Alternative Careers in Health and Science

Support and administrative services in healthcare play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and patient care. Here are some key roles that typically do not require a degree, but might require certification, licensure, or other forms of training:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

• EKG Technician

• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

• Health Care Interpreter

• Home Health Aide

• Medical Assitant

• Medical Biller and Coder

• Medical Laboratory Assistant

• Medcal Scribe

• Medical Supply Clerk

• Patient Care Technician

• Pharmacy Technician

• Phlebotomist

• Rehab Aide

• Suregical Assistant and Technician

The NEIU Department of Community and Professional Education (CaPE) offers several career training programs, such as Medical Assistant, Veterinary Assistant, EKG Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, and more.

Agricultural and food scientists study, develop, and improve agricultural, food, and animal products, focusing on enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability from "farm-to-fork". Careers typically require a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biology, or chemistry, with roles spanning product development, quality control, and research.
American Chemical Society | Occupational Outlook Handbook

Analytical chemists identify and quantify the chemical structure, composition, and behavior of substances, applying their expertise in areas like pharmaceuticals, forensic science, and environmental monitoring. They typically require a bachelor's degree in chemistry and use sophisticated instrumentation to develop methods, ensure quality control, and solve complex, real-world problems. 
American Chemical Society

Cosmetic chemists (or cosmetic scientists) are specialized professionals who apply principles of chemistry, biology, and material science to research, develop, and test safe, effective, and aesthetic personal care products. They work in labs to create, analyze, and refine formulas for cosmetics, skincare, and haircare, often holding degrees in chemistry or related fields.

Environmental chemists analyze air, water, and soil samples to identify and quantify chemical pollutants, studying their transport, fate, and impact on ecosystems and human health. They work to solve contamination issues, ensure regulatory compliance for industries, and develop sustainable practices or remediation methods. 
American Chemical Society

Medicinal/Pharmaceutical Chemists research and develop new drugs, typically requiring a Ph.D. in organic chemistry and postdoctoral experience for, high-level research roles. They work in labs, biotech, or academia.
American Chemical Society

Audiologist: Audiologists are licensed healthcare professionals who diagnose, manage, and treat hearing, balance, and ear-related disorders in patients of all ages. They perform diagnostic tests, fit hearing aids and cochlear implants, manage tinnitus, and provide auditory rehabilitation. A Doctorate of Audiology (Au.D.) is typically required.
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers 

Speech-Language Pathologist: Speech-language pathologists work with patients to help them improve their communication skills, including speech, language, and social communication. They also help patients with swallowing difficulties. This career requires a master's degree in speech-language pathology, as well as licensure. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers 

Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants work with businesses and government agencies to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations and minimize their impact on the environment. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Genetic Counselor: Genetic counselors assess clients’ risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as birth defects. They review genetic test results with individuals and families and support them in making decisions based on those results. They review genetic test results with individuals and families and support them in making decisions based on those results. They also offer information to other healthcare providers. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Healthcare Consulting: Healthcare consultants provide expert advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a variety of issues, such as strategic planning, operations management, and regulatory compliance. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Dental Assistant: Dental assistants are qualified individuals who contribute significantly to the dental team. Dental assistants perform a variety of tasks, from patient care to office and laboratory duties. The exact responsibilities of a specific dental assistant job will depend on the assistant’s background and credentials as well as state laws and the dentist for whom the assistant works.
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Dental Hygienist: A dental hygiene career involves preventive oral care, including cleaning teeth, examining for diseases, and patient education. Requires an associate degree and licensure.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Dental Informatist: Dental informatics is a specialized field combining dentistry, computer science, and information technology to improve oral healthcare through enhanced patient data management, diagnostic tools, and clinical efficiency. It focuses on electronic health records (EHRs), digital imaging, AI, and teledentistry to optimize clinical, research, and educational outcomes
Explore Health Careers | AMIA

Cardiovascular Technologist: Cardiovascular technologists assist with the diagnosis and treatment of heart and blood vessel conditions. They operate imaging equipment and assist with procedures such as cardiac catheterizations. This career path typically requires an associate degree in cardiovascular technology, as well as certification. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers 

Cytotechnologists are laboratory professionals who study cells and cellular anomalies. Using a microscope, they examine slides of human cells for any indication that a cell is abnormal and/or diseased (i.e., cancerous or precancerous lesions, infectious agents or inflammatory processes). Cytotechnologists often play a crucial role in helping patients to recover from illness by identifying a disease while it is still at a treatable stage.
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Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create images of internal organs and tissues. They work with physicians to help diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions. This career typically requires an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography, as well as certification. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Nuclear Medicine Technologists: A specialized healthcare professionals who prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, operate advanced imaging equipment (PET/CT, SPECT/CT), and analyze images to help physicians diagnose and treat diseases.
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Clical Schools at Northwestern

Radiologic and MRI Technologist: Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment, such as X-ray and MRI machines, to produce images of the human body for diagnostic purposes. This career path typically requires an associate degree in radiologic technology, as well as certification. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

High School Science Teacher: Science teachers educate high school students in a range of scientific subjects, including biology, chemistry, and earth science. M.A.T. in Secondary Education at NEIU l Occupational Outlook Handbook

University Lecturer/Instructor: Typically requires a Master’s degree or PhD; involves teaching undergraduate courses and managing lab classes. Occupational Outlook Handbook

Adjunct Instructor: Teaches specific, part-time courses at the college level. 

Forensic Science Technicians: Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. Many technicians specialize in either crime scene investigation or laboratory analysis. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Forensic Toxicologist: If you are fascinated by the effects chemicals can have on the human body, this may be the career for you. Forensic toxicologists perform scientific tests on bodily fluids and tissue samples to identify any drugs or chemicals present in the body. Working in a lab, the forensic toxicologist performs tests on samples collected by forensic pathologists during an autopsy or by crime scene investigators. They use highly sophisticated instruments, chemical reagents, and precise methodologies to determine the presence or absence of specific substances in the sample.
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Forensic Biologist: Forensic biologists examine blood and other bodily fluids, hair, bones, insects and plant and animal remains to help identify victims and support criminal investigations. Using technology in the lab and in the field, forensic biologists collect and analyze biological evidence found on clothing, weapons, and other surfaces to determine the time and cause of death.
Explore Health Careers | AAFS 

Forensic Chemists: Forensic chemists analyze non-biological trace evidence found at crime scenes in order to identify unknown materials and match samples to known substances. They also analyze drugs/controlled substances taken from scenes and people in order to identify and sometimes quantify these materials.
Explore Health Careers | AAFS | American Chemical Society

Healthcare Administration: Healthcare administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. This career requires strong leadership skills, an understanding of healthcare policy and regulations, and the ability to manage budgets, personnel, and resources.  This field can also be a part of Public Health.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Health Information Technology: Health information technology professionals develop and maintain electronic health records and other healthcare information systems. This career requires knowledge of healthcare technology and computer systems, as well as strong problem-solving and communication skills. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Health Informatics: Health informatics merges healthcare, data science, and IT to manage medical information, improve patient care, and enhance system efficiency. It involves managing Electronic Health Records (EHRs), data analytics, and digital tools, with professionals often requiring bachelor's or master’s degrees. Learn more

Integrative and Complementary (Holistic) Medicine approaches health by combining conventional Western medicine with evidence-based, non-mainstream practices. It focuses on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just symptoms, often incorporating nutrition, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation alongside traditional therapies to improve quality of life and manage chronic conditions. 
Learn More | NCCIH 

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to a diverse group of health systems, practices, and products—such as acupuncture, yoga, herbs, and massage—that are not generally considered part of conventional Western medicine. "Complementary" means using these alongside standard treatments, while "Alternative" means using them instead of standard care. NCCIH

Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine (AOM) is an ancient and empirical system of medicine based on the concept of qi (pronounced “chee”), which is usually translated as energy. AOM treatments identify a pattern of energetic imbalance within a patient and redress that disharmony through a variety of therapies that may include acupuncture needling, cupping, acupressure, exercises such as tai ji and qi gong and Chinese herbal preparations.
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Chiropractor: Chiropractors evaluate and treat patients' neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They use spinal adjustments and manipulation, as well as other clinical interventions, to manage patients’ health concerns, such as back and neck pain. Occupational Outlook Handbook

Naturopathic physicians: Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary health care profession that combines the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science. Naturopathic physicians are trained as primary care providers who diagnose, treat, and manage patients with acute and chronic conditions, while addressing disease and dysfunction at the level of body, mind, and spirit.
Explore Health Careers | AANMC

Massage Therapists methodically apply focused, hands-on techniques to promote relaxation and increase circulation in the body’s soft tissues (muscles, tendons, connective tissue, etc.). Although the warming and stimulating effect of massage has a positive effect on joint mobility and range of motion, direct work on the skeleton is outside the massage therapist’s scope of practice.
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Medical Laboratory Assistant: A Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) is a healthcare professional who supports laboratory scientists and physicians by collecting, processing, and analyzing patient specimens like blood, tissue, and bodily fluids. They prepare samples for testing, maintain equipment, and manage lab inventory, ensuring accurate, timely results for diagnosis. 
Certificate (NEIU CaPE)
Certification: Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA)

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) (formerly Clinical Laboratory Technician)
Medical laboratory technicians collect and analyze patient samples to diagnose and treat medical conditions. This career path typically requires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology, as well as certification. They typically have an associate's degree.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Blood Bank Technology Specialist: Specialists in blood bank technology perform both routine and specialized tests in blood donor centers, transfusion services, reference laboratories, and research facilities.
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Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) (formerly Medical Technologist (MT)): A Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) is a critical member of a patient’s medical team. An MLS performs most of the laboratory tests on biological samples that have been collected in healthcare settings, as well as analyzes and processes the results of these tests. These medical professionals work predominantly in the laboratory but interact closely with many different healthcare providers, including physicians and nurses, providing key data that helps these providers deliver the best care to patients. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Qualifications to sit for the certification exam:

• BS in MLS, or
• BS (Bio-6 hrs/Chem-16 hrs) + clinical lab experience (1 year for AMT | 5 years for ASCP), or 
• BS and MLS Training Program (8-12 months) (ie, Loyola, Endeavor Health), or 
• Master’s Degree in MLS (2 years)

Medical Scientist: A medical scientist is a researcher who studies human diseases to improve overall health, focusing on understanding diseases, developing treatments, and testing medical devices. They typically work in labs and offices—not directly with patients—conducting clinical trials, analyzing data, and writing research grants. They usually hold a Ph.D. or M.D..
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Attorney, or attorney-at-law, is a licensed professional authorized to practice law, advise clients, and represent them in legal proceedings. Attorneys with a science background (often called "lawyer-scientists") leverage technical expertise to specialize in fields like intellectual property, patent law, biotechnology, and environmental law. They are essential for understanding complex technologies, analyzing scientific evidence (e.g., DNA, forensics), and protecting innovation. They commonly hold degrees in engineering, chemistry, biology, or physics, as well as a law degree (J.D.). 

Patent attorney: A specialized lawyer with a technical or scientific degree (engineering, biology, chemistry, etc.) registered with the USPTO to secure, manage, and enforce patent rights. They prepare and file patent applications, navigate complex legal/technical negotiations with patent examiners, and litigate infringement disputes in court.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
 

Clinical Counseling: Clinical counselors are mental health professionals who provide counseling and therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They typically work in a clinical setting, such as a private practice, hospital, or community mental health center. M.A. Programs in Counseling at NEIU l Occupational Outlook Handbook

Social Worker: Social workers help individuals, groups, and families prevent and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional problems. 
M.S.W. in Social Work at NEIU l Occupational Outlook Handbook

Gerontologist: A gerontologist studies the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, psychological, and societal effects of the aging process on the human body. The field is often mistaken for geriatrics, which focuses on the various medical phenomena associated with the aging process. Gerontology, however, is multidisciplinary. It takes a more holistic view of the journey people experience as they grow older, often involving a wide variety of related disciplines such as psychology, sociology, economics, public policy, and marketing. 
Gerontology Senior Advocate, Certificate at NEIU l Learn more

Recreational Therapy: Recreational therapy (or therapeutic recreation) is a healthcare profession that uses structured leisure activities, such as arts, sports, games, and animal-assisted therapies, to treat and rehabilitate individuals with illnesses or disabling conditions. It aims to improve physical, cognitive, social, and emotional functioning, ultimately boosting independence and quality of life. 
ATRA | Occupational Outlook Handbook

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a graduate-level professional certified by the BACB who designs, implements, and supervises Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment plans to improve behavior and skills in individuals, commonly those with autism or developmental disabilities. 

Rehabilitation Counselor: Specialized professionals who assist individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities to achieve personal, social, and vocational independence. They provide counseling, vocational assessment, and job placement services to help clients overcome barriers, frequently working with veterans, students, and injured workers to improve their quality of life. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Substance Abuse/Addiction Counselor: A substance abuse counselor helps individuals overcome addictions to drugs, alcohol, or behavioral issues (like gambling) by evaluating mental/physical health, developing personalized treatment plans, and providing therapy. They facilitate recovery through individual/group sessions, teach coping mechanisms to prevent relapse, and connect clients with support services.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Optician: An optician is a healthcare professional who interprets prescriptions from optometrists/ophthalmologists to fit, adjust, and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses. They measure patients' facial features, recommend appropriate frames and lens types, perform repairs, and handle administrative tasks like billing, inventory, and, in some cases, fabricating lenses
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers 

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician: Ophthalmic laboratory technicians—also known as manufacturing opticians, optical mechanics, or optical goods workers—make prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. Prescription lenses are curved in such a way that light is correctly focused onto the retina of the patient’s eye, improving vision. Some ophthalmic laboratory technicians manufacture lenses for other optical instruments, such as telescopes and binoculars.
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Ophthalmic (Medical) Technician: An Ophthalmic Technician assists ophthalmologists by performing preliminary eye exams, taking patient histories, conducting diagnostic testing (e.g., OCT, tonometry), administering medications, and preparing exam rooms. They work in fast-paced clinics to manage patient flow, document electronic health records (EHR), and educate patients on eye care.
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Cardiac Perfusionist: A specialized healthcare professional who operates the heart-lung machine during open-heart surgery and other complex procedures. They maintain patient circulation, oxygenation, and blood temperature, allowing surgeons to work on a stopped heart. Key duties include monitoring blood chemistry, administering medications through the circuit, and managing specialized equipment. 
Explore Health Careers | Rush University

Exercise Physiologists: Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs that help patients recover from chronic diseases and improve cardiovascular function, body composition, and flexibility.
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers 

Public health professionals work to improve the overall health of communities and populations through research, education, and outreach. This career may involve developing and implementing health policies, conducting epidemiological studies, or working with community organizations to promote healthy behaviors. They often work in hospitals, home health services, local or state health departments, and social assistance organizations. Learn more at the CDC: What is Public Health website.

Key roles for public health workers include:

• Bioethics: A career in bioethics involves examining the ethical implications and dilemmas that arise in the fields of medicine, health care, and life sciences. Bioethicists engage in critical analysis and discussion of complex issues such as genetic engineering, end-of-life care, and access to healthcare. They work in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, where they conduct research, develop policies, and provide guidance and consultation to healthcare providers, patients, and families. A career in bioethics requires strong analytical and critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of ethical principles and theories, and a commitment to improving the well-being of individuals and society as a whole. Learn more
• Biostatistician: Analyzes data to identify health trends and support evidence-based decisions.
  Explore Health Careers 
• Community Health Worker: Acts as a liaison between community members and health services to improve access to care.
  Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Environmental Health Specialist/Sanitarian: Monitors air/water quality and ensures food safety in restaurants.
  • Environmental Health Advocate
  • Environmental Health Practitioner
  • Environmental Health Scientist
• Epidemiologist: Investigates disease outbreaks, patterns, and causes to prevent future occurrences.
  Explore Health Careers | Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Health Educator/Promoter: Develops programs to teach communities about healthy habits, disease prevention, and nutrition.
  Occupational Outlook Handbook 
• Occupational Health and Safety Expert: Occupational health and safety experts are concerned with the identification, prevention and control of health and safety hazards related to work and the work environment, as well as their prevention and control. They promote health and safety within organizations by developing safer, healthier, and more efficient ways of working.
  Explore Health Careers 
• Policy Analyst: Reviews and develops health legislation and policies to improve population health.
• Public Health Administrator/Manager: Manages operations, budgets, and staff for healthcare facilities or public health programs.
  • Health Administrator 
  • Health Services Administrator 

Research Technician: Research technicians work in laboratory settings to conduct experiments, collect data, and analyze results. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as experience working in a laboratory setting. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Medical Research: Medical researchers conduct scientific studies to advance our understanding of diseases and develop new treatments, often working in fields such as genetics, pharmacology, or immunology. This career requires a strong background in science and research methodology, as well as the ability to analyze data and communicate findings effectively. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Healthcare Marketing: Healthcare marketers develop marketing strategies and campaigns to promote healthcare services and products. They must be knowledgeable about the healthcare industry and be able to communicate effectively with both healthcare providers and patients

Medical Device Sales: Medical sales representatives sell medical products and equipment to healthcare organizations, such as hospitals and clinics. They must have a deep understanding of the products they are selling and be able to communicate their benefits effectively to potential customers.

Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Pharmaceutical sales representatives promote and sell prescription drugs to healthcare professionals. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as strong communication and sales skills. 

Radiation Therapist: A specialized healthcare professional on an oncology team who administers targeted, high-energy radiation treatments to shrink or destroy tumors in cancer patients.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/respiratory-therapists.htm They operate linear accelerators, plan precise treatment delivery (simulation), and monitor patient reactions to treatments.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists assess and treat patients with breathing disorders, such as asthma and emphysema. They also assist with emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or trauma. This career path typically requires an associate degree in respiratory therapy, as well as certification. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Medical Writing: Medical writers create a wide range of documents related to medicine and healthcare, including scientific papers, journal articles, textbooks, regulatory documents, and marketing materials. A medical writing career typically requires strong writing skills, a solid understanding of scientific concepts, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Occupational Outlook Handbook

Science Writer/Communications Specialist: Science writers and communications specialists write and communicate scientific information to the public, industry professionals, and policymakers. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as excellent writing and communication skills. Occupational Outlook Handbook

Medical Illustrator: A medical illustrator/animator is a professional artist with extensive training in medicine, science, communication and media technology. As visualization specialists, they create imagery that advances medical science knowledge and empowers health literacy for patients and the public. They have the medical and scientific knowledge to grasp complex information, distill it down, and communicate the story in a clear visual narrative that is accurate, educational, and engaging.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Animal Behaviorist: Animal behaviorists study the way animals behave and try to determine what causes certain types of behavior and what factors can prompt behavior change. They usually specialize in certain types of animals, whether it’s fish, birds, large animals, wild animals, livestock, or household pets. They also may focus on certain types of behavior, such as hunting, mating, or raising offspring. Many things can influence how an animal behaves, including hunger, illness, hormones, the presence of a potential predator or prey, even the weather.
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Animal Care and Service Worker: Animal care and service workers attend to or train animals. Working with pets and other nonfarm animals, these caretakers and trainers feed, groom, and exercise the animals or teach them to respond to human commands.
Occupational Outlokk Handbook

Veterinary Assistant: They support veterinarians and technicians by providing essential animal care, including feeding, exercising, cleaning, and restraining patients, as well as sterilizing equipment. Requires at least a high school diploma.
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Veterinary Technician/Nurse: A vital, skilled professional who supports veterinarians by providing comprehensive care, including administering medications, monitoring anesthesia, performing lab tests, taking radiographs, and offering client education. They work in clinics, zoos, and research facilities, generally requiring a 2-year Associate or Bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook | Explore Health Careers

Wildlife Biologist: Wildlife biologists study animals and their habitats in the wild and develop strategies for conservation and management. This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, as well as experience working in the field. 
Occupational Outlook Handbook