Clinical Careers (Direct Patient Care)
These roles require strong communication skills, empathy, and a solid science foundation.
Physician (MD/DO)
Degree
University Name
Some physicians work closely with patients to diagnose, treat, and manage illnesses. They often build long-term relationships with patients and may specialize in specific areas of medicine. Becoming a physician requires over eight years of education and training.
Nurse (RN, LPN, NP)
Degree
University Name
Nurses (RNs, LPNs, and NPs) provide care in settings ranging from hospitals to clinics. They monitor patients, administer treatments, and support recovery. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have advanced training, allowing them to diagnose conditions and prescribe medications.
Physical Therapist (DPT)
Degree
University Name
Physical therapists help patients recover mobility, strength, and function after injuries or illnesses. They create personalized treatment plans, guide exercises, and educate patients on prevention. Becoming a physical therapist requires advanced education and clinical training.
Occupational Therapist
Degree
University Name
A is a healthcare professional who helps people improve their physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities to perform everyday tasks and activities. They work with individuals who may have disabilities, injuries, or illnesses that affect their daily functioning. They use evidence-based interventions to help people.
Dentist/Orthodontist
Degree
University Name
A dentist provides general and preventive oral care, treating issues like cavities and gum disease, while an orthodontist is a specialized dentist who focuses on aligning teeth and jaws using devices
Speech-Language Pathologist
Degree
University Name
A healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing, evaluating, and treating disorders related to speech, language, and swallowing. They work with individuals of all ages, from infants to adults.
Radiologic Technologist
Degree
University Name
A is a healthcare professional who performs diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays and CT scans, to help physicians diagnose and treat patients. While a radiologist is a medical doctor who interprets these images
EMT/Paramedic
Degree
University Name
EMTs provide basic life support like CPR and bandaging, while paramedics offer advanced care such as giving medications, intubating, and reading EKGs. Paramedics have all EMT skills plus more training and expertise.
Respiratory Therapist
Degree
University Name
A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of respiratory disorders, such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. They work with patients to improve their breathing, manage medications, and use respiratory equipment.
Surgeon
Degree
University Name
A doctor who has completed extensive training to perform surgical operations, using physical manipulation and instruments to treat diseases, injuries, or other medical conditions by altering body parts, organs, or tissues.
Physician Assistant (PA)
Degree
University Name
A licensed healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a physician to provide direct patient care. They perform medical examinations, diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and educate patients on health issues.
Pharmacist
Degree
University Name
A trained healthcare professional who prepares, dispenses, and explains prescription and over-the-counter medications, acting as an expert on drugs and their safe use, side effects, and potential interactions.