If you’re interested in a medical career but don’t want to spend years in college, trade schools offer fast-track medical programs that lead to rewarding jobs in healthcare. Many of these careers have strong job growth, good salaries, and opportunities for advancement—without the need for a four-year degree. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best medical careers you can start through a trade school, including training requirements, salary expectations, and job outlooks.
Top Medical Careers from Trade School Programs
1. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Job Duties: Provide basic patient care, administer medications, and assist registered nurses (RNs) and doctors.
- Training Time: 12-18 months
- Average Salary: $50,000/year
- Certification: NCLEX-PN licensing exam required
- Job Outlook: High demand due to aging population
- Program: LPN Programs
2. Medical Assistant
- Job Duties: Assist doctors with exams, take patient vitals, and manage medical records.
- Training Time: 6-12 months
- Average Salary: $37,000/year
- Certification: CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) recommended
- Job Outlook: Strong growth due to increasing need for healthcare support
- Program: Medical Assistant Programs
3. Dental Assistant
- Job Duties: Assist dentists during procedures, sterilize instruments, and educate patients on oral hygiene.
- Training Time: 9-12 months
- Average Salary: $42,000/year
- Certification: Varies by state, often requires DANB certification
- Job Outlook: Strong growth due to increased demand for dental services
- Program: Dental Assistant Programs
4. Pharmacy Technician
- Job Duties: Fill prescriptions, process insurance claims, and assist pharmacists.
- Training Time: 6-12 months
- Average Salary: $36,000/year
- Certification: PTCB or NHA certification required in most states
- Job Outlook: Growing demand for medication management in healthcare
- Program: Pharmacy Technology Programs
5. Surgical Technologist
- Job Duties: Prepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, and assist surgeons.
- Training Time: 12-24 months
- Average Salary: $55,000/year
- Certification: CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) preferred
- Job Outlook: Strong growth due to increased demand for surgical procedures
- Program: Surgical Technology Programs
6. Radiologic Technician
- Job Duties: Perform X-rays and imaging scans to assist doctors in diagnoses.
- Training Time: 18-24 months
- Average Salary: $63,000/year
- Certification: ARRT certification required
- Job Outlook: Strong demand for diagnostic imaging in medical care
- Program: Radiologic Technology
7. Phlebotomist
- Job Duties: Draw blood for tests, transfusions, or donations.
- Training Time: 4-6 months
- Average Salary: $38,000/year
- Certification: CPT (Certified Phlebotomy Technician) recommended
- Job Outlook: High demand due to widespread need for blood testing
- Program: Phlebotomy Technician Programs
8. Medical Billing & Coding Specialist
- Job Duties: Manage patient records, process insurance claims, and ensure accurate medical coding.
- Training Time: 6-12 months
- Average Salary: $45,000/year
- Certification: CPC (Certified Professional Coder) recommended
- Job Outlook: Expanding due to digital medical recordkeeping
- Program: Medical Billing and Coding Programs
9. Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)
- Job Duties: Help patients recover from injuries and illnesses through guided exercises.
- Training Time: 18-24 months
- Average Salary: $58,000/year
- Certification: NPTE for PTAs required
- Job Outlook: Strong growth due to increasing demand for rehabilitation services
- Program: PT Assistant Programs
Training & Certification
Trade school programs for medical careers vary in length, ranging from 4 months to 2 years, depending on the specialization. Most careers require passing a certification or licensing exam after completing the program. It’s important to choose an accredited trade school to ensure eligibility for certification and job placement. Find a trade school near you.
Job Outlook & Salary Expectations
Many healthcare careers are experiencing above-average job growth due to increasing demand for medical services driven by an aging population, advancements in healthcare technology, and the growing need for specialized care. Salaries vary based on experience, geographic location, and specialization, but these careers consistently offer stable employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for career advancement through further certification and specialization.
How to Choose the Right Trade School
- Accreditation: Very important for entering healthcare related fields. Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized agency.
- Financial Aid: Look for grants, scholarships, and payment plans.
- Job Placement Rates: Schools with strong employer connections improve hiring chances.
- Certification Preparation: Programs should align with industry certification requirements.
Conclusion & Next Steps
If you’re ready to start a career in healthcare without a four-year degree, trade schools provide excellent training for high-demand jobs. Whether you’re interested in patient care, medical technology, or administrative roles, there’s a path for you.
Explore programs at Top Trade School today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare!