Key Information:
- Healthcare remains a top career choice in 2026 due to strong job growth, driven by an aging population, chronic illness, and expanding fields like telehealth and mental health.
- Healthcare roles offer stability, flexibility, and advancement opportunities, with median wages for practitioners reaching $83,090—well above the national average.
- Multiple education pathways—from short certificates like CNA and MA to degrees such as ADN, BSN, and AAS—allow students to enter the field at different speeds, costs, and specialization levels.
- Accreditation, financial planning, and career alignment are key factors in choosing the right healthcare program, ensuring both job readiness and long-term growth potential.
The healthcare industry is among the most attractive industries in the United States. This trend isn’t surprising because of its continued job growth. The projected job growth is 1.9 million job openings/year, on average (BLS, 2024-2034).
The industry’s remarkable post-pandemic resilience is also part of the reason. By the end of 2024’s third quarter, its jobs reached 24.4 million (i.e., more than pre-pandemic levels).
Do you want to take advantage of the job opportunities in healthcare? If you are, read on. Here, we’ll explain the fastest, most affordable, and high-return entry points. These entry points lead to entry-level healthcare jobs with good pay in 2026.
Indeed, if you’re looking to start working in healthcare within one to three years, this list will help you find the right fit.
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Why Healthcare Remains a Top Career Choice
Of course, healthcare careers have their fair share of challenges. Burnout, high-stress decision-making situations, and long hours aren’t for the weak. But if you consider their benefits, these are among the best careers, too.
Growing Demand For Healthcare Professionals
An aging population and an increase in chronic illnesses drive this growth. Both fuel the consistent demand for healthcare services and professionals.
Shift in Focus During Post-pandemic Times
There’s more focus on mental health, preventive care, and telehealth, too. The shift in focus means new entry points and expanded roles for healthcare workers.
Projected Job Growth by Role
Again, healthcare occupations are among the fastest-growing occupations (see above). Plus, healthcare practitioners and technical occupations enjoy healthcare careers with good pay. Their median wage is $83,090 (BLS, May 2024), which is higher than the median wage for all occupations ($49,500/year).
Here are the healthcare occupations with the highest projected growth rate (BLS, 2024-2034).
| Occupation | Projected Growth Rate |
| Registered nurses | 5% |
| Medical assistants | 12% |
| Phlebotomists | 6% |
| EMTs and paramedics | 5% |
| Nursing assistants and orderlies | 2% |
So, if you’re looking for healthcare jobs in demand that 2026 has to offer, consider these occupations.
Benefits of Healthcare Careers
You should also consider these benefits when you’re a healthcare professional.
- Job security, thanks to the consistent demand for healthcare services
- Flexibility in schedules, such as part-time or night shift
- Diversity of workplaces, from hospitals to hospices
- Wide range of growth pathways, such as from entry-level to specialized roles
Indeed, the benefits of healthcare careers often outweigh their disadvantages. The trick is in cultivating the right mindset.
Popular Entry-Level Degrees (ADN, BSN, AAS in Allied Health)
While undergraduate degrees demand more time and money, they are well worth it. The key is in early and effective financial planning, such as applying for financial aid.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The ADN is among the high-value associate degrees in healthcare for many reasons.
- Earn an associate’s degree in nursing in two years. It is a shorter duration and, thus, lower costs than the BSN program. Choose from in-person, online, and hybrid programs, too.
- Prepare for success in the NCLEX-RN and become a registered nurse in less time and cost.
- Qualify for diverse career roles, such as being a hospital, clinic, or long-term care nurse.
You can also enjoy bridge options that allow for salary and career growth (e.g., ADN → BSN → MSN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The BSN degree is among the best entry-level healthcare degrees for these reasons.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in 3-4 years (i.e., accelerated or standard program). Since hospitals and Magnet organizations prefer it, it offers excellent value.
- Leads to higher pay, leadership potential, and public health options. Registered nurses with a BSN degree can enjoy higher starting pay than those with an ADN degree.
The BSN degree is also among the healthcare degrees you can get online. You should consider online RN-to-BSN bridge programs, too. Azusa Pacific University and Texas Woman’s University offer them.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Allied Health
If you’re looking for a versatile degree, consider this one. The typical AAS in Allied Health programs covers technical skills for:
- Medical laboratory technicians
- Radiologic technologists
- Respiratory therapists
You can complete the program in 2 years or less, too. This is a great stepping stone to specialized roles as well.
