Exploring Career Opportunities with a Master’s in Health Science

The field of health science blends the worlds of research and business with the hands-on work done in clinical settings, allowing professionals in this field to explore a wide range of career opportunities. The number of career opportunities in health science is on the rise, thanks in large part to the changing landscape of healthcare and the increased demand for personalized health services. 

To prepare for the most dynamic and inviting health science careers, you may want to consider pursuing a master's degree in health science. 

Understanding the Master's in Health Science Degree

The Master's in Health Science is an advanced degree program that seeks to build upon existing knowledge and help students develop a focused, industry-specific skill set that prepares them for health science jobs in wellness and fitness. It is designed with industry professionals in mind, and often attracts students who have previously earned a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as nutrition, exercise science, or kinesiology. 

Scope and Focus of a Master's in Health Science Program

The Master's in Health Science degree program is commonly confused with the Master of Science in Health Science degree program, so it's important to be aware of the scope and focus of this graduate degree. While the MSHS degree is geared toward healthcare professionals in clinical roles, the Master's in Health Science degree is ideal for those focused on a career in fitness, nutrition, and wellness. 

Curriculum and Core Competencies

The broad scope of the curriculum ensures that all graduates can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in health science. The master's degree in health science at Lindenwood University features a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses that cover advanced topics such as fitness, exercise science, nutrition, public health, recreation organization, and recreation administration. 

Relevance and Applicability of a Master's in Health Science

With a focus on fitness and wellness, the Master's in Health Science degree program can easily be applied to many of the leading health science careers. By building upon their existing skills and personal interests, graduates from this program are qualified to pursue several of the top health science jobs in fitness, wellness, and recreation. 

Clinical and Healthcare Management Careers

Graduates who earn a master's degree in health science may be able to pursue employment opportunities in the healthcare field, including both clinical and healthcare management positions. As the healthcare industry's landscape continues to evolve, there is heightened demand for qualified and intuitive healthcare managers, making this one of the leading career opportunities in health science. 

Career Paths in Healthcare Administration, Hospital Management, and Healthcare Consulting

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the healthcare administration and health services management field is expected to grow by more than 28 percent between 2022 and 2032, which is much faster than average when compared to other occupations. These professionals are responsible for overseeing the management of healthcare facilities, including developing budgets, managing staff, and working to improve overall patient outcomes and satisfaction ratings. 

Leadership Roles in Clinical Settings

Graduates with a master's degree in health sciences may be qualified for leadership roles in clinical settings, such as: 

• Hospital Administrator
• Healthcare Administrator
• Health Services Manager

Certifications and Qualifications Required

The BLS notes that entry-level positions in the field of health services management require candidates to have a bachelor's degree. However, a master's degree can provide candidates with a competitive edge. These advanced degree programs offer proof that the applicant has advanced knowledge and applicable skills that can directly impact their overall impact and performance on the job. 

Public Health and Policy Careers

Public health is a broad field that covers a wide range of career opportunities. Those who work in public health and policy are often dedicated to promoting public health initiatives and improving health equity across all demographics. 

Opportunities in Public Health Research, Policy, and Advocacy

Those who earn a master's degree in health science become well-versed in the most advanced topics in healthcare, fitness, and wellness, making them uniquely qualified to pursue opportunities in public health research, policy, and advocacy. Many of these positions are quite rewarding, providing professionals with an opportunity to truly make an impact in the field of public health. 

Roles in Government Agencies, Non-Profits, and Internationally

Public health professionals pursue roles in government agencies, non-profits, and international charitable organizations. Some of the common health science jobs in public health include: 

• Public Affairs Officer 
• Contracts and Grants Manager 
• Environmental Health Scientist 
• Health Informatics Specialists 

Health Education and Promotion Careers

Health science professionals who work in health education and promotion can rely on their advanced understanding of fitness, nutrition, exercise physiology, and wellness to develop impactful programs that encourage people to live healthy lifestyles. The number of health education specialist positions is expected to rise by about seven percent between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average when compared to all other occupations. 

Careers in Health Education, Community Health, and Wellness

The BLS notes that health education and promotion professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. These professionals often work to develop engaging programming that raises awareness about health issues and encourages people to adopt healthy habits.

Health Education Programs in Schools, Workplaces, and Community Settings

Health education programs in schools, workplaces, and community settings can be incredibly beneficial as these programs provide people with access to information that can improve their overall health and well-being. Health education programs are a key component to improving health equity. 

Research and Academia Careers

In the health science sector, there is a constant need for innovative research as health scientists and professionals across the healthcare field seek to improve their practices based on the most recent data and insight. As a result, there are several health science jobs in research available. 

Research Opportunities for Health Science

Many health science graduates go on to work as biostatisticians. Biostatisticians are researchers who design studies, collect data, and interpret results to provide health science and healthcare professionals with the insight they need to refine their policies and practices. In the field of health science, there are nearly endless opportunities in the areas of research and academic development. 

Health Science Teaching and Mentoring Roles

Some health science graduates who pursue research and academic roles find themselves taking on teaching and mentoring positions at their places of employment. For example, a health science graduate who performs research at a university may also work as an adjunct professor instructor. This provides them with the opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders in the field of health science. 

Research Projects and Interdisciplinary Opportunities in Health Science Academia 

Those who seek out research roles in health science will find that many of the projects they engage in are collaborative endeavors that require an interdisciplinary approach. Health science researchers may also work with policy analysts, public officials, and professionals across a wide range of industries to create studies and complete well-rounded research. 

Industry and Corporate Careers

Given the broad scope of the health science field, it's not surprising that some graduates also consider health industry careers and corporate opportunities. These positions allow graduates to carve out their own industry niche and specialize within the field of health science. 

Careers in Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Medical Devices, and Technology

Some of the most common corporate careers in health sciences include: 

• Pharmaceuticals — Graduates with a health science degree may consider working for pharmaceutical companies, often taking on sales or promotional positions. 
• Biotechnology — The growing field of biotechnology has heightened demand for qualified candidates. Many health science graduates can consider careers in biotechnology. 
• Medical Devices — Health science graduates may pursue positions in the sales or development of medical devices, which are becoming increasingly necessary for several people.

Health Science Roles in Product Development, Business and Regulation

Whether you pursue a role in product development, business, or regulation, you will find that your health science master's degree allows you to consider a wide range of in-demand corporate health science careers. These positions allow you to combine your well-developed business acumen with your advanced knowledge in the health science field. This will ultimately allow you to begin a lasting and lucrative career path in an area that you are passionate about. 

Non-Traditional and Emerging Career Paths

While many graduates pursue traditional career opportunities in health science, such as health education jobs or research positions, there are others finding unique opportunities in these non-traditional and emerging career paths. These up-and-coming health science careers provide graduates with more flexibility and freedom, ultimately allowing them to carve out their own path forward. 

Niche Career Opportunities

Some niche career opportunities in health science include: 

• Telehealth Careers — Advances in technology and the desire for remote healthcare services has increased the demand for telehealth careers, which offer a greater sense of flexibility for professionals in the healthcare field. 
• Digital Health — Digital health services are becoming more common, particularly as patients become more comfortable with telehealth and remote technology. 
• Personalized Medicine — Recognizing the unique needs of patients, personalized medicine aims to provide individuals with the customized care that they need and deserve. Considering their background in nutrition and wellness, health science graduates are well-suited to positions in personalized medicine. 

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Startup Opportunities

Rather than attempting to find an open position on the job market, many health science graduates are looking into entrepreneurial endeavors and startup opportunities. The heightened demand for wellness services has opened opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, with some health science professionals working to launch their own businesses that offer wellness, nutrition, or fitness services. 

Explore Career Opportunities in Health Science at Lindenwood University

At Lindenwood University, we offer a Master's in Health Science that expands upon your existing industry knowledge and allows you to develop the skills required for the most in-demand health science jobs. Our rigorous curriculum explores key areas of the health industry, including exercise physiology, nutrition, wellness, public health, and more, allowing you to specialize in an area that interests you most. 

Request more information about our online graduate degree programs today.