The world of health care includes passionate people making a real difference in other people's lives. And as important as these jobs are, there's a paycheck to match.
In this article, we'll explore high-paying medical jobs and how you can pursue them.
Plus, check out our resources to help you find more information and begin your health care career.
Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists are amazing professionals who ensure patients experience as little pain and discomfort as possible during surgery or childbirth.
They're pros at administering anesthesia, keeping a close eye on vital signs, and adjusting levels to keep everyone safe.
It's one of the highest-paying jobs, as they enjoy a pretty sweet average salary of $302,970 per year!
Becoming an anesthesiologist takes some serious dedication. You'll need to power through an undergraduate degree, tackle medical school, and complete an anesthesiology residency. It's a challenging journey, no doubt.
But this career is incredibly rewarding if you love helping people and enjoy working alongside surgeons.
Surgeon
Surgeons are skilled professionals who can perform life-saving procedures. They have a wide range of specialties, including cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and more.
On average, surgeons earn a high annual income of around $347,870.
To become a surgeon, you must complete a bachelor's degree, attend medical school, and undertake a specialized surgical residency program.
A career as a surgeon offers both challenges and fulfillment for those passionate about medicine and making a difference.
Physician
Physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions using many health services, such as wellness screenings, taking medical histories, requesting diagnostic tests, performing immunizations, and formulating personalized treatment plans.
Although it depends on their specialty and experience, physicians can rake in an average of $238,700 per year, with those working in physician offices earning the most.
To become a physician, you must complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, and residency training. All in all, we're talking about 11 or more years of hitting the books.
But it's a rewarding career path that offers both financial stability and the chance to do meaningful work.
Pediatrician
Pediatricians are the heroes who specialize in caring for children's health. They're medical professionals that play a big role in keeping our little ones happy and healthy. From diagnosing illnesses to providing preventive medical care, they're experts in all things kid-related.
When it comes to salaries, pediatricians earn a respectable income (the median salary is $203,240 per year).
To become a pediatrician, you must complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, and a pediatric residency program.
So, if you've got a soft spot for little ones and a passion for keeping them healthy and happy, becoming a pediatrician might be the perfect path for you.
Gynecologist
Gynecologists specialize in women's health and care for all aspects of the female reproductive system.
The job is high-paying, with salaries ranging from $141,090 to $291,390, depending on the health care industry (those working in outpatient care centers earn the most).
To become a gynecologist, you'll need to get yourself a bachelor's degree, head on over to medical school, and complete a four- or five-year gynecology residency program.
It's a bit of a journey, but if you're all about empowering women and taking care of their health, this could be your dream job!
Obstetrician
Obstetricians are doctors who help bring new life into the world. They handle everything from prenatal care to labor and delivery, all while ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby.
Obstetricians earn a high income, with an average annual salary of $277,320.
You must tackle some serious schooling to become an obstetrician. We're talking about a bachelor's degree, medical school, and a residency program in obstetrics.
But if you're passionate about delivering bundles of joy and making a difference in people's lives, it's a journey well worth taking.
Dentist
Dentists keep your oral health in tip-top shape! They perform tasks like routine cleanings, filling cavities, and examining teeth to diagnose disease.
Adult dentistry isn't the only option, either. You can become an orthodontist or pediatric dentist, among other specialties.
Dentists earn quite a nice income, with a typical salary of around $172,290 per year.
Future dentists must complete a bachelor's degree and dental school for a total of eight years of schooling.
If you're all about brightening people's days with a killer smile, this could be the career for you.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) bring their A-game to the health care field. This field includes various APRNs, including nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. They're like the dream team of specialized care!
Whether administering anesthesia, assisting with childbirth, or providing primary health care, they've got you covered.
As for the dough, APRNs bring in an average of $123,780 per year.
APRNs need an undergraduate degree in nursing, followed by a master's degree in nursing, and must fulfill the specific requirements of their chosen APRN specialty.
If you're all about making a difference in health care, becoming an APRN could be the fulfilling career path you've been searching for!
Podiatrist
Podiatrists are the go-to health care providers for everything foot-related, from treating common health conditions like foot and ankle pain to performing surgeries when necessary.
They earn around $145,840 per year. Not too shabby!
Start your journey in this career by completing a college degree in a science-related field, attending podiatric school, and completing a three-year residency program.
A podiatrist might be a wonderful career if you love helping people and have a passion for medicine.
Chief Nursing Officer
The role of a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is all about leading and shaping the nursing department in health care organizations.
The CNO is like the captain of the ship, overseeing patient care, setting standards, and collaborating with other health care professionals.
On average, they earn a salary of $101,340 per year.
To snag this position, you must obtain a bachelor's and a master's degree in nursing. Then, you'll have to work your way up the nursing ladder, gaining experience through the years and showing off your leadership skills.
How do you get a job in health care?
Looking to get a health care job? It starts with a solid education. Explore colleges with undergraduate or associate degree programs in science, health care administration, or nursing. These paths can open doors to entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, and health care facilities.
Whether you're into direct patient care or the administrative side, there are plenty of opportunities to kick-start your career.
You can explore roles as a health technologist, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a physician assistant, an optometrist, a speech-language pathologist, and so much more.
Experience is also important in the health care world. Consider volunteering or securing internships to gain hands-on knowledge.
And here's a pro tip: You can always further your education by specializing in specific fields through a master's degree or medical school down the line. That way, you can gain vital experience and even open up a private practice one day.
With the right educational background, experience, and a dash of passion, you'll be well on your way to landing a fulfilling job in the medical field.
What are the best medical schools?
Looking for the best medical schools out there? Here's a list of the top 5 contenders:
- Harvard University. It's all about prestige at Harvard! The school offers a ton of exciting learning opportunities and a supportive culture. Plus, it has combined degree programs to give you that extra edge.
- Johns Hopkins University. Known for its exceptional medical programs, Johns Hopkins is one of the nation's best education schools. The school is all about making medical breakthroughs.
- University of Pennsylvania. Penn is the place to be if you want a comprehensive education with access to top-notch facilities. The school is all about collaboration across multiple disciplines, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to connect with other brilliant minds.
- Columbia University. Get ready for some serious clinical training at Columbia! Plus, the school puts a lot of emphasis on community engagement and global health initiatives.
- Duke University. Duke offers a well-rounded medical education. You'll get to dive into research, develop your leadership skills, and explore some fantastic mentorship opportunities.
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