Pro Tip
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Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions is a degree category that consists of the following common degrees:
- Read more about Cardiovascular Technology
Degree programs in cardiovascular technology prepare students to work as cardiovascular technologists (CVTs). These technicians assist doctors with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions of the heart (cardio) and blood vessels (vascular).
The curriculum is threefold in nature. Students learn (1) the structure, function, and pathology of the heart and blood vessels, (2) the diagnostic tools and procedures used to test them, and (3) the care of cardiovascular patients.
Clinical training covers cardiac catheterization, stent implants, cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, ultrasound imaging devices, diagnosis of irregular heartbeat and heart rhythm, patient preparation, and patient monitoring.
Electroneurodiagnostic Technology
Satisfaction:
N/A
Electroneurodiagnostic TechnologyAvg Grad Salary:
$52k
- Read more about Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapists are the healthcare professionals who administer this treatment. Degree programs in radiation therapy are comprised of classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and clinical experiences.
Students learn how to use advanced computer software for treatment planning, imaging technology for producing detailed pictures of internal body structures, and state-of-the art high energy linear accelerator equipment to deliver treatment. They learn that the work of a radiation therapist – treating cancer and providing critical emotional support to patients – blends math, science, and psychology.
- Read more about Respiratory Care
Respiratory care focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing the care of patients that are suffering from breathing or cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) disorders. Respiratory therapists can help adults and children that have fallen victim to a heart attack or stroke, cancer, or premature birth. They often work alongside doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, and are able to perform specific procedures that help to diagnose and evaluate a patient’s lung capacity and monitor their cardiopulmonary systems.
So, what type of person would this career be suitable for? Really, any person who wants to go into healthcare and who wants to help people. Giving the gift of oxygen to another human being can be extremely humbling and satisfying. However, it is good to remember that respiratory care programs do focus mainly on the maths and sciences, so this career may not be as well-suited for someone who is more inclined towards the arts.
Respiratory care graduates have opportunities to work as respiratory therapists, respiratory therapy technicians, pulmonary function technologists, or neonatal-pediatric specialists (depending on the level of education chosen). Medical courses such as cardiopulmonary physiology, respiratory pharmacology, and cardiopulmonary diagnostics are part of the curriculum, along with a fair amount of fieldwork.
Radiological Science and Technologies
Satisfaction:
N/A
Radiological Science and TechnologiesAvg Grad Salary:
$53k
Read more about Radiological Science and TechnologiesDegree programs in radiological science and technologies prepare students for careers as radiologic technologists. These professionals, also known as radiographers, use medical diagnostic equipment, tools, and instruments to capture images of the organs, bones, and tissues inside the body. They also analyze and interpret these images in consultation with doctors and other medical team members.
In addition to learning imaging procedures and image interpretation, students take foundational courses in anatomy and physiology, physics, and pathology. They also learn how to maintain imaging equipment, prepare patients for imaging procedures, and protect patients from harmful radiation.
- Read more about Physician Assistant
Physician assistants (PAs) are integral to healthcare. Working with a supervising physician, they take medical histories, perform physical exams, update patient charts, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and diagnose and treat patients. In short, as the name implies, they assist physicians.
Physician assistant degree programs include foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Their focus, of course, is on hands-on experience gained through clinical rotations, where medicine comes alive. Students spend time as members of a medical team so they can learn what is involved in each medical specialty. Internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, emergency medicine, and surgery are among the core rotations.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology
Satisfaction:
N/A
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) TechnologyAvg Grad Salary:
$54k