Do you want a career in healthcare but don’t have the time or money for a four-year degree or medical school? No problem! You can fast-forward to a high-paying and fulfilling career by earning a healthcare certification instead!
Whether you’re a high school student exploring potential career paths or currently in the workforce seeking a career change, these 10 healthcare certifications are worth considering.
What is a Healthcare Certification?
A healthcare certification is a credential that’s earned after completing a certain level of training and passing an examination in a specific area of healthcare.
These certifications can cover a range of areas, from basic life support to specialized fields like surgical technology or medical coding. And depending on where you’re looking to work, having a healthcare certification can open doors to better job opportunities and higher pay.
Are Healthcare Certifications Really Necessary?
You may be wondering: are healthcare certifications really necessary for getting a job in healthcare?
Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on the specific job you’re applying for and the regulations in your state.
Different states have different certification requirements, which can make things a bit confusing. Some states may require certification to be eligible for employment, while others may not.
In this post, I’ll not only share the 10 best healthcare certifications that lead to jobs, but also discuss which states require certification for employment and which don’t. Keep in mind that state regulations are subject to change, so before you apply for a healthcare certification program, always look up the regulations and requirements in your state.
Regardless of where you live, one thing’s for certain: getting certified sets you apart from the crowd.
When employers see that you’ve taken the time to earn a certification, they know they’re getting someone who’s dedicated, knowledgeable, and ready to hit the ground running.
10 Best Healthcare Certifications That Lead to Jobs
Without further ado, here are 10 of the best healthcare certifications that lead to jobs.
By the end of this post, you’ll have gained more insight into what healthcare certifications are out there and which one is right for you.
1. Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
If you’ve ever treated yourself to a massage, you’ll understand the incredible impact it can have on your well-being. Now, imagine being the one making that impact on others.
A massage therapist expertly manipulates muscles and soft tissues, alleviating tension, promoting relaxation, and addressing a spectrum of physical and mental concerns.
With an array of techniques in their toolbox—think Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and more—massage therapists personalize their approach to suit each client’s specific needs and preferences.
As a massage therapist you may work at spas, wellness centers, chiropractic offices, or take the independent route and own your own business. If you’ve got that entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a massage therapist could be a great fit for you!
Pros:
- Flexible Schedule (May Work Part-Time, Have the Option to Set Their Own Hours)
- Stable Income
- Autonomy (for Self-Employed)
Cons:
- Physically and Emotionally Demanding
- Potential Lack of Client Boundaries
- Risk of Burnout
- Limited Career Advancement
Average wage: $38.42 per hour
Job Outlook: 18% (Much faster than average)
Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT): Certification Information
Certification: Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
Certifying Organization: The certifying organization varies by state; visit the American Massage Therapy Association website to find your state’s certifying organization.
Education Requirements: Complete a 500 to 1,000-hour accredited massage therapy program.
Additional Examinations: Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination, or MBLEx test
Length of Program: 6 months to 2 years (average)
States that Require LMT Certification:
Nearly every state requires massage therapists to obtain a license before they can begin practicing. However, there are currently five states that don’t require a formal license to work as a massage therapist.
These states include:
- Wyoming
- Minnesota
- California
- Kansas
- Vermont
Keep in mind that some of these states do require registration. Click here for an interactive map that shows state-by-state license requirements for 2024.
2. Medical Coder (CPC, CCS or CMC)
If you’re interested in a career in healthcare but don’t necessarily want to work directly with patients (or wipe butts), becoming a medical coder may be the right fit for you!
A medical coder is a healthcare professional responsible for translating medical services and procedures into universal alphanumeric codes. These codes are used for things like billing insurance companies, conducting research, and maintaining accurate medical records.
Medical coders may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and other healthcare organizations.
Pros:
- Remote Work Opportunities
- High Demand
- Job Stability
- Structured Work
- Variety of Work Settings
- Continuous Learning
Cons:
- Sedentary Work
- Repetitive Nature
- Accuracy Pressure
- Continuous Learning
Average wage: $22.69 per hour
Job Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
Medical Coder (CPC, CCS or CMC): Certification Information
Certification: The three most common certifications for medical coders include:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
- Certified Medical Coder (CMC)
Click here to learn about the differences and requirements of each.
1. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
Certifying Organization: American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Length of Training: 4 to 8 months (self-paced) or 16 weeks (instructor led)
Education & Experience Requirements: To be exempt from required training, you must take the Fundamentals of Medicine course or have equivalent real-world experience with Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology.
