The Best Medical Careers That Aren't MD or RN

What makes a career in the medical field fulfilling? 

There’s a long list of reasons to choose a healthcare profession. Some of the universally recognized reasons are: 

• The opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives by improving their health and well-being.

• The constant learning and advancement in medical knowledge ensure that the field remains intellectually stimulating.

• Healthcare professions often provide job stability and a sense of job security.

• The close-knit teamwork and collaboration among healthcare professionals foster a supportive and fulfilling work environment.

What are some of the best medical careers? Here’s our short list:

Physical Therapist (PT)

Median Salary: $97,720
Expected Job Growth: 16.9% by 2031

Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries and improve their mobility. With a focus on rehabilitation, PTs work closely with patients to design personalized treatment plans and guide them through exercises and therapies. 

From outpatient clinics to hospital departments such as rehabilitation centers and intensive care units, physical therapists have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings. They may also find themselves in unexpected environments, such as schools, sports facilities, or even research and academic institutions, shaping the future of physical therapy. 

Whether they're helping athletes get back in the game or working with students with disabilities, physical therapists find fulfillment in utilizing their expertise to improve people's mobility, well-being, and overall quality of life.

Physical Therapy Program 

To become a physical therapist, you must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and obtain a license. Physical therapy programs typically take two to three years. 

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Median Salary: $93,180
Expected Job Growth: 14% by 2031

Occupational therapists help individuals regain independence and functionality in their daily lives. They assist patients in developing or relearning skills necessary for activities like work, self-care, and leisure. 

Occupational therapists shape lives through customized interventions that help individuals engage in daily activities. Beyond traditional settings like hospitals and rehabilitation centers, OTs also thrive in unconventional arenas.

From creating adaptive work environments in corporate settings to assisting children with developmental delays in schools and collaborating with architects to design inclusive public spaces, occupational therapists embody versatility and innovation in their pursuit of enhancing individuals' independence and overall quality of life.

Occupational Therapy Program 

To become an OT, a Master's degree in occupational therapy is typically required, along with state licensure. OT programs take anywhere from five to six years. 

Physician Assistant (PA)

Median Salary: $126,010
Expected Job Growth: 27% by 2031

If you're seeking a career that offers a high level of responsibility and flexibility, becoming a physician assistant could be an excellent choice. PAs work alongside physicians, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. They perform physical exams, order tests, prescribe medication, and assist in surgeries. 

PAs are critical members of the healthcare community, finding fulfillment in their multifaceted careers. They work in a variety of settings, including bustling emergency departments and critical care units to rural clinics and even surgical suites. 

Whether diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, or assisting in complex procedures, physician assistants find joy in the dynamic nature of their role, constantly adapting to new challenges and making a tangible impact on the lives of those they serve.

Physicians Assistant Program 

Additionally, PAs have a career with deep expertise and authority while not having to do many years of schooling, internships, and residencies. To become a PA, you must complete a Master's degree program and obtain a license. PA school typically takes a little over two years to complete. 

Pathologists’ Assistant (MHS)

Median Salary: $90,000
Expected Job Growth: 13% by 2031

Pathologist Assistants are vital members of the healthcare team who work closely with pathologists in diagnosing diseases through laboratory analysis. They assist in conducting autopsies, preparing and examining tissue samples, and performing complex laboratory procedures. 

Pathologist Assistants play a crucial role in helping determine the cause of illnesses, contribute to patient care, and provide valuable insights for medical research. This career offers the opportunity to contribute to medical diagnostics, work with cutting-edge technology, and make a difference in patient outcomes.

Pathologist assistants are the unsung heroes of the laboratory, working behind the scenes in hospital pathology departments, research facilities, and forensic laboratories. Their vital role involves examining and analyzing tissue specimens, assisting in autopsies, and conducting complex laboratory tests to aid in accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions. 

Pathologists’ Assistant Program

To become a Pathologist Assistant, you have to complete a Master's degree program in Health Science and obtain certification. This program typically takes students two years to finish.

Audiologist (AuD) 

Median Salary: $82,680 
Expected Job Growth: 11% by 2031

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. They work with patients of all ages and provide a range of services, including hearing tests, fittings for hearing aids and cochlear implants, and counseling on hearing loss management. 

Audiologists thrive in diverse work environments, ranging from hospitals and clinics to universities and research institutions. They also play a crucial role in private practice, schools, and occupational health settings. 

By diagnosing and treating hearing disorders, fitting hearing aids, and providing rehabilitative services, audiologists witness the transformative impact of their work firsthand. With their blend of expertise, compassion, and versatility, audiologists have the privilege of making a lasting difference in the lives of their patients.

Audiology Program

Audiologists require a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree and a license to practice. Because of their advanced degree, audiologists typically require an additional 4 years of schooling. 

The Best Medical Career for You

If you're passionate about the medical field but don't envision yourself as an MD or RN, it's crucial to know that diverse and rewarding options are available. 

There are a number of medical careers that offer fulfilling work, a competitive salary, and ample opportunities for professional growth.

By considering these alternative medical careers, you can find a path that aligns with your interests and goals, while still making a meaningful impact on patients' lives.

At WVU, our graduate degree programs will help you launch your dream medical career. Browse our list of options, including each of the jobs above, and get started on your fulfilling future today.

Download our guide to changing careers to plan your pivot.