10 High-Paying Jobs In Healthcare That Require No Degree

Forbes

06-05-2025

Healthcare offers promising high-paying jobs that don't require a degree. getty
If you're wondering whether the healthcare sector offers promising high-paying jobs that don't require a degree, it does. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare is projected to grow 13% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth, combined with the need to replace retiring workers, is expected to create 1.9 million job openings each year. While many positions require advanced degrees, a number of high-paying jobs in healthcare require only a high school diploma or GED combined with specific certifications.
These accessible medical roles offer exciting career opportunities that provide job security, competitive salaries and a sense of fulfillment in helping others. Let's explore 10 high-paying jobs in healthcare offering strong earning potential while allowing you to make a difference in people's lives.
Medical assistants work with physicians in clinics and doctors' offices, performing clinical and administrative duties. They measure vital signs, schedule appointments, prepare patients for exams, and assist with basic procedures. High school diploma or GED required
Medical assistant certification is preferred but not always mandatory
Training programs typically take 9-12 months to complete
$44,200; up to $57,830
Complete a training program at a community college or vocational school, obtain certification through organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), and gain hands-on experience through externships or entry-level positions.
Detail-oriented individuals who enjoy patient interaction and can balance clinical and administrative responsibilities. Medical assisting offers an excellent starting point for those interested in healthcare fundamentals and who possess compassion combined with organizational skills. 2. Pharmacy Technician What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by helping prepare and dispense medications. They count pills, label prescriptions, process insurance claims, and manage inventory in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. High school diploma or GED required
Certification typically required
Most states mandate certification through PTCB or NHA
Training programs typically take 3-12 months Median Annual Salary
$43,460; up to $59,450 How to Get a Job
Complete a pharmacy technician training program, obtain certification, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Many retail pharmacies offer on-the-job training programs. Who Should Consider This Career
People with strong mathematical aptitude and precision who can thrive in structured environments. The role requires people with excellent soft skills like communication and the ability to stay focused while performing detailed tasks in retail and clinical settings. 3. Medical Administrative Assistant What is a Medical Administrative Assistant?
Medical administrative assistants manage the front-office operations of healthcare facilities. They schedule appointments, maintain patient records, handle billing and insurance, and serve as the first point of contact for patients. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required
Certification as Medical Administrative Assistant preferred
Familiarity with medical terminology and electronic health record systems beneficial
Training programs typically take 3-9 months Median Annual Salary
$42,200; up to $57,830 How to Get a Job
Complete a certificate program in medical office administration, obtain certification through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association, and develop proficiency with healthcare-specific software. Who Should Consider This Career
Strong communicators who excel at multitasking and prefer administrative work to caring for patients. The position is ideal for individuals with exceptional organizational abilities who remain composed in fast-paced environments and enjoy being at the center of a medical office. 4. Surgical Technician What is a Surgical Technician?
Surgical technicians, also called surgical technologists or operating room technicians, assist surgeons during operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange surgical instruments, and maintain a sterile environment. Qualifications Needed: High school diploma or GED required
Completion of a surgical technology program required
Certification through NBSTSA is highly recommended or required
Training programs typically take 12-24 months Median Annual Salary
$62,830; up to $90,700 How to Get a Job
Complete an accredited surgical technology program, obtain certification, and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions in hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers. Who Should Consider This Career
People who maintain composure under stress and possess meticulous attention to detail along with stamina. If you are technically minded and fascinated by surgical procedures, you will find this high-paying job intellectually challenging. 5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) What is an Emergency Medical Technician?
EMTs provide emergency medical care to patients before and during transportation to hospitals. They respond to emergency calls, perform basic medical interventions, and transport patients safely to medical facilities. Qualifications Needed: High school diploma or GED required
Completion of the EMT training program is required
National certification through NREMT required
State licensure required
Training programs typically take 3-6 months Median Annual Salary
$41,340; up to $60,780 How to Get a Job
Complete an accredited EMT training program, obtain national certification and state licensure, and apply to positions with ambulance services, fire departments, or hospitals. Who Should Consider This Career
