An Associate of Science degree can open up a variety of career opportunities in the healthcare field and beyond. While healthcare is a rapidly growing sector, there are numerous other job options available to individuals with an associate's degree in science. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and lucrative careers for individuals with an Associate of Science degree.
1. Nursing Assistant With an average national salary of $13.75 per hour, nursing assistants play a crucial role in assisting patients with their daily needs. They are responsible for monitoring and recording patient vitals, providing toileting care, assisting with catheters, changing beds, helping patients with eating and drinking, dressing, bathing, showering, and oral hygiene. A nursing assistant must have a compassionate and caring attitude towards patients and be able to maintain a positive and calming demeanor. Educational requirements for this role typically include a six to 12-week training program that certifies nursing aides. Common employers for nursing assistants include Medilodge, HCR ManorCare, and VA Hospital.
2. Medical Scribe/Transcriptionist Medical scribes or transcriptionists have an average national salary of $14.02 per hour. They are responsible for transcribing reports from physician, clinician, and healthcare provider voice recordings. While advances in transcription technology may impact the demand for this role, there is still a need for skilled scribes who can accurately transcribe complex medical terms. Medical scribes work in doctor's offices, hospitals, transcription companies, or as freelancers. They may use a computer or tablet to record physician-patient interactions during appointments, allowing doctors to focus on patient care. While not always required, many scribes have a background in healthcare and may have completed relevant courses to familiarize themselves with medical terminology. Some common employers in this field include Etheredge Chiropractic, Renalus Kidney Care, and LDMTS.
3. Phlebotomist Phlebotomists have an average national salary of $14.89 per hour and are responsible for drawing blood, labeling vials, storing specimens, and sending them for testing. They must follow patient order forms, sterilize and organize equipment, and ensure proper disposal of needles and biohazardous materials. Phlebotomists must have strong people skills and the ability to make patients feel comfortable during blood draws and testing procedures. Educational requirements typically include completion of a phlebotomy technician training program and certification in some states. Common employers for phlebotomists include LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, and the American Red Cross.
4. Medical Assistant Medical assistants earn an average national salary of $15.10 per hour and play a vital role in assisting doctors in clinical settings. They may collect and test samples, perform routine checkups, record health histories, and fill out patient paperwork. Medical assistants must have strong interpersonal skills, patience, and organizational abilities to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Educational requirements for medical assistants include certification and registration, with specific requirements varying by state. Some common employers for medical assistants include Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and Dignity Health.
5. Emergency Medical Technician Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) earn an average national salary of $15.16 per hour and are responsible for responding to emergencies and providing medical care to patients. EMTs may assess patient vitals, collect health histories, and determine the need for hospitalization and appropriate transport. This role requires strong people skills, empathy, and the ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations. Common employers for EMTs include Medcor, United Ambulance, and City Ambulance Service.
6. Administrative Assistant Administrative assistants earn an average national salary of $15.47 per hour and play a crucial role in assisting with office duties such as answering phones, scheduling meetings, ordering supplies, and organizing paperwork. Administrative assistants with an Associate of Science degree may have additional responsibilities, such as scheduling doctors or managing office staff. This role requires strong multitasking and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Common employers for administrative assistants include the US Department of Defense, Mount Sinai Health System, and UPS.
7. Medical Biller Medical billers earn an average national salary of $16.03 per hour and are responsible for billing insurance companies, coding procedures, managing office revenue, and communicating with payers to track payments and confirm patient coverage. This role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure accurate billing and claims processing. Some employers prefer candidates with RHIT or CPB credentials. Common employers for medical billers include UnitedHealth, Planned Parenthood, and Texas Children's Hospital.
8. Pharmacy Technician Pharmacy technicians earn an average national salary of $16.21 per hour and are responsible for providing medications and assisting pharmacists in maintaining inventory, processing insurance claims, and answering patient questions. Pharmacy technicians must have strong communication and organizational skills to ensure accurate dispensing and processing of medications. Educational requirements for pharmacy technicians typically include certification in some states. Common employers for pharmacy technicians include Costco Wholesale, Magellan Health Services, and Aetna.
9. Lab Assistant Lab assistants earn an average national salary of $17.21 per hour and are responsible for receiving, analyzing, and testing samples in a laboratory setting. Lab assistants must have strong organizational and analytical skills to ensure accurate and precise testing procedures. While formal certification is not always required, a Laboratory Technology Certificate or similar qualification may help candidates stand out. Common employers for lab assistants include PeaceHealth, Salem Health, and UT San Antonio.
10. Engineering Technician Engineering technicians earn an average annual salary of $56,937 and play a crucial role in assisting engineers with technical tasks, experiments, data collection, and quality control. An Associate of Science degree provides a solid foundation for a career as an engineering technician, with coursework in science, math, and arts helping to develop strong analytical and numerical skills. Employers hiring engineering technicians typically prefer candidates with associate's or bachelor's degrees, and professional certification or advanced degrees may help employees advance in their careers. Aerospace companies may require specialized training and credentials for engineering technician roles.
In conclusion, an Associate of Science degree can open up a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare and other fields. From nursing assistants to engineering technicians, individuals with an associate's degree in science can pursue rewarding and well-compensated careers in diverse industries. By obtaining additional certifications or advanced degrees, these professionals can further advance their careers and achieve greater success in their chosen fields.