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Are you considering an associate's degree in science but you aren't sure what you can do with it?
You're not alone! There are many different healthcare career possibilities with an associate's degree in science.
Meet Tatiana
Photo by Seven Shooter on UnsplashTatiana just started taking classes at her local community college. She is working towards an associate's degree in science with a focus on healthcare but isn't sure what her exact career should be.
Tatiana is a people-person and loves helping others. Throughout her life, Tatiana has seen many medical professionals for her asthma which has greatly impacted her life. She also has some interest in dental health because that is something she has had to pay close attention to with her use of inhalers.
Tatiana feels passionate about helping children with asthma and would like to work in a hospital setting. She is considering 3 career paths; dental hygienist, radiologic technologist, and respiratory therapist.
Explore the 3 healthcare career paths to help Tatiana decide which would be the best fit for her!
1. Dental Hygienist
As a dental hygienist, you will:
clean patients' teeth
check patients for oral disorders
collaborate with dentists
work with the patients to address any dental concerns
provide the patient with the necessary tools and techniques in order to promote good oral hygiene
2. Radiologic Technologist
Photo by Cara Shelton on UnsplashAs a radiologic technologist, you will:
perform patient diagnostic imaging tests
work with radiologists and other medical professionals
complete cat-scan (CT) and x-ray imaging
A radiologist technologist has a median annual salary of $61,370 USD3. Respiratory Therapist
As a respiratory therapist, you will:
work with people of all ages who experience lung disease and/or breathing disorders
decide on the best course of treatment and therapy, alongside medical partners
manage equipment needed to help patients breathe
educate patients and families about their condition(s)
Specialization opportunities include neonatal, geriatric, critical care, etc.
A respiratory therapist has a median annual salary of $61, 830 USDQuiz
Now that you know a little bit about Tatiana's interests and each career path she is considering, which one would you suggest for her?
Both respiratory therapist and dental hygienist could be a good fit with Tatiana's interests. However, a child respiratory therapist may be the best fit because Tatiana states that she wants to help improve the lives of children with asthma.
Skills and Licensure Needed in Healthcare
Licensure
graduate from an accredited program
pass national licensing exams
pass any regional or state licensing exams (if applicable)
complete continuing education to maintain licensure
Did you know?
Check out the following links for detailed licensure information for dental hygienists, radiologic technicians, and respiratory therapists in the US.
Take Action
This Byte has been authored by
Sandi McKinney
Instructional Designer/eLearning Developer