializing in tissue disease).  Histologic technicians perform such tasks as sectioning and staining tissues, embedding tissues in paraffin or plastic, preparing frozen section of tissues directly from the operating room, and operating intricate equipment including microscopes and microtones.
Academic Requirements: Qualifying for histologic technician certification requires a high school diploma. Additional requirements include a completion of an accredited HT training program, or two years of laboratory experience.  The 31 training programs currently available in the USA are generally hospital or university-based and last from one to two years.
Salary: $27,540 to $40,510
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Histologic technicians and technologists primarily work in hospital and independent laboratories as well as in clinics, public health facilities, forensic medicine facilities, and industrial research facilities.

Medical Laboratory Technician - They are clinical laboratory personnel who perform a variety of tests under the supervision of a medical technologist.  They aid in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of disease. This is accomplish through specific tasks which include inoculation culture media, performing microscopic evaluations, and operating high-tech equipment.
Academic Requirements: Most medical laboratory technicians first receive an associate's degree from a community or junior college, or a certificate from a hospital or vocational-technical school.
Salary: $27,540
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: While laboratory personnel are always present in hospitals, other employment sites include a physicians' office, clinics, research facilities, federal agencies, managed care organizations (MCO’s) and pharmaceutical companies. Medical laboratory technicians can expect average job growth for the next decade.

Medical Technologist - They are clinical laboratory technologists who serve in supervisory role to medical laboratory technicians, MT's perform a wide range of tests in all areas of science or may choose to focus their skills in one area.  For example, clinical chemistry technologies conduct tests on blood and bodily fluids with respect to their chemical characteristics: microbiology technologists specialize in micro-organisms and bacteria; and immunology technologists focus on the immune system and its functions.
Academic Requirements: An individual can become a MT (AAB) with an associate degree plus three years of experience. A master’s degree is also available in medical technology to MT’s interested in teaching or administrative positions.
Salary: $27,000 to $50,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The majority of medical technologists are employed by hospitals, although opportunities also exist in independent laboratories, physicians' offices, clinics, research laboratories, or federal agencies. 

Phlebotomist - Also known as registered phlebotomy technicians (RPTs), phlebotomists are medical laboratory technicians whose primary role is to collect blood samples directly from the patient.  Using safe and minimally painful techniques, the phlebotomist draws blood and keeps careful records of all the procedures.
Academic Requirements: In addition to high school diploma, interested individuals should also be enrolled in an approved phlebotomy program, a formal structured training program, or have one year of experience in a laboratory setting. 
Salary: $19,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Phlebotomists may be employed in hospital laboratories, blood banks, blood donation centers, doctors' offices, clinics and nursing homes. 

Blood Bank Technologist - They are medical technologists with advanced training needed for blood bank techniques such as typing, collection, and transfusion.  They also search for blood irregularities and are responsible for processing, testing, and labeling donor blood.  Disease control is a priority for these specialists because they ensure that blood samples are safe for public use and are handled properly.
Academic Requirements: Similar educational and training requirements exist for all of the careers in clinical laboratory specialization.
Salary: $27,540 to $40,510
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Hospitals employ the majority of blood bank technology specialists.  Other opportunities may exist in community or university blood bank centers, laboratories and government agencies.  Expect average growth for specialists in blood bank technology in the near future. 

CREATIVE ARTS THERAPY     (back to top)

Music Therapy - Music therapists use music within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals of all ages.  They seek to improve the quality of life for persons who are well and meeting the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses.  They provide the necessary treatment that might entail either creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music.
Academic Requirements: Music therapists hold bachelor's degrees or higher in music therapy from one of the over 70 American Music Therapy Associations (AMTA) approved colleges and universities. The approved curriculum is designed to offer entry-level competencies in three main areas: music foundation, clinical foundations, and music therapy.
Salary: $36,647 to $78,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Music therapists are employed in many settings including general and psychiatric hospitals, mental health agencies, physical rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, public and private schools, substance abuse programs, forensic facilities, hospice programs, and day care facilities.  As more and more of the population looks to non-invasive and alternative therapies, the need for music therapists will rise.

Dance/Movement Therapy - Dance/movement therapy is the use of movement to explore the emotional and physical side of an individual.  Therapists work with people of all ages, who have emotional, social, and/or physical problems. 
Academic Requirements: In order to be eligible for certification, you should complete a master's degree in either dance therapy or a related field. It is important for graduate candidates to have a strong  liberal arts background, with an emphasis on psychology as well as courses in dance.
Salary: $20,000 to $30,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Dance therapists work in many areas such as hospitals, clinics, mental health centers, and rehabilitation facilities.  They sometimes work as consultants or conduct research.  As public awareness increase, demand for dance therapists should increase.

Drama Therapy - The National Association for Drama Therapy defines drama therapy as "the systematic and intentional use of drama/ theater processes, products and associations to achieve the therapeutic goals of symptom relief, emotional and physical integration and personal growth."
Academic Requirements: There are graduate programs in accredited colleges and universities, and the NADT has an approved Alternative Training Program.  Therapists are trained in many fields, such as theater arts, psychology, and psychotherapy.   The Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) title is awarded to those who have a master's degree, as well as 500 hours of drama/theater experience, 300 hours of on-site internship, at least 30 hours of supervision by an RDT, and 1,000 paid hours of experience.
Salary: $20,000 to $50,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Therapists work in many settings including psychiatric hospitals, mental health facilities, day treatment centers, nursing homes, substance abuse treatment centers, schools and businesses, and correctional facilities. Drama therapy is a health and human service profession that addresses the needs of people from young children to the elderly.  

Art Therapy - A human service profession that utilizes art media, images, the creative art process and patient/client responses to these products.  This form of therapy is effective in individuals who experience illness, trauma, challenges in living, and those seeking professional development.  Art therapy creates self-awareness, the development of social skills, problem solving, reduction of anxiety and increases self esteem.
Academic Requirements: the American Art Therapy Association regulates Standards. Completion of a master's program, or the equivalent, including a minimum of 600 hours of supervised practicum experience is required for professional entry into the field.
Salary: $25,000 to $60,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Art therapist usually work in treatment, assessment and research. The future of art therapists should be strong. 

Horticulture Therapy - Therapists who use plants, horticultural activities and the natural world to promote awareness and well-being.  The practice fosters a connection with nature and employs hands-on activities to stimulate, nourish, soothe and educate the body and mind.
Academic Requirements: There are currently 18 colleges and universities that offer a curriculum in horticulture therapy.  The AHTA also offers 3 levels of registration- you can seek to be registered as a Horticultural Therapist Technician (HTT), Horticultural Therapist Registered (HTR), and Horticultural Therapist Master (HTM).
Salary: $25,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Horticultural therapy takes place at many facilities like hospitals, nursing homes, halfway houses, and schools.  Since this form of therapy can be applicable to almost every disability, there is a wide range of possibilities for someone who chooses this career.

DENTISTRY     (back to top)

Dentist - These professionals detect, diagnoses, and treat problems affecting the teeth, gums, tongue, lips, and jaw.  In addition, they advocate preventive dental care by teaching their patients brushing, flossing, and proper dietary habits.  As part of their wide range of duties, dentists identify and fill cavities, repair any dental damage or breakage, analyze X-rays, and may also prescribe medication or administer anesthetics.
Academic Requirements: A pre-dental students' education is science-based and while a minimum of two years of college is sufficient for dental school admissions, a bachelor's degree is recommended.  The Dental Admissions Test ( DAT) is required for admission and will allow the student to engage in four years of academic and clinical work at an accredited dental school.
Salary: $150,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: A 40 - hour work week is a typical, with hours set to accommodate patients' schedules.   While solo practice is most common, group practices partnerships do exist.  While dental care will still be in demand due to an increasing elderly population, dental practices are expected to rely more on dental assistants and hygienists to manage their workload.

Orthodontist - An orthodontist is a dental specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatments of dental and facial irregularities.  The purpose of this specialty is to treat malocclusions (bad bite).  This occurs when the teeth, lips and/or jaws do not line up correctly.  Orthodontists enlist the use of braces and other corrective devices to create a happy and healthy smile.
Academic Requirements: Admission orthodontic programs is competitive and is proceeded by and education in general dentistry.  Education should begin with a 4-year bachelor's degree, an a 3-5 year program at a dental school accredited by American Dental Association.
Salary: Varies
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Most orthodontist practice independently, but some are in partnerships with other doctors.  Typically, the work week will consist of 30-40 hours, although sometimes hours will be adjusted to accommodate patients' schedules.  Job prospects for the future are similar to that of dentists, and will not grow significantly over the next eight years.

Orthodontic Staff Careers - In an orthodontist's office, the orthodontist acts like a team leader, over seeing and working with other individuals to make sure that the business succeeds and offers proper services to its clients.  There are many positions within an orthodontist's office, including orthodontic chair side assistant, orthodontic office administrator, and orthodontic laboratory technician.
Academic Requirements: A high school diploma is necessary for these positions.  It is important to also have strong customers service and computer skills.  There is a certification available for chair side assistants and technicians, but is not required to gain a position.
Salary: $24,884
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: These individuals usually find themselves working in well-lighted and clean environments, often in private orthodontist offices.  Many work full-time, thought part-time work is available. The outlook for these careers is strong, as orthodonitists look to their staff to handle more responsiblilities. 

Dental Assistant - They perform a wide rage of tasks that may be interpersonal, technical or administrative.  They expose and develop X-rays, coordinate and implement infection control protocols, take diagnostic impressions, maintain inventory control protocols, take diagnostic impressions, maintain inventory control, perform numerous office management tasks, and assist the dentist with equipment at chair side.
Academic Requirements: On-the-job training is the most popular method of skill acquisition for dental assistants.  Community colleges, vocational schools, technological institutes, or universities also offer training programs.  In 1999 there were 258 programs approved by the ADA commission.
Salary: $23,980
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Dentists employ the majority of dental assistants in private, solo or group practices.  Other work locations include dentals schools or public health clinic, civil and military services, hospitals or even insurance companies.

Dental Laboratory Technician - They make and repair dentures, crowns, bridges, and other dental appliances according to dentists' prescriptions.  They follow a specialized process that involves the use of soft synthetic and natural materials for models; small precision instruments for measuring and shaping; furnaces; grinding machines; and other specialized laboratory equipment.
Academic Requirements: On-the-job training is the most popular method of skill acquisition for dental assistants.  It is not uncommon for the training to last up to four years due to the complexity of the some procedures. 
Salary: $27,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Most dental laboratory technicians work in commercial dental laboratories, which tend to have few employees and are privately owned and operated.  Other employment opportunities may be in larger laboratories, hospitals, and dentist’s offices and in self-employment.  Trainee positions are expected to be abundant over the next ten years.

Registered Dental Hygienist - They are licensed professionals who provide a variety of oral health services.  They scale and polish teeth; apply cavity-preventive agents, such as fluoride and sealant; expose, process, and interpret X-rays; monitor patients' medical and oral health; examine teeth and oral cavities; place temporary fillings and periodontal dressings; remove sutures, polish metal restoration, teach proper brushing and flossing techniques, and design and implement community or school oral health programs.
Academic Requirements: Registered dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program and pass a written and clinical examination to be licensed by the state in which they choose to practice. 
Salary: $48,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Hygienist commonly work in a private dental offices, although there are employment opportunities in public health, schools, clinics, and hospitals. An attractive feature of this career is its adaptability to any lifestyle.

DIETETICS AND NUTRITION     (back to top)

Registered Dietitian - They are recognized as experts on food and nutrition; they promote and maintain health, prevent or treat illness, and aid rehabilitation thought nutrition education and diet intervention. 
Academic Requirements: To become a practicing dietitian, one must obtain a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics.  A student may obtain a four year degree that combines academic instruction with the necessary experience, or may first earn a bachelor's degree and then train in the field for one to two years.
Salary: $35,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Hospitals and nursing homes employ the majority of dietitians.  Federal and state governments also hire dietitians to work in public health, policy/administration, and research.  Colleges and universities, school systems, diet and fitness centers, and home health agencies may employ other dietitians.  Overall, job growth is expected to be near the national average.

Dietetic Technician and Dietetic Assistant - They are involved with the aiding of registered dietitians in nutrition care services and assist in helping to shape the public's nutrition and aid people with illness or injury.  A dietetic technician screens patients to identify nutrition problems and provide patient education and counseling to individual groups.  Dietetic assistants also work directly under a dietitian, but usually assume more clerical food service duties.
Academic Requirements: It is important to finish at least a 2-year associate's degree program at an accredited college or university.  Then the student should complete a program approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE), and 450 hours of supervised practice work experience.
Salary: $20,000 to $30,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Dietetic technicians and assistants can be found in all the sites where one finds a registered dietitian.  These include hospitals, nursing homes, governmental deparments, diet and fitness centers, and public health facilities.  The job outlook for registered dietitians in the dietetic field may be used as an indicator for technicians and assistants as well.