Cost: CPC online training course through AAPC starts at $2,799. Fundamentals of Medicine course through AAPC starts at $2,622.90. Exam starts at $499.
2. Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
Certifying Organization: American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Length of Training: Self-paced online course through AHIMA.
Cost: CCS Exam Preparation with ebook 2023 starts at $506. Exam starts at $399.
Eligibility Requirements: No requirements. However, there are recommended requirements. Click here to view recommended requirements.
3. Certified Medical Coder (CMC)
Certifying Organization: Practice Management Institute (PMI).
Length of Training: 1465 min
Training Format Options: Online Training, Live Webinar Series, Local Live Classroom.
Cost: $1375.00
Education & Eligibility Requirements: There are different requirements based on experience level.
- No-experience: Complete the the CMC training course.
- Limited experience: Candidates with limited experience should complete the two primer courses: Medical Terminology for Coders (cost: $239.00) and Principles of Coding (cost: $349.00). These are included in the CMC training course.
- Experienced: Minimum of one year of work experience in outpatient medical coding. All candidates are encouraged to complete PMI’s free online Medical Coding Assessment
States that Require Certification: No state requires its medical coders to have a certification. However, having a certification will build your skillset and make it easier to find a job.
3. Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
Ever peeked behind the pharmacy counter and wondered who keeps everything ticking like clockwork? Enter, the pharmacy technician.
Pharmacy technicians work in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, handling tasks like processing prescription orders, measuring and packaging medications, and maintaining accurate records. Essentially, they support pharmacists to make sure everything runs smoothly on the medication front.
If you’re detail-oriented, cool under pressure (because let’s be honest, pharmacies can get slammed), patient, and a good communicator, becoming a pharmacy technician may be the right fit for you!
Pros:
- Quick Entry into the Workforce
- Job Stability
- Direct Impact on Patient Care
Cons:
- Repetitive Tasks
- Workload Stress
- Physical Demands
- Limited Career Advancement
Average Wage: $18.17 per hour
Job Outlook: 6% (Faster than average)
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): Certification, Job and Salary Information
Certification: Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
Certifying Organization: The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is the primary certifying organization in the United States. Although the PTCB Certification is accepted in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico, some states have their own certification processes. Click here to view state by state regulations or visit your state’s Board of Pharmacy website for more information.
Education Requirements: To become a certified pharmacy technician, you’ll need to complete a pharmacy technician training program or have equivalent work experience as a pharmacy technician (min. 500 hours).
Additional Examinations: Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), administered by the PTCB. Some states may have additional requirements or exams for licensure, check with your state pharmacy board to ensure compliance.
Length of Program: May vary, ranging from a few months to 2 years.
Cost: Cost of training programs vary. The cost to apply for the CPhT Certification and take the PTCE exam is $129.
States that Require CPhT Certificate: Click here for state-by-state pharmacy technician requirements.
4. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
Have you ever considered a career in dentistry? Getting certified as a dental assistant means you can assist the dentist with procedures like fillings, crowns, and extractions without attending medical school! Dental assistants may also take and develop dental X-rays and make impressions of patients’ teeth.
On the administrative side, dental assistants schedule appointments, maintain patient records, and manage billing and insurance documentation.
Pros:
- Hands-on Patient Care
- Quick Entry Into Healthcare
- Stable Job Outlook
Cons:
- Physically Demanding
- Emotionally Draining (dealing with patients who are in pain or destress)
- Limited Advancement Opportunities
Average Wage: $44,820 per year
Job Outlook: 7% (Faster than average)
Certified Dental Assistant (CDA): Certification, Job and Salary Information
Certification: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
Certifying Organization: The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is the primary certifying organization in the United States.
Education Requirements: To become a certified dental assistant, you typically need to complete an accredited dental assisting program or gain equivalent work experience as a dental assistant. Click here for a tool to search for accredited dental assistant schools in the United States.
Additional Examinations: Pass the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination administered by the DANB. Some states may have additional requirements or exams for licensure, so it’s essential to verify with your state dental board.
Length of Program: May vary, ranging from a few months to 1 year.
Cost: The cost of programs vary. The cost to take Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam is $450.
States that Require CDA Certificate: Click here for state-by-state dental assistant requirements.
5. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
If you’ve considered nursing as a career but would like to first see if it’s right for you, consider becoming a nursing assistant.
A nursing assistant works under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses to provide essential patient care—like showering, dressing, eating, measuring/recording vital signs. and providing support for walking. It can be a very physically demanding job, but a rewarding one if you are interested in working directly with patients and ensuring they have the best care possible.
