Healthcare is one of the most stable and fastest-growing industries out there. But here’s some good news—you don’t need to be a doctor or spend a decade in school to build a solid career in this field. There are tons of healthcare jobs that pay well, offer great job security, and only require a certificate, associate degree, or even just on-the-job training.
Medical Assistant
What they do: Support physicians with both administrative and clinical tasks.
Education needed: Certificate or diploma from a medical assistant program.
Median salary: $42,000/year
Job outlook: 14% growth by 2032
Pharmacy Technician
What they do: Help pharmacists prepare medications, manage inventory, and interact with patients.
Education needed: High school diploma; certification may be required depending on the state.
Median salary: $40,300/year
Job outlook: 6% growth by 2032
Phlebotomist
What they do: Draw blood for tests, donations, or research.
Education needed: Phlebotomy training program and certification.
Median salary: $41,810/year
Job outlook: 8% growth by 2032
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
What they do: Provide basic care like bathing, feeding, and checking vital signs.
Education needed: State-approved training and certification.
Median salary: $38,130/year
Job outlook: 4% growth by 2032
Medical Records Specialist
What they do: Manage patient records and ensure accuracy in coding and billing.
Education needed: Certificate or associate degree in health information.
Median salary: $48,780/year
Job outlook: 8% growth by 2032
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
What they do: Respond to emergencies, provide first aid, and transport patients.
Education needed: Completion of an EMT program and licensure.
Median salary: $44,780/year
Job outlook: 5% growth by 2032
Surgical Technologist
What they do: Assist during surgical procedures, sterilize equipment, and prep operating rooms.
Education needed: Surgical tech training program.
Median salary: $60,370/year
Job outlook: 5% growth by 2032
Dental Assistant
What they do: Assist dentists with procedures and manage patient care.
Education needed: Certificate or diploma program in dental assisting.
Median salary: $46,540/year
Job outlook: 7% growth by 2032
Dialysis Technician
What they do: Operate dialysis machines and monitor patients during treatments.
Education needed: Certificate program and on-the-job training.
Median salary: $40,851/year
Job outlook: 11% growth by 2032
EKG Technician
What they do: Perform tests that record heart activity for diagnosis.
Education needed: EKG training and certification.
Median salary: $66,170/year
Job outlook: 2% growth by 2032
Medical Administrative Assistant
What they do: Handle scheduling, billing, and patient record management.
Education needed: Certificate program or on-the-job training.
Median salary: $38,000/year
Job outlook: 5% growth by 2032
Home Health Aide
What they do: Assist patients with daily living activities at home.
Education needed: On-the-job training; some states require certification.
Median salary: $30,000/year
Job outlook: 25% growth by 2032
Occupational Therapy Assistant
What they do: Help patients recover and improve the skills needed for daily living.
Education needed: Associate degree in occupational therapy assisting.
Median salary: $64,250/year
Job outlook: 23% growth by 2032
Physical Therapy Aide
What they do: Set up equipment, assist with therapy sessions, and handle clerical tasks.
Education needed: High school diploma; on-the-job training.
Median salary: $30,000/year
Job outlook: 20% growth by 2032
Behavioral Health Technician
What they do: Work with therapists to support patients with mental health or substance use issues.
Education needed: Certificate or associate degree in behavioral health.
Median salary: $38,000/year
Job outlook: Rapid growth with increasing mental health needs
Healthcare Careers Without a Medical Degree: At a Glance
| Job Title | Median Salary | Education Needed | Job Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $42,000 | Certificate or diploma | 14% |
| Pharmacy Technician | $40,300 | High school + certification | 6% |
| Phlebotomist | $41,810 | Phlebotomy training | 8% |
| CNA | $38,130 | CNA training and license | 4% |
| Medical Records Specialist | $48,780 | Certificate or associate degree | 8% |
| EMT | $44,780 | EMT training + license | 5% |
| Surgical Technologist | $60,370 | Training program | 5% |
| Dental Assistant | $46,540 | Certificate/diploma | 7% |
| Dialysis Technician | $40,851 | Certification | 11% |
| EKG Technician | $66,170 | EKG training | 2% |
| Medical Admin Assistant | $38,000 | Certificate or on-the-job | 5% |
| Home Health Aide | $30,000 | On-the-job training | 25% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $64,250 | Associate degree | 23% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $30,000 | On-the-job training | 20% |
| Behavioral Health Technician | $38,000 | Certificate or associate degree | High |
The Bottom Line
Healthcare is full of opportunities that don’t require a medical degree. Whether you want to work hands-on with patients or prefer a more administrative role, there’s a path that can fit your goals, skillset, and timeline. Many of these roles also serve as stepping stones for more advanced careers if you ever decide to continue your education.
