In recent years there has been a rise in demand for healthcare specialists, particularly those with training that differs from what doctors and nurses receive. In fact, many of these healthcare specialists are some of the highest paid jobs in the industry and require only a bachelor’s degree.

 

If you’re considering a healthcare major, here are some of the undergraduate degree programs to consider:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Cardiorespiratory Care
• Emergency Medical Services
• Professional Health Sciences
• Radiologic Sciences
• Speech and Hearing Sciences

 

Keep scrolling to learn more about each healthcare degree program! 

 

Biomedical Sciences- Students who major in biomedical sciences study biology as it relates to human health, disease, and medicine. A bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences prepares graduates to enter the workforce as science writers, pharmaceutical sales representatives, biological consultants, or numerous other science-based careers.

Cardiorespiratory Care- This major prepares students to become advanced respiratory therapists. Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat, and care for patients with a range of breathing issues. Respiratory therapists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, community health centers, rehabilitation centers, private practice, or in academic institutions.

Emergency Medical Services- A degree in emergency medical services teaches students the skills needed for careers in pre-hospital medicine. Graduates are primed to start careers as paramedics, EMTs, or in other emergency response roles.

Professional Health Sciences- The professional health sciences program provides broad information in both health related disciplines as well as health informatics and management. Graduates from this program have skills needed to be successful in administrative positions in hospitals, long-term care facilities, health insurance companies, and physicians’ offices. Graduates also pursue careers as pharmaceutical reps, medical supply representatives, and hospital managers’ assistants.

Radiologic Sciences- A degree in radiologic sciences prepares students to become radiographers. Radiographers operate various types of medical scanning equipment and guide patients through the scanning process to ensure quality diagnostic images are produced.

Speech and Hearing Sciences- The speech and hearing sciences degree provides a foundation for students wishing to pursue careers as speech-language pathologists or audiologists. Speech-language pathologists evaluate, treat, and prevent disorders in speech, language, fluency, voice, and swallowing. Audiologists identify, evaluate, and manage hearing, balance, and auditory processing disorders. These careers require a degree beyond the bachelor’s.

Many of the degrees listed lay the foundation for advanced degrees in occupational therapy, physical therapy, or physician assistant studies. If you’re considering a career in these fields, be sure to talk to an advisor to make sure you choose the right undergraduate healthcare major. If you’re unsure of which healthcare career is right for you, they will also be able to help narrow down options or suggest courses where you can explore your interests.