Nursing assistants can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare. Some nursing assistants use their experience as a stepping stone to pursue further education and advance to roles such as licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN).
Pros:
- Direct Patient Care
- Quick Entry into Healthcare
- Job Demand
- Diverse Work Environments
- Career Advancement Opportunities
Cons:
- Physically Demanding
- Emotionally Challenging
- Limited Autonomy
- Workplace Stress
Average Wage: $35,740 per year
Job Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Certification, Job and Salary Information
Certification: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certifying Organization: CNA certification is state-regulated, with each state having its own requirements. Some states have individual boards, while others may use a standardized national exam like the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). Click here for State by State CNA Certification links
Education Requirements: Complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program.
Additional Examinations: After completing the training program, aspiring nursing assistants must pass a competency evaluation. Some states may have additional requirements or exams for licensure, so it’s crucial to check with your state’s nursing board.
Length of Program: May vary, ranging from a few weeks to a few months.
Cost: The cost of programs vary. The cost to take the competency exam is typically in the range of $100 to $300 (depending on the state).
States that Require CNA Certificate: There are no federal requirements for medical assistants to be certified. However, some states require certification. Click here for state-by-state nursing assistant requirements.
6. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
You may be thinking, wait a second, isn’t a medical assistant and a nursing assistant the same thing? While they do share similarities, they are actually distinctly different in their roles and responsibilities.
While nursing assistants primarily focus on providing basic patient care, medical assistants concentrate on clinical and administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and managing patient records. Medical assistants also administer medications, give breathing treatments and provide immunizations, things that nursing assistants don’t do.
Medical assistants also work under the supervision of the physician, not a nurse. Same as nursing assistants, medical assistants often use their experience as a stepping stone to pursue further education. Click here to learn more about the differences between medical assistants and CNAs.
Pros:
- Higher wage Compared to CNAs
- Less Physically Demanding compared to CNAs
- Quick Entry into Healthcare
- Versatility
- Stable Job Outlook
- Skill Development
Cons:
- Less Direct Patient Care compared to CNAs
- Demanding and Fast-paced Work Environment
Average Salary: $38,270 per year
Job Outlook: 14% (Much faster than average)
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): Certification Information
Certification: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
Certifying Organization: American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
Note: There are other certifications available for Medical Assistants such as Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through American Medical Technologists (AMT) and National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) through National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Click here for a comprehensive guide to all medical assistant certifications. But, the certification through AAMA is the most popular.
Education Requirements: Complete an accredited medical assistant training program. Click here to find a program in your state (Select “Medical Assisting” from the Profession Name dropdown list.)
Additional Examinations: Pass the Certified Medical Assistant Exam administered by the AAMA. Verify with your state’s medical board that there aren’t additional requirements or exams for licensure.
Length of Program: May vary, ranging from a few weeks to 2 years.
Cost: The cost of programs vary. The CMA (AAMA) exam is $125 for AAMA members and $250 for non-members.
States that Require CMA Certificate: Only Washington state requires medical assistants to hold a license and certification. No other states require medical assistants to be licensed. This means that in all other states you can work as a medical assistant without becoming a certified medical assistant. However, even if you don’t live in Washington, getting certified can help help you land a job and be successful.
7. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
If you’re fascinated by surgery and want to be in the room where the magic happens but don’t want to spend 13 years becoming a surgeon, consider a career as a surgical technologist.
A surgical technologist works alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that surgical procedures run smoothly. Before surgery they are responsible for preparing the operating room for surgery, positioning and preparing patients for surgery and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the process.
During surgery, surgical technologists play a hands-on role by passing instruments and supplies to the surgeons and anticipating their needs.
After surgery, surgical technologists assist with post-operative care, such as wound dressing and patient transfer to recovery areas.
Pros:
- Job Stability
- Relatively Short Training Period (considering scope of work)
- Rewarding Work
Cons:
- Physically Demanding
- High Stress Environment
- Exposure to Infections
Average Salary: $56,350 per year
Job Outlook: 5% (Faster than average)
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST): Certification Information
Certification: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Certifying Organization: National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
Education Requirements: Complete an accredited surgical technology program. Click here for a list of the best surgical tech programs of 2024.
Additional Examinations: Pass the Certified Surgical Technologist Exam administered by the NBSTSA.
Length of Program: Typically ranges from one to two years.
Cost: The cost of programs varies. The CST exam fee is $290 for AST members and $555 for non-members.
States that Require CST Certificate: As of 2021, the following states require certification to be eligible for employment:
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Massachusetts
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
Click here for more information.
