Healthcare is a vast, almost limitless industry in respect to career opportunities. This is especially true now, as the elderly population grows and retiring healthcare professionals create a high demand for healthcare services.
To meet these needs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that healthcare will add more jobs than any other occupational group in the next eight years (by 2029). Who will be qualified to fill those positions? If you have a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Science degree, it could be you.
What Is Health Science?
Science disciplines like biology and chemistry are often required throughout the middle or high school years. Anyone who is slightly squeamish will likely never forget the chapters dedicated to frog dissection. However, Health science differs from those people’s general perception of healthcare in that it concentrates specifically on community and environmental health problems — and health outcomes.
While it is centered in healthcare, the health science industry often crosses paths with fields such as technology, engineering and communications. Individuals may work in various capacities, including clinical, administrative, community, research, manufacturing and governmental settings.
Health Science: A Jumping Off Point for Diverse Careers
The following represent diverse career opportunities that stem from the multidisciplinary health science field. Many are quite lucrative, with salaries often reaching six figures.
1) Dietician/Nutritionist. These careers have become highly valuable with a greater understanding of how diet and nutrition impact one’s overall health — accompanied by the rising incidence of obesity and diabetes. Individuals on this career path can work in a number of settings including hospitals, clinics, schools, government agencies and private organizations.
2) Occupational Health and Safety Technician/Specialist. Thanks to regulations implemented and enforced by the federal government, workplace safety holds high importance. Occupational health and safety professionals are responsible for collecting and analyzing data across various workplace settings as well as identifying and remediating compliance issues.
3) Epidemiologist. While this profession typically requires a master’s degree (or higher), earning a BS in health science is a smart start for building foundational knowledge. Epidemiologists identify why and how diseases spread, and what can be done to prevent the spread. You can imagine how critical this field has been during the COVID-19 pandemic.
4) Biomedical Engineer. We live in an increasingly tech-driven society, and that also encompasses healthcare. Biomedical engineers are tasked with researching and creating innovative solutions such as surgical robotics, prosthetics, 3D printing of biological organs, stem cell therapies and therapeutic biologics. Having a background in health science prepares engineers for everything from ethics in healthcare to informatics.
5) Health Researcher. Research is crucial to the development and improvement of the healthcare field. Advancements stem from the work of health and medical researchers, and a health science mindset is a perfect segue into a career in this area. Whether you’re interested in public health trends, bioterrorism or disaster preparedness, this subspecialty is awakening the healthcare industry like never before.
6) Gerontologist. As mentioned, the geriatric population is growing and requires unique approaches to care. This unique subset opens the door for several career opportunities, from direct care to leadership to research. The core principles of a health science degree, such as the BS in Health Science online program at Northern Kentucky University, contribute to this specialty. The program’s Aging in Today’s Society course explores facets such as promotion of health, right to a peaceful death, theories of aging and ethical/legal concepts of this age group.
Making an Impact on Individuals, Families and Communities
The knowledge gained from a BS in health science degree is invaluable in progressing one’s career. Whether the BS is your end goal or serves as a launchpad for further education, health science presents the opportunity to positively impact health outcomes for individual patients, families and communities.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Science online program.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: COVID-19 — Monitoring and Tracking the Disease
Indeed: 20 Jobs You Can Get with a Health Science Degree
The Gerontological Society of America: What Is Gerontology?
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Healthcare Occupations
U.S. News & World Report: What You Can Do with a Health Science Degree
