Alternative Health Careers

There are a variety of alternative career paths within the field of medicine that students may consider. See your pre-professional advisor to discuss a variety of career options in healthcare and the healthcare industry.

  1. Allied Health Careers: The Department of Community and Professional Education (CAPE) offers several career training programs such as Medical Assistant, Veterinary Assistant, EKG Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, and more. Learn more on the CAPE website
  2. Public Health: Public health professionals work to improve the overall health of communities and populations through research, education, and outreach. This career may involve developing and implementing health policies, conducting epidemiological studies, or working with community organizations to promote healthy behaviors. Master in Public Health (MPH) at NEIU | Community Health (BS)
  3. Clinical Counseling: Clinical counselors are mental health professionals who provide counseling and therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They typically work in a clinical setting, such as a private practice, hospital, or community mental health center. M.A. Programs in Counseling at NEIU l
  4. Social Worker: Social workers help individuals, groups, and families prevent and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional problems. M.S.W. in Social Work at NEIU l
  5. Gerontologist: A gerontologist studies the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, psychological, and societal effects of the aging process on the human body. The field is often mistaken for geriatrics, which focuses on the various medical phenomena associated with the aging process. Gerontology, however, is multidisciplinary. It takes a more holistic view of the journey people experience as they grow older, often involving a wide variety of related disciplines such as psychology, sociology, economics, public policy, and marketing. Gerontology Senior Advocate, Certificate at NEIU l
  6. Exercise Physiologists: Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs that help patients recover from chronic diseases and improve cardiovascular function, body composition, and flexibility. M.S. in Exercise and Sport Science at NEIU l Exercise Science (Minor) |
  7. High School Science Teacher: Science teachers educate high school students in a range of scientific subjects, including biology, chemistry, and earth science. M.A.T. in Secondary Education l 
  8. Speech-Language Pathologist: Speech-language pathologists work with patients to help them improve their communication skills, including speech, language, and social communication. They also help patients with swallowing difficulties. This career requires a master's degree in speech-language pathology, as well as licensure. 
  9. Chiropractor: Chiropractors evaluate and treat patients' neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They use spinal adjustments and manipulation, as well as other clinical interventions, to manage patients’ health concerns, such as back and neck pain.
  10. Genetic Counselor: Genetic counselors assess clients’ risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as birth defects. They review genetic test results with individuals and families and support them in making decisions based on those results. They also offer information to other healthcare providers.
  11. Radiologic and MRI Technologist: Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment, such as X-ray and MRI machines, to produce images of the human body for diagnostic purposes. This career path typically requires an associate degree in radiologic technology, as well as certification.
  12. Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists assess and treat patients with breathing disorders, such as asthma and emphysema. They also assist with emergency situations, such as cardiac arrest or trauma. This career path typically requires an associate degree in respiratory therapy, as well as certification.
  13. Cardiovascular Technologist: Cardiovascular technologists assist with the diagnosis and treatment of heart and blood vessel conditions. They operate imaging equipment and assist with procedures such as cardiac catheterizations. This career path typically requires an associate degree in cardiovascular technology, as well as certification.
  14. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create images of internal organs and tissues. They work with physicians to help diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions. This career typically requires an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography, as well as certification. 
  15. Healthcare Administration: Healthcare administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. This career requires strong leadership skills, an understanding of healthcare policy and regulations, and the ability to manage budgets, personnel, and resources. 
  16. Medical Scientist: Medical scientists conduct research to improve human health, often working in fields such as genetics, pharmacology, or immunology. 
  17. Medical Research: Medical researchers conduct scientific studies to advance our understanding of diseases and develop new treatments. This career requires a strong background in science and research methodology, as well as the ability to analyze data and communicate findings effectively. 
  18. Research Technician: Research technicians work in laboratory settings to conduct experiments, collect data, and analyze results. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as experience working in a laboratory setting.
  19. Medical Laboratory Technician: Medical laboratory technicians collect and analyze patient samples to diagnose and treat medical conditions. This career path typically requires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology, as well as certification. 
  20. Medical Writing: Medical writers create a wide range of documents related to medicine and healthcare, including scientific papers, journal articles, textbooks, regulatory documents, and marketing materials. A medical writing career typically requires strong writing skills, a solid understanding of scientific concepts, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. 
  21. Science Writer/Communications Specialist: Science writers and communications specialists write and communicate scientific information to the public, industry professionals, and policymakers. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as excellent writing and communication skills. 
  22. Health Information Technology: Health information technology professionals develop and maintain electronic health records and other healthcare information systems. This career requires knowledge of healthcare technology and computer systems, as well as strong problem-solving and communication skills.
  23. Health Informatics: Health informatics professionals work with healthcare data to improve patient care and outcomes. They use technology and data analysis to manage and organize healthcare data, which can help healthcare providers make informed decisions.
  24. Wildlife Biologist: Wildlife biologists study animals and their habitats in the wild, and develop strategies for conservation and management. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as experience working in the field.
  25. Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants work with businesses and government agencies to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations and minimize their impact on the environment. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  26. Healthcare Consulting: Healthcare consultants provide expert advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a variety of issues, such as strategic planning, operations management, and regulatory compliance. 
  27. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Pharmaceutical sales representatives promote and sell prescription drugs to healthcare professionals. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as strong communication and sales skills. Learn more
  28. Medical Device Sales: Medical sales representatives sell medical products and equipment to healthcare organizations, such as hospitals and clinics. They must have a deep understanding of the products they are selling and be able to communicate their benefits effectively to potential customers. Learn more
  29. Healthcare Marketing: Healthcare marketers develop marketing strategies and campaigns to promote healthcare services and products. They must be knowledgeable about the healthcare industry and be able to communicate effectively with both healthcare providers and patients. 
  30. Forensic Science Technicians: Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. Many technicians specialize in either crime scene investigation or laboratory analysis.
  31. Bioethics: A career in bioethics involves examining the ethical implications and dilemmas that arise in the fields of medicine, health care, and life sciences. Bioethicists engage in critical analysis and discussion of complex issues such as genetic engineering, end-of-life care, and access to healthcare. They work in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, where they conduct research, develop policies, and provide guidance and consultation to healthcare providers, patients, and families. A career in bioethics requires strong analytical and critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of ethical principles and theories, and a commitment to improving the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.