About Health Science Career Pathways

You can choose a career in the health sciences as a registered nurse or a patient advocate.

A career in the health sciences means that you are concerned about health issues, the workings of the body, and are comfortable caring for people. Additionally, you probably like reading about the latest developments in science and medicine, which could lead you to a career in a growing field such as biotechnology.

Educational Requirements

No matter the chosen career track, there are some core educational areas that all health sciences students must complete. These standards are a part of national career initiative to address students' interests and the evolving and demanding job market in career clusters such as the health sciences. Examples of educational requirements: anatomy and physiology, knowledge of diseases and disorders of the body, an understanding of the health care system, and awareness of safe work practices such as prevention of illness.

Occupations

Career pathways include therapeutic services such as a home health aide or nurse practitioner, diagnostic services such as audiologist or optometrist, health informatics such as health educator or patient advocate, support services such as social worker or interpreter, and biotechnology research and development such as a cell biologist.

Types of Degrees

You can obtain an associate, bachelor's, master's or professional degree such as a doctor of pharmacy. These programs can be accessed at any community college or university.

References

• State of Indiana: States' Career Cluster Initiative