The 50 top-paying careers in healthcare; See which medical jobs made the list

Best Medical Degrees, an online publication that provides information to prospective students considering a career in medicine, has compiled a list of the 50 top-paying healthcare careers in the United States. It researched support and ancillary healthcare careers to identify the best paying positions, using Bureau of Labor Statistics and rankings provided by the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth of 23 percent in healthcare over the next decade, with an estimated 974,000 new jobs created between 2014-2024. This growth is due, in part, to more people with insurance access and the aging of the large baby boomer population.

Salary ranges for healthcare careers vary depending on degree, area of study and license requirements, but can range anywhere from $20,000 to $102,950 annually. To see where the 50 top-paying positions rank, advance to the next slide.

To become a pharmacist, students must complete a doctor of pharmacy degree from an accredited pharmacy school. There are three- and four-year program options, requiring a bachelor’s degree for admission, and some pharmacy schools even accept high school graduates into six-year programs. Pharmacists fill medical prescriptions per physician orders, educate patients on how and when to take a prescribed medicine and inform them about potential side effects they may experience from taking the medicine. Pharmacists may find employment in hospitals, clinics, pharmacy or drug stores. The median salary for pharmacists is $120,950 annually.

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Becoming a podiatrist requires a four-year graduate program to obtain a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and pathology, among other subjects; and a clinical rotation is required. Podiatrists diagnose foot, ankle, and lower leg problems through physical exams, X-rays, medical laboratory tests, and other methods. They provide treatment for foot, ankle, and lower leg ailments, and may prescribe special appliances to help the patient with mobility. Some accredited online degree programs are available. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 14 percent 10-year job growth and a median salary of $120,700.

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates advanced masters degrees in nurse anesthesia, nurse midwives and nurse practitioner positions to grow 31 percent over the next decade, with an average annual salary of $102,670. These specialized nurses provide primary and specialty care. An undergraduate degree in nursing is required before entry into a master’s program in advanced practice nursing.

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Requiring a four-year doctor of optometry degree, optometry students study anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, optics, visual science and the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the visual system. There are some online programs available which also require clinical experiences, and students may choose a specialty in family practice, low vision rehabilitation, pediatric or geriatric optometry, and ocular disease. The average salary for a licensed, certified optometrist is an annual $101,410 and the field can expect, according to the BLS, a 27 percent job growth over the next 10 years. U.S. News and World Report ranks this career 11th in its Best Jobs report.

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Depending on the educational level and career path, median salaries in the field vary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Graduates working as human resources managers can earn up to $100,000, while graduates working as counselors in schools, social work, non profits, etc., may see salary ranges from $39,000-$56,000. Approximately half of psychology-prepared graduates work in hospitals or other health services, 10 percent in private business or nonprofit, 16 percent in governmental agencies, with the remainder in schools and universities. The American Psychological Association cites 15 subspecialties in this field.

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The doctor of nursing practice concentrates on the clinical practice of nursing and provides employment opportunities in nursing administration and/or clinical nursing faculty positions, as well as direct patient care. The BLS estimates salaries for this degree to be an average of $96,940 with a 34 percent job growth projected over the next decade. In 2006, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing endorsed the opinion that by 2015, the doctor of nursing practice would be designated as the terminal degree for licensed nurses.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSN and nurse practitioners with gerontology specialties enjoyed a median salary of $96,460 in 2012, and the job outlook is growing at a 31 percent average rate over the next few years. These nurses can expect to find employment in hospitals, physician offices, outpatient and long-term care facilities. With the large baby boomer population aging, schools of nursing, in an attempt to address this rising need for qualified gerontology nurses, are providing online nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialists and MSN programs with gerontology specializations. Several schools offer either an acute care or primary care track option.

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Physician assistants are state-licensed clinicians who examine, diagnose and treat patients, order tests such as X-rays and blood work and prescribe medications. Ranked fourth in Best Jobs by U.S. News and World Report, physician assistants hold either bachelors or masters degrees, with the masters degree considered to be the terminal degree. Most programs may be completed within two years, although some may require longer. Programs for master of science physician assistant are accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant. Working physician assistants holding a bachelors degree may want to obtain a master of health science or master of science degree in physician assistant studies to allow for better career flexibility. The BLS estimates PA salaries to be averaged at $95,820.

