Where do you see yourself in five years? Higher education could be the key to achieving your goals if your vision includes a stable career with opportunities to grow. While pursuing a degree or certification requires time and commitment, it can open doors to new career opportunities—especially in the expanding allied health field. Let’s explore the importance of education in healthcare when building a meaningful career.
How Necessary Is a College Education?
Education in allied health isn’t just about earning a diploma—it’s about preparing for the real challenges of patient care, medical technology, and the fast-paced healthcare environment. Some allied health roles, such as diagnostic medical sonographers or healthcare administrators, often require an associate degree or higher. Others, such as medical assistants or medical billing and coding specialists, may require postsecondary training and certification to develop the necessary skills.
Even for roles that don’t require a degree, gaining specialized knowledge, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills can potentially help you build confidence to pursue career opportunities. Key competencies like analyzing patient data, navigating electronic health records, or assisting in clinical procedures come with training and practice. Investing in your allied health education can help you feel prepared for the work ahead in a field where precision and care directly impact people's well-being.
Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new technology, treatments, and best practices emerging regularly. Whether your goal is to work directly with patients, manage medical records, or assist in clinical procedures, a strong educational foundation can help you stay adaptable and knowledgeable in an industry that never stands still.
Why Higher Education Is Worth It
Choosing to further your education can provide you with numerous advantages, both professionally and personally. Keep these reasons in mind when making your decision about a college education.
1. Increase Job Security in a Growing Industry
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries, with an estimated 1.9 million new jobs projected between 2023 and 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many of these positions require formal education, certification, or licensure, meaning those with specialized education may align with employer preferences.
For example:
A college-level healthcare education may help you develop qualifications and experience that align with employer needs in a growing field.
2. Gain In-Demand Skills That Employers Value
Healthcare professionals need a mix of technical expertise and critical thinking skills to navigate complex patient care scenarios, new medical technologies, and evolving regulations. Allied health training programs and colleges can help you develop these essential skills:
- Technical & Clinical Skills: Training in areas such as patient care, medical imaging, or electronic health records may help prepare students for real-world work environments.
- Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Instructors often use case studies, simulations, and clinical labs to help students develop decision-making skills under pressure. In a 2023 report by the World Economic Forum, surveys found that employers rank problem-solving as one of the top skills they seek in new hires.
- Adaptability & Attention to Detail: Healthcare environments require professionals to quickly adapt to patient needs while maintaining accuracy in procedures, records, and treatments.
3. Build a Professional Network & Access Career Support
College provides structured opportunities to network and gain mentorship, both of which can lead to job opportunities and career growth in the following ways:
- Instructors & Mentors: Many professors and program directors are experienced healthcare professionals who can provide insights, career guidance, and job leads.
- Externships & Clinical Rotations: These experiences allow students to work alongside healthcare teams, gaining direct exposure to professionals in their field.
- Career Services & Alumni Networks: Many colleges offer job placement assistance, resume-building workshops, and employer partnerships that connect students with potential job opportunities.
4. Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market
The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and employers are typically looking for candidates who are not only skilled but also well-prepared to adapt to industry demands. Earning a degree or certification can demonstrate to employers that you have the following:
- Up-to-date Knowledge: Healthcare regulations, technologies, and best practices change frequently. Formal education ensures you are learning the most current industry standards.
- Practical, Hands-On Experience: Many training programs include externships or lab work, helping students apply their skills in real-world settings before entering the workforce.
- Commitment & Professionalism: Completing a structured program shows dedication to the field, something employers value when hiring long-term team members.
Employers Value Certification & Training
Formal education is increasingly seen as an important factor in allied health professions. For example, a 2025 industry survey by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) found that 96% of employers prefer or require certification for medical assistants, making certification a valuable asset when applying for jobs.
5. Potentially Earn a Higher Income
Education is strongly linked to earning potential, though it’s important to remember that salary can vary due to a number of different factors. According to the BLS, on average, individuals with an associate degree earn more than those with only a high school diploma though earnings vary by role, location, and experience.
While salaries vary, education may open doors to roles with greater earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
6. Develop Confidence, Discover Your Strengths, and Grow Personally
College is about building confidence, independence, and self-awareness. Many students enter healthcare knowing they want to help others but refine their career goals as they gain hands-on experience.
- Self-Discovery: Externships, coursework, and peer interactions help students identify their strengths and interests, such as working with pediatric patients or specializing in diagnostics.
- Time Management & Professionalism: Healthcare careers require discipline, teamwork, and organization, all of which are developed through college coursework and clinical training.
These personal and professional growth experiences can help students feel more prepared and capable as they enter the workforce.
7. Experience Hands-On Training in a Real Healthcare Setting
Many healthcare programs incorporate clinical labs, externships, or simulations, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings before they graduate.
This hands-on training can potentially:
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Boost confidence in patient care and procedures.
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Help students transition from the classroom to a professional setting.
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Provide valuable experience that employers recognize and value.
8. Plan for Career Advancement & Long-Term Growth
A college education lays the groundwork for future career development. Many healthcare professionals start in entry-level roles and later pursue additional certifications, specializations, or degrees to move into leadership positions.
For example:
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A medical assistant may continue their education to pursue becoming a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or a registered nurse (RN).
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A radiologic technologist might specialize in MRI or CT scanning, expanding their career options.
Investing in education now can create pathways for future growth and specialization.
9. Build a Supportive Community of Peers
College is an ideal place to find a community that supports and motivates you. Whether you're attending classes in person or online, you'll have the opportunity to connect with classmates who share your passion for healthcare. These relationships can go beyond casual friendships—they can become a network of support, encouragement, and shared growth.
- Emotional Support: Healthcare training can be demanding, but having a strong support system of classmates can make all the difference. You’ll celebrate successes together and lift each other up through challenges.
- Future Colleagues & Professional Connections: The friendships you form in school can continue into your career, giving you a network of trusted professionals in the healthcare field.
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your goals can help make your educational journey more fulfilling, less stressful, and ultimately more successful.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Healthcare Career with CHCP
Choosing to pursue a healthcare career is a meaningful decision—one that requires the right education, training, and support. At The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP), we are committed to helping students develop the skills, confidence, and connections needed to pursue roles in the healthcare field.
Our programs are designed to provide career-focused training in a variety of clinical and administrative healthcare roles, including cardiac sonography, surgical technology, medical billing and coding, healthcare management, and dental assisting. Whether you're passionate about working directly with patients or prefer behind-the-scenes roles in healthcare administration, CHCP offers degree and certificate programs that align with your career goals.
Why Choose CHCP?
- Flexible Learning Options: We offer on-campus, online, and blended programs to fit your schedule and lifestyle.
- Hands-On Training: Our approach combines classroom learning, lab experience, and externships to help prepare you for real-world healthcare settings.
- Supportive Community: At CHCP, you’re not just earning a credential—you’re joining a network of instructors, mentors, and peers who want to see you succeed.
- Career Services Assistance: From resume building to interview preparation, our team is here to help you begin the journey from student to professional.
If you’re ready to start your journey in healthcare, contact CHCP today to learn more about our career-focused programs and how we can help you take the next step toward a rewarding future.