Comparison Table
| Degree | Median Salary | Licensure | Typical Job Titles |
| ADN (2 years) | $81,220 | NCLEX-RN | Registered nurse |
| BSN (4 years) | $90,000+ | NCLEX-RN | RN, Clinical educator |
| AAS (2 years) | $55,000 | Varies | Medical lab tech, radiology tech |
Fast-Track Certificates (CNA, MA, EMT, Phlebotomy)
These fast healthcare certificates 2026 have to offer can be completed in less than a year. With their higher-than-average salaries, these also offer high returns. These are also ideal for working adults or career changers seeking quick entry into healthcare.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
The training lasts for 4-12 weeks, meaning it’s among the fastest healthcare degrees to get. Once you’re a CNA, you can work in diverse settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Home care
CNAs earn a median salary of $36,000/year. The CNA credential is also a stepping stone to LPN or RN programs.
Medical Assistant (MA)
The MA degree is among the shortest healthcare degrees with a high salary. You can earn it in 9-12 months, but it’s an intensive training period. The training itself is characterized by dual clinical and administrative training.
There’s a high job demand for CNAs, too – about 112,300 openings are projected every year, on average.
Online and blended programs are available. Purdue University Global and CHCP offer hybrid programs.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The typical EMT program can be completed in 6 months, on average. The training covers emergency response and patient stabilization in the field and emergency settings. Upon completion, you’re eligible to sit for the NREMT certification exam.
EMTs earn between $40,000 and $50,000 per year, on average. But they can advance into paramedic roles, which pay higher salaries, with additional training.
Phlebotomy Technician
The training for phlebotomy technicians usually lasts for 4-6 months. While certification is optional, it’s strongly recommended.
Job prospects include hospitals, diagnostic labs, and blood donation centers. Phlebotomy technicians earn about $37,000 per year at an entry-level salary.
Tip: Combine a short certificate with a part-time associate degree to build your career ladder affordably. Examples include the CNA or phlebotomy credentials.
Cost, Time, and Licensure Requirements
Healthcare education offers many pathways, from certificates to bachelor’s degrees. Each one has different costs, duration, and licensing requirements.
Here’s a summary for quick reference.
| Pathway | Average Cost | Duration | Licensure | Median Salary |
| CNA | $1,000-$3,000 | 4-12 weeks | State CNA exam | $36,000 |
| MA | $5,000-$15,000 | 9-12 months | CMA or RMA | $40,000 |
| ADN | $15,000-$30,000 | 2 years | NCLEX-RN | $81,000 |
| BSN | $25,000-$60,000 | 4 years | NCLEX-RN | $90,000 |
If you want to get high-value education, look for accredited, affordable healthcare programs. You should also apply for as many financial aid programs as you can, including:
- Federal financial aid (i.e., file your FAFSA every year)
- Scholarships and grants for healthcare students
- Work-study programs
- Online tuition discounts
- Employer reimbursements
- Military and veteran education benefits
Consider healthcare degrees you can get online, too. You can save on indirect costs (e.g., transportation), even enjoy lower tuition and fees.
How to Choose the Right Starting Point
Keep these tips in mind when choosing between your healthcare education options.
- Consider your time, budget, and career goals. If you want fast entry, consider healthcare careers that don’t require a bachelor’s degree.
- Factor in the local job market demand. Check your local job boards and your state’s labor department for leads.
- Consider credit transferability, especially if you’re planning on advanced credentials.
- Check for accreditation status. Compare the reputation among programs, too.
Quick Decision Checklist
Do you want to work in less than a year? → Start with a certificate (CNA, MA, EMT).
Want long-term advancement and higher pay? → Choose ADN or BSN.
Need flexibility? → Look for accredited online healthcare programs.
There’s no right or wrong choice in the best entry-level healthcare degrees 2026 has to offer. Each one has its merits, but not every degree is right for you. So, you must choose based on your needs and goals.
Conclusion
Indeed, 2026 is an excellent time to enter the healthcare profession. But you must act soon – explore programs, compare costs, and apply early. This way, you can take full advantage of the opportunities coming your way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the easiest healthcare degrees to get?
The CNA, MA, and phlebotomy technician programs are among them.
Which entry-level healthcare jobs pay the most?
Respiratory therapists and registered nurses tend to enjoy the highest starting salaries.
Are online healthcare degrees respected?
Yes, but they must be from accredited online programs.
How long does it take to become a nurse or medical assistant?
For the ADN degree, it’s two years. The typical MA programs have a time-to-completion between 9 and 12 months.
What’s the difference between a certificate and an associate degree?
A certificate provides short-term but intensive job training. An associate’s degree covers general education and job training.