The healthcare industry is expected to experience much faster than average growth over the next 10 years, adding 1.9 million new jobs to the marketplace each year. If you’re interested in joining one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, the first place to start is your education.
A wide variety of medical degrees are available that cater to various fields within healthcare. Many of these degree programs are available online, even from top medical colleges and universities. Below, we’ll outline the medical degrees you can get online, how the programs work, and how to choose the right one.
Top 5 Medical Degrees That Can Be Earned Online
There are several paths to choose from within the medical field. Set yourself up for success by choosing a major that is in demand, pays well, and has room for promotion. Let’s look at some of the top majors within the healthcare industry and all the opportunities they hold.
1. Nursing
The nursing workforce is projected to increase by 6% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the national average across all occupations. However, as an entry-level nursing professional, the median annual wage is the lowest on our list at $59,730.
After earning a nursing major degree, there are a variety of tracks to follow through specialization, which often leads to a pay increase. For example, there are pediatric, geriatric, ICU, and oncology specialties within the general umbrella of nursing, among others. Nurses interested in receiving their master’s degree can work to become nurse practitioners with a median annual salary of $129,480, a significant step up from a first-year nurse.
Here are a few examples of job titles held by nursing majors:
- Licensed Practical Nurse
- Triage Licensed Nurse
- Pediatric Licensed Nurse
- Registered Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Surgical Nurse Practitioner
2. Radiology technology
Professionals in the radiology technology field administer diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and sonograms. This occupation is projected to grow 6% by 2033, an average rate of growth that will add 16,000 jobs to the marketplace each year.
The typical entry-level education requirement would be an associate degree, but higher education, such as a bachelor’s degree in radiology technology, is also available. The median annual salary for a radiology technologist is about $76,020, well above the national average. Graduates of radiology technology degree programs will go on to hold occupations such as:
- X-ray Technician
- Registered Radiologic Technologist
- Radiologic Technician
- Computed Tomography Scanner Operator
3. Respiratory therapy
With over 133,900 new job openings projected by 2033, respiratory therapy employment will increase by 13%. The median annual salary for professionals in the respiratory therapy field is $77,960, and at least an associate degree is required for entry-level positions.
Although respiratory therapists are not doctors, they are qualified to diagnose and treat acute and chronic cardiopulmonary conditions. They work alongside physicians to provide the right level of care for patients of all ages. Some common job titles for respiratory therapists include:
- Certified Respiratory Therapist
- Inhalation Therapist
- Registered Respiratory Therapist
- Oxygen Therapist
4. Physician assistant
Physician assistants (PAs) take the lead in job outlook on our list, with a projected workforce increase of 28% by 2033. This increase will account for nearly 12,900 new jobs added to the marketplace each year until then. The median annual salary also tops the list at $130,020.
PAs do not hold a doctorate degree. They work under the direct supervision of a physician and perform many of the same tasks. They work within most specialties to examine, diagnose, and treat patients through their lead doctor. This occupation requires a master’s degree, which students can earn online. Most end in practical clinical rotations before graduation.
5. Healthcare administration
The healthcare administration field holds a variety of occupations that handle everything from medical billing and coding to hospital-wide management.
Professionals on this career path can expect to make a median annual salary of $110,680 and can work toward making even more as they progress through higher education and earn promotions. Supervisors and managers may only need an associate or bachelor’s degree, while those at the senior or director level may require a master’s degree or completion of a doctorate program.
With the workforce expected to grow 29% by 2033, we can expect to see a much-faster-than-average workforce increase across the field through occupations such as:
- Medical and Health Service Managers
- Healthcare Administrators
- Hospitalists
- Healthcare Directors
Deciding Between 100% Online vs. Hybrid Programs
Due to the hands-on nature of most medical professions, there is still a need for in-person practical education. Therefore, 100% online degree programs are usually for existing licensed medical professionals who wish to continue or upgrade their education level. For example, an RN who wishes to earn a BSN may be able to find a 100% online program.
Online programs for entry-level medical students will likely be conducted in a hybrid format. Some students must participate in laboratory coursework or learn how to draw blood, which is simply impossible to perform from home. Students in hybrid programs will either attend a local college for in-person learning or partner with local teaching hospitals and clinics to receive practical, hands-on instruction.
How to Choose an Online Medical Degree Program
Working in the healthcare industry will give you a job that pays well for your specialized skills, provides job stability through high demand, and holds plenty of room for promotion and professional improvement. If you’re ready to start a healthcare career, it’s time to narrow your medical degree options and choose the right program. There are several factors to consider as you research potential colleges and universities:
- Pick a major. Determine the suitable occupation for you by carefully considering the duties, compensation, and educational requirements of each career path you’re interested in. Think about the day-to-day work of each occupation. Would you like to work one-on-one with patients as a nurse or operate behind the signs as a lab tech or healthcare administrator?
- Verify accreditation. Unfortunately, some online “schools” claim to provide legitimate education for medical careers, but they lack accreditation from the agencies that matter most. If you participate in an unaccredited program, all the hard work you put into your degree may not be valid with other institutions, licensing exams, or employers. Be sure the college you attend is accredited and recognized through the U.S. Department of Education.
- Consider the delivery format. If you strongly prefer asynchronous or synchronous online coursework, look for a program that matches that preference.
- Evaluate the resources and services available for students. Each institution handles distance learning differently, and it’s important to understand what resources are available for online/hybrid students, such as 24/7 tech support, online student group meetings, and career placement services.
- Talk to current students and faculty. Once you pick your program, contact the school faculty you’re interested in and ask them questions. Request a meeting with a current student to get a first-hand account of what it’s like to attend the program. You can gain insight into the workload, faculty dynamics, and overall school experience.
- Reach out to recent graduates. Find alumni of the degree program or school through social media or the alumni office. Get the perspective of someone who has completed the program you would like to attend. Ask them questions about what they liked, what they wished they knew, and what they would change.
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning a Medical Degree Online
Is an online medical degree legitimate?
Yes, as long as the program you graduate from is accredited by either a regional or national accrediting body. Prospective students can check for this on the school’s website or talk to an admissions counselor about what accreditation the program has.
How long does completing an online medical degree take?
The time it takes to complete an online medical degree depends on how much time you devote to the program and what degree you earn. An associate degree or certificate program can often be completed in 1-2 years. A bachelor’s program generally takes 4 years, and a master’s program an additional 2 years. However, there are accelerated programs that can help you earn your degree more quickly in some cases.
How do you complete clinical hours in an online program?
If your program requires clinical hours, you may have to come to the campus to complete those. Alternatively, some online schools have agreements with clinics and healthcare facilities nationwide to place remote learning students in a clinical where they live.
Interested in another degree instead?
Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.