Health Science

Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to medicine and biology to design and develop medical devices, diagnostic equipment, prosthetics, and pharmaceutical therapies. They work in research labs, hospitals, and medical device companies, often collaborating with physicians and scientists. The BLS reports a median salary of $99,550 with 5% projected growth. A bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering is required; a master's or PhD is preferred for research and leadership roles.

Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide preventive care, perform restorative procedures, and may specialize in areas like orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry. The BLS reports a median salary of $160,370 with 4% projected growth. A Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and state licensure are required, representing 8+ years of post-secondary education.

Emergency medical technicians and paramedics provide prehospital emergency care, responding to 911 calls for medical emergencies, trauma, and disaster situations. Paramedics perform advanced procedures including intubation, IV medication administration, and cardiac monitoring, while EMTs provide basic life support. The BLS reports a median salary of $37,760 with 5% projected growth. EMT-Basic certification requires about 150 hours of training; paramedic certification requires 1,200-1,800 hours plus an associate degree in many states.

Clinical laboratory technicians collect specimens and perform tests on blood, urine, tissue, and other body fluids using automated equipment and manual techniques. They analyze results for abnormalities and report findings to physicians for diagnosis. The BLS reports a median salary of $57,380 with 5% projected growth. An associate degree in clinical laboratory science is required for technicians, while technologists typically need a bachelor's degree. ASCP certification is widely expected.

Pharmacists dispense prescription medications, counsel patients on proper drug use and potential side effects, and collaborate with healthcare providers to optimize therapeutic outcomes. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinical settings. The BLS reports a median salary of $132,750 with -2% projected decline as the market reaches saturation despite high demand. A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and state licensure are required, representing 6-8 years of post-secondary education.

Physical therapists diagnose and treat individuals with conditions that limit their ability to move and perform daily activities. They develop personalized treatment plans involving therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities like ultrasound and electrical stimulation. The BLS reports a median salary of $99,710 with 14% projected growth, much faster than average. A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and state licensure are required.

Physicians diagnose and treat injuries and diseases, prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests, and counsel patients on preventive care. They complete four years of medical school plus 3-7 years of residency training, with many pursuing further fellowship specialization. The BLS reports a median salary of $229,300, varying widely by specialty — primary care averages around $240,000 while surgeons and specialists can earn $350,000-$500,000+. Growth is projected at 3%. An MD or DO degree and state licensure are required.

Epidemiologists and public health analysts investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury in populations, developing strategies for prevention and control. They design studies, analyze health data, respond to outbreaks, and advise policymakers on public health interventions. The BLS reports a median salary of $78,830 with 27% projected growth, much faster than average, driven by pandemic preparedness and data-driven health initiatives. A master's degree in public health (MPH) or epidemiology is typically required.

Radiologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases using medical imaging technologies including X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. They interpret images, perform image-guided procedures, and consult with referring physicians. The BLS reports median physician specialist salaries around $350,000-$450,000+ for radiologists. Growth is projected at 3%. Becoming a radiologist requires a medical degree, a 5-year radiology residency, and optional fellowship training — representing 13+ years of post-secondary education.

Registered nurses assess patient health, administer medications and treatments, coordinate care plans, and educate patients and families about managing illnesses. They work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and home health settings, with specialization options in areas like ICU, pediatrics, or oncology. The BLS reports a median salary of $81,220 with 6% projected growth. An ADN or BSN is required, and RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure.