Health & Human Services

Physical therapists often work as part of a team of clinicians in the rehabilitation and treatment of patients with chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries. Physical therapy requires completion of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree after completing a series of prerequisite courses as part of a bachelor’s degree. Entry level jobs are available as PT aides or PT assistants with associate or bachelor's degrees.

Occupational therapists help individuals to develop, recover, and improve these activities. Occupational therapists often work in clinics, hospitals, schools, senior care centers, and home health services. A graduate degree is required to become an occupational therapist after a bachelor’s degree has been completed.

Many athletic trainers work in educational settings, such as colleges, universities, and secondary schools. Others work in hospitals, clinics, and with professional sports teams. A graduate degree is now required to become certified as an athletic trainer. Certification is also required after extensive hands-on clinical training.

Recreational therapists may work indoors or outdoors and in settings that may include hospitals, nursing homes, or park-like settings. A number of modalities may be used such as art, aquatics, horseback riding, and dance. Recreation Therapy requires a bachelor’s degree and certification.

Some exercise physiologists are self-employed while others work for hospitals and healthcare providers to monitor exercise during rehabilitation programs. A bachelor’s degree plus certification is recommended for entry-level employment. Some may go on to earn advanced degrees aimed at clinical or human performance research.

Clinical exercise physiologists and sport scientists conduct research on exercise strategies and treatments, often in hospitals, labs, or academic settings. They assist in clinical trials and data analysis, usually holding a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology or a related field, with many earning advanced degrees in human performance or biostatistics.

Dietitians and nutritionists provide individuals with guidance on what to eat to meet their health-related goals. Registered dietitians a bachelor's degree and complete an extensive internship.

Food scientists and technologists use biology and chemistry to study food composition, improve food safety, and develop new products. They typically work in research or product development and need at least a bachelor’s degree, with many specializing further in nutrition science or epidemiology.

Health educators and community health workers design and implement programs to improve individual and community health. They collect data, address health concerns, and work in diverse settings such as hospitals, nonprofits, government agencies, clinics, businesses, and universities. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for health educators, and many employers prefer the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential. Education requirements for community health workers vary by role and training.

Fitness instructors and personal trainers lead wellness programs in settings like gyms, corporate wellness centers, hospitals, community centers, and even virtual platforms. They work with clients of all ages and fitness levels. While educational requirements vary, a bachelor’s degree is recommended, and multiple specialty certifications are available.

Public health administrators and health services managers oversee healthcare facilities or departments, ensuring compliance with healthcare laws and regulations. They typically work in hospitals, healthcare systems, or public health organizations and often hold a master’s degree along with practical experience.

Social and community service managers supervise staff who deliver social services, working in nonprofits, private agencies, or government organizations. A bachelor’s degree and relevant experience are usually required, with entry-level roles available as social or human services assistants.

Epidemiologists work to reduce illness through research, education, and health policy, often in hospitals, universities, labs, or government agencies. Most hold a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), with some pursuing doctoral degrees.

Biostatisticians design and analyze research studies, typically for life science companies, universities, or government agencies. They usually have strong math skills and a master’s or doctoral degree in biostatistics.

Marriage and family therapists work with couples, children, and families in settings like private practices and mental health centers. They must have a master's degree and a state license, often preceded by a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as human development or youth studies.

Social workers support individuals facing mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges in diverse settings including clinics, schools, hospitals, and social service agencies. Clinical social workers require a master's degree, two years of supervised experience, and licensure. Entry-level roles are available for those with a bachelor’s degree, such as social or human services assistants.