Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Physician Assistants (PAs) are essential healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of doctors to provide comprehensive medical care. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans, ensuring patients receive the best possible care. PAs work in various specialties, including family medicine, surgery, and emergency care, making a significant impact on the well-being of their communities. Known for their compassion, adaptability, and strong communication skills, PAs play a crucial role in delivering high-quality healthcare and improving patients’ lives.
Salary Range
- $100,000 – $188,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Health Sciences, Pre-Med, or related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies, Medical Sciences, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in hospitals, clinics, or medical research facilities. Stay current with medical practices, patient care techniques, and healthcare regulations.
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 on the ARPA Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant, 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 Institutions
- Touro University Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
- What does a physician assistant do? – CareerExplorer
- Physician Assistants: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Medical Practitioner Class Specification | DHHS
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret complex data to help organizations make smart decisions and solve problems. Important traits for a Data Scientist include curiosity, creativity, and strong math and programming skills. Data Scientists can make a big impact in fields like healthcare, business, or even entertainment. As a Data Scientist, you have the opportunity to work in diverse industries, from healthcare to finance, and play a key role in shaping decisions that impact real-world outcomes. This career is rewarding because you can use your analytical skills to solve meaningful problems and help organizations innovate and improve their services.
Salary Range
- $38,000 – $200,000/year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for internships that provide experience in data analysis, machine learning, or software development.
- Networking: Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and connect with other data scientists and industry experts.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
- What is a Data Scientist? | Coursera
- Data Scientists: 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!
Counselors and Therapists are caring professionals who help people navigate their feelings and challenges. They listen to individuals talk about their problems, whether feeling sad, dealing with stress, or handling tough situations at home or school. Counseling is generally more goal-oriented and practical, focusing on coping strategies and problem-solving. Therapy delves deeper into emotional and psychological issues, aiming for long-term change and personal growth. Using their skills, they guide people to understand their emotions and find healthy ways to cope. Important traits include being good listeners, empathetic, and patient. They also need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make others feel comfortable and supported. This profession enjoys helping others and are interested in understanding how people think and feel.
Salary Range
- $81,000 – $110,000/ 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 Counseling, Clinical 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 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
- 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 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 A Mental Health Counselor? – Forbes Health
- Psychologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Psychologist: What They Do, Specialties & Training Cleveland Clinic
- Sociologists: 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
Critical Care, also known as Intensive Care, is a vital field dedicated to providing specialized medical care to patients with life-threatening conditions. Critical care professionals work in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and are equipped to handle severe and complex health issues such as heart attacks, severe infections, and traumatic injuries. Key characteristics include quick thinking, resilience, strong problem-solving skills, and a deep sense of empathy. They work hard to stabilize patients, monitor vital signs, administer life-saving treatments, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the best possible outcomes. By offering advanced medical interventions and round-the-clock care, critical care professionals play a crucial role in improving patient survival rates and making a profound impact on their communities. For individuals passionate about making a difference in the most critical moments, pursuing a career in critical care is not only possible but incredibly rewarding.
Salary Range
- Note: Salaries vary depending on the specific medical occupation you choose.
Education & Timeframe
- Overview: The educational path will differ based on the medical career you wish to pursue.
- Details: Click the links below to explore the specific paths for each medical profession.
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Data Analysts are key players in today’s data-driven world. They gather, examine, and interpret data to help businesses and organizations understand trends and make informed decisions. By using advanced tools and techniques, Data Analysts create compelling visualizations and clear reports to share their insights. Key qualities for this role include curiosity, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills. Data Analysts have the opportunity to work across diverse industries like healthcare, finance, and technology, where they influence critical decisions and drive positive change. This career is rewarding because it involves uncovering insights that help organizations improve and succeed, making your work impactful and meaningful.
Salary Range
- $94,000 – $123,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Health Informatics, Computer Science, Statistics, Public Health, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Health Informatics, Data Science, Public Health, or a related field (optional but advantageous) Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions in healthcare organizations, focusing on data analysis, health informatics, or public health research.
- Certification (Optional): Consider obtaining certification such as Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
- Networking: Join professional organizations like the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) and attend relevant conferences.
Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Nevada, Reno is offering Public Health Workforce Scholarships, supported by the ARPA Workforce Grant, focusing on biostatistics and epidemiology. These scholarships aim to empower individuals dedicated to preventing disease, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving community well-being. Recipients will have opportunities to contribute by implementing educational programs, developing policies, administering services, conducting research, and regulating health systems to achieve these critical public health goals. For more details, please refer to Public Health Workforce Scholarship. For additional information, please contact:
- Health Analytics & Biostatistics and Analytic Programming Seminars: Minggen Lu Email: minggenl@unr.edu
- Epidemiology: Kristen Clements-Nolle Email: clements@unr.edu
Academic Institutions
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
- What Does a Data Analyst Do? | Coursera
- Health Care Data Analyst: Career Guide and How to Become One | Coursera
- How to Become a Data Analyst | Mastersindatascience
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
A Community and Outreach Specialist works to improve community health by promoting wellness programs and educating the public about health issues. They develop and manage programs like fitness classes, health fairs, and immunization drives, often working with hospitals, non-profits, and government agencies. Key qualities for success in this role include strong communication skills, empathy, organizational abilities, and a passion for helping others. This career offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives by addressing important health concerns and improving access to healthcare services.
Salary Range
- $68,000 – $87,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Communication, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field (optional but advantageous) Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions in public relations, marketing, or communications departments.
- Networking: Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and connect with other communications professionals and experts in the field.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Nevada State University, Henderson:
Additional Information
- Community Outreach Specialist | Careers in Public Health.net
- What is an Outreach Specialist in Public Health? | Master’s in Public Health
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
A Disaster Recovery Specialist is essential in ensuring communities can quickly and effectively bounce back from natural or man-made disasters. This role involves developing and implementing recovery plans, coordinating with local and federal agencies, and providing support to affected individuals and organizations. Key characteristics of a Disaster Recovery Specialist include strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and excellent communication abilities. In the health field, these specialists play a crucial role in restoring public health services, managing health crises, and ensuring the well-being of affected populations. Pursuing a career in this field offers the opportunity to make a significant and lasting impact on community resilience and recovery efforts.
Salary Range
- $71,000 – $129,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Health, Public Administration, or related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Health, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Certification: Certification in Emergency Management, Disaster Recovery, or relevant areas
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in emergency management agencies, public health organizations, or disaster response teams. Stay up-to-date with disaster recovery strategies, public health best practices, and emergency management trends.
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.
The University of Nevada, Reno is offering Public Health Workforce Scholarships, supported by the ARPA Workforce Grant, for aspiring public health professionals. These scholarships aim to empower individuals dedicated to preventing disease, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving community well-being. Recipients will have opportunities to contribute by implementing educational programs, developing policies, administering services, conducting research, and regulating health systems to achieve these critical public health goals. Please more details, please review Master of Public Health- Online Program.
Academic Institutions
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What does a disaster recovery specialist do? – CareerExplorer
- Emergency Management Resources | Organizational Resilience | UNR
- Emergency Management / Homeland Security’s Training Program | NV.gov
- FEMA National Disaster & Emergency Management University (NDEMU)
- Disaster Preparedness Training: Community Emergency Response Team – CERT
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods to help solve crimes and legal issues. It encompasses many areas like biology, chemistry, physics, and digital analysis. Professionals in this field collect and study evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and digital data. They also prepare detailed reports and may testify in court. Key traits for success in this field include analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong ethical standards. Forensic science is crucial for solving crimes, protecting public health, and resolving legal disputes, making it a vital and impactful career path.
Salary Range
- $54,000 – $95,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Forensic Science, Criminalistics, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, or medical examiner’s offices. Stay current with forensic science techniques, evidence analysis best practices, and crime scene investigation protocols.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Forensic Science: Everything You Should Know | Forbes Advisor
- Forensic Anthropology, CA | College of Southern Nevada
- Forensic Science Technicians: 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 Emergency Coordinator plays a crucial role in helping communities stay safe during disasters like floods, hurricanes, or fires. This position involves developing comprehensive plans to guide communities in responding effectively to emergencies. Important skills for this job include strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities. The ability to remain calm under pressure and collaborate effectively with others is essential. This career is ideal for individuals who are passionate about helping people and want to make a significant impact.
Salary Range
- $61,000 – $83,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Homeland Security, or related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Health, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in emergency management agencies, public health organizations, or disaster response teams. Stay current with emergency management strategies, public health best practices, and safety protocols
Academic Institutions
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
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.
The University of Nevada, Reno is offering Public Health Workforce Scholarships, supported by the ARPA Workforce Grant, for aspiring public health professionals. These scholarships aim to empower individuals dedicated to preventing disease, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving community well-being. Recipients will have opportunities to contribute by implementing educational programs, developing policies, administering services, conducting research, and regulating health systems to achieve these critical public health goals. Please more details, please review Master of Public Health- Online Program.
Additional Information
- 15 Emergency Management Coordinator Skills – Zippia
- Emergency Preparedness Coordinator: Role and Requirements | Tulane
- Preparedness Links | nv.gov
- Nevada Emergency Preparedness Association – Certification
- FEMA National Disaster & Emergency Management University | NDEMU
- Community Emergency Response Team – CERT (washoesheriff.com)
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
An Emergency Management Specialist plays a crucial role in preparing for and responding to various emergencies, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other public safety threats. This position involves developing emergency response plans and coordinating with government agencies, public safety officials, and community members to ensure effective disaster preparedness and response. Important skills for this job include strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. This career is ideal for individuals who are passionate about keeping the community safe and making a significant impact in times of need.
Salary Range
- $68,000 – $94,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Homeland Security, or related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Emergency Management, Public Health, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Certification: Certification in Emergency Management, such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) or Associate Emergency Manager (AEM)
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in emergency management agencies, public health organizations, or disaster response teams. Stay current with emergency management strategies, public health best practices, and safety protocols
Academic Institutions
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
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.
The University of Nevada, Reno is offering Public Health Workforce Scholarships, supported by the ARPA Workforce Grant, for aspiring public health professionals. These scholarships aim to empower individuals dedicated to preventing disease, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving community well-being. Recipients will have opportunities to contribute by implementing educational programs, developing policies, administering services, conducting research, and regulating health systems to achieve these critical public health goals. Please more details, please review Master of Public Health- Online Program.
Additional Information
- Nevada Division of Emergency Management / Homeland Security Presentation
- How to Become an Emergency Management Specialist | WGU
- How to Become an Emergency Management Specialist | Publichealthdegrees
- Emergency Management Administrator | Washoecounty
- FEMA National Disaster & Emergency Management University | NDEMU
- Community Emergency Response Team – CERT (washoesheriff.com)
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways