Health care is the fastest-growing industry
in the United States, so careers in this cluster
are in high demand. The career pathways
include therapeutic and diagnostic services,
health information, support services, and
biotechnology research and development.
People who work in health sciences have a
variety of responsibilities. Those in therapeutic
services—physical therapists, doctors, nurses,
and others—provide care and treatment
through direct patient contact. People who work
in diagnostic services help detect, diagnose, and
treat diseases or injuries. Those who manage
medical data and patient information need
strong computer-science skills. Workers in
support services, such as dietary technicians
or hospital maintenance engineers, create a
healthful environment for health services.
Scientists in biotechnology study ways to
diagnose and treat human diseases.
The rapid growth of health-science
technology and a quickly aging population are
leading to a high demand for health-science
workers. Entry-level jobs in health information
require on-the-job training or certification. Most
other careers in this cluster require a four-year-
college degree or advanced college degree.
Some also require a license or certification.
About half of all health-science workers find
employment at hospitals. Many others find work
at clinics, pharmacies, nursing homes, public
health agencies, and private offices. Researchers in
biotechnology find work at universities, government
agencies, or major health organizations.
Acupuncturist
■
Anesthesiologist
Assistant
■
Art, Music, or Dance
Therapist
■
Athletic Trainer
■
Audiologist
■
Certified Nursing
Assistant
■
Chiropractor
■
Dentist
■
Hygienist
■
Dietician
■
Emergency
Medical Technician
■
Home
Health Aide
■
Licensed Practical
Nurse
■
Massage Therapist
■
Medical Assistant
■
Mortician
■
Occupational Therapist or Assistant
■
Optometrist
■
Paramedic
■
Pharmacist
■
Pharmacy Technician
■
Physical Therapist or Assistant
■
Physician
■
Physician’s Assistant
■
Psychologist
■
Registered Nurse
■
Respiratory Therapist
■
Social
Worker
■
Speech & Language
Pathologist
■
Veterinarian
Therapeutic Services
Pathways and
Career Options
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