EMERGENCY MEDICINE     (back to top)

Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-1) - has the least amount of training needed to qualify as an emergency medical technician. Some of their duties include opening airways, restoring breathing, controlling blood loss, treating shock victims, imobilizing fractures, bandaging wounds, childbirth assistance, treating heart attack victims, and caring for poison and burn victims.
Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate (EMT-3) - can perform the same tasks as an EMT-B and also skilled in more advanced treatment, including the administration of intravenous fluids, and the use of defibrillators to restart a stopped heart.
Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedics (EMT-4) - undergoes the most training of all EMT's and may administer the most advanced care. Additional procedures include administering oral and IV drugs, electrocardiogram interpretation, performing endotracheal intubations, and using complex monitors and equipment.
Academic Requirements:
(EMT-1) - Consists of 140 hours of classroom excercises and ten internship hours in a hospital emergency room. Upon completion of the program, a trainee must pass written and practical examinations at the state or national level to be awarded the title of Registered EMT-Basic.
(EMT-3) - requires an additional 120 hours of training that goes beyond that needed by an EMT-1. Training focuses more on patient assessment, esophageal airways, IV fluids,  and anti-shock garments.
(EMT-4) - is the most comprehensive training program and it requires an additional 750-2,000 hours of training beyond the requirements of an EMT-Basic.
Salary: $22,460 - $37,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: EMT's work both indoors and outdoors, no matter what the weather. Many EMT's work 50+ hours a week, and job hours  are often irregular. An increase in the number of elderly, an increase in the EMT's range of duties, and the extremely high turnover rate for this career are the biggest causes of an expected increase of  the number of EMT positions available. Those choosing to advance beyond the EMT-3 level may seek employment at an administrative level as a supervisor or director of emergency services.

Flight Paramedic - responsible for the care of the patient during transports on board the aicraft or, when necessary, in the hospital. They assess any trauma & initiate indicated treatments. The flight paramedic must determine the patient's status and assimilate the information necessary to identify each individual's requirements relative to his or her age and to prioritize care.
Academic Requirements:  There is a specialized  training program that is required to be complete before certification for this position can be awarded.
Salary: $35,000 - $50,000

ER Tech -  assists physicians, nurses and nursing staff in the Emergency Room by providing direct care to patients, and performing a variety of clerical tasks and other related work.
Academic Requirements: ER Tech's are required to have achieved at least the EMT-II certification (140 hours classroom & 10 hour internship training)  before they will be considered for this position.
Salary:  $30,160

GENETICS     (back to top)

Clinical Geneticist -They provide genetic diagnosis, management, therapy and counseling services.  They often supervise genetic counselors, and help families understand possible genetic issues. 
Academic Requirements:  There are various training programs throughout the United States in genetics.  Most of the programs are two years in duration and offer hands-on experience along with skills in writing, conducting clinical and or laboratory research, and organizing and delivering lectures and seminars.

PHD Geneticist - A PhD geneticist has expertise that is similar to that of Clinical Geneticists as well as knowledge of complex risk assessment and in the integration of clinical and genetic information.
Academic Requirements:  A doctoral degree in genetics, human genetics or a related field is necessary to pursue a career as a PhD Geneticist.  The skill and knowledge requirements for career are similar to those for a clinical geneticist.

Clinical Cytogenticist - A clinical cytogeneticist handles the analysis and detection of hereditary diseases and abnormalities.  They study human, chromosomes, obtained form their patients, to detect abnormalities, and aid in the treatment of problems that are found.
Academic Requirements:  A doctoral degree is necessary for this career, and a strong knowledge of pre- and postnatal cytogenetic diagnosis, infertility and pregnancy loss, cancer and leukemia. 

Clinical Biochemical Geneticist - A clinical biochemical geneticist can perform and interpret biochemical analysis leading to the diagnosis and management of human genetic disorders. Clinical biochemical geneticists have broad knowledge of basic biochemistry and genetics, as well as etiology, clinical manifestations and management of human inherited biochemical disorders.
Academic Requirements:  To be a clinical biochemical geneticist requires that the individual has earned a doctoral degree.  And undergraduate degree in biochemistry, genetics or other science can help to increase your knowledge of biochemical techniques and genetic diseases necessary for applying for training programs and certification.

Clinical Molecular Geneticist - A clinical molecular geneticist performs molecular analysis relevant to the diagnosis and management of human genetic disorders.   They have knowledge of basics molecular biology and the ability to perform a variety of molecular diagnostic assays. 
Academic Requirements:  As with the other geneticist occupations, a clinical molecular geneticist has a doctoral degree and an understanding of biology and geneticist.  There are accredited training programs that will educate individuals who want to direct or co-direct a clinical DNA diagnostic laboratory.

HEALTH INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION & ADMINISTRATION     (back to top)

Biophotographer - In order to photograph and document scientific information, biophotographers are specially trained in the areas of medicine, biology, chemistry, or other health subjects.  Typically, their work is used in research reports, scientific publications, medical journals, or textbooks. 
Academic Requirements: For most biophotograpy positions, on-the-job training will not suffice.  Formal training programs offered by colleges, vocational-technical schools, and trade school are usually two to four years in length.
Salary: $30,600
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Often, biophotographers are employed by major medical, dental, veterinary and health schools and organizations.  As the health industry experiences drastic advances in technology, and the field of medicine engages in continued scientific discover, biophotographers will be called upon to document these developments and their outcomes.

Medical Librarian - Medical Librarians provide access to medical and health related information for health professionals, medical researchers, students, and patients.  Responsibilities include: locating specialized and up-to-date medical reference information via print and on-line sources; choosing and purchasing books and journals for health professionals, organizing health science books, journals and computerized databases for quick and easy usage; providing slides, films, and videotapes for medical and nursing education; teaching health care students and professionals how to use information resources; and budgeting and personnel management.
Academic Requirements: For most health sciences librarian positions, a master's degree in library science (MLS) is mandatory.  The American Library Association accredits over 50 schools with master's programs of one to two years in length.
Salary: $31,066 to $175,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Health Sciences librarians are employed in hospitals, medical schools, federal agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and health information centers.  With the current outpouring of genetic research information, AIDS research findings, information on disease detection and transmission, and various other scientific test results, medical librarians are needed to handle the organization of this information.

Medical Illustrator - They are artists who create graphics to meet the requirements of communication media for the biosciences.  This work may be used in publications, film, television, exhibits, and three-dimensional models.  Because of the variety of assignments in medical illustration, the artist must be accomplished in drawing, painting, and modeling techniques as well as experienced in the media and materials of commercial art.
Academic Requirements: A master's degree from an accredited institution is generally required for most positions in medical illustration.  There are very few programs in the United States, with each program usually accepting only 3 to 12 students a year.
Salary: $27,000 to $90,000+
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Medical schools and research centers employ the majority of medical illustrators.  Other employers include hospitals, clinics, medical publishers, pharmaceutical companies, and attorneys.  Because training problems are limited and new graduates in the field of medical illustrations are few, job opportunities are abundant.  As advances in medical research are made, more illustrators will be needed to document research results.

Health Information Manager - The health information management professional collects, analyzes, and manages, the information that steers the health care industry.  In dealing with patient records, the health information manager must respect individual patient privacy yet contribute to quality care by organizing the medical data.  There are four types of health information managers:  medical records administrators, medical coding specialists, medical records technicians, and certified coding specialists. 
Academic Requirements:  Positions in these careers are usually awarded to applicants with at least a bachelor's degree in health information management.  The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) conducts a certification exam and awards the credential of Registered Health Information Technician or Registered Health Information Administrator.
Salary: $30,000 to $50,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Over half of all the health information managers are employed by hospitals.  Other employment locations are nursing homes, MCO's, clinics, and physicians' offices.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that this is one of the 20 fastest growing occupations in the United States. 

Medical, Science, Technical Writer - Medical, science, and technical writers are involved in a variety of activities, including presenting health information in an informative and interesting form for the public and offering information to health specialists.   They may write for newspapers, magazines, radio, or television. 
Academic Requirements: Medical, science, and technical writers must not only master journalistic and reporting skills, but also have a firm understanding of technical and scientific terminology.  Often, these writers obtain a bachelor's degree in journalism or English from undergraduate institutions. 
Salary: $42,270 to $47,790
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Medical, science, and technical writers may be employed by print or electronic media while other such writers may be employed by pharmaceutical companies, universities and medical colleges, federal agencies, professional societies, or industrial research companies. The future for medical, science, and technical writers looks bright.  Today, researchers and theorists are producing new studies, hypotheses and finding more rapidly than ever before.

Health Services Administration - Also known as health services managers, are a part of the administration team.  Often they work with CEOs and assistant administrators who manage individual departments.  Responsible for the business aspects of their institution, they focus on marketing, finances of human resources, and public relations.
Academic Requirements: The type of education needed to qualify for health services administration positions will vary from job to job.  Degrees in health administration are available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels from various colleges, universities, and health professional school.
Salary: $52,000 to $59,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Increasingly, administrators are finding positions in nursing homes, MCO’s, physician group practices, home health agencies, and medical laboratories.  While hospitals used to be the primary employers of these workers, downsizing and small budgets will result in a reduced demand for a new hospital administrators.  The number of new CEO positions will be low, but turnover at this high level will allow opportunities for lower level administrators to move up.

Medical Secretary / Transcriptionist - They perform all of the duties of a typical secretary, but does so in the specialized setting of a medical office.  Like other secretaries, medical secretaries may process correspondence, transcribe dictation, prepares reports, or organizes meeting for their employers.
Academic Requirements: Anyone with basic office skills is eligible to be hired as a medical secretary and can be trained on the job.  Extra training or advanced skills, however, make an applicant more attractive to an employer.
Salary: $23,328 to $23,430
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Medical secretaries are usually employed in physicians' offices, but may also work in hospitals or their health care facilities.  Although secretaries as a whole will likely experience a drop in employment, expansion in the health care industry will increase the demand for medical secretaries.

MEDICAL CAREERS     (back to top)

Chiropractor - The aim of chiropractic medicine is holistic health without the use of surgery, medication, or other invasive means. Instead chiropractic medicine focuses on nutrition, water, light to moderate massage, exercise, and spinal adjustments as solutions for patient healing
Academic Requirements: At least two years (minimum) undergraduate study is require in addition to the four years of required study in chiropractic medicine. A licensing exam (at national or state level) is required upon graduation before practicing can begin.
Salary: $67,030 to $170,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The majority of Chiropractors (70%) tend to operate in a private practice environment however group practice, research positions, teaching jobs, and hospital employment are also options. Chiropractic medicine is an ever-growing field and as more people learn about the options it offers, the demand for chiropractors is likely to increase.

Chiropractic Technician/Assistant - This is a field whose job it is to aid the doctor by performing duties (answering phones, basic secretarial duties, front desk operation, working with patients as examination technicians) that assist in the more technical procedures of the business.
Academic Requirements: The National Academy of Chiropractic Assistants (NACA) offers a four-month training program and awards a certificate/diploma of completion. Certain chiropractic colleges offer associate degrees that include radiological, diagnostic & therapeutic assistance as well.
Salary: $19,760 to $31,200
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Technicians & assistants generally work on chiropractic offices. Depending on the size of the area of the country the chiropractic office is in, annual salaries vary greatly. Employment in this field will be more prevalent in larger practices and in larger urban areas.

Medical Assistant - This is a field of work that focuses on helping doctors by performing a variety of clinical and administrative duties, the scope of which depends on the size of the practice. These duties may include but are not limited to clerical duties, appointment setting, billing, testing of patient's vital signs, drawing blood and bookkeeping.
Academic Requirements:  Usually a high school diploma is sufficient to gain employment in this position, because most of the training for this position will be gathered through on the job experience, however one and two year degrees are available
Salary: $23,000 to $32,850
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Most medical assistants are employed in a physician's office while the rest are distributed evenly among chiropractic, optometric, and podiatral practices. With the many changes occurring in the medical field, medical assistants will be an invaluable tool in the future.

