You started in this field with purpose. But if your mission feels buried under long hours and stress, it’s time to reclaim it. The work is meaningful, but it’s time for your career to support your life as well as your patients.
If you’re ready to move ahead with your career, there’s a more sustainable path. You can serve others while building a satisfying life for yourself and your family.
A career in allied health might be your next move. Explore roles that honor your skills and offer real opportunities to grow. The kind that respects your ambition and your energy. Below, you’ll see every job title in the allied health field, and the paths to get you there.
What Is Allied Health?
Allied health refers to a broad group of healthcare roles that aren’t nursing, medicine, or pharmacy, but are just as essential. They include roles like health information technicians, cardiovascular technologists, and clinical social workers. When you bolster a career in allied health with a master’s degree in the field, you’ll gain what it takes to climb the ranks to leadership roles.
83 Allied Health Careers
BLS data shows salaries across allied health vary from $30K to $150K. Here’s how 83 careers stack up. If you’re stuck under the salary cap ceiling, this chart offers a fast glance at roles that reward your pivot. Reimagine your future in healthcare. Become a leader and do work that sustains both you and others.
Anesthesia Technician
Supports anesthesiologists by preparing equipment and patients for surgery. A fast-paced role for detail-oriented pros who enjoy working in surgical settings.
- Salary: $$
Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree - Time to entry: 1–2 years
Anesthesiologist Assistant
Works for an anesthesiologist to deliver anesthesia care. Combines technical skill with patient interaction.
- Salary: $$$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Art Therapist
Uses art as a medium for psychological healing and expression in various care settings. Great for empathetic creatives.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Athletic Trainer
Treats sports injuries, often in schools or athletic teams. Expect long hours and deep rewards.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Audiologist
Diagnoses and treats hearing and balance issues. Commonly works with aging adults or children in clinics or hospitals.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree (AuD)
- Time to entry: 7–8 years
Autotransfusionist
Operates equipment that recycles a patient’s blood during surgery. Vital and technical.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2–4 years
Cardiac Sonographer
Performs imaging tests to assess heart function. Requires strong knowledge of anatomy.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree or Certificate
- Time to entry: 2 years
Cardiovascular Technologist
Assists with heart-related diagnostic tests. Often works in catheterization labs or EKG testing.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Cath Lab Tech / Interventional Radiology Tech
Supports interventional radiologists during minimally invasive procedures. Ideal for those drawn to technology and fast-paced environments.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree or Certification
- Time to entry: 2–3 years
Clinical Psychologist
Treats mental health disorders through diagnosis and therapy. Often works in private practice or hospitals.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree
- Time to entry: 8–10 years
Clinical Social Worker
Provides therapy for individuals and families. Works in hospitals, clinics, or social service agencies.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Communicative Disorders Assistant
Assists speech-language pathologists with therapeutic practices.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Community Health Worker
Acts as a bridge between healthcare systems and local communities. Provides access to care.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Cytogenetic Technologist
Analyzes chromosomes for genetic diseases. Works mostly in labs with a focus on analysis.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Dental Assistant
Prepares patients, sterilizes instruments, and assists during procedures. Often, the first step into dental healthcare.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Dental Hygienist
Cleans teeth, examines oral health, and educates patients on hygiene practices. Often works in dental clinics.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Dental Therapist
Provides preventive and basic restorative dental care under a dentist’s supervision, often in underserved communities.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4–6 years
Denturist / Clinical Dental Technician
Designs, constructs, and fits dentures for patients. Blends artistry with clinical knowledge.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Diploma or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2–3 years
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Performs ultrasound imaging to help diagnose medical conditions. Works with patients in hospitals or imaging centers.
Dietitian / Nutritionist
Develops meal plans to improve health outcomes. Provides dietary and nutrition services in hospitals, schools, or private practice.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree (often with certification)
- Time to entry: 4 years
Dosimetrist / Medical Dosimetrist
Calculates radiation doses for cancer treatment. Works in oncology departments alongside physicists and oncologists.
