The high-paying medical jobs with little schooling are Radiation Therapist, Nuclear Medicine Technologist, and Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. These positions provide excellent earning potential and offer various advantages that make them attractive. Also, pursuing a medical job with minimal schooling allows individuals to quickly enter the workforce and earn a competitive salary.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of healthcare support will grow by 16% from 2020 to 2030. The healthcare industry continues to grow rapidly and creates a high demand for skilled professionals across various roles. There will also be a continuous need for medical support staff, making these jobs a secure and stable option.
Well Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling
Are you seeking a lucrative career in healthcare without spending years in education? Many professions are offering excellent salaries and advancement opportunities.
Here are 10 high-paying medical jobs with little schooling:
Radiation therapists use high-energy radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. They work closely with oncologists and radiologists to develop treatment plans and ensure accurate delivery of radiation.
A radiation therapist must possess knowledge of radiation therapy techniques and equipment and attention to detail. Additionally, they need communication to support and educate patients and strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with the healthcare team.
Many employers require radiation therapists to have certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). However, some need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy.
The job outlook for radiation therapists is positive. The BLS projects that the employment of radiation therapists will growby 6% from 2021 to 2031. The BLS projects that there will be about 800 new jobs for radiation therapists between 2021 and 2031.
2. Nuclear Medicine Technologist (NMT)
Average Annual Salary: $75,660
A nuclear medicine technologist performs diagnostic imaging procedures using radioactive materials to help diagnose and treat various diseases. They use specialized equipment to capture images of organs and tissues and administer radioactive substances to patients.
Nuclear medicine technologists require skills in operating imaging equipment and knowledge of radiopharmaceuticals and radiation safety protocols.
Most NMTs complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology. Some employers hire candidates who have completed community college and technical school programs.
The job outlook for NMTs is positive. The BLS predicts that employment of nuclear medicine technologists will grow by 2% from 2021 to 2031. However, this role will create 1,000 new jobs yearly for the next 10 years.
3. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Average Annual Salary: $62 000
A diagnostic medical sonographer conducts imaging tests to determine what is happening in certain body parts. They also take the patient’s medical history and answer any questions you may have before the test.
Diagnostic medical sonographers must possess knowledge of anatomy, ultrasound equipment operation, and attention to detail. In addition, communication, problem-solving, manual dexterity, and continuous learning abilities are necessary.
A career as a diagnostic medical sonographer is an excellent choice because it is a high-paying medical job with little schooling. However, you will need additional education to pursue this career, like Job training, a postsecondary education, or an associate’s degree.
The job outlook for phlebotomists is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of phlebotomists will grow 10% from 2021 to 2031. The BLS projects that about 34,700 new jobs for phlebotomists will be created between 2021 and 2031.
4. Medical Equipment Repairer
Average Annual Salary: $58,820
A medical equipment repairer maintains, repairs, and calibrates medical equipment to ensure proper functioning in healthcare settings. They work with diagnostic imaging equipment; patient monitors, and surgical instruments.
Medical equipment repairers know mechanical systems and troubleshooting abilities to identify and resolve malfunctions. They also have proficiency in using specialized tools and diagnostic software.
Some medical equipment repairers acquire their skills through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Others pursue an associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology or a related field.
The job outlook for medical equipment repairers is positive. The BLS forecasts a 17% growth rate from 2021 to 2031 for this role. It will also create about 7,700 new jobs each year, on average, for the next 10 years.
Histology technicians prepare and process tissue samples for microscopic examination by pathologists. They perform tasks like specimen collection, tissue staining, and operating specialized equipment to ensure high-quality histology slides.
Histology technicians must know histological techniques, procedures, and attention to detail for accurate specimen processing.
Educational qualifications for histology technicians are an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate in histotechnology or a related field. Some employers offer on-the-job training programs for individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent.
The job outlook for histology technicians is good. This role has a growth rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031. The BLS projects that there will be about 1,700 new jobs for histology technicians each year over the next 10 years.
6. Medical Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $36,542
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to support the efficient operation of medical offices and clinics. They also take patient histories, measure vital signs, assist with examinations, schedule appointments, and manage medical records.
A medical assistant possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients. They also need strong organizational abilities to handle administrative tasks and proficiency in basic medical procedures like taking blood pressure and administering injections.
Employers require a postsecondary certificate or diploma from an accredited program medical assistant. Some states may have additional requirements or regulations for Medical Assistants.
The job outlook for medical assistants is positive. The BLS projects that the employment of medical assistants will grow 19% from 2021 to 2031. The BLS also predicts there will be about 227,100 new jobs for medical assistants every year over the next 10 years.
7. Dental Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $36,542
Dental assistants provide chairside assistance to dentists and perform various administrative tasks. They also prepare patients for treatments, sterilize equipment, take dental X-rays, and educate patients on oral hygiene practices.
A dental assistant must know dental procedures and instruments and be proficient in infection control and sterilization protocols. They must also have strong communication skills to interact with patients and dental professionals.
Some dental assistants receive on-the-job training, while others complete postsecondary programs or earn a diploma or certificate in dental assisting. Additionally, some states require dental assistants to obtain certification or licensure.
The job outlook for dental assistants is positive. The BLS projects that the employment of dental assistants will grow 19% from 2021 to 2031. This role will also create about 131,700 employment opportunities yearly for the next 10 years.
8. Pharmacy Technician
Average Annual Salary: $34,000
A pharmacy technician assists the pharmacist with everyday responsibilities, such as dispensing drugs to patients. Because they work with a lot of potent and federally controlled drugs, it demands that pharmacy technicians should have the ability to follow orders and communicate well with others attentively.
A high school diploma is the only traditional diploma required to become a pharmacy technician. However, you must first obtain a pharmacy technician qualification, which might take four months to two years.
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of pharmacy technicians will grow 5% from 2021 to 2031. It will also create about 43,500 openings each year, on average, over the next 10 years.
9. Phlebotomist
Average Annual Salary: $34,750
A phlebotomist is a medical technician who draws blood from patients. Following correct techniques for sample storage and keeping a sterile work environment and instruments are all part of phlebotomy.
Phlebotomists possess knowledge of proper blood collection techniques and proficiency in venipuncture and capillary puncture procedures. They also need attention to detail for labeling and documenting samples accurately and strong communication skills.
Educational qualifications for phlebotomists differ by state and employer. Some states and employers require the completion of a formal phlebotomy training program or certification.
The job outlook for phlebotomists is positive, with a 10% growth rate from 2021 to 2031. The BLS forecasts about 34,700 new jobs for this role every year for the next 10 years.
A medical secretary’s duties are comparable to those of other administrative jobs. It does, however, need a greater understanding of healthcare systems. Medical secretaries are responsible for scheduling appointments, answering phones, handling invoicing, and creating medical reports.
Medical Secretaries require excellent communication and organizational skills to handle administrative tasks effectively and interact with patients and healthcare professionals. They must be proficient in medical terminology, computer usage, and attention to detail.
There are no formal education requirements for a medical secretary post. However, a bachelor’s degree is necessary if you want to advance to the position of executive medical secretary. Various certificates, such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), will help you secure a job but are unnecessary.
The job outlook for medical secretaries is positive, with a growth rate of 8% from 2020 to 2030. It will also produce about 53,600 new jobs for medical secretaries created between 2020 and 2030.
What is the easiest medical field to get into?
Phlebotomy and Medical assistance are the easiest medical field to get into. They both have relatively low educational requirements and short training periods.
What is the shortest schooling for a medical career?
The shortest schooling for a medical career is a certificate program in medical assisting, which takes about 1 year to complete.
Short Schooling Medical Careers
The medical field offers many rewarding and essential careers that play a vital role in healthcare. These careers encompass many specialties and opportunities for individuals passionate about making a difference in people’s lives.
Here are 7 short schooling medical careers:
1. Clinical Administrator
A recognized medical degree is required for a job in clinical administration. The position entails providing professional leadership to medical workers and ensuring that all medical standards are met.
Aside from a medical degree, you must be registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). Experience in clinical health organization administration and certifications in health services management will offer you an edge.
Expertise in risk management and clinical governance may also be necessary. Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators and postgraduate research may be required for director-level posts.
2. Hospital Administration
The general tasks of hospital administrators include ensuring the effective delivery of medical and other services to patients. Job opportunities include higher-level positions and positions suitable for those just starting their careers.
While some people enter this area only through employment experience or traineeships, having a suitable Vocational Education and Training qualification should provide you an advantage in the job market.
Administrative roles at hospitals need exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities. You must be detail-oriented as well as courteous. Many positions require the collection and filing of information.
3. Medical Records Administrator
Medical records administrators often work in healthcare environments, managing patient records, responding to inquiries, billing, and data input.
The majority of jobs need knowledge of National Coding Standards and medical terminology. Employment as a Health Information Manager / Clinical Coder requires official degrees in that discipline and experience with the Patient Management System.
To be successful in this field, you must be detail-oriented and organized. You should also have strong communication and collaboration abilities.
4. Medical Secretary
The duties of a medical secretary have been discussed extensively on the subtopic: high-paying jobs with little schooling.
A career as a medical secretary may be perfect for you if you are highly organized and have excellent communication and time management abilities.
You’ll need to learn medical paperwork, processes, and terminology. Typical responsibilities include answering phones and incoming mail, managing patient records and filing systems, and scheduling appointments.
5. Program Manager
Program managers oversee healthcare initiatives, such as community allied health programs, to ensure that services are delivered most efficiently.
Most roles will need extensive expertise in a hospital setting and managerial experience. You will require experience in the program’s specialized healthcare profession. The median yearly compensation for program managers is very high.
6. Audiologist
You test and evaluate hearing as an audiologist. The profession includes comprehending, identifying, and treating hearing impairments. You help patients by supervising non-medical rehabilitation and the treatment of hearing loss and related communication difficulties.
To get started in this field, you must first earn an undergraduate degree and then a postgraduate qualification in audiology. Your undergraduate studies should be in health science, biological science, biomedicine, or a related field.
7. Optometrists
Optometrists diagnose visual disorders via exams. In addition, they recommend medications to address these difficulties. Prescription eyeglasses, a range of optical aids, vision therapy, and medicated eye drops are some available treatment options.
Optometrists may refer patients to specialists when required. You may work in a retail setting in a sales-related position. It would be best if you were detail-oriented, as part of your job is recording prescriptions and treatments. To work in this field, you must have an optometry degree.
What Do Health Care Jobs Pay?
The average salary for healthcare jobs in the United States is $75,920 per year. However, salaries differ according to the specific job title, level of education, and experience. For example, physicians and surgeons typically earn the highest salaries in healthcare, with an average annual salary of $208,000.
What is the best-paying job in health care?
Radiation therapy is the best-paying job, with an average annual salary of $80,570.
Entry-Level Medical Jobs
Entry-level medical positions abound in the healthcare sector. Many provide excellent chances for growth once you have your foot in the door.
Here are 10 top entry-level medical jobs:
Healthcare Administrator – $118,000
Medical Scientist – $101,000
Registered Nurse – $80,000
Occupational Therapy Assistant – $63,000
Physical Therapist Assistant – $59,000
Medical Laboratory Technician – $55,000
Surgical Technologist – $51,000
Licensed Practical Nurse – $50,000
Billing & Coding Specialist – $48,000
Health Information Technician – $44,000
Conclusion: High-Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling
The high-paying medical jobs with little schooling present a promising pathway for individuals seeking lucrative careers in the healthcare industry. These positions offer excellent earning potential without requiring extensive education and training. With a shorter educational qualification, individuals can enter the workforce sooner and start earning a competitive salary. Additionally, the job outlook for these roles is generally positive as the demand for healthcare professionals grows. Individuals can enjoy the benefits of financial stability, professional fulfillment, and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others.
Average Annual Salary: $80,570
Average Annual Salary: $54,180
Average Annual Salary: $32,653
Entry-level medical positions abound in the healthcare sector. Many provide excellent chances for growth once you have your foot in the door.