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Medical perfusionists assist surgical teams during cardiac and pulmonary surgeries. Operating a heart/lung machine (equipment that artificially replaces heart or lung functions during surgery), perfusionists are an integral part of the surgical team -- they monitor and correct the patient’s status by administering various blood products to the patient, regulating different medications, and observing and controlling the patient’s temperature during surgery. Students study courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, as well as additional specialized training to satisfy the requirements of certification and licensure. According to Forbes Magazine, qualified perfusionists can earn $93,500 annually.

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The government regulations contained in the 2012 Affordable Care Act require healthcare providers to integrate electronic health records technology, opening job opportunities for qualified, masters-prepared health information managers. Positions include clinical data analysis, application analysis, health information management, information technology consultant, clinical informatics manager and chief information officer. U.S. News and World Report estimates the median salary range for clinical data analysts at $55,000 to about $95,000 for clinical informatics managers.

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With the advent of more health-related services in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities and physician groups, the need for qualified healthcare managers or administrators is growing at a steady pace. Medical administrators typically hold, at least, a bachelor's degree; but, many go on to receive a Master of Business Administration. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates median salaries for this category to be $92,810, with an expected job growth increase of 17 percent over the next decade.

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As research in oncology treatments advance, more clinical trials are added to determine the safety and efficacy of new chemotherapy drugs or other treatments (such as the use of lasers). These trials are closely monitored by hospitals offering clinical trials and must meet specific requirements by the National Institute of Health, pharmaceutical companies and healthcare clinics. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is the minimum requirement to become a clinical trials manager. These nurses work closely with physicians to precisely administer drugs and monitor chemotherapy treatments. Most nurses who wish to become a clinical trials manager work in oncology for a few years and obtain certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the estimated salary for these managers is $92,600 annually and has a strong 17 percent projected job growth during 2014-2024.

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Requiring a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, biomedical engineers design equipment and devices, train clinicians on the proper use of equipment and evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical devices. Biomedical engineers design electrical circuits, software, or computer simulations to test new drug therapies; they frequently work in research and development or in quality assurance. Earning, according to the BLS, an estimated $86,950 annually, this career is ranked 27th by U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs listing.

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While most biochemists working in private research facilities typically need a doctoral degree, careers also exist for bachelors- or masters-prepared students. Study at the master’s level is generally considered good preparation for those interested in doing hands-on laboratory work. These scientists study the chemical and physical biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity and disease and provide research analysis. While the projected job growth over the next ten years is low at 8 percent, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates an average salary of $84,940. U.S. News and World Report ranks this 77th in its Best Jobs report.

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Following accidents, strokes or illnesses, patients may need assistance in returning to normal activities. Physical therapists consult with physicians to develop rehabilitation plans to help patients achieve optimum mobility. Ranked 12th in US News and World Report’s 100 Best Jobs, physical therapists must obtain a graduate degree from an accredited institution, which typically takes three years, and be state licensed. Earning an estimated $82,390 annually, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 34 percent job growth in the profession over the next decade.

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Radiation therapists earn an average of $80,090 annually, and the field has a projected job growth of around 14 percent over the next 10 years. An associates degree in nuclear medicine technology is required, with studies in human anatomy and physiology, physics, chemistry, radioactive drugs, and computer science. Radiation therapists work in hospitals and specialized oncology clinics. The Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology accredits nuclear medicine programs and most require a clinical experience; licensure is required by most states.

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With the passage of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act in 1996, the importance of maintaining secure computer records and systems took center stage in terms of compliance. Information security analysts are vital to a hospital or health system’s ability to maintain state and federal compliance regarding patient medical records. They’re responsible for monitoring security breaches and installation of appropriate software, firewalls and data encryption programs. This career requires at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology and the BLS estimates an annual salary of $88,890. The field boasts an 18 percent 10-year growth expectation.

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Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D. in biology or a related life science, and conduct research designed to identify new medicines and treatments used in treating patients. Scientists analyze medical samples to investigate causes and treatment of chronic diseases, pathogens or toxicity. They also define drug potency and dosages in manufacturing of medical compounds and pharmaceuticals, and some create medical devices. The U.S. News and World Report ranks this profession -- earning an average of $79,930 -- at number 76 in its Best Jobs report.

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Occupational therapists work with patients following an accident, surgery, stroke or other illness that leaves them in need of help in relearning everyday tasks. Occupational therapists develop treatment plans to affect a patient’s abilities to conduct daily activities, and recover the abilities necessary for daily living or work. Masters degrees are required for this profession, which can lead to an average salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, of $78,810 -- with a rapid 27 percent job growth projected over the next decade.

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With an increased need for nurses and more students choosing to enter the nursing profession, colleges and universities are in need of educators to teach student nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics currently estimates a median salary of $72,210 for nursing instructors in colleges and universities and $83,650 for those teaching in general medical centers or surgical hospitals. Nurses who obtain a masters or doctoral degree are highly sought as teachers. The American Association of Colleges and Nursing and The Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredit online nursing programs by assessing and identifying effective educational practices.

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A bachelor of science in chemistry can qualify students for entry level positions in pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and development industries, federal agencies or testing laboratories. Average annual salaries for a BS in chemistry hover around $74,720 with an average job growth of 3 percent, which is somewhat slower than average nationwide. Undergraduate chemistry majors typically are required to take courses in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. Computer science courses are useful as are courses in mathematics, biological sciences, and physics.

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Specializing in hearing, audiologists examine patients who have hearing, balance, or related ear problems; they examine and diagnose problems, develop and administer treatment, fit and dispense hearing aids and determine causes and treatment of balance disorders and hearing loss. Audiologists are required to have a doctoral degree in audiology to become licensed, a requirement in all states. The BLS estimates an average salary of $73,060 and a faster-than-average job growth projection of 29 percent over the next 10 years.

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This profession, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, has an above-average 19 percent 10-year job growth expectation and a median salary of $72,520 per year. It is recognized as number 2 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Health Care Support Jobs. They're responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth by removing tartar, stains, and plaque as well as accessing patients’ oral health and providing education on proper dental care. Hygienists also take and develop dental X-rays and apply sealants and fluorides for dental protection. This career requires licensing and certification.

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Speech language pathologists typically work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, homes or schools. Theses specialists diagnose and assess a variety of swallowing disorders and speech communication problems in patients. Working with patients who have had a stroke or brain injury, developmental issues, physical malformations and/or emotional problems, speech language pathologists assist patients in developing speech language skills. Masters prepared, these healthcare professionals have an estimated annual salary of $71,550 and a 21 percent job growth outlook for the next 10 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Occupational health and safety specialists work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, manufacturing and the government, and are responsible for assuring that employees, patients and others are protected from hazardous materials, toxins and other dangerous items. Occupational health and safety specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety or in a related scientific or technical field, such as engineering, biology, or chemistry. Some positions require a masters degree. In hospitals, the safety issues range from biohazards (blood, bodily waste, etc.) to radiation. These specialists assure the proper handling and disposal of potentially dangerous materials. This career can expect a 4 percent job growth over 10 years, and annual salaries of an estimated $69,210.

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In the mid-20th century, scientists were successful in breaking genetic codes. From that science, physicians have been able to determine specific genetic markers that are the root cause for disease, illness and syndromes that are passed down through the DNA. Genetic counselors, masters-prepared professionals, assess individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They provide education, information and support to other healthcare providers, or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions. Genetic counselors work in hospitals, private physician offices and in colleges and universities. With an above-average job growth potential of 29 percent, these professionals earn an average of $67,500 annually. The occupation was ranked 21st in Best Jobs by U.S News and World Report.

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Requiring a minimum of three years of undergraduate study, a four year program for a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and a state license, chiropractors analyze patients’ posture, spine, and reflexes and conduct tests to evaluate a patient’s posture. Chiropractors also employ neuromuscular therapy to assist in the alignment of the spine and other joints. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates these professionals may earn $66,720 a year, and the career has a 17 percent job growth estimate. It comes in 24th in U.S. News and World Report's Best Jobs.

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The role of registered nurse in healthcare has long been a respected career. While the career is moving toward the Bachelor of Nursing degree, associate degree nurses are also in demand; and can expect an average salary of $66,640, plus an estimated 16 percent job growth over the next 10 years. With a national shortage of nurses, many employers are offering tuition assistance for ADN nurses to obtain their BSN degrees. U.S. News and World Report ranks this career 16th in its healthcare support category and 22nd in its 100 Top Jobs.

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In healthcare, state and federal regulations map out requirements for reporting, community standards, quality patient care and ethical considerations. Compliance officers assure requirements are upheld to satisfy the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Affordable Care Act and the Health Insurance Portability and Privacy Act. A minimum of a bachelor's degree is typically required and, often, healthcare compliance officers may hold masters degrees in nursing or medical degrees. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $64,950 for compliance officers and the career is ranked number 94 in Best Jobs of U.S. News and World Report.

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Orthotists and prosthetists are responsible for designing and creating medical supportive devices for patients who have lost limbs or have mobility issues. These devices include artificial limbs, braces and other medical or surgical devices. This career requires a master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics. Coursework includes studies in upper and lower extremity orthotics and prosthetics, spinal orthotics, and plastics and other materials used for fabrication. These graduate programs typically take two years, and the BLS cites an annual salary of $64,040 and a 23 percent decade-long job growth.

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While not a healthcare career, per se, the role of a healthcare web developer is growing in the field. As more hospitals and healthcare systems reach out to more patients, an online web presence is important. These specialized websites include education, physician and medical services provided and general information on patient care. Web developers play a key part in presenting a professional image for medical facilities and supportive services. Increasingly, patients are able to do online hospital admission, pay bills, ask medical questions and connect with medical professionals. A minimum of an associates degree is typically required, with an emphasis in graphics design and programming. According to the BLS, Web Developers can earn a median salary of $63,490 annually.

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Cardiovascular technicians can earn a median salary of $62,540 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and this profession has been ranked 13th by U.S. News and World Report in its review of best healthcare support careers. These technicians play a role in the preparation of patients for procedures and assuring diagnostic equipment is properly maintained and calibrated. Attainable with an associates degree, students will study anatomy, medical terminology, applied sciences, and courses in invasive or noninvasive cardiovascular or vascular technology procedures. Students can expect to complete a clinical rotation working with physicians, diagnostic clinics or laboratory. Most employers will give preference to students graduating from Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the majority will require certification by Cardiovascular Credentialing International.

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics identified a 10-year, 24 percent employment rate for sonographers and a mean salary of $62,540 annually. Employment may be found in hospitals, physician offices and outpatient clinics. U.S. News and World Report cited this career as number 42 in its 100 Best Jobs. Students pursue an associates degree or bachelor degree with studies in anatomy, medical terminology, and applied sciences. Most studies will include a clinical experience and all sonographers must be licensed and certified.

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Human resource specialists in healthcare are responsible for assuring that employees meet all licensure and certification requirements to provide patient care in hospitals or health systems. HR specialists hold a minimum of a bachelors degree in human resources, business or a related field and some employers will require certification. Responsible for screening, interviewing and recommending personnel for employment, these professionals have a median salary of $57,420, according to the BLS, and the career is ranked 90th in the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs survey.

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Dietitians and nutritionists are experts in food and nutrition who assess patients’ individual needs, and counsel them on appropriate diets and nutritional habits to promote healing and overall health. Dietitians and nutritionists work in hospitals, clinics and outpatient centers. Requiring a bachelor’s degree in nutrition science, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates 16 percent job growth and a $56,950 annual salary for this profession. Many states require licensure for this career. This career ranked number 23 in Best Jobs in U.S. News and World Report.

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Respiratory therapists work with patients having difficulty breathing, as a result of injury, asthma, lung disease or from heart attacks. The Bureau of Labor Statistics cites this profession as having a median income of $56,730 and a 12 percent job growth outlook over the next 10 years. Approximately four out of five respiratory therapists work in hospitals with others working in healthcare facilities, physician offices or home health agencies. Respiratory therapy students enrolled in an associates degree program will focus on diagnostic and therapeutic assessment and procedures, CPR and clinical experience. These therapists are licensed and requirements vary from state to state; the career is rated 25th in Best Jobs of U.S. News and World Report.

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As hospitals and health systems grow, public relations specialists are increasingly important in establishing a positive patient and community image. They're responsible for press releases and information for the media, developing and maintaining their healthcare organizations’s image, advertisements and promotional programs. Many who are working in healthcare assist in providing educational information for patients as well. This career typically needs a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications or English. This profession can average of $55,680 yearly according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and rated sixth in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs ranking.

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MRI technologists are charged with assuring imaging equipment is well maintained, following physician orders on which images are required, explaining procedures and answering patient questions, properly positioning the patient for imaging and operating the computerized equipment to take images. MRI technologists typically begin as radiologic technicians before specializing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates a median salary of $57,370 annually for this position, which has a 9 percent job growth prospective over the next 10 years. This career is ranked 10th by U.S. News and World Report in their listing 100 Best Jobs.

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Recognized by U.S. News and World Report as ranking first in its Best Jobs lineup, occupational therapy assistants work collaboratively with occupational therapists in teaching patients to use special equipment or devices, and perform therapeutic exercises to improve or develop skills necessary in daily life. Requiring at least an associates degree, these specialized assistants can earn an estimated $52,300 a year and the BLS projects a 40 percent job growth rate over the next 10 years.

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As hospitals and health systems increasingly rely on computers for patient record keeping, government reporting and other details, computer support specialists provide onsite software support for clinicians and employees. Most have a bachelors degree but jobs exist for those with an associates degree. Most frequently, computer support specialists test and evaluate existing network systems, perform regular maintenance and install computer systems to ensure that networks operate correctly and troubleshoot issues for employees. Coming in at number 60 on the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs ranking, these specialists can earn an average of $50,380 a year.

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The BLS estimates the ten-year job growth in this field at 16 percent with a median salary of $49,310 per year. The profession is ranked #66 by U.S. News and World Report as its Top 100 Best Jobs categories. These technicians need a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory technology, also known as a medical laboratory scientist degree, which includes studies in chemistry, biology, microbiology, math and statistics. Many employers may require certification for these positions.

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Responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of medical equipment, medical equipment repairers require an associates degree in biomedical technology or engineering. Some employers will require certification offered by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, which offers certification in three specialty areas -- Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician, Certified Radiology Equipment Specialists, and Certified Laboratory Equipment Specialist. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report at number 96 in its Best Jobs report, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates $45,660 as an annual salary.

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Clinical social workers work with patients and clients in crisis, illness or suffering from mental health issues in settings such as hospitals and private practice. They are required to have a master’s degree and two years' experience in a supervised clinical setting. This profession also requires licensure and certification. The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests this career has a 12 percent job growth over the next 10 years and a median salary of $45,500 per year.

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U.S. News and World Report ranks this career 24th in it’s Best Jobs rating and the BLS projects a 15 percent job growth expectation and a median salary of $43,450 per year. Surgical technologists, also called operating room technologists, typically need an associates degree or certification. They’re responsible for preparation of patients, the arrangement of the operating room, sterilization of instruments, assistance to surgeons by passing required instruments and maintenance of an accurate count of instruments and supplies.

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Marriage and family therapists provide marital education, family counseling and support services to improve communication and problem solving skills between couples, and encourage healthy marriages. They may work in private clinics, hospitals or outpatients centers. This career requires a masters degree and licensure. The estimated annual salary for this profession, according to BLS, is $42,250, and it's ranked 70th on U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs ranking.

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Working under the supervision of physical therapists, PTAs help patients do specific exercises as part of their care plan, educate patients and families and use devices and equipment to meet that plan. Educational requirements for this profession include a minimum of an associates degree and state licensure. Estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to earn $41,640 annually, and with a very rapid 40 percent 10-year job growth, this career is ranked fourth in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs rankings.

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Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders, or other behavioral problems. These counselors provide therapy, treatment and support for patients to recover from their addiction. Most of these counselors have a minimum education of a bachelors degree, but masters degrees are available. Those in private practice are required to be licensed. BLS estimates an average salary of $39,270 yearly and a 22 percent job growth between 2014-2024; U.S. News and World Report ranks this career at number 51 in its Best Jobs listing.

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Dental assistants can earn an average of $37,390, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the field expects an 18 percent future job growth. There are two routes to becoming a dental assistant, either through graduating an accredited associates degree program; or, depending on the state, there is no formal education required. Dental assistants help dentists by assuring the patient is comfortable, hand dental tools to the dentist, process X-rays and provide education in proper dental care. The U.S. News and World Report ranks Dental Assistant careers at #17 in their Best Jobs ranking.

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With a rapid, BLS projected job growth of 24 percent, paramedics are the first to administer medical assistance following an accident or sudden illness (such as heart attack, breathing problems or broken limbs). Paramedics are responsible for immediate health assistance and the safe transportation of patients to hospital trauma centers. While an advanced degree is not required for this career, students must complete EMT and Advanced EMT levels of instruction, along with courses in advanced medical skills that are offered in most community colleges. Ranked 25th in the Best Jobs ranking of U.S. News and World Report, the BLS estimates $31,700 as an annual salary.

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