EKG (ECG) Technician
Monitors heart activity with electrocardiogram equipment. Offers a short training timeline.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Provides life-saving care at the scene of emergencies. A critical role for those who thrive in life-saving settings.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Emergency Paramedic (Basic, Intermediate, Critical Care)
Delivers advanced life support in critical situations. Requires more training than EMTs and handles higher acuity care.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Postsecondary Nondegree Award
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Exercise Physiologist
Develops fitness programs to help patients recover from chronic diseases.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Genetic Counselor
Assesses risk for inherited conditions. Helps patients understand genetic testing results.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Guidance Counselor
Supports students in academic, career, and social development. Often employed in schools.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6 years
Hemodialysis Technician
Operates machines that remove waste products from patients’ blood with kidney failure. Vital support in nephrology clinics.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Histology Technician
Prepares tissue samples for microscopic examination. Works in labs supporting pathologists.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Histotechnologist
Performs complex tissue analysis to help diagnose disease. Requires deeper expertise than a histology technician.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Home Health and Personal Care Aide
Provides basic care, companionship, and assistance with daily activities in patients’ homes.
- Salary: $$
- Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Time to entry: <1 year
Lactation Consultant
Advises new parents on breastfeeding and infant nutrition. Works in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Certificate + Nursing or Allied Health Background
- Time to entry: 1–2 years post-credential
Licensed Practical / Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)
Provides basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors.
Massage Therapist
Manipulates soft tissue to promote wellness. Often self-employed or clinic-based.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Medical Assistant
Handles administrative tasks in outpatient settings. A supportive first step for those getting started in allied health.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Medical Coder
Assigns standardized billing codes to procedures.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Medical and Health Services Manager
Ensures that care is efficient and compliant with the law in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: <5 years
Medical Illustrator / Animator
Creates visuals for medical education and research. Combines science with design expertise.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree + Specialized Training
- Time to entry: 4–6 years
Medical Laboratory Scientist / Technologist
Performs diagnostic tests on tissue and body fluids. Works in hospitals and reference labs.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Medical Laboratory Technician
Assists technologists in running lab tests and analyzing specimens. A hands-on technical role.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Medical Physicist
Applies physics to diagnose and treat diseases, especially in radiation therapy and imaging.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree
- Time to entry: 8+ years
Medical Transcriptionist
Transcribes dictated medical reports. Requires strong focus and typing accuracy.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Music Therapist
Uses music to improve cognitive and physical health. Often works in rehab centers or hospitals.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree + Certification
- Time to entry: 4 years
Neurodiagnostic Technologist (EEG, EMG)
Conducts nerve function tests like EEGs and EMGs. Supports the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Neurophysiologist
Studies the brain and nervous system function. Often involved in research or intraoperative monitoring.
- Salary: $$$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree
- Time to entry: 8+ years
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Administers radioactive drugs for imaging or treatment. Works in hospital radiology departments.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Delivers anesthesia and monitors patient recovery during surgeries. One of the highest-paid nursing roles.
- Salary: $$$$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–8 years
Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Provides prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. Supports women’s reproductive health.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Diagnoses and treats illnesses. Prescribes medications and offers preventive care. Often works independently.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–8 years
Nursing Assistant / Aide
Provides basic patient care like bathing, feeding, and vital signs monitoring.
- Salary: $$
- Education: High School + State-approved Program
- Time to entry: <1 year
Occupational Therapist (OT)
Helps patients regain daily living skills after illness or injury. Common in rehab settings.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
Supports occupational therapists by implementing treatment plans. A rapidly growing field with strong demand for compassionate professionals.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Optician
Fits eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions from optometrists or ophthalmologists.
- Salary: $$
- Education: High School + On-the-job or Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Optometrist
Examines eyes for vision problems and prescribes corrective lenses. Can detect eye-related diseases.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree (OD)
- Time to entry: 7–8 years
Orientation & Mobility Specialist
Teaches visually impaired clients to navigate environments safely using assistive techniques.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree + Certification
- Time to entry: 4–5 years
Oral Health Therapist
Combines dental hygiene and therapy services, particularly in underserved areas.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Orthoptist
Specializes in diagnosing and treating eye movement disorders. Often works with ophthalmologists.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Bachelor’s + Orthoptics Program
- Time to entry: 4–6 years
Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician / Assistant
Makes and repairs devices like braces and prosthetics.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree or Certificate
- Time to entry: 2 years
Orthotist and Prosthetist
Designs and fits supportive devices for patients with musculoskeletal issues.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6 years
Paramedic Practitioner
Delivers advanced emergency care, sometimes with expanded responsibilities in rural settings.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certification or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Pedorthist
Designs, makes, and fits footwear to alleviate foot conditions.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Perfusionist / Cardiovascular Perfusionist
Operates heart-lung machines during cardiac surgery. High-stakes, high-reward role in surgical teams.
