Your Path to PA & Allied Health Careers

Explore fast, flexible, in-demand healthcare roles—from Physician Assistant to Surgical Tech.

Physician Assistant (PA) Pathway

A growing, high-demand role practicing medicine under a physician-led team.

1. Bachelor’s Degree

Any major accepted. Prereqs usually include: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Psychology.

2. Healthcare Experience (HCE)

500–2,000+ hours required. CNA • MA • EMT • PCT • Military Medic • Scribe • ER Tech.

3. PA Program (Master’s)

2–2.5 years: Didactic classes + clinical rotations (ER, surgery, pediatrics, internal med).

4. PANCE Exam

National certifying exam required for PA licensure.

5. State Licensure

Pass PANCE + meet state-specific requirements.

6. Common PA Specialties

ER • Ortho • Surgery • Family Medicine • Dermatology • Cardiology • Urgent Care

7. PA Salary Snapshot

$105k–$150k+ depending on specialty and region.

8. Job Growth

One of the fastest-growing careers in the U.S. healthcare system.

Allied Health Careers

High-impact roles with shorter training and strong job markets.

Radiologic Technologist

2-year program • Salary: $55k–$80k X-ray • CT • MRI specialization options.

Respiratory Therapist (RT)

2-year program • Salary: $60k–$85k Key role in ICU, ER, NICU, chronic lung care.

Ultrasound / Sonography

1–2 year program • Salary: $70k–$100k OB • Vascular • Cardiac ultrasound options.

Surgical Technologist

1-year certificate • Salary: $45k–$70k Assist surgeons in operating room procedures.

Medical Laboratory Scientist

4-year degree • Salary: $60k–$90k Critical role in diagnostics, blood tests, pathology.

Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

2-year program • Salary: $55k–$80k Works under physical therapists in rehab settings.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

2-year program • Salary: $55k–$85k Focus on patient independence and function.

Medical Assistant (MA)

3–12 months • Salary: $34k–$45k Fastest entry-level option for clinical experience.

Top PA Programs

Highly competitive schools known for clinical excellence.

Top Allied Health Schools

FAQ

Do PA programs require the GRE?

Most no longer require it, but check program-specific details.

Which Allied Health job pays the most?

Sonography, Radiation Therapy, and specialized RT roles are among the highest paid.

What is the quickest Allied Health career?

Medical Assistant or Surgical Tech (3–12 months).