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 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 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 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 | DHS
- 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:
- Other Potential Careers
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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 Human Services (DHS) 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
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- Other Potential Careers
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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
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A Contact Tracer plays a key role in understanding how diseases spread by tracing the contacts of people who are sick. This job involves interviewing individuals to find out who they’ve been in contact with and helping to notify those people about potential exposure. Key traits include strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Being organized and detail-oriented is crucial to keep track of accurate information. This career offers exciting opportunities to work with public health teams, conduct important research, and make a difference in your community. The rewards can include a sense of fulfillment from helping others and contributing to stopping the spread of diseases.
Salary Range
- $25,000 – $56,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: High School Diploma or equivalent
- Advance Your Expertise: Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Health Sciences, or related field (optional, but beneficial) Duration: ~4 years
- Certification: Certification in Contact Tracing, Public Health, or relevant areas
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in public health agencies, healthcare organizations, or community health settings
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
- Contact Tracer: Job Description, Pay, and How to Become One | Coursera
- Contact Tracer: U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
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- Other Potential Careers
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A Disease Control Specialist at The Department of Human Services in the state of Nevada plays a critical role in protecting public health by conducting epidemiological investigations and surveillance. This position involves tracking and analyzing health data, investigating disease outbreaks, and implementing prevention programs. Key characteristics of a successful Disease Control Specialist include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to public health. By preventing and controlling disease spread, Disease Control Specialists significantly contribute to the well-being of the community, ensuring a healthier Nevada.
Salary Range
- $58,000 – $86,000/ year
Required Experience
- A minimum education required is a bachelor’s degree in nursing, health science, biology, chemistry, physiology, medical technology, psychology, sociology, or a related field.
- As a Disease Control Specialist I and II, one to two years of experience in conducting epidemiological investigations and surveillance activities or related experience such as fieldwork in case interviews, tracking health data, working in infection control settings, and providing health education on disease control in a public health organization is required.
- As a Disease Control Specialist III, two years of progressively responsible experience in conducting epidemiological investigations and surveillance are necessary. This experience must include participation in planning, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating communicable and/or chronic disease prevention programs and activities, as well as preparing grant funding applications.
Additional Information
- Disease Control Specialist Class Specification | DHS
- Disease Surveillance Specialist
- Epidemiologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
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An Evaluation Specialist in public health ