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The Healthcare Tracks blog

Guides for finding your place in healthcare

Plain-language articles on healthcare careers for every major: what the work is really like, how long the training takes, and how to get in.

Written by Saima Ahmad, MPH
25+ years in healthcare and clinical laboratory leadership

How to Choose a Healthcare Program: 15 Things to Check Before You Apply

Before you apply to a nursing, PA, therapy, or lab program, check these 15 things, from accreditation and exam pass rates to clinical placements and total cost. September 26, 2026 · 3 min read

Healthcare Programs That Are Easier to Get Into (and What to Watch Out For)

Some healthcare programs have fewer barriers to admission. Learn which kinds of programs are more accessible, how to improve your odds, and the one thing you should never trade for an easy admission. September 26, 2026 · 3 min read

How to Pay Less for Healthcare School: In-State Tuition, Regional Exchanges, and Loan Repayment

Healthcare training doesn't have to mean huge debt. Learn how in-state tuition, regional tuition exchanges, employer tuition help, and federal loan repayment programs can cut the cost. September 26, 2026 · 3 min read

What Can You Do With a Biology Degree? 17 Healthcare Careers Beyond Medical School

A biology degree opens far more doors than medical school. Here are 17 healthcare careers biology graduates move into, from one-year lab programs to PA school, with the training each one takes. September 26, 2026 · 3 min read

Healthcare Careers for Public Health, Psychology, and Social Work Graduates

You don't need a biology degree to work in healthcare. These careers welcome public health, psychology, sociology, and social work graduates, plus the prerequisites you may need to add. September 26, 2026 · 2 min read

Career spotlights

What Is a Medical Laboratory Scientist? The Healthcare Career Behind Most Diagnoses

Medical laboratory scientists run the tests doctors rely on to diagnose and treat patients. Here's what the job involves, how to become one in as little as a year after a science degree, and who it suits. September 26, 2026 · 2 min read

PA vs. PT vs. OT: How to Choose Between Three Popular Health Careers

Physician assistant, physical therapist, and occupational therapist programs attract many of the same students. Compare the work, training length, degrees, and exams side by side. September 26, 2026 · 2 min read

Career planning

The Fastest Healthcare Careers If You Already Have a Bachelor's Degree

Already hold a bachelor's degree? These healthcare careers can be reached in about a year, and some you can start right away. Here's how each route works. September 26, 2026 · 2 min read

Career spotlights

How to Become a Healthcare Administrator: Degrees, Skills, and Career Paths

Healthcare administrators run the business side of hospitals, clinics, and labs. Learn what the job involves, which degrees lead there (MHA, MPH, or MBA), and how clinical professionals move into management. September 26, 2026 · 2 min read