Driven but don’t have the time or patience for the traditional four year college education? There are plenty of great, high-paying healthcare careers that can be yours in two years or less! Check out these great healthcare careers!
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technician: While typically working in drugstores and hospitals, pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing prescribed medications. Training programs may take a few months up to two years. This primarily depends on if you earn an associate degree or a certificate. While programs exist at community colleges or technical schools, there are also an abundance of online programs. In only two years or even a few short months, you will be in a profession earning a median annual income of $33,950 while making a difference in people’s lives. Pro tip: If you eventually want to be a pharmacist, consider an associate degree program. Between completing prerequisites for your future degree and having on-the-job experience, you will be a strong candidate for pharmacy school.
Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory Therapist: From infants to the elderly, respiratory therapists work with all walks of life. They help patients who have trouble breathing. By earning a two year associate degree, you will be prepared to work in this hot profession. Not only is the average salary $62,810, but the projected growth rate is 23% over the next 10 years! Pro tip: Many programs exist to bridge you from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree. In fact, the AARC Human Resources Survey found each increase in academic degree led to an annual pay increase of at least $3,000!
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational Therapy Assistant: This dynamic profession helps patients develop and maintain skills needed for daily living. In just two short years you’ll earn your associates degree in occupational therapy. Not bad to have the skills you need to join this growing profession! OTA’s are projected to see a whopping 35% job growth rate over the next 10 years. You will be rewarded for your hard work and dedication. The average annual income for occupational therapy assistants is over $61,000! Pro tip: If you develop a passion for occupational therapy, you can continue your education and eventually earn a master’s or doctorate degree in occupational therapy.
Physical Therapy Assistant
Physical Therapy Assistant: Working with a physical therapist, physical therapy assistants treat patients with physical injuries to improve function and movement. By earning a Physical Therapy Associate Degree, you will enter a rewarding field helping people live productive, active lives. Not only that, you can have a steady job earning on average $58,790 annually. With an anticipated job growth of 33% over the next ten years, you will be in high demand. Pro-tip: Through years of hands-on experience, you may find yourself wanting to become a physical therapist. Rest assured, bridging programs exist to take you from an assistant to a doctor of physical therapy (DPT).