Physician - This career's goal is to diagnose, treat, and work to prevent human illness, disease or injury through the use of techniques including patient examinations, analysis of patient history, interpretation of diagnostic tests, care and council of patients nutritional habits in an attempt to improve the overall health of patients.
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Physicians typically seek employment in office-based practices, although employment by hospitals or the federal government is not uncommon. Sixty plus hour workweeks are the norm for most physicians and workloads are often reduced as they approach retirement.
Types:
Allergy and Immunology – immune system specialist
Anesthesiology – gives anesthetics for surgical procedures
Dermatology – skin diseases
Emergency Medicine – treatment of emergency illnesses
Family Practice – comprehensive health care of the patient within the family unit
Orthopedic Surgery – muscle and bones
Pediatrics – working with children
Plastic Surgery – corrective and cosmetic surgery
Academic Requirements:  Students seeking an MD must have a Bachelor’s degree and submit Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores along with transcripts and personal recommendations from undergraduate institutions.
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The first few years of practice, accumulated student loans from medical school and even undergraduate school may offset the higher income.
Salary:  $120,000 to $250,000

Ophthalmologist - These are licensed primary care physicians trained to practice a mixture of both medicine and surgery. They cover all aspects of eye care, ranging from lens prescription to delicate surgical procedures.
Academic Requirements: 12 years of higher education is the minimum requirement for this field. This breaks down to four years of college, four years of medical school, one or more years in a hospital-based eye residency program, and one or more years in a fellowship.
Salary: $100,000 to $250,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Ophthalmologists generally spend a large part of their work week giving in-office standard medical ophthalmologic treatments. In 1999 only 2.2 percent of medical doctors were ophthalmologists, however the need for such specialists may increase as the population ages and as more individuals acquire age-related eye disorders.

Physicians Assistant - this field requires one to work under a physician's supervision and perform many patient care tasks, which were traditionally conducted by doctors (physical exams, diagnose illnesses, order and evaluate X-rays, give treatments, etc.).
Academic Requirements: Employment as a physician assistant requires training at an accredited PA program.  These are currently over 125 such programs in the United States, typically affiliated with medical school or school of allied health.  Applicant to a physician assistant program have a background in-patient care and often have a received a bachelor's or master’s degree.
Salary: $68,757
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Because physical assistants work so closely with physicians, there work schedules may also be hectic and variable.  Certain work settings, clinics especially, can usually guarantee a 40-hour workweek.  The growth of managed care and Medicare recognition of PA services should increase the need for physician’s assistants.

Podiatrist - They prevent, diagnose, and treat disorders of the foot and ankle.  They employ medical, surgical, mechanical, or physical means to treat deformities and growths of the foot, design casts and orthotics to treat injuries, and improve posture and walking style.
Academic Requirements: There are currently seven colleges of podiatric medicine in the United States.  Admission generally requires a bachelor’s degree and competitive scores on the medical College Admission Test(MCAT).
Salary: $107,560
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The typical podiatrist has private independent practice, although partnerships and expanded practice appear to be gaining popularity.  The majority of practices exist in states that also have a college of podiatric medicine.  Podiatrists will be needed to handle the growing number of elderly in the next ten years.

Toxicologist - The field of toxicology is the study of the chemical effects of substances on people, animals, and other living organisms.  A toxicologist will often determine safe levels of substance that living organisms can be exposed to as well as levels that cause toxic reactions. 
Academic Requirements: A bachelor's degree in toxicology, biology, and chemistry or other natural science is a good foundation to begin your education. A higher degree will offer more opportunities and larger salary, but persons with an associate or bachelor degree can find employment as technicians, assistants and animal care specialists.
Salary: $35,000 to $100,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: They work in many environments such as, colleges, hospitals, industry, government (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), and Pharmaceuticals.

SOCIAL HEALTH     (back to top)

Genetic Counselor – provide info and support to individuals and families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders, or who may be at risk for a variety of inherited conditions by researching family health history.
Academic Requirements:  Twenty-five training programs exist across the country whose specialties are master’s degrees in this field. However certification programs are available for those with experience.             
Salary: $18,000 to $57,876
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Genetic counselors use their skills in private practice, commercial research laboratories, public health clinics, MCO’s or federal agencies. Currently there are 2,000 practicing genetic counselors in the U.S. but as advances are made in genetic testing, prenatal screening, and reproductive techniques the demand will no doubt grow. 

Human Services Worker – encompasses a broad range of careers in social work, mental health, & rehabilitation, with jobs containing but not limited to social service assistant, child care workers, life style counselor and case management aide.
Academic Requirements:  The title human services worker encompasses a broad range of careers in social work, mental health, and rehabilitation.  Some job titles that fall under this heading are social service assistant, alcohol or drug abuse counselor, child care worker, gerontology aide, community support worker, life skills counselors, case management aide, and social work assistant.
Salary: $22,330 to $35,220
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Just as the job description of a human services worker varies, so does the work environment.  Group homes, hospitals, clinics, and shelters all require the skills of these individuals.  This occupation is likely to be one of the fastest growing for the next ten years.

Psychiatric Mental Health Technician – Psychiatric mental health technicians, also known as psychiatric aides, work with people with emotional or mental illness or mental retardation under the supervision of doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel.
Academic Requirements:  Some psychiatric facilities may hire mental health technicians with no experience or training.  Through on-the-job training, these aides learn their designated duties under close supervision.
Salary: $21,840 to $26,228
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Psychiatric mental health technicians are unusually employed in hospital psychiatric wards, community mental health centers, state and county mental institutions, and private facilities.  An increase in the elderly population and a new generation of American who are less prejudiced toward those seeking mental help, are two reasons why psychiatric mental health technicians will still be in demand over the next ten years.

Psychologist – They are licensed mental health professionals trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental disorders by using individual, child, family, and group therapies.  There are many different types of psychologists who specialized in subjects linked to the health field.
Academic Requirements:  Training requirements depends on the psychology subspecialty.   A bachelor’s degree in psychology will qualify a person for assistant positions in research and administrations but advancement will be severely limited.
Salary: $21,900 to 66,800
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Psychologists’ practice in varied settings, depending upon their specialty.  Private practice psychologists have their own office with hours tailored to meet patients’ needs.  Doctoral and master’s level psychologists will be sought after, and a bachelor’s degree might not guarantee a positions.

Social Worker – These are people work with individuals, groups, and communities.  In a medical setting, they help patients and their families deal with problems related to physical, mental, or emotional illness and disability.  Working in community, social workers assist residents in finding employments or housing and help initiate community projects.
Academic Requirements:  An individual may qualify as a social worker at a number of educations level. A bachelor’s degree in social work(BSW) can be obtained from nearly 400 programs in United States.
Salary: $31,470
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: A social worker typically works a 40-hour week, with some of those hours on the weekend or during evening hours when clients are available.  Because the title of social worker encompasses so many duties, work settings will vary from person to person.  The mentally ill and disabled will continue to require social work service, and the growing elderly population will provide a giant client base for all social workers.