Natural problem-solvers who thrive in high-pressure situations and are driven to help others in crisis. The role demands physical fitness, emotional resilience, and the ability to make quick decisions in unpredictable environments. 6. Dental Assistant What is a Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants support dentists during examinations and procedures. They prepare patients, sterilize instruments, process X-rays, provide patient education, and handle administrative tasks in dental offices. Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required Completion of dental assisting program preferred
Certification preferred or required (varies by state)
Some states allow on-the-job training
Training programs typically take 9-12 months Median Annual Salary
$47,300; up to $61,780 How to Get a Job
Complete a dental assisting program, obtain certification through the Dental Assisting National Board if required in your state, and gain experience through externships or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career
People with excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. Those interested in oral health who prefer a stable work environment with regular hours will find satisfaction in this role. 7. Phlebotomist What is a Phlebotomist?
Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, or blood donations. They verify patient identity, explain procedures, collect and properly label samples, and ensure proper storage and transport of specimens. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required
Completion of phlebotomy program preferred
Certification preferred
Training programs typically take 4-8 months Median Annual Salary
$43,660; up to $57,750 How to Get a Job
Complete a phlebotomy training program, obtain certification through organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career
Individuals with steady hands, meticulous attention to detail, and a calming presence. People who are comfortable with drawing blood and can work efficiently while maintaining accuracy will find consistent demand for their skills across various healthcare settings. 8. EKG Technician What is an EKG Technician?
EKG (electrocardiogram) technicians, also called cardiac monitoring technicians, perform diagnostic tests that record the electrical activity of patients' hearts. They operate EKG machines, prepare patients for procedures, and maintain equipment. Qualifications Needed
High school diploma or GED required Completion of the EKG technician program preferred
Certification preferred
Training programs typically take 4-6 months Median Annual Salary
$67,260; up to $108,900 How to Get a Job
Complete an EKG technician training program, obtain certification through organizations like Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career
Technically-minded individuals with strong attention to detail and interest in cardiac care. These high-paying jobs are ideal for those who enjoy working with specialized medical equipment and can establish rapport with patients of all ages. 9. Home Health Aide What is a Home Health Aide?
Home health aides provide personal care and basic health services to patients in their homes. They assist with daily activities, monitor vital signs, administer medications, and provide companionship to elderly, disabled, or recovering individuals. Qualifications Needed: A high school diploma or GED is typically required (some positions accept candidates without one)
Certification requirements vary by state
Some states require formal training (typically 75-120 hours)
Some employers provide on-the-job training Median Annual Salary
$34,900; up to $44,190 How to Get a Job
Complete a training program if required in your state, obtain certification if necessary, and apply to home health agencies, hospice organizations, or directly with families seeking private care. Who Should Consider This Career
Compassionate individuals who prefer one-on-one care relationships and independent work environments. Those who gain fulfillment from helping vulnerable populations maintain dignity, and independence will find this role increasingly valued as the population ages. 10. Medical Records Specialist What is a Medical Records Specialist?
Medical records specialists, also called health information technicians, organize, manage, and protect patient's health information data. They ensure records are accurate, complete, properly coded for insurance reimbursement, and securely maintained in compliance with regulations. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required
Certification typically required
Some employers prefer associate degrees
Many accept certificates in medical coding or health information technology
Training programs typically take 6-12 months Median Annual Salary
$50,250; up to $80,950 How to Get a Job
Complete a certificate program in health information technology or medical coding, obtain certification through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), and develop proficiency with electronic health record systems. Who Should Consider This Career
Detail-oriented individuals with strong analytical skills who prefer behind-the-scenes roles. People who value precision, are interested in healthcare documentation and prefer remote work will find this high-paying job particularly appealing. The Future Of Non-Degreed Healthcare Careers
The aging population in the U.S. is increasing significantly, driven by the number of baby boomers aged 65 and older. By 2050, this age group is set to reach 82 million, a 47% increase from 2022. This surge, combined with longer life expectancies and an increase in the number of people with chronic conditions, means there will be more demand for high-paying jobs in healthcare that don't require a degree. Overall, the outlook for the healthcare industry looks promising, especially if you want to find positions that offer flexibility, generous compensation, and an opportunity to improve patients' quality of life.