Healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing industries, with about 1.9 million job openings each year, driven by an aging population and advancements in medical technology.

Many believe that to enter high-paying healthcare professions, you need years of expensive education. Of course, advanced titles like doctors or surgeons require extensive training (around a decade in school). However, other healthcare professions and salaries are just as rewarding and sustainable, without requiring years in medical school.

With an associate degree or sometimes only a certification, aspiring healthcare professionals can enter the workforce quickly and begin making a meaningful impact. Many positions, some of which we’ll explore below, are evidence that a short investment into education can produce long-term career benefits; these benefits can mean high salaries, job stability, and opportunities for advancement.

Below are just some of the many healthcare professions that require minimal schooling, allowing individuals to achieve their professional and financial goals without years of study and student debt.

High-paying healthcare careers without medical school

While a traditional medical doctorate can take eight years or more, the list below explores healthcare professions and salaries that require only an associate degree or certification, and also that lead to a fulfilling, high-paying career.

1. Registered nurse (RN)

• Education Requirement: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Average Salary: $94,480 per year. Subject to vary based on state and experience.
• Job Outlook: 6% growth through 2032
• Why It’s a Great Choice: Registered nurses are vital for superb patient care, with a choice of work settings between hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare. With high demand and numerous advancement opportunities, RNs enjoy strong job security and competitive salaries.

2. Respiratory therapist

• Education Requirement: Associate Degree in Respiratory Care
• Average Salary: Around $80,340 per year.
• Job Outlook: 13% growth, which is much faster than average.
• Why It’s a Great Choice: Respiratory therapists specialize in treating patients with breathing disorders; examples include asthma and COPD. This career offers strong salary potential, high demand, and the ability to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home care.

3. Occupational therapy assistant (OTA)

• Education Requirement: Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistance
• Average Salary: Around $68,170 per year
• Job Outlook: 21% growth and is one of the fastest-growing careers.
• Why It’s a Great Choice: OTAs work alongside occupational therapists to help patients regain independence and autonomy in daily activities. With job demand increasing rapidly, this field offers excellent career stability and personal fulfillment.

4. Dental hygienist

• Education Requirement: Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
• Average Salary: Around $89,890 per year
• Job Outlook: 9% growth, faster than average for all occupations.
• Why It’s a Great Choice: Dental hygienists are essential to oral health, providing cleanings and preventive care. The profession offers flexible work schedules, strong earning potential, and a stable job market.

5. Funeral services

• Education Requirement: Associate Degree in Funeral Service
• Average Salary: Up to $85,000 per year, varying by state and experience
• Job Outlook: 4% growth, showing a steady demand for funeral service professionals.
• Why It’s a Great Choice: Funeral service professionals support families in their most challenging times and provide compassionate care and expert services. This career offers stability, meaningful work, and opportunities for specialization in areas such as embalming, funeral directing, and grief counseling.

How to choose the right healthcare career for you

Choosing a healthcare career involves considering several factors, including salary expectations, job outlook, and educational requirements, all requiring some self-reflection. Here are some key steps to finding the best fit:

• Evaluate Salary Potential and Job Outlook – Consider healthcare professions and salaries that offer strong growth and high earning potential.
• Assess Personal Interests – Determine whether you prefer direct patient interaction (e.g., nursing, OTAs) or technology-focused roles, like those in respiratory therapy.
• Consider Work-Life Balance – Some healthcare careers involve shift work, while others offer more traditional schedules.
• Research Educational Requirements – Understand the time and financial investment needed to enter each profession.

Goodwin University provides career assessment tools and advising resources to help students make informed decisions about their future.

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Why choose a shorter healthcare program?

For individuals looking to enter the workforce quickly while following a fulfilling and high-paying career, pursuing a shorter healthcare program would be ideal. These programs typically require only a few years of education. This way, students start earning sooner and minimize student debt. Luckily, most of these careers align with the projected growth of the overall industry, ensuring job security and providing chances to develop within the position.

Shorter healthcare programs also offer flexibility, making them an excellent choice for career changers, working professionals, and those seeking a balance between education and other responsibilities. Associate degree and certification programs often include hands-on training and internships to prepare graduates for immediate employment.

Healthcare careers that require less schooling still provide the chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Whether assisting in rehabilitation, performing diagnostic procedures, or providing essential patient care, these professionals play an important part in the healthcare system. With competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement, choosing a shorter healthcare program is an efficient and valuable path into healthcare professions.

High-paying healthcare professions for you!

The idea that a high-paying healthcare career requires years of expensive schooling is a myth. Entering high-paying healthcare professions can be done with only an associate degree or certification, often in two years or less. Students can enter the workforce quickly and affordably.

By choosing a shorter healthcare program, individuals can enjoy financial stability, job security, and the satisfaction of making a difference in patients’ lives. Whether you’re interested in nursing, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, or dental hygiene, there are numerous opportunities to thrive in high-paying healthcare professions.

Goodwin University offers all kinds of programs for healthcare professionals designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success. Explore our programs today and apply for a rewarding healthcare career.

Learn more about healthcare programs at Goodwin University to see if nursing is a good career choice for you.