Medical Jobs That Don't Require a College Degree for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

A college degree isn’t always required for a stable and rewarding career in healthcare. In 2023, over 24% of healthcare workers had only a high school diploma, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demonstrating the vital role non-degree holders play in the industry. While these positions generally offer lower salaries than degree-based roles, they still provide competitive wages, job security, and opportunities for advancement. And with 1.9 million healthcare job openings projected annually through 2033, non-degree-holders now have better chances to be part of the healthcare workforce. This article explores the best medical jobs with no college degree, how to get started, and potential career growth opportunities.

Key Things You Should Know About Medical Jobs That Don't Require a College Degree

• While many healthcare jobs don’t require a college degree, they often require specialized training or certification. Programs for roles like medical assistants, phlebotomists, and pharmacy technicians can be completed in a matter of months.
• Many non-degree medical jobs serve as stepping stones to higher-paying roles in the industry. With experience and additional certifications, employees can move into supervisory or specialized positions.
• Healthcare jobs are among the fastest-growing occupations. Roles like home health aides, medical assistants, and EMTs have strong job security and are expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Table of Contents

1. Best Medical Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree for 2025
2. What are the highest-paying medical jobs with no college degree?
3. Are there remote medical jobs with no college degree?
4. Do online medical certification programs count for hospital jobs?
5. Which medical jobs with no college degree are most in demand?
6. How can I switch to a medical career without a healthcare background?
7. Which healthcare jobs offer on-the-job training for beginners?
8. What medical certifications can you get in 6 months or less?
9. What additional skills or certifications can enhance non-degree healthcare careers?
10. Are specialized technical certifications crucial for long-term success?
11. How can I assess the credibility of certification programs for non-degree medical roles?
12. Can Online Education Bolster Career Advancement for Non-Degree Healthcare Workers?
13. Can Non-Degree Holders Transition to Healthcare Administration Roles?
14. How can continuing education boost career longevity in non-degree healthcare roles?
15. How do salaries compare between certification-based and degree-based medical jobs?
16. Which medical jobs with no college degree offer the best career advancement?
17. What are the easiest medical jobs to get started in?
18. Other Things You Should Know About Medical Jobs That Don't Require a College Degree

Best Medical Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree for 2025

1. Medical Assistant

• Duties: Medical assistants support physicians by taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, and administering basic treatments like injections or wound care. They also assist with medical procedures, maintain exam rooms, and handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and managing electronic health records.
• Median Salary: $42,000 per year
• Training: Certification programs available, typically less than a year.

2. Phlebotomist

• Duties: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood from patients for diagnostic testing, transfusions, or donations. They prepare blood samples for laboratory analysis, ensure proper labeling, and help patients feel comfortable, especially those who fear needles.
• Median Salary: $41,810 per year
• Training: Certification required; can be completed in under a year.

3. Medical Coder and Biller

• Duties: Medical coders and billers ensure that healthcare providers are properly reimbursed for their services by translating patient diagnoses, treatments, and procedures into standardized codes for insurance claims. Medical coders review patient records and assign correct ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS codes, ensuring compliance with insurance and government regulations. Medical billers then process these codes, submit claims to insurance companies, and handle patient billing inquiries. Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial, as coding errors can lead to claim denials or financial losses for healthcare providers.
• Median Salary: $48,780 per year
• Training: While a college degree isn’t required, most employers prefer candidates with a certification in medical coding and billing.

4. Dental Assistant

• Duties: Dental assistants support dentists during procedures by passing instruments, preparing materials, and ensuring patient comfort. They also take and develop X-rays, sterilize dental instruments, and educate patients on oral hygiene practices. Some states require formal training and certification for this role.
• Median Salary: $46,540 per year
• Training: Some states require certification, which can be completed in under a year

5. Pharmacy Technician

• Duties: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by dispensing prescription medications, measuring doses, labeling bottles, and maintaining medication inventories. They also interact with customers, process insurance claims, and provide information on drug interactions under the supervision of a pharmacist.
• Median Salary: $40,300 per year
• Training: Certification may be required depending on state regulations

6. Home Health Aide

• Duties: Home health aides assist elderly, disabled, or chronically ill patients with daily living activities, allowing them to remain in their homes rather than moving to long-term care facilities. Their responsibilities include bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and medication reminders. HHAs may also help with mobility assistance and monitor a patient’s condition, reporting any changes to nurses or family members. Since they provide both physical and emotional support, compassion and patience are essential in this role.
• Median Salary: $33,530 per year
• Training: Most home health aides require only a high school diploma or equivalent, and many employers provide on-the-job training.

7. Certified Nursing Assistant

• Duties: CNAs provide hands-on patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings, making it one of the less stressful nursing jobs. They assist patients with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, as well as monitor vital signs and report changes to nursing staff. CNAs play a crucial role in patient comfort and recovery.
• Median Salary: $38,130 per year
• Training: State-approved training program and competency exam

8. Surgical Technician

• Duties: Surgical technologists assist surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing and arranging surgical instruments, and ensuring all necessary supplies are available. During surgery, they hand instruments to the surgeon, monitor equipment, and help manage sterile conditions. After the procedure, they assist with cleaning and restocking the surgical area. Precision, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential in this role.
• Median Salary: $60,610 per year
• Training: Surgical technologists typically need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree from an accredited surgical technology program, which can take 12 to 24 months to complete.

9. Medical Transcriptionist

• Duties: Medical transcriptionists listen to recorded dictations from healthcare providers and convert them into written reports, medical histories, and patient records. They ensure accuracy, proper formatting, and compliance with medical and legal standards. In addition to transcribing, they may also edit speech-to-text documents, identify discrepancies, and verify medical terminology. Attention to detail, strong typing skills, and knowledge of medical terms are essential for this role.
• Median Salary: $37,060 per year
• Training: A college degree is not required, but most employers prefer candidates who complete a medical transcription certificate program, which can be completed in 6 to 12 months.

10. Sterile Processing Technician

• Duties: Sterile processing technicians are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments and medical equipment to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. They follow strict sterilization protocols, inspect instruments for damage, assemble surgical trays, and track inventory of medical supplies. Their role is crucial in hospitals, surgical centers, and clinics, as they ensure that all medical tools are properly sanitized and ready for use in procedures. Attention to detail and adherence to infection control standards are essential for this position.
• Median Salary: $39,640 per year
• Training: While a high school diploma or GED is typically required, most employers prefer candidates who complete a sterile processing technician certification program, which can be completed in a few months to a year.

What are the highest-paying medical jobs with no college degree?

Several medical jobs offer competitive salaries without requiring a college degree. Among the highest-paying positions are surgical assistants and technologists, earning upwards of $60,000 per year. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses earn around $59,730 annually. Furthermore, massage therapists make approximately $55,310 per year. Other well-paying roles include pharmacy technicians, phlebotomists, and dental assistants. Keep in mind, however, that the majority of the salaries for medical jobs that don’t require a college degree, such as medical coding salary, fall under the national average salary, which was more than $66,600 in 2023 according to the Social Security Administration.

Keep in mind, however, that salaries vary depending on various factors, such as the following:

• Location: Salaries vary based on geographical region. Urban areas with higher costs of living often offer higher wages than rural areas. For example, a therapy aide in Massachusetts can earn around $41,290 annual mean wage, which is 35% more than a therapy aide working in Louisiana who gets paid around $28,770 on average according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Experience Level: Those with more years of experience generally earn higher salaries. An entry-level phlebotomist may start at a lower wage but can earn significantly more with several years in the field.
• Certifications and Specializations: Obtaining additional certifications or training can boost salary potential. For instance, a pharmacy technician with a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential typically earns more than one without certification.
• Demand for the Role: Jobs with high demand, such as home health aides and medical assistants, tend to have competitive salaries due to workforce shortages, especially in aging populations.
• Shift Differentials: Many healthcare positions offer extra pay for working night shifts, weekends, or holidays. EMTs, CNAs, and hospital-based technicians often receive shift differentials.
• Industry Setting: The workplace setting significantly affects salary. Hospitals and specialized clinics typically offer higher pay than nursing homes or physician’s offices due to the complexity of care and greater funding resources. For example, nursing assistants and orderlies tend to earn the most in government facilities, as shown below. You may refer to the following chart to see how much the top industries pay for these jobs.

Are there remote medical jobs with no college degree?

Several medical jobs, even those that don’t require a college degree can be done remotely. With advancements in technology and the increasing demand for healthcare support roles, many administrative and data-driven positions have transitioned to remote work. These jobs primarily involve processing medical information, managing patient records, and coordinating healthcare services without direct patient interaction. While they don’t require a degree, most employers prefer candidates with relevant certifications or prior experience.

• Medical Transcriptionist: Medical transcriptionists listen to recorded dictations from healthcare professionals and convert them into written reports. Since this role involves typing and editing medical documents rather than direct patient care, it can be done entirely from home. Many transcriptionists work as freelancers or for remote medical transcription services.
• Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: These specialists process insurance claims, assign medical codes to diagnoses and procedures, and ensure accurate billing for healthcare providers. Because their work is entirely digital, many employers allow them to work from home. A certification in medical billing and coding can improve job prospects in this field.
• Virtual Patient Coordinator: A virtual patient coordinator handles scheduling, patient inquiries, and medical record updates for healthcare providers. This role primarily involves phone calls, emails, and database management, making it well-suited for remote work. Many hospitals and clinics now hire virtual coordinators to streamline administrative tasks and reduce in-person workload.

A 2024 poll by the Medical Group Management Association found that 52% of medical groups had 1% to 25% of their workforce working remotely at least half the time. Some organizations planned to expand or reduce their remote workforce, while others intended to maintain current levels. The following infographic shows their plans for the arrangement.

Do online medical certification programs count for hospital jobs?

Online medical certification programs can count for hospital jobs, but their acceptance depends on factors like accreditation, employer requirements, and state regulations. Many hospitals recognize certifications from reputable online programs, such as medical billing and coding classes online, phlebotomy, and medical assisting. The key is to ensure that the program is accredited by recognized industry organizations, such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC). Some certifications may also require hands-on training or clinical hours, which must be completed in person, even if the coursework is online.

Employers often value practical experience alongside certification, so while an online program may fulfill educational requirements, candidates with in-person training or externships may have an advantage. It’s essential to research hospital job listings to determine if a specific certification is accepted. Additionally, some hospitals partner with online certification programs, offering job placement assistance or internship opportunities. By choosing an accredited program and gaining relevant experience, individuals can improve their chances of securing hospital jobs without a college degree.

Which medical jobs with no college degree are most in demand?

The healthcare industry is experiencing rapid growth, creating high demand for various non-degree positions. As the population ages and healthcare services expand, roles that provide direct patient care and support services are becoming increasingly essential. The following jobs are among the fastest-growing in the industry, offering stable employment and opportunities for career advancement.

• Medical Assistants: The demand for medical assistants is projected to grow 15% from 2023 to 2033, far exceeding the average for most occupations. Approximately 119,800 job openings are expected each year, driven by workforce turnover as employees change careers or retire. Medical assistants play a vital role in healthcare by managing both clinical and administrative tasks, making them indispensable in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. For those looking to enter the field quickly, accelerated medical assistant programs offer a fast-track path to certification and employment.
• Home Health Aides: With a projected 21% job growth from 2023 to 2033, home health aides remain one of the fastest-growing healthcare roles. Approximately 718,900 job openings are expected annually, driven by an aging population requiring in-home care. Many of these positions will be filled as workers move to different careers or leave the workforce. Home health aides provide essential support with daily activities, making it possible for patients to remain in their homes rather than moving to long-term care facilities.
• Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers: Employment for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers is set to grow by 19% between 2023 and 2033. Each year, an estimated 25,800 positions will open, mainly as current workers change careers or retire. These professionals play a crucial role in animal healthcare, assisting veterinarians with treatments, handling lab animals, and maintaining clean and safe environments for their care.

As of 2023, the majority of healthcare workers without a college degree were employed as home health aides, followed by nursing assistants and personal care aides. The chart below illustrates the distribution of non-degree holders across various healthcare roles.

How can I switch to a medical career without a healthcare background?

Transitioning into the medical field without prior healthcare experience is entirely possible. Many entry-level positions require only short-term training or certifications, allowing career changers to move into the industry quickly. For those looking to further their education while working, accelerated online degree programs for working adults provide a flexible way to gain additional qualifications. Whether you have a background in customer service, administration, or another field, skills like communication, organization, and attention to detail can be valuable in healthcare roles. Here are some practical ways to make the switch.

• Enroll in a Short Certification Program: Many healthcare jobs, such as medical billing and coding specialists, phlebotomists, and pharmacy technicians, require only a few months of training. Earning a certification can provide the knowledge and credentials needed to qualify for entry-level positions.
• Apply for On-the-Job Training Roles: Some medical jobs, like patient transporters, medical administrative assistants, and home health aides, offer paid training. These positions allow you to gain hands-on experience while earning a salary.
• Leverage Transferable Skills: If you have experience in customer service, clerical work, or technology, consider roles such as medical administrative assistant or medical records technician. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are highly valued in these positions.
• Volunteer or Shadow a Professional: Gaining exposure to the medical environment through volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes can provide valuable insight and networking opportunities. Shadowing a healthcare worker can also help you determine which role suits you best.
• Network and Research Job Openings: Connecting with professionals in the healthcare industry through LinkedIn or job fairs can lead to new opportunities. Researching job postings can help you identify roles that match your skills and interests, even without prior medical experience.

If you're exploring a career transition, you might also be curious about how to become a security guard—another field open to newcomers. Similar to healthcare entry points, many security roles require minimal prior experience and offer certification-based training, making them a practical starting point for those entering a new industry.

Which healthcare jobs offer on-the-job training for beginners?

Not all healthcare careers require prior experience or formal education before starting. Many entry-level positions provide on-the-job training, allowing newcomers to gain practical skills while earning a salary. These roles are ideal for individuals looking to enter the medical field quickly without spending years in school. Here are three healthcare jobs that offer on-the-job training for beginners.

• Patient Transporter: Patient transporters assist in moving patients within hospitals and medical facilities, ensuring they reach testing areas, surgical units, or recovery rooms safely. They also help maintain wheelchairs, stretchers, and other transport equipment. This role requires good communication and physical stamina, but no formal education is necessary beyond training provided by the employer.
• Sterile Processing Technician: These technicians are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and organizing surgical instruments and medical equipment to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. Hospitals and surgical centers typically provide structured on-the-job training to teach new hires how to handle and sterilize medical tools properly.
• Home Health Aide: Home health aides assist elderly, disabled, or chronically ill patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. Many home health agencies provide paid training to ensure workers understand basic patient care, safety procedures, and proper documentation. Some states require certification, but training is often included as part of the hiring process.

For those exploring alternate entry-level roles beyond healthcare, a sales representative career guide can be a helpful resource. Like healthcare support positions, sales roles often offer on-the-job training and value strong communication skills—making them another accessible career path for beginners.

What medical certifications can you get in 6 months or less?

Earning a medical certification in six months or less is a great way to enter the healthcare field quickly. These certifications provide essential skills for in-demand jobs without the time and cost of a traditional degree. They can open doors to entry-level positions, offer job stability, and serve as stepping stones for career advancement. Many of these programs are available online or through vocational schools, making them accessible to those looking for a fast career change.

• Phlebotomy Technician Certification: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood for lab tests, donations, and medical procedures. A phlebotomy certification program typically takes 4 to 6 months and includes hands-on training. As one of the short certificate programs that pay well, phlebotomy offers a quick entry into the healthcare field with solid earning potential. Certified phlebotomists work in hospitals, clinics, blood banks, and diagnostic laboratories, earning competitive salaries with opportunities for advancement.
• Medical Billing and Coding Certification: Medical billers and coders ensure accurate patient records and process insurance claims using standardized medical codes. Certification programs can be completed in as little as 3 to 6 months, often online. This career offers remote work opportunities and is crucial for healthcare administration.
• Certified Nursing Assistant Certification: CNAs provide basic patient care, such as assisting with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring patient comfort. Most CNA programs take 4 to 12 weeks, including classroom instruction and clinical training. CNAs are in high demand in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings.

What additional skills or certifications can enhance non-degree healthcare careers?

Non-degree healthcare professionals can further distinguish themselves by pursuing targeted certifications and developing advanced soft skills. For instance, specialized training in healthcare software, patient communication, and emergency response can enhance job performance and open doors to supervisory roles. Complementary certifications—such as in medical billing and coding—serve as practical tools for career advancement. For those interested in credential programs, consider exploring the cheapest medical coding certification online to gain recognized expertise and improve competitiveness in the job market.

Are specialized technical certifications crucial for long-term success?

Specialized technical certifications provide non-degree healthcare professionals with targeted expertise that can lead to improved job performance and career mobility. Employers increasingly value advanced hands-on skills in diagnostic and therapeutic fields, which can be obtained through focused certification programs. For instance, acquiring skills in emerging areas not only broadens one’s professional scope but also enhances competitiveness in a dynamic job market. Enrolling in reputable courses, such as online ultrasound tech programs, offers industry-recognized credentials that help bridge skill gaps and support long-term career advancement.

How can I assess the credibility of certification programs for non-degree medical roles?

To ensure career advancement and industry relevance, evaluate certification programs by verifying their recognized accreditation, comprehensive curriculum, and strong industry partnerships. Focus on objective metrics such as job placement rates and graduate feedback while ensuring the course content aligns with current healthcare standards. Compare curriculum details with established programs, including accredited medical coding programs, to validate that they meet employer expectations and support long-term professional growth.

Can Online Education Bolster Career Advancement for Non-Degree Healthcare Workers?

Targeted online degree programs offer non-degree healthcare professionals a strategic advantage by providing specialized knowledge that complements certification skills. Flexible online courses allow individuals to gain expertise in areas such as healthcare administration, epidemiology, and community health management, thereby expanding career opportunities. For instance, pursuing bachelors in public health online can equip professionals with advanced analytical and leadership skills needed for higher-level roles. This approach not only fills critical skill gaps but also positions candidates to access roles that typically favor formal academic qualifications, ultimately enhancing overall job stability and career progression.

Can Non-Degree Holders Transition to Healthcare Administration Roles?

Non-degree healthcare professionals can leverage targeted certifications and practical leadership experience to transition into administration roles. Employers often value demonstrated management skills and on-the-job achievements over formal academic qualifications. Specialized training programs, leadership workshops, and mentoring opportunities can provide the necessary foundation for supervisory and management responsibilities. Evaluating industry benchmarks, such as high paying healthcare administration jobs, helps in understanding required competencies and identifying clear pathways for career progression in administrative functions.

How can continuing education boost career longevity in non-degree healthcare roles?

Non-degree healthcare professionals can amplify their career trajectories by engaging in targeted continuing education that emphasizes both technical skills and interpersonal competencies. By pursuing focused certifications, short-term training programs, or skill-enhancement courses, individuals not only remain current with industry innovations but also prepare for emerging responsibilities. This approach helps bridge skill gaps, supports improved job performance, and opens doors to managerial roles. Moreover, supplementing healthcare expertise with courses in related fields—such as exploring opportunities through a cheap sports management degree online program—can diversify skill sets and further increase competitiveness in the job market.

How do salaries compare between certification-based and degree-based medical jobs?

Salaries in the healthcare industry vary significantly based on education and certification levels. Non-degree medical jobs, such as CNAs, offer a stable income with a relatively quick entry into the field. CNAs earn an average salary of $38,130 per year, which is significantly lower than roles requiring higher education. While certification-based jobs provide job security and opportunities for growth, they typically pay less than positions requiring advanced degrees due to differences in responsibilities, expertise, and specialization.

For example, a registered nurse, who holds a bachelor's degree, earns an average salary of $86,070 per year, more than double that of a CNA. This pay increase reflects the RN’s broader responsibilities, including administering treatments, developing patient care plans, and supervising lower-level healthcare staff. Further up the career ladder, nurse practitioners—who must earn at least a master’s degree—command an average salary of $129,480 per year. Their advanced training allows them to diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide specialized care, justifying the higher salary.

While certification-based jobs offer a faster way into healthcare, obtaining a degree generally leads to greater earning potential and career advancement as revealed by the National Center for Education Statistics based on the data shown below. A similar dynamic can be seen in other fields like criminal justice, where following the steps to becoming a probation officer—which typically includes earning a degree, completing field training, and passing state exams—can lead to both higher pay and increased job responsibility over time.

Which medical jobs with no college degree offer the best career advancement?

Starting a medical career without a degree doesn’t mean limited growth. Many entry-level healthcare jobs offer clear pathways to higher positions with additional training, certifications, or work experience. These roles provide hands-on exposure to the medical field, making it easier to transition into higher-paying or more specialized careers over time. Here are three non-degree medical jobs with strong career advancement opportunities.

• Medical Assistant: Medical assistants handle both administrative and clinical tasks, making them versatile in healthcare settings. With experience and additional certifications, they can advance to roles such as a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or medical office manager. Many healthcare organizations offer tuition assistance, allowing medical assistants to further their education while working.
• Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing prescriptions. With experience and additional certifications, they can move into specialized roles such as compounding technician, pharmacy supervisor, or even transition to becoming a pharmacist by pursuing further education. Many pharmacy technicians gain valuable experience in hospital or retail settings that can help them move up in the industry.
• Certified Nursing Assistant: CNAs provide direct patient care, assisting with daily activities and monitoring vital signs. This role serves as an entry point into nursing, with many CNAs going on to become LPNs or RNs by completing additional training and licensing exams. Some hospitals and healthcare facilities even offer tuition reimbursement to help CNAs advance in their careers.

What are the easiest medical jobs to get started in?

Entering the healthcare field doesn’t always require years of education or extensive training. Several entry-level medical jobs are easy to start, requiring only short certification programs or on-the-job training. These roles provide a quick pathway into the industry, allowing individuals to gain experience and explore career growth opportunities. Here are three of the easiest medical jobs for non-degree holders to begin with.

• Home Health Aide: Home health aides provide basic care to elderly, disabled, or chronically ill patients in their homes. This job is one of the easiest to start because it typically requires only a short training program, often provided by employers, with no formal degree required. HHAs assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, making it a great option for those who enjoy helping others.
• Medical Administrative Assistant: Medical administrative assistants handle front-office tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and processing insurance claims. This role is easy to start because it focuses on clerical and customer service skills rather than direct patient care. Many employers offer on-the-job training, and short certification programs are available for those who want to improve their qualifications.
• Phlebotomy Technician: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood for tests, donations, and medical procedures. It’s one of the easiest clinical roles to enter because certification programs can be completed in just a few months, with many employers willing to train new hires. As of 2023, the majority of phlebotomists work in hospitals, and the rest are distributed in other industries as shown below.

Just like roles in healthcare, other fields such as private investigation also offer accessible career paths. Those exploring private investigator qualifications will find that requirements vary by state, but often include a mix of experience, background checks, and licensing—similar to how some healthcare jobs require certification or on-the-job training before entry.

What Do Graduates Say About Their Medical Jobs With No College Degree

• Becoming a medical assistant without a college degree changed my life. I started with on-the-job training, and within a year, I was earning a stable income with full benefits. Knowing I make a real difference in patients' lives every day keeps me motivated. Jemma
• As a phlebotomist, I love the flexibility of my schedule and the hands-on patient care. I didn’t need a degree—just a short certification course—and now I have a career that’s both rewarding and financially secure. It feels amazing to help people while building a future for myself. Cyrus
• Working as an EMT is fast-paced and exciting, and I never needed a college degree to get started. Every shift, I get to be there for people in emergencies, and that sense of purpose is priceless. If you want to make a real impact, healthcare is the way to go! Tanya

Key Findings

• More than 24% of healthcare workers in 2023 were high school graduates with no college education.
• Approximately 1.9 million healthcare job openings are projected annually from 2023 to 2033.
• Home health aide is one of the most in-demand non-degree medical jobs with a projected 21% job growth from 2023 to 2033.
• Among the certifications you can get the fastest are phlebotomy and medical coding and billing.
• Many of the medical jobs with no college degree offer salaries below the national average of $66,600 in 2023.

Other Things You Should Know About Medical Jobs That Don't Require a College Degree

Can you work in a medical office without a degree?

Yes, many medical office jobs do not require a college degree. Positions such as medical administrative assistants, medical receptionists, and medical billers primarily involve clerical work, scheduling, and patient record management. Employers often provide on-the-job training, and short certification programs can improve job prospects. Strong organizational and customer service skills are essential for these roles.

What is the shortest degree in healthcare?

The shortest degree in healthcare is typically an associate degree, which takes about two years to complete. Programs such as radiologic technology, dental hygiene, and medical laboratory technology offer fast entry into the field with competitive salaries. Some certificate programs, like those for paramedics or surgical technologists, may also be considered short but are not full degrees.

What medical jobs only require a certificate?

Several medical jobs require only a certificate rather than a degree. Common examples include phlebotomy technicians, CNAs, and medical billing and coding specialists. These certifications can be earned in as little as a few months to a year, providing a quick path into the healthcare field. Many of these roles also offer opportunities for career advancement with additional training.

References:

• Glassdoor. (2024, June 6). How much does a medical administrative assistant make? Glassdoor.com. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• Richards Rolen, E. (2016, November). Healthcare jobs you can get without a bachelor’s degree. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• Salary.com. (2024, March 1). Sterile processing technician salary, hourly rate (March 2025) United States. Salary.com. Retrieved March 16, 2025.
• Smith, S., & Blank, A. (2023, June). Healthcare occupations: Characteristics of the employed. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 15, 2025.
• SSA. (n.d.). National average wage index. The United States Social Security Administration. Retrieved March 15, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Nursing assistants and orderlies: Pay. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 15, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, April 3). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023: 31-2012 occupational therapy aides. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, April 3). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023: 31-9093 medical equipment preparers. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Occupational outlook handbook: Healthcare occupations. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Occupational outlook handbook: Medical records specialists. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.
• U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Occupational outlook handbook: Nursing assistants and orderlies. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 14, 2025.