5 Reasons Why an Allied Health Degree Is a Smart Career Move
Are you considering a career in allied health? If so, you’re not alone. The demand for allied health professionals is growing rapidly, and for good reason. Not only does the field offer job security and competitive salaries, but it also provides opportunities to make a positive impact in people’s lives. In this article, we’ll explore five reasons why pursuing an allied health degree is a smart career move.
1. Job Growth
The healthcare industry is booming, and allied health professionals are in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population that requires more medical services, as well as advances in medical technology that allow for new types of treatment. With a degree in allied health, you will have a wide range of job opportunities to choose from, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical assisting, and more.
2. Competitive Salaries
Not only are there plenty of job opportunities in allied health, but they also tend to come with competitive salaries. According to PayScale, the median salary for a physical therapist is $69,837 per year, while a registered nurse earns a median salary of $65,160 per year. The salary potential for allied health professionals varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and specialty, but overall, it’s a field that offers good pay and benefits.
3. Meaningful Work
Allied health professionals play a vital role in healthcare, as they work to improve the quality of life for patients. Whether you’re a physical therapist helping someone recover from an injury, or a medical assistant assisting a physician in a clinic, your work will directly impact people’s lives. For many allied health professionals, this sense of purpose is what makes their work so rewarding.
4. Flexibility
Many allied health professions offer flexible work arrangements, which can be attractive for those looking to balance a career with other commitments. For example, physical therapists can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers, and may have the option to work part-time or on a per-diem basis. Similarly, medical assistants may have the option to work in a physician’s office or a hospital, and may have the option to work flexible hours.
5. Opportunities for Advancement
Allied health is a broad field with many different career paths, which means that there are opportunities for advancement and specialization. For example, a physical therapist assistant can eventually become a physical therapist, while a registered nurse can pursue advanced degrees to become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist. This allows allied health professionals to grow their careers and increase their earning potential over time.
Conclusion
Pursuing an allied health degree can be a smart career move for many reasons, including job growth, competitive salaries, meaningful work, flexibility, and opportunities for advancement. If you’re interested in a career that allows you to make a positive impact in people’s lives, while also offering job security and growth potential, then an allied health degree may be the right choice for you.