Note: There are other certifications available for surgical technologists, such as the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) credential offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). However, the most common is the CST.
8. Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
If you’re passionate about fitness and health, you can turn your passion into a career by becoming a personal trainer.
A personal trainer works with individuals or small groups to help them achieve their health and fitness goals.
Personal trainers typically start by assessing their clients’ current fitness levels, health history, and goals. Based on this information, they develop personalized exercise programs tailored to meet the specific needs and objectives of each client. These programs often include a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, flexibility work, and nutritional guidance.
During training sessions, personal trainers provide instruction on proper exercise technique, offer motivation and support, and monitor their clients’ progress over time. They may also adjust the workout plan as needed to ensure continued progress and prevent plateaus or injury.
Some personal trainers are self-employed while others work for gyms or health clubs.
Pros:
- Autonomy (for self-employed)
- Potential for Growth
- Flexible Schedules (for self-employed)
Cons:
- Physical Demands
- Irregular Income (if not salaried)
- Emotional Investment
Average Wage: $45,380 per year
Job Outlook: 14% (Much faster than average)
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT): Certification Information
Certification: Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
Certifying Organization: National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), or other recognized organizations.
Education Requirements: Complete a personal training certification program accredited by a recognized organization.
Additional Examinations: Pass the certification exam administered by the certifying organization.
Length of Program: Can vary, ranging from a few months to a year.
Cost: The cost of personal training certification programs vary. Exam fee to take the certification exam typically ranges from $300 to $700, depending on the organization.
States that Require CST Certificate: No state has a law requiring personal trainers to be certified. However, many employers will not hire a personal trainer who isn’t certified.
9. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
If you’ve ever had a blood draw, then you’ve likely interacted with a phlebotomist – even if you didn’t know this was what they’re called.
Phlebotomists are healthcare professionals trained specifically to draw blood. While the role of a phlebotomist may seem straightforward, it requires specialized training and knowledge. Phlebotomists must understand different blood collection techniques, know how to properly handle samples, and be aware of safety protocols to protect both themselves and their patients. They often work in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or blood donation centers.
Pros:
- Easy to Find a Job (high-demand)
- Directly Helping Patients
- Short Training Period (matter of months!)
- Job Stability
- Flexible Work Settings
Cons:
- Limited Career Advancement
- Repetitive
- Limited Scope of Practice
- Potential Exposure to Infections
- Physical Demands
Average Salary: $40,580 per year
Job Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT): Certification Information
Certification: Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
Certifying Organization: One of the most reputable certifying organizations for phlebotomists is the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT), which is approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Education Requirements: To become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) you must complete a phlebotomy training program accredited by a recognized organization or institution.
Additional Examinations: After completing the training program, candidates must pass the certification exam administered by the certifying organization, such as the ASPT.
Length of Program: Can vary, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Cost: The cost of training programs vary. The certification exam fee typically ranges from $100 to $200.
States that Require Phlebotomy Technician Certification: Only four states require certification for phlebotomists. These states are:
- California
- Washington
- Louisiana
- Nevada
If you plan to work as a phlebotomist in any of these states, click here for more information on your state’s regulations. Even if your state isn’t on the list, getting certified is a great way to build your resume and skillset.
10. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
If you want a fast paced, exciting career where every day is truly different, consider becoming an EMT.
An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) provides pre-hospital emergency medical care to patients in various emergency situations.
EMTs are often the first responders to medical emergencies, including accidents, injuries, and sudden illnesses. They assess patients’ conditions, administer basic medical treatments, and transport patients to medical facilities for further care. EMTs work closely with paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency responders to ensure timely and effective medical intervention in critical situations.
Pros:
- Varied Work Environment
- Quick Entry into Healthcare Field
- Immediate Impact
Cons:
- Emotional Stress
- Physical Demands
- Risk of Injury
- Irregular Hours (may work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts)
Average Salary: $39,410 per year
Job Outlook: 5% (Faster than average)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Certification Information
Certification: Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Certifying Organization: The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is the most recognized certifying organizations for EMTs.
Education Requirements: Must complete an accredited EMT training program offered by recognized institutions or organizations. Click here for the NREMT’s EMT program.
Additional Examinations: Pass the NREMT certification exam.
Length of Program: Can vary, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Cost: The cost of EMT training programs vary. Cost of NREMT certification exam is $104.
States that Require EMT Certificate: Click here for state-by-state emergency medical technician requirements.
Did any of these certifications peak your interest? Let me know in the comments below!
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