For many careers, completing a bachelor’s degree can be the catalyst for career advancement, higher earning potential, and expanded opportunities. For many fields, including radiology, physical therapy, health information technology, and more, a bachelor’s in health science provides the skills and credentials necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Learn how to complete your bachelor’s degree and the benefits that degree will provide for those pursuing a career in healthcare.

Why a Bachelor’s Degree Matters in Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S., with increasing demand for educated professionals to fill critical roles. Many positions that previously required only an associate degree now prioritize or mandate a bachelor’s degree for advancement. Completing your degree can:

  • Increase earning potential by qualifying you for higher-paying roles.
  • Enhance job stability in competitive fields.
  • Open doors to leadership and specialized positions.
  • Provide a foundation for pursuing advanced degrees or certifications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Earning Your Bachelor’s Degree

Transitioning prior college courses to a bachelor’s degree program may seem daunting, but it’s entirely achievable with the right plan. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Research Programs

Begin by looking for programs tailored to healthcare professionals, like a bachelor’s in health science. Consider factors such as:

  • Flexibility: Online or hybrid programs can accommodate work schedules. Programs with multiple start points during the year can help you get started quickly.
  • Specializations: Options with coursework that align with your career goals, such as healthcare management or clinical sciences.
  • Support Services: Academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring to help you succeed.  

Step 2: Assess Your Existing Credits

Work with any schools you are considering to evaluate your prior coursework. This will help in determining whether you meet the programs’ admission criteria and inform how your prior credits would transfer into a bachelor’s program. Many institutions, such as MGH Institute of Health Professions, have transfer-friendly policies to maximize the value of your previous education.

Step 3: Develop a Financial Plan

Financing your education is a critical step. Explore:

Employer Tuition Assistance: Many healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing relevant degrees. For example, MGB offers XXX to its employees for the IHP BSHS program.

Scholarships and Grants: Search for scholarships specific to healthcare students. Many schools are also able to offer scholarships for learners once they are admitted.  

Federal Aid: US Citizens should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for financial aid.  

Step 4: Balance Work, Life, and School

Create a manageable schedule by:

  • Setting realistic goals for each semester.
  • Accessing online learning tools for flexibility.
  • Seeking support from family, employers, and academic advisors.

Step 5: Leverage Clinical Experience

If you’re already working in a healthcare role, your clinical experience can enhance your studies and potentially count toward degree requirements. Engage with professors and peers to apply your hands-on knowledge to academic concepts.

Careers That Require a Bachelor’s Degree

An undergraduate degree is a requirement to apply to many professional health programs including nursing, medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy, speech language pathology, audiology, athletic training, dentistry, pharmacy, genetic counseling, occupational therapy, and others. Completing your bachelor’s is an important first step in applying to programs in these health disciplines.  

Careers That Benefit from a Bachelor’s Degree

Completing a bachelor’s degree can unlock new opportunities in various healthcare fields. Earning a degree can provide significant career advantages to roles like:

  • Radiologic Technicians: Advancing to careers such as radiology manager or imaging specialist often requires a bachelor’s degree.
  • Physical Therapy Assistants: A bachelor’s can pave the way to physical therapist or rehabilitation director.
  • Health Information Technologists: Earning a degree can lead to leadership positions in health informatics or data management.
  • Dental Hygienists: A bachelor’s degree enables dental hygienists to move into education, research, or public health roles.
  • Surgical Technologists: Specializing in surgical procedures or transitioning into healthcare management often requires further education.
  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs): A degree can help EMTs become paramedic supervisors or transition into emergency management.
  • Medical Lab Technologists: Advancing to roles such as medical lab scientist or specialist in molecular diagnostics often requires a bachelor’s.

Completing a bachelor’s program from your existing college credits is a rewarding step that can transform your career. Advance in your current role or explore new opportunities with a bachelor of science in health science.