5 Growing Careers in Health Care

Physical therapist (PT)

With more people experiencing mobility issues, especially at younger ages, the need for well-trained physical therapists is on the rise. As a physical therapist, you’ll be expected to develop unique care plans and strategize how to help each client. To do this successfully, you’ll need a keen knowledge of specific exercises, stretches and hands-on therapy. Well-trained professionals can have a tremendous impact on the health and well-being of a patient. Some licensed physical therapists specialize in pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, neurological health, cardiovascular health and pulmonary health.

The degrees to pursue:

• Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Bachelor’s-Doctor of Physical Therapy

Average annual salary in Connecticut (2025): $92,000

Physician assistant (PA)

This role offers one of the most diverse and dynamic career paths on this list, as physician assistants can work in virtually every medical or surgical specialty. As a physician assistant, you’ll be expected to perform basic patient exams, prescribe medications, aid in surgeries, order lab tests and coordinate and manage care plans for patients. If you have a patient-centered personality, are a dedicated problem-solver and enjoy a team-oriented work environment, this may be the perfect career for you.

The degree to pursue:

• Master of Science in physician assistant studies

Average annual salary in Connecticut (2025): $114,400

Health care administrator

Not all careers in the health care sector require you to work directly with patients. A career in health care administration is perfect for those who want to take on a more supervisory role in patient care. Health care administrators manage working behind the scenes to make important decisions for care facilities. Health care administrators are also responsible for managing entire facilities and their personnel in hospital departments, offices and entire institutions. By directing and overseeing medical services, health care administrators can enact meaningful change in an industry that requires invested and passionate leadership.

The degrees to pursue:

• Master of Science in public health
• Master of Science in health administration (online)
• Master of Science in healthcare informatics

Average annual salary in Connecticut (2025): $89,700

Radiographer

A career in medical imaging is another pathway that offers professionals a chance to work in different settings and offers unique growth opportunities. As a radiographer, you’ll perform imaging exams under a physician’s direction, providing a vital service in patient care. A career in radiography can open doors to other medical imaging roles such as mammography technicians and MRI technicians.

The degrees to pursue:

• Dual associate-bachelor's degree in health science and radiography (SHU is one of only a few universities in the United States to offer this type of program where students earn a bachelor's degree in health science and an associate degree in radiography)

Average annual salary in CT (2025): $91,200

Occupational therapist (OT)

An occupational therapist is one of the most in-demand roles in health care as jobs in the field are expected to grow by 11% in the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those interested in the field of occupational therapy must be dedicated to a career rooted in helping others. As an occupational therapist, you will help people of all ages and abilities, including those who are recovering from or challenged by injury, illness, trauma, surgery, chronic conditions or disabilities, to return to activities that are most meaningful to them. You’ll work with them to develop care plans, recover from injuries and build strategies to successfully live independently.

The degree to pursue:

• Master of Science in occupational therapy

Average annual salary in Connecticut (2025): $90,000

Now is the time to start your career in health care

SHU rigorously prepares its students to be kind, caring and determined health care professionals. To learn more about SHU’s health professions graduate programs, reach out to graduate admissions by emailing gradstudies@sacredheart.edu or calling 203-365-7619.

Prospective international students should contact Edith Goutier, director of international admissions, by emailing goutiere@sacredheart.edu or calling +1-475-450-5714.

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