Are you passionate about healthcare but don’t have a medical degree?
You’re not alone. Thousands of Americans are launching successful medical careers without spending years (and thousands of dollars) on schooling.
The best part? Many entry-level healthcare jobs in the USA pay $60,000 or more annually, even if you don’t hold a traditional medical degree.
In this article, we’ll explore high-paying, entry-level healthcare jobs that are in demand, require minimal education, and can help you achieve financial stability, job security, and career growth — all without becoming a doctor or nurse.
Why Choose Healthcare Without a Degree?
The healthcare industry is booming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), healthcare occupations are projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, adding millions of new jobs by 2031.
Here’s why non-degree healthcare careers are appealing:
- High demand: An aging population means more healthcare services are needed.
- Job security: Healthcare jobs are less likely to be outsourced or automated.
- Competitive salaries: Many entry-level positions offer $60,000+ salaries, especially with experience or certifications.
- Quick entry: Most roles only require certifications or associate degrees.
- Career mobility: Start small and move up as you gain experience.
Top Entry-Level Healthcare Jobs Paying $60,000+ (No Medical Degree Needed)
Whether you’re switching careers or looking to enter the workforce, these roles offer excellent pay and growth potential without requiring a four-year degree.
1. Radiologic Technologist
- Average Salary: $65,000 – $70,000/year
- Education Needed: Associate degree + certification
- Job Outlook: 6% growth (BLS)
- Job Role: Operate imaging equipment (X-rays, CT scans) to assist doctors in diagnosis.
Why It Pays Well: Radiology is a high-demand specialty, and skilled technologists are essential in hospitals and clinics.
2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $75,000/year
- Education Needed: Associate degree or postsecondary certificate
- Job Role: Use ultrasound equipment to produce images of internal body structures.
High CPC Keywords: ultrasound technician salary, diagnostic imaging careers, sonography jobs
3. Respiratory Therapist
- Average Salary: $60,000 – $68,000/year
- Education Needed: Associate degree
- Job Role: Help patients with breathing issues, including those with asthma, COPD, or recovering from surgery.
Bonus: Demand is high due to respiratory illnesses and COVID-19 aftereffects.
4. Surgical Technologist
- Average Salary: $60,000+/year (with experience)
- Education Needed: Certificate or associate degree
- Job Role: Assist in surgery prep, manage instruments, support surgical team.
High CPC Keywords: surgical tech certification, operating room careers, surgical assistant salary
5. Medical Coder and Biller
- Average Salary: $55,000 – $65,000/year
- Education Needed: Certification (CPC, CCS, etc.)
- Job Role: Translate medical reports into standardized codes for billing and insurance claims.
Why It’s a Smart Choice: Work from home options available, and demand is growing due to healthcare digitization.
High CPC Keywords: medical coding jobs remote, billing and coding certification, health insurance claims processor
6. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
- Average Salary: $60,000+/year
- Education Needed: Associate degree
- Job Role: Help patients develop or regain daily living and working skills.
Job Outlook: 25% growth – much faster than average!
7. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
- Average Salary: $65,000 – $70,000/year
- Education Needed: Associate degree
- Job Role: Assist physical therapists in helping patients improve mobility and manage pain.
High CPC Keywords: physical therapy assistant salary, PTA certification programs, rehab therapy careers
Certifications That Boost Your Pay
While these positions don’t require a bachelor’s or medical degree, certifications can significantly increase your earning potential and job prospects. Here are a few high-value certifications:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – for medical coding
- ARRT Certification – for radiologic technologists
- RRT or CRT – for respiratory therapists
- BLS/ACLS Certification – required for most clinical roles
Where to Get Certified?
You can earn these certifications from community colleges, online programs, or vocational schools. Some top online platforms include:
- Coursera
- edX
- Penn Foster
- AAMC
- AHIMA and AAPC (for coders)
Most programs can be completed in 6–18 months, making them a fast track to a $60,000+ career.
Where to Find High-Paying Healthcare Jobs?
Here are some top websites to search for entry-level healthcare roles:
- Indeed.com
- Glassdoor
- ZipRecruiter
- Monster
- Hospital websites (e.g., Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Kaiser Permanente)
Tip: Search with high-CPC keywords like “healthcare jobs without degree,” “$60K medical jobs,” or “work-from-home medical coding.”
Benefits of These Careers
Aside from the high pay, these healthcare jobs offer:
- Flexible hours (great for parents and students)
- Full-time or part-time options
- Opportunities for advancement
- Low student debt
- High job satisfaction
Tips to Succeed in Entry-Level Healthcare Jobs
- Get Certified: Even if it’s not mandatory, certifications make you competitive.
- Build a Resume: Include clinical hours, volunteer work, or internships.
- Network: Join healthcare forums, LinkedIn groups, or attend workshops.
- Stay Updated: Healthcare is ever-changing. Continuing education is key.
- Focus on Soft Skills: Compassion, communication, and patience are priceless in medical roles.
Is It Worth It?
Yes, absolutely! These entry-level healthcare jobs are perfect for anyone looking to:
- Start a new career
- Escape low-paying jobs
- Avoid student loan debt
- Earn a stable income
- Make a difference in people’s lives
The healthcare industry continues to grow rapidly, and entering the field—even without a degree—can set you on a path to financial freedom, job security, and meaningful work.
FAQs: USA Entry-Level Healthcare Jobs Paying $60,000
- What are entry-level healthcare jobs?
- Entry-level healthcare jobs are positions that require minimal experience or training and often do not require a college degree.
- What is the average salary for entry-level healthcare jobs?
- Many entry-level roles can pay around $60,000, depending on the specific job and location.
- Which entry-level healthcare jobs pay around $60,000?
- Positions include medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, dental hygienists, and medical scribes.
- Do I need a degree to work in these roles?
- Many of these positions do not require a degree, though certifications or vocational training may be preferred.
- What certifications can I pursue?
- Options include Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and certification for pharmacy technicians.
- What is a medical assistant?
- Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings.
- How much does a medical assistant earn?
- Medical assistants can earn around $35,000 to $50,000 annually, with some experienced ones earning more.
- What does a pharmacy technician do?
- They assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications and managing prescriptions.
- What is the salary range for pharmacy technicians?
- Pharmacy technicians typically earn between $38,000 to $60,000 depending on experience and location.
- What is a dental hygienist?
- Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and educate patients on oral hygiene.
- Can I become a dental hygienist without a degree?
- While most states require an associate degree, some vocational training options exist.
- What is a medical scribe?
- Medical scribes assist healthcare providers by documenting patient encounters in real-time.
- What is the earning potential for medical scribes?
- Medical scribes can earn about $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
- How do I find entry-level healthcare jobs?
- Job boards, healthcare staffing agencies, and local hospitals’ career pages are good resources.
- What skills are needed for entry-level healthcare jobs?
- Strong communication, attention to detail, empathy, and basic computer skills are essential.
- Are there any online courses available?
- Yes, many platforms offer online courses for certifications in healthcare-related fields.
- What is the job outlook for these roles?
- The job outlook for healthcare positions is strong, with many roles expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
- Can I work part-time in these roles?
- Many entry-level healthcare jobs offer part-time and flexible scheduling options.
- Is there room for advancement in these careers?
- Yes, many entry-level roles allow for advancement to higher-paying positions with additional training and experience.
- Are internships or volunteer experiences beneficial?
- Yes, internships and volunteer work can provide valuable experience and improve employability.
- What is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?
- CNAs provide basic patient care under the supervision of nursing staff.
- What is the average salary for CNAs?
- CNAs typically earn around $25,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
- Do I need a license to work as a CNA?
- Yes, CNAs must be certified, which usually requires passing a state exam.
- What healthcare roles require minimal training?
- Roles like home health aides and medical receptionists often require minimal training.
- What’s the role of a health information tech?
- They manage patient data and health information systems in healthcare organizations.
- How much do health information technicians make?
- Their salaries range from $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience and location.
- What is the role of a patient care technician?
- They assist patients with daily activities and monitor their well-being.
- Can I work as a home health aide without prior experience?
- Yes, many home health aide positions provide on-the-job training.
- What is the salary for home health aides?
- Home health aides typically earn between $25,000 to $35,000.
- Do entry-level healthcare jobs require a background check?
- Yes, most employers require background checks for healthcare positions.
- Are there any age restrictions for entry-level healthcare positions?
- Generally, candidates must be at least 18 years old.
- What personal qualities are important for healthcare workers?
- Compassion, patience, strong communication, and teamwork are crucial attributes.
- Can I switch to a healthcare career from a different field?
- Yes, many people transition into healthcare from other industries.
- What are the typical working hours for these jobs?
- Hours can vary, with many roles requiring evening or weekend shifts.
- What types of facilities hire entry-level healthcare workers?
- Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practices commonly hire for these roles.
- Is travel required for any of these jobs?
- Some roles, like traveling CNAs or home health aides, may require travel.
- Are health benefits available for entry-level positions?
- Many employers offer health benefits, though it varies by organization.
- Can I work remotely in healthcare?
- Some roles, like medical coding or telehealth positions, offer remote work opportunities.
- How do I prepare for a healthcare job interview?
- Research the employer, practice common interview questions, and prepare to discuss your skills.
- Can I take continuing education courses if I’m already employed?
- Yes, many employers provide opportunities for continuing education.
- What is a medical billing and coding specialist?
- They manage healthcare billing and coding to ensure proper reimbursement.
- What is the salary for medical billing and coding specialists?
- Their earnings typically range from $40,000 to $60,000.
- Do I need certification for medical billing and coding?
- While not always required, certification can enhance job prospects.
- What are the key responsibilities of a healthcare recruiter?
- Recruiters match job seekers with healthcare positions and help fill vacancies.
- How much do healthcare recruiters earn?
- Their salaries can vary widely, often ranging from $40,000 to $70,000.
- Are there specific states where these jobs pay more?
- Yes, states like California and New York generally offer higher salaries due to cost of living.
- Can I start a healthcare career with just a high school diploma?
- Many entry-level positions accept a high school diploma, especially with certifications.
- What is the importance of networking in healthcare?
- Networking can provide job leads, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement.
- What resources are available for job seekers in healthcare?
- Resources include job boards, career fairs, and professional organizations in healthcare.
- How can I stand out as a candidate in entry-level healthcare jobs?
- Highlight relevant skills, obtain certifications, and demonstrate a passion for healthcare.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a doctor or nurse to make great money in healthcare. With the right certification and a little determination, you can land a job that pays $60,000 or more, offers benefits, and helps others every day.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your future and start a career in one of the USA’s most secure and rewarding industries — now is the time.
Ready to make your move?
Start by researching certification programs online or locally. Set a goal. Take action. Your $60,000 healthcare career is waiting!