Is healthcare a good career path? Yes!

Workers are in high demand. You have many career opportunities. About 1.9 million healthcare job openings exist in the U.S., according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The need for workers will remain high through 2033.

And you’re more likely to stay employed in this field, even during an economic recession.

Typically, medical and hospital jobs pay well. How much you earn depends on the type of job and your level of education, training and experience.

Another reason to consider going into this field: It matters. You can make a big difference by helping people lead healthier lives.

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Where can I find healthcare jobs?

You can find jobs in clinical and non-clinical settings.

In a clinical setting, you work one-on-one with patients. You take their vitals, perform tests, deliver treatment and help them achieve wellness goals. You may work in a doctor or dentist office. Or in a hospital, acute care or rehab facility.

Non-clinical jobs focus on behind-the-scenes activities. These include medical billing, record keeping, insurance coordination, appointment setting and patient registration.

First responder jobs provide emergency care to people in need.

9 in-demand healthcare jobs that don’t need a 4-year degree

Good health-focused jobs are available in Lake County, Illinois. These include entry-level medical jobs that pay well and don’t need a bachelor’s degree:

1. Nursing – registered nurse (RN), nurse assistant or certified nurse assistant (CNA)
2. Medical assisting – certified medical assistant (CMA) who performs clinical and administrative duties, medical receptionist
3. Dental hygiene – dental hygienist
4. Medical imaging – radiology technician, CT technologist, MRI technologist
5. Phlebotomy technician who draws patient blood and takes specimens
6. Surgical technologist who assists the medical team in surgery
7. Health information technology – health information technologist, medical records specialist, medical billing specialist
8. Health and wellness promotion – fitness coach, wellness coach, personal trainer, massage therapist
9. Emergency medical technology – emergency medical technician, paramedic

How do I start or switch to a career in healthcare?

You can get a job with no experience. But the best-paying jobs need at least a career certificate or associate degree. Some jobs need a bachelor’s degree or medical school degree.

The best way to start working in this field is to earn credentials from College of Lake County (CLC):

• Career certificates let you start a career fast. Some take only four months to complete. 
• Associate degrees take about two years to finish.
• Transfer degrees take about two years to complete. They let you transfer to a four-year college to earn a bachelor’s degree. Then you can go on to get an advanced medical degree in:
  • Dentistry – Prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the teeth, mouth and surrounding facial areas.
  • Kinesiology – Help people lead healthy lives through fitness, coaching and nutrition strategies in exercise science or physical education.
  • Medicine – Provide medical care and treatment to people in healthcare settings.
  • Occupational therapy – Help patients develop, recover, improve and maintain skills for daily living and working.
  • Physical therapy – Work with patients to improve mobility, reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability.
  • Pharmacy – Dispense medication safely and confidently.
  • Veterinary medicine – Diagnose and provide care and treatment for animals.

  When you transfer to a 4-year school after 2 years at CLC, you save money—up to $30,000 in tuition and fees. If you live at home for those two years, you save even more money on room and board. And when you go to community college first, you are more likely to complete your bachelor’s degree, according to the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

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  Is CLC a good healthcare career college?

  Yes. College of Lake County (CLC) is highly respected by the medical industry in northeastern Illinois. It has developed a pipeline of talent for employers. CLC graduates get hired.

  Your CLC credentials prepare you well for the workplace. You learn practical skills from instructors who have worked in medical fields. Class sizes are small with about 15 students. Instructors know you by name and help you to succeed.

  Online and in-person classes let you create a flexible class schedule. This helps you balance work and family life. In-person classes are held at CLC campuses in Grayslake, Waukegan and Vernon Hills.

  Financial aid helps pay for your credentials. The PATH Grant helps cover tuition and living expenses for some programs.

  You may need to meet requirements before starting a healthcare program at CLC. This may include proof of vaccinations, taking pre-requisite courses and earning minimum grades. You might need to pass an exam before you are admitted.

  CLC has resources to help you meet program requirements. It supports your academic journey and your personal well-being. CLC has a full roster of clubs, sports and activities. It is a safe and welcoming place to learn.

  Want to learn more? Attend an information session or request information about the healthcare program that interests you.

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Learn more:

• Financial aid
• PATH Grant
• How we help you succeed
• Student life at CLC