MORTUARY SCIENCE     (back to top)

Funeral Director/Mortician/Embalmer – They handle the administration of funeral homes.  They communicate with family members to learn what they desire in a funeral ceremony with regards to religious needs and final handling of remains of their loved one.
Academic Requirements:  Funeral directors must be licensed in all states expect Colorado.  The requirements vary from state to state, but most applicants should be 21 years of age, have two years of formal education, and serves at least one year of apprenticeship.
Salary: $41,110 to $52,130
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Funeral directors also play an important part in the comfort and counseling of family members during their time of grief.  The future of this career will be determined by population growth and consolidation in the industry.

NURSING     (back to top)

Homemaker/Home Health Aide – The homemaker home health aide care for elderly and disabled people in their own homes.  Often, clients just been released from a hospital or nursing home, or suffer from a debilitating illness that restricts independence.
Academic Requirements:  State training requirements for homemaker-home health aides are variable and some states require no formal training.  For cases where Medicare offers reimbursement, the federal government demands aides pass a 12-part competency exam that includes communication skills, basic knowledge of body function and changes, proper procedures in the event of an emergency, nutrition as well as other skills involving the care of ailing individuals.
Salary: $15,801
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Homemaker-home health aides are employed by home health care agencies that maintain a large pool of clients.  On a typical day, a home health aide may see five of more patients, and the length of time spent with each varies from an hour to an entire afternoon.  Due to lower earnings, a high turnover rate is likely to persist, contributing to the demand for experience home health aides. 

Licensed Practical Nurse – Provide bedside care to patients and perform a variety of other nursing duties.  Under direct supervision of registered nurses and physicians, LPNs assume the responsibilities of taking vital signs, observing patients and seeing to their comfort, collecting specimens for laboratory tests, administering medications, dressing wounds, starting IVs, and in some cases supervising nursing aides or assistants.
Academic Requirements:  Entrance to a practical nurse training program may require a high school diploma or its equivalent, although a diploma is definitely recommended.
Salary: $15,00 to $33,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The majority of licensed practical nurses are employed by large multi-bed facilities like hospitals and nursing homes.  If licensed practical burses leave the field at the same rate that practical nurses are licensed, the job market will remain stable and secure.

Nursing Aide/ Assistant Orderly – Provides basic patient care under direct nursing supervision.  Typical work activities include: attending to patients’ comfort, hygiene, and meals, assisting with patient mobility, checking temperatures and vital signs, helping patients’ keep room and bed tidy, and reporting any changes in patient demeanor or agility to nurses or doctors on duty.
Academic Requirements:  Training requirements for nursing aides vary by state and by institution.  Most states require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Nursing home often demand at least 75 hours of training as well as an acceptable score on a proficiency exam, usually within four months of employment.
Salary: $18,491
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Nursing aides and similar workers usually find employment in nursing homes and hospitals.  With the increasing need for long-term care, nursing homes will need experienced aides and will be willing to train new workers.

Registered Nurse – They care for patients, and promote their physical, mental, and social well being.  The duties performed by RNs include: monitoring patients statues and progress, assisting the physician in care and rehabilitation, administering medication, and advising patients and their families on preventive health care measures.
Academic Requirements:  Becoming a licensed registered nurse requires graduation from an accredited nursing school and the successful completion of a national licensing examination.
Salary: $44,840 to $64,360
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Three out of five RNs were employed in hospitals, while others may work in physicians’ offices, nursing homes, schools, or government agencies.  The majority of registered nurses are employed full time, with hours that may extend around the clock. 

Certified Nurse- Midwife – They are RNs with advanced training in midwifery that allows them to care for healthy expectant mothers and to provide a range of clinical services for women.  They examine women during pregnancy, manage labor, and deliver infants.
Academic Requirements:  Any registered nurse may seek certified nurse-midwife status.  A certification program involves up to 12 months of training, while a master’s program usually takes two years.
Salary: $44,840 to $70,100
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Certified nurse-midwives may choose to have a private practice or may be employed in hospitals, independent birthing centers, or clinics.  The established high rate of successful births at the hands of CNM's underscores their credibility and growing popularity.
 
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – This specialty, beginning in the late 1800s, was the first clinical nursing specialty that was established.  Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA's) administer more than 65% of 26 million anesthetics given to patients each year in the United States.
Academic Requirements:  Programs in nurse anesthesia are opened to licensed registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree and at least a year of nursing experience.  These programs, of which there are less than 100 in the United States, range in length from two to three years.
Salary: $94,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Certified registered nurse anesthetists work in every setting in which anesthesia is delivered: traditional hospital surgical suites and obstetrical delivery rooms, dentists’ offices, podiatrist, ophthalmologists, and plastic surgeons; ambulatory surgical centers; MCO’s; U.S. Military and Public Health Services; and Veterans Administrations medical facilities.

Clinical Nurse Specialist – These are registered nurses who specialize in a specific field of clinical practice.  Some common areas of specialization are cardiac rehabilitation, cardiology, community health, critical care, diabetes, emergency services, gerontology, maternity and child health, medical surgical health, neonatal health, oncology, pediatric cardiology, pediatrics, psychiatric-mental health, organ transplants, and trauma.
Academic Requirements:  Training programs for the different specialties may have different entrance requirements.  Most require a registered nursing license and some clinical experience in the chosen specialty.
Salary: $50,333 to $78,648
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Clinical nurse specialists work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, doctors’ offices, school, occupational settings, and even in independent practices.  They provides important skills that in the past only physicians specialists possessed.

Nurse Practitioner – They are registered nurses who provide patient health services to maintain health, prevent illness, or deal with acute or chronic health problems.  Much like clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners also specialize, but they do so by patient category rather than clinical setting.
Academic Requirements:  A licensed RN may or may not need hands-on experience to be accepted into a nurse practitioner training program.  Those accepted will usually receive a master’s or equivalent degree upon completion.
Salary: $50,000 to $80,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: The most common work settings for nurse practitioner are in hospital and doctors’ office.  Other possibilities may exist in community centers, public health departments, MCO’s, schools of nursing, women’s health center, clinics, and governmental agencies.  The outlook for advance training nurses is expected to be good in the years to come.

