6 Best Healthcare Degrees of 2023 for a Promising Career

In today's ever-evolving world, healthcare remains a field of immense importance and endless opportunities. As technology advances and the demand for quality healthcare services continues to grow, pursuing a healthcare degree has become increasingly attractive for those seeking a promising career path.

Whether your passion lies in direct patient care, medical technology, clinical research, personnel or facility management, or even the maintenance of medical records, there is a specialization that can align with your interests and abilities. By acquiring the knowledge, skills, and expertise gained through these degrees, you can position yourself at the forefront of the healthcare industry, playing a crucial role in improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

This article will outline several healthcare degree programs that can pave the way for a prosperous and fulfilling career.

1. Applied Behavioral Analysis

ABA is a field of study that focuses on understanding and applying the principles of behavior to bring about positive changes in individuals' lives, particularly those with developmental disabilities or behavioral disorders.

An ABA degree equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to assess, design, and implement behavioral interventions that promote social, cognitive, and adaptive skills in individuals. This degree program emphasizes evidence-based practices and data-driven decision-making to achieve meaningful outcomes.

People interested in pursuing an ABA degree have multiple options, with traditional on-campus programs offered by reputable institutions and online ABA programs catering to those seeking flexibility and convenience. An online ABA program provides the same comprehensive curriculum and allows students to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills from the comfort of their homes. The online format offers flexibility, enabling individuals to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.

2. Healthcare Administration and Management

A healthcare administration and management degree offers specialized education in business and financial management, strategic planning, public relations, human resources, policy implementation, and adherence to health laws and regulations. The program equips students with the necessary skills for pursuing high-demand and financially rewarding careers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), projected job growth for health services managers between 2021 and 2031 is higher than the average, standing at 28 percent, while the median salary is $101,340.

3. Nutritional Sciences

If you are committed to promoting optimal health through balanced nutrition and aspire to pursue a career as a nutritionist or dietitian, acquiring a degree in nutritional sciences is an essential step toward achieving your goals.

Your studies will encompass the evaluation of the health benefits associated with different foods and the exploration of how dietary needs evolve across various life stages. Moreover, specialized courses will train you to provide effective nutritional counseling to clients, equipping you with the skills to guide individuals toward optimal dietary habits.

By pursuing a degree in nutritional sciences, you will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in nutrition and positively impact individuals' health through evidence-based dietary guidance.

4. Medical Coding

If you possess strong attention to detail, computer proficiency, and an interest in working in a medical environment, pursuing a degree in medical coding may align well with your aspirations.

The coursework for this program typically commences with foundational classes that familiarize students with healthcare terminology and fundamental knowledge regarding procedures, treatments, and medications. Furthermore, you will delve into the classifications and codes utilized for documenting medical procedures, gaining an understanding of the corresponding recording systems.

Additionally, your program will likely include lessons focusing on patient privacy and ethical considerations within the healthcare industry. Upon completing your program, you will be required to take the Certified Coding Associate exam.

Medical coders typically find employment in healthcare offices or hospitals, although some may have the opportunity to work remotely from home. A notable career path for individuals holding this degree is that of medical records and health information technicians, offering an average annual salary of $46,660 and a projected growth rate of 7%, according to BLS.

5. Health Informatics

The advent of technology has provided healthcare facilities, companies, and individuals with unprecedented access to a wealth of medical data. Effectively utilizing this data necessitates the expertise of trained professionals who can efficiently store, organize, and retrieve information.

The curriculum for a health informatics program encompasses a blend of business and healthcare courses. On the business front, you can expect to study subjects such as information technology, spreadsheet usage, accounting principles, and management techniques. To equip you for employment within the healthcare system, your coursework will likely cover anatomy, medical terminology, medical coding, pharmacology, health insurance policies, privacy laws, and public health concepts.

Upon completing your degree, you may pursue a career as an informatics specialist within a healthcare organization. You can also find employment with insurance companies, healthcare technology firms, or pharmaceutical companies.

6. Public Health

While some individuals aspire to assist patients on an individual level, others possess a passion for enhancing health outcomes on a broader scale within communities. If the latter resonates with your goals and aspirations, pursuing a degree in public health may be an excellent fit for you.

As a student in this program, you will delve into the study of wellness and healthcare practices across the globe, with a potential emphasis on promoting equitable access to medical care. Courses encompassing health education and program management will equip you with essential tools to enhance the well-being of communities. These courses also offer nurse sponsorships, making it easier for many to advance their career in healthcare. 

Upon completing your studies, you will be presented with many career paths. These may include roles as a health educator within a public health department, a wellness director within a corporate setting, a program director for an international agency, or a research associate focusing on clinical trials.

Wrapping Up

The healthcare sector offers diverse and promising career opportunities for individuals interested in making a positive impact on the world. Whether through applied behavioral analysis, nutritional sciences, healthcare administration and management, medical coding, health informatics, or public health, specialized degree programs are available to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills that pave the way toward a successful career. These careers offer attractive salaries, steady job growth, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.