Scholarships Available – Apply Now!
An Alcohol and Drug Counselor plays a crucial role in society by helping individuals overcome substance abuse and addiction. They provide support, guidance, and treatment plans to those struggling with alcohol and drug dependency, aiming to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Key characteristics include empathy, patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to build trust with clients. They must be compassionate and non-judgmental, providing a safe and supportive environment for clients to share their struggles. They have the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for their clients. They help reduce the negative impacts of addiction on individuals, families, and communities, promoting healthier and more productive lives.
Salary Range
- $53,000 – $122,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in rehabilitation centers, substance abuse treatment facilities, or community health organizations. Stay current with addiction counseling techniques, recovery strategies, and relevant ethical guidelines.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org.
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What Does a Substance Abuse Counselor Do?
- National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals | NAADAC
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available – Apply Now!
Child Welfare workers are dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in protecting and supporting vulnerable children and families. Their responsibilities include investigating reports of child abuse and neglect, providing case management, and connecting families with essential resources and services. Key characteristics of this role include empathy, strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep commitment to advocating for children’s well-being. Child welfare workers have a profound impact on the community by ensuring that children grow up in safe, nurturing environments, breaking cycles of abuse, and fostering resilience. For individuals passionate about making a difference, a career in child welfare offers both meaningful work and the opportunity to create lasting change in the lives of children and families.
Salary Range
- $53,000 – $122,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Child Development, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related field with a focus on child welfare Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in child welfare agencies, non-profit organizations, or family services. Stay current with child welfare policies, best practices in social work, and child protection laws.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org.
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What does a Child Welfare Worker do? | NASWWA
- How to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker
- Examining the significant role of a child welfare social worker – UMass Global
- Certificate of Achievement in Human Services Program
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available!
An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a highly skilled healthcare professional who provides advanced medical care beyond the scope of a registered nurse. They diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform procedures, making a significant impact on patient care. Key characteristics include clinical expertise, compassion, and the ability to work independently and as part of a healthcare team. By offering high-quality care in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, APRNs play a crucial role in improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of their patients. For individuals passionate about making a difference in healthcare, becoming an APRN is a dynamic and rewarding career path that combines advanced medical knowledge with empathetic patient care.
APRNs include Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).
Salary Range
- $29,000 – $160,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree from an accredited nursing program Duration: ~2-3 years for M.S.N., ~3-5 years for D.N.P.
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. Stay current with nursing techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Nurse Apprentice Program offers funding to help students interested in a nursing career. This program provides financial support for nurse apprentices, including hourly wages and bonuses upon graduation and licensure. Additionally, it covers travel expenses for those who need to travel long distances for their apprenticeship. By joining this program, you can gain valuable experience and financial assistance to help you succeed in your nursing career. Nevada Nurse Apprentice Program – NAP
- The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov.
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
Academic Institutes
- To explore academic institutions and programs for a career in nursing, visit our Nursing page for more information.
Additional Information
- What does a nurse practitioner do? – CareerExplorer
- What Is a Nurse Practitioner? What They Do, When to See One, and What to Expect | WebMD
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
A Clinical Mental Health Counselor plays a vital role in society by helping individuals navigate emotional and psychological challenges. They provide therapy and support to people dealing with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, aiming to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. These counselors work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practices. Key character include empathy, patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to build trust with clients. By offering a safe and supportive environment, they help individuals develop coping strategies and achieve personal growth, making a significant positive impact on their communities.
Salary Range
- $62,000 – $93,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Sociology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution Duration: ~2-3 years
- Gain Experience: Complete a supervised internship or practicum in a mental health clinic, counseling center, or healthcare organization to gain specialized training and experience in mental health counseling. Stay current with counseling techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research. Obtain licensure from the appropriate state licensing board to enhance qualifications and career prospects.
Scholarships Available
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNR and UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
- The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov.
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What Is Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Why Is It Important? | Wake Forest University
- What Is A Mental Health Counselor? – Forbes Health
- Psychologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
An Occupational Therapist is a healthcare professional who helps people do everyday activities such as getting dressed, cooking, or going to school. They work with individuals who have physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges to live independently and enjoy life. Key traits for an occupational therapist include patience, creativity, and good problem-solving skills. They must be compassionate and good at communicating, as they often work closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans. This career is rewarding because it allows therapists to make a difference in people’s lives.
Salary Range
- $69,000 – $114,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, Kinesiology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in occupational therapy clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. Stay current with occupational therapy strategies, patient care best practices, and healthcare protocols.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- Touro Unversity Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Occupational Therapy | Healthcare Services in Carson Valley
- Nevada Occupational Therapy License Requirements | Healthcarepathway
- Occupational Therapists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available – Apply Now!
Clinical Social Workers support individuals and families through challenging times. They provide therapy and counseling to help people cope with mental health issues, emotional difficulties, and life changes. With strong empathy, excellent listening skills, and a deep commitment to helping others, clinical social workers create a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and work towards positive change. Their work significantly impacts society by promoting mental wellness, strengthening families, and fostering healthier communities.
Salary Range
- $76,000 – $90,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from an accredited program Duration: ~2-3 years
- Gain Experience: Complete a supervised clinical internship or field placement to gain specialized training and experience in social work practice. Stay current with the latest social work techniques, therapeutic interventions, and patient care practices.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org.
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available!
A Midwife is a trained healthcare professional who specializes in supporting women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They provide comprehensive care, including prenatal exams, labor and delivery support, and postnatal care for both mother and baby. Key characteristics include empathy, strong communication skills, and the ability to provide personalized care. Midwives play a crucial role in the community by ensuring safe and healthy childbirth experiences, offering emotional support, and educating families about childbirth and newborn care. Their work helps improve maternal and infant health outcomes and fosters a supportive environment for expectant parents.
Salary Range
- $29,000 – $119,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (B.S.N.), Biology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Complete a Master’s Degree in Nurse Midwifery from an accredited program Duration: ~2-3 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in hospitals, birthing centers, or private practices. Stay current with midwifery techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research. Obtain certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM).
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
Additional Information
- What Is A Midwife And What Do They Do? – Forbes Health
- What Is a Midwife and What Do Midwives Do? | Brown University Health
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
A Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT) specializes in helping individuals overcome mental health challenges by using evidence-based techniques to change negative thought patterns and behaviors. This rewarding career involves working closely with clients to identify issues, develop coping strategies, and implement personalized treatment plans. Key characteristics include strong analytical skills, empathy, active listening, and effective communication. By empowering individuals to manage and improve their mental health, cognitive behavioral therapists make a profound impact on the community, promoting overall well-being and resilience.
Salary Range
- $65,000 – $200,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, or a related field with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in mental health clinics, hospitals, or private practice settings. Stay current with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, mental health best practices, and ethical guidelines.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Genetic Counselors help individuals and families understand their genetic risks by evaluating family history and medical records, ordering genetic tests, and interpreting the results. They collaborate with medical geneticists to diagnose genetic conditions and guide patients on whether genetic testing is necessary. Once testing is completed, genetic counselors explain the results, provide counseling, and assist families in making informed decisions. They also connect patients to community or state support services and refer them to specialists when needed. Genetic counselors often address sensitive topics and provide emotional support, making empathy and excellent communication skills essential in this role. By offering personalized guidance and support, genetic counselors empower individuals to make informed choices about their health and future.
Salary Range
- $74,000 – $104,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Genetics, Psychology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (M.S.) from an accredited program Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in genetic counseling clinics, hospitals, or research institutions. Stay current with genetic counseling techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research. Obtain certification from the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) to enhance qualifications and career prospects.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available!
Community Health Nurses play a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of entire communities. They work closely with individuals and families to provide education, preventive care, and support for managing chronic conditions. With strong empathy, excellent communication skills, and a deep commitment to public health, community health nurses create a safe and supportive environment for their patients. Their work significantly impacts society by reducing health disparities, improving access to healthcare, and fostering healthier communities. Through their dedication and expertise, community health nurses make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve, helping them lead healthier and happier lives.
Salary Range
- $87,000 – $133,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree from an accredited nursing program Duration: ~2-3 years for M.S.N., ~3-5 years for D.N.P.
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. Stay current with nursing techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Nurse Apprentice Program offers funding to help students interested in a nursing career. This program provides financial support for nurse apprentices, including hourly wages and bonuses upon graduation and licensure. Additionally, it covers travel expenses for those who need to travel long distances for their apprenticeship. By joining this program, you can gain valuable experience and financial assistance to help you succeed in your nursing career. Nevada Nurse Apprentice Program – NAP
- The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov.
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
Academic Institutes
- To explore academic institutions and programs for a career in nursing, visit our Nursing page for more information.
Additional Information
- Community Health Nurse Class Specification | DHHS
- Career Guide for Different Types of Nurses | WGU
- Registered Nurses: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- How To Become A Public Health Nurse: What To Know – Forbes Advisor
- 4 Reasons Nursing Is the Most Rewarding Career Path
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field: