Top 5 Highest Paying Healthcare Jobs You Can Get Without a Four-Year Degree

Published on 28 February 2025 at 07:54

You Don’t Need a Degree to Earn Big in Healthcare


Looking for a high-paying job in healthcare without spending four years in college? You’re in luck! Many healthcare careers offer great salaries, job stability, and growth opportunities—without the need for a four-year degree.

 

Here are the top 5 high-paying healthcare jobs you can start today.


1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 💰 $30,000 - $40,000/year

CNAs play a crucial role in patient care by assisting nurses with daily tasks. This role is perfect if you enjoy working hands-on with patients in hospitals, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities.

✅ Training Time: 4-12 weeks
✅ Job Outlook: High demand across all healthcare settings


2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 💰 $50,000 - $65,000/year

LPNs provide basic nursing care and work under RNs and doctors. With faster training than RNs, LPNs enjoy strong earning potential and job security.

✅ Training Time: ~1 year
✅ Job Outlook: 6% growth projected by 2031


3. Surgical Technician 💰 $45,000 - $60,000/year

Surgical techs assist surgeons during procedures by preparing equipment and sterilizing surgical tools. If you love fast-paced environments, this could be your ideal career.

✅ Training Time: 9 months - 2 years
✅ Job Outlook: Growing demand in hospitals and outpatient surgery centers


4. Radiologic Technologist 💰 $60,000 - $75,000/year

Radiologic technologists operate X-ray and MRI machines, playing a key role in diagnostics. It’s a high-tech, high-paying field that doesn’t require a four-year degree.

✅ Training Time: 2 years
✅ Job Outlook: Expanding rapidly due to medical imaging advancements


5. Respiratory Therapist 💰 $60,000 - $85,000/year

Respiratory therapists help patients with breathing disorders, working in hospitals, clinics, and critical care settings.

✅ Training Time: 2 years
✅ Job Outlook: One of the fastest-growing healthcare careers


How to Get Started in These Careers

Wondering where to start? Many of these careers require certification and licensing, but training programs are available at community colleges, trade schools, and online programs.

The Fastest Way to Get Hired? Work with a Healthcare Staffing Agency
At FlexForce Medical Staffing, we help:
✔ CNAs, LPNs, and allied health professionals find high-paying jobs
✔ Match you with per diem, contract, and full-time opportunities
✔ Assist with credentialing & compliance so you start working faster

 

🔥 Want to land a high-paying healthcare job? Apply today!