Article » New degrees emerge for the fast-growing healthcare industry

New degrees emerge for the fast-growing healthcare industry

September 29, 2010
New degrees emerge for the fast-growing healthcare industry

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that as of 2008 there were 14.3 million jobs within the healthcare industry. Opportunities in this field are projected to increase over the next decade, as there will be approximately 3.2 million new positions created.

Students who are interested in working within healthcare, or professionals who would like to seek other career opportunities, could benefit from a degree program that offers specializations in this field. Fortunately, some schools are expanding in order to cater to these individuals.

For example, Pierce College recently announced that it will offer two new degrees. These include an associate's in health information technology (IT) and a bachelor's in healthcare administration.

Students who enroll in the health IT program will learn about the management of healthcare data and patients' records. These individuals will also acquire practical and analytical skills they may need for numerous positions in various work places. After they graduate, students who complete similar programs typically find jobs as consultants or documentation and quality improvement specialists at hospitals, law offices or insurance agencies.

Student may find a career in medical records or as healthcare technicians once they obtain an associate's degree with this specialization. According to the BLS, there will be more than 35,000 new positions created for these professionals over the next eight years.

Individuals may also find that enrolling in the healthcare administration program can lead them to many opportunities.

The school's new bachelor's degree program allows students to integrate management concepts and skills with basic knowledge of the healthcare industry.

Graduates may find themselves working as medical and health service managers once they obtain this degree. Those who work in this sector of the healthcare industry could find that it is a high-paying job with many opportunities. According to Payscale.com, these professionals have the potential to earn more than $75,000 per year, and there will be more than 45,000 new positions created in this field over the next eight years.

Professionals who are already working in healthcare and wish to move forward in the workplace may benefit from similar programs. Online courses are available so that these individuals can maintain their current position, while enhancing their skills and knowledge.

Similar programs could benefit individuals who would like to land a career in healthcare, as the BLS reports that 10 of today's fastest-growing sectors are in this industry.  

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