- Salary: $$$$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree + Certification
- Time to entry: 5–6 years
Pharmacist
Dispenses prescriptions, provides drug therapy advice, and ensures medication safety.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree (PharmD)
- Time to entry: 6–8 years
Pharmacy Technician
Helps pharmacists dispense medication. Common entry role in retail and hospital pharmacies.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: <1 year
Phlebotomist
Draws blood for tests, transfusions, or donations. Requires strong interpersonal skills.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate
- Time to entry: <1 year
Physical Therapist (PT)
Helps patients improve movement and manage pain through rehabilitative exercises.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Doctoral Degree (DPT)
- Time to entry: 7 years
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Assists PTs in treatment sessions. In-demand role in clinics and rehab centers.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Polysomnographic Technologist (Sleep Tech)
Monitors sleep patterns for patients with sleep disorders.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Public Health Nurse
Focuses on population health. Works in government, schools, or community clinics.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
- Time to entry: 4 years
Radiation Therapist / Radiotherapist
Administers radiation treatment to cancer patients. Technical and patient-focused.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Radiologic Technologist / Radiographer (CT, MRI, Interventional, Mammographer)
Performs diagnostic imaging procedures. Specializes in one or more imaging modalities.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Recreational Therapist
Uses recreational activities to support rehabilitation.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4 years
Renal Dialysis Technologist
Operates dialysis equipment for patients undergoing treatment for kidney failure.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 1–2 years
Respiratory Therapist
Treats patients with breathing difficulties. Works with ventilators, oxygen therapy, and critical care.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Specialist in Blood Banking Technology
Focuses on transfusion medicine and blood product compatibility. Highly specialized lab role.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s + Certification
- Time to entry: 4–5 years
Social Worker, Clinical
Supports individuals and families through counseling and advocacy.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 4–6 years
Sonographer
Captures internal images using ultrasound equipment. Works in OB/GYN, cardiac, or general imaging.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)
Treats communication disorders in patients of all ages. Works in schools, clinics, and hospitals.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Master’s Degree
- Time to entry: 6–7 years
Sterile Processing Technician
Sterilizes surgical instruments. Essential for infection control in hospitals.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Certificate or Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: <1 year
Surgical Assistant
Supports surgeons during procedures by handling instruments, suturing wounds, and ensuring sterile conditions.
- Salary: $$$
- Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree + Certification
- Time to entry: 2–4 years
Surgical Technologist / Technician
Prepares operating rooms and assists during surgeries. Focuses on maintaining a sterile environment.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Associate’s Degree
- Time to entry: 2 years
Vision Rehab Therapist (Orientation/Mobility Specialist)
Trains visually impaired individuals to navigate environments safely and confidently. Empowers clients through assistive techniques and independence-building strategies.
- Salary: $$
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree + Certification
- Time to entry: 4–5 years
Ready for a future where your well-being and your career can grow together? Antioch University’s MS in Allied Health is built for working adults ready to lead change in healthcare. Step into a future with more possibilities. Learn more at Antioch.edu
A Master’s Degree: Taking the Next Step
With a master’s degree, you boost your leadership opportunities in allied health. Your degree will equip you with the skills and compassion it takes to make a difference in the in-demand fields of healthcare and wellness.
Antioch offers allied health master’s degrees that can help you achieve your goals:
- MS in Allied Health, Exercise and Health Science: Your degree will equip you to make meaningful contributions in the growing fields of health and wellness. You’ll graduate ready to work in a clinical, academic, community, or policy setting.
- MS in Allied Health, Healthcare Administration: You’ll gain skills in healthcare management, policy, and finance, equipping you for leadership roles in hospitals, non-profits, public health agencies, and policy institutions.
Where to Learn More and Start Your Journey
You’re ready to take the next step, but it has to fit your life. Antioch University offers flexible, accredited programs built for working professionals in healthcare.
Whether you’re shifting from direct care or building on your undergraduate experience, Antioch can help you grow your career. The programs are built to help future allied health professionals get started.
| Program | Best For | Link |
| MS in Allied Health | Career launch, pivoters, or advancement | MS in Allied Health |
| BA in Psychology | Entry-level start or degree completion | BA in Psychology |
| Certificates in Addiction Studies, Couple and Family Therapy, and Perinatal Mental Health | Specialized skill-building or quick pivots | Certificate Programs |
| Low-residency or Online Program Formats | Working professionals needing flexibility | Low-residency and Online Programs |
M.S. in Allied Health
Take the next step toward a career that gives back and moves you forward. Antioch University’s MS in Allied Health is built for working adults ready to lead change in healthcare without putting their lives on hold. The classes are flexible, and the outcomes are powerful.