Flight Nurse - is responsible for the safety of patients prior to and during transport to medical care facilities. They perform tasks such as stabilizing critically ill and injured patients through life support means and measures. The position requires proficiency in critical care nursing and knowledge of the adaptations necessary for patient management in the aircraft and during flight. The Flight Nurse must also be familiar with aircraft operationg procedures and safety practices.
Academic Requirements: Bachelor's Degree
Salary: $33,000 - $55,000

Trauma Nurse - works to ensure that all injured patients and their families are provided complete physical and emotional care. They have additional knowledge and expertise in the complex care required of traumatically injured patients. Trauma nurses practice in all care delivery settings where injured patients are treated. Some of their basic duties include stabilizing patients and performing basic lifesaving strategies and techniques.
Academic Requirements: a two-year associate degree is required along with clinical experience in a hospital.
Salary: $35,000 - $55,000            

PHARMACY     (back to top)

Pharmacist – These are professionals who are experts in the science of medicine and the art of medication therapy. Pharmacists can either work in a hospital, community or home health care basis.
Academic Requirements: A license is required to practice pharmacy. Graduating from an accredited training program, and completing an internship in the field achieve this task. There are 82 institutions in the U.S. that offer a BS program in pharmacy.
Salary: $70,950
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Although most pharmacists work in community pharmacies or drug stores, they are also needed in hospital pharmacies, nursing homes and other similar facilities. Advances in pharmaceutical technology & diagnostic machinery will add to the number of drugs dispensed & needed in the U.S.

Pharmacy Technician/Aide – tend to function as support personnel for pharmacists. Duties can range from but are not limited to care and maintenance of the pharmacy, updating patient records, and maintaining the pharmacy’s stock .
Academic Requirements: The type of education required depends greatly on the types of task the individual is hired to perform. Aides tend to be hired for basic tasks and for that reason do not require any formal training however a technician usually need to attend a community college for training.
Salary: $16,300 to $19,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: These workers tend to be employed in the same environments as pharmacists. Over the next ten years, this field should grow rapidly as the demand for prescription medication increases and institutions attempt to contain costs.

Pharmacologists – specialize in the research & development of drugs to treat or prevent disease and prolong human life. While pharmacists prescribe medicine to patients, Pharmacologists work to develop newer and more efficient drugs.
Academic Requirements: Most have a PhD in pharmacology. After obtaining a BS  in the sciences, a student must attend  four to six more years of graduate schooling and research to receive their doctorate.
Salary: $59,000 to $72,000
Lifestyle & Outlook: Pharmacologists tend to be employed within a research laboratory environment either for a pharmaceutical company or a university. In the future Pharmacologists will be called upon to assume the role of keeping physicians, nurses and pharmacists about advances in the field. 

PUBLIC HEALTH     (back to top)

Biostatistician – professionals in this field apply mathematics & statistics to the compilation, analysis, and reporting of health-related information. They also apply their skills and expertise in sampling and statistical significance to assist heath investigators.
Academic Requirements: Generally a masters of doctorate degree is held. However a student with a Bachelor’s degree who can prove his/her knowledge in the field can also find work.
 
Environmental Scientist – professionals in this field plan, develop, implement and evaluate standards and systems to improve the quality of the physical environment as it affects health. They also manage environmental health problems and promote public awareness on the subject.
Academic Requirements: Education should begin with a BS in general science and later pursue a doctoral degree in environmental science or a related area. 

Epidemiologist – Professionals in this field analyze the occurrence & distribution of diseases within a population by determining the possible vector or mode of disease transmission & examining the efficiency of intervention programs. Work is available at universities, research organizations, federal/state & local health agencies, and large medical corporations.
Academic Requirements: Epidemiologists should have either a master's or doctoral degree.

Health Educator – they plan, implement, and evaluate the effects of educational programs  designed to support and modify health-related behaviors. They also help to design programs to educate the public and help to improve their health.
Academic Requirements: Entry-level positions will require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university that offers a health education or community health program. A master’s degree is suggested for gaining a supervisory position.

Public Health Nutritionist – those who work in public health are concerned with human nutrition and the effect of nutrients on a population’s health.
Academic Requirements: Undergraduate education in nutrition or dietetics is very helpful. A graduate education will open up more opportunities as well as offering a higher level of income possibilities. Many states offer licensing, and some jobs require that the individual is either already licensed or qualified to gain a license during the course of employment.

Disease Investigator/ Infection Control/ Communicable Disease Investigator- this position works closely with epidemiologists to determine the location, prevention and control of infectious diseases. They investigate possible hazards to the public and then work to educate and treat the community.
Academic Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is usually necessary for a position of this nature. Usually employers look for graduates with degrees in the biological sciences, public health, health education or a closely related field.

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING     (back to top)

Anatomist – investigate organisms and their structures to discover their form and how they work. They teach medical, dental, and allied health students about the structure and function of the human body.
Academic Requirements: To be a practicing anatomist requires a MD degree of a PhD. Those who hold doctorate degrees do so in specialty fields such as dentistry, veterinary, or osteopathic medicine.
Lifestyle & Outlook: They work primarily in the classroom of medical colleges and universities of in research laboratories. However some are employed in hospitals as physicians or work in veterinary clinics and laboratories. The work done by these professionals will remain important even in an age of radical technological advances and scientific breakthroughs, because anatomists provide the foundation of advanced medical techniques and practices. 

Biomedical Engineer – apply engineering techniques to solve biological and medical problems. They may design patient care equipment, such as dialysis machines and cardiac pacemakers, or develop equipment to measure various body functions.
Academic Requirements: Most students begin their training in a college-level engineering program. Students may then specialize in either Biomedical engineering or another engineering field with an emphasis on the biomedical sciences. Although it is not required for employment an MD degree is a large plus.
Salary: $47,850 to $62,600
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: These professionals may work in a variety of medical and technical settings. Most jobs are in hospitals, industrial manufacturing companies, private and university-level research facilities, medical schools, and the government.

Biomedical Equipment Technician – are the professionals trained to ensure that medical instruments and equipment function properly. They may work on diagnostic instruments such as ultrasound & electrocardiograph machines, life support equipment such as ventilators and dialysis machines, and virtually any other type of medical equipment found in a health care facility.
Academic Requirements: Training courses for biomedical equipment technicians are offered at certificate through bachelor’s degree levels. Many community colleges now offer degree programs and there is a certification exam offered by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering and Biomedical Technology (ICC).
Salary: $31,200
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: These professionals are often employed by hospitals, and large  medical centers. The work week is often a standard 40-hour work week. And as long a biomedical engineers continue to create  new instruments for the medical field, the demand will be great for this field of work in order to maintain their upkeep.

Food Scientist – a.k.a. food technologists apply science to the selection, preservation, processing, packaging, distribution, and use of safe, nutritious, and wholesome food.
Academic Requirements: Most jobs in food science require at least a four-year bachelor’s degree in food science or a related field. Many institutions offer masters and doctoral level programs for students interested in furthering their education or specializing within food science.
Salary: $52,160 to $79,820
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Many jobs are available through governmental agencies, such as the Department of Agriculture, Dept. of Health and Human Services, and even the World Health Organization or the United Nations. About 40% of the non-faculty scientists are employed  in private industry and food manufacturing, processing  and distribution sectors. Today, since the public is more health-conscious and nutritionally educated than ever, food scientists will likely have the best job prospects of all agricultural scientists.

Health Scientist – The term health scientist refers to all biological, medical, and non-biological scientists who work to promote health and study health issues.  These scientist are predominantly researchers, but may also teach of work in an industrial capacity.
Academic Requirements: Virtually every college and university offers bachelor’s degree programs in biological or related sciences.  While a bachelor’s degree qualifies an individual for employment in non-research, technical, and assistant capacities, all other positions are generally reserved for those with a master’s or doctoral degree.
Salary: $38,000 to $75,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Depending on the specific field in which a health scientist is employed, the work setting will vary.  Most health scientist work in laboratories or in academics.  Medical scientists may work in a hospital or in the drug industry, and some are licensed medical doctors. The health industry in particular will continue large-scale research projects – dealing with AIDS, genetics, and cancer.

Occupational Safety Specialist – The broad title of occupational safety specialist includes all occupational health and safety professionals who detect and identify accident-producing of hazardous conditions.  They evaluate and communicate the severity of the hazards and develop systems to control or eliminate them.
Academic Requirements: Colleges and universities all over the country offer programs that qualify graduates to enter the occupational safety field.  At  the undergraduate level, students in this field typically seek a degree in science or engineering. 
Salary: $41,330
Lifestyle & Future Outlook:  Occupational safety specialists work in a variety of settings.  Common employers are insurance companies, the government, construction and manufacturing outlets, and consulting firms.  The public’s interest in the environment will lead it to rely on occupational safety specialists to prevent industrial pollution and other irreversibly damaging  practices.

TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTATION     (back to top)

Cardiovascular Technician and Technologist – They are trained technical professionals who specialized in cardiac(heart) and vascular(blood vessel) functioning.  Most technicians and technologists can be found in one of the following special categories.
Academic Requirements: Technical positions encompassing basic EKG, Holter monitor, and stress tests maybe given to someone without previous formal training as on-the-job training offers the experience necessary.
Salary: $33,350
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Cardiovascular technologists and technicians are employed wherever cardiovascular testing performed.  EKG technicians specializing in Holter monitoring and stress testing will still be needed, but other health care workers will increasingly perform resting EKG’s.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer – Use high-frequency sounds waves(ultrasounds) to create body images that show the shape and compositions of body tissues,  these images assist physicians in diagnosing disease, injury, or other physical condition.
Academic Requirements: For those interested in a career in sonography, formal training is essential. Different facilities offer programs of varying lengths and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Accredits most of the programs in this field.
Salary: $43,950 to $46,190
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: While most diagnostic medical sonographers are employed in hospitals departments such as radiology, cardiology, obstetrics, and vascular surgery, they may also be hired to work in other location.

Dosimetrist – They work with an oncology team, and are skilled in the calculation and planning of radiation doses.  They use various tools to determine the correct dose, which is approved by the radiation oncologist before being administered to the patient.
Academic Requirements: Certification is available for current radiation therapy technologists or for individuals with a bachelor degree in science and a medical background.  Upon completion of any accredited program, the individual may take an exam offered by the Medical Dosimetrist Verification Board (MDCB) TO become a certified medical dosimetrist (CMD).
Salary: $34,498
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Dosimetrists can find work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers and medical research laboratories.  This is a fairly new career, and growth should be good in the future.

Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist – They operate electroencephalograph (EEG) machines to record electrical brain activity and diagnose brain disorders such as stroke and tumors.  These technologists obtain complete patient histories before any procedure, affix electrodes in the appropriate positions on the patient’s head, and monitor instrumentational feedback.
Academic Requirements: Depending on the employer, training on the job may be sufficient enough to qualify for most technologist positions.  Often, if one has had work experience in other areas of the hospital, on the job training is appropriate.
Salary: $26,610 to $79,820
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Some technologists perform administrative and office work in addition to their diagnostic duties.  The majority of elctroneurodiagnositc technologists are employed in hospital neurology departments. 

Perfusionist – A perfusionist operates and monitors equipment that handles the patient’s extracorporeal (outside of the body) circulation and respiratory systems.  They work closely with physicians to closely monitor a patient’s life support during a variety of medical procedures. 
Academic Requirements: Certificate programs in extra-corporeal technology usually require a bachelor’s degree.  Other prerequisites can range from having a background in medical terminology, respiratory therapy or nursing.  These programs usually last for 1-2 years.
Salary: $55,000 to $80,000
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Usually perfusionists are employed by hospitals and work closely with surgeons.  Their work week is standard, but occasionally they are called during emergency situations on weekends and nights.  There are supervisory positions in the field, and these salaries can exceed $80,000 with proper experience and education.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist – Under a physician’s supervision, these technologists use small amounts of radiopharmaceuticals introduced into the body via injection, inhalation, or ingestion, and aid in the diagnostic imaging of such organs as the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and brains. 
Academic Requirements: Those who have completed a formal training program fill most nuclear medicine technology positions. Training ranges form one to four years, and can lead to a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor degree.
Salary: $44,130
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: Close to 90% of all nuclear medicine technologists are employed in hospitals.  All others find positions in physician’s offices, imaging centers, and similar facilities. With advances in diagnostic science and the expanded use of radiopharmaceuticals, procedures are likely to be more expensive and may not appeal to cost-conscious hospitals and MCO’s.

Radiation Therapy Technologist – Also known as radiation therapists, comprise another subset of workers known as radiologic technologists.  These professionals administers doses of radiation to treat patients afflicted with cancer. 
Academic Requirements: Formal training programs are the most popular means of entrance into this field.  In 1995, there were 125 accredited radiation therapy programs offered in hospitals, colleges, and vocational-technical institutes.
Salary: $26,113
Lifestyle & Future Outlook: While most radiation therapists are employed in hospitals, many others work in clinics and research facilities. Experience workers with familiarity in other radiologic techniques will be the most successful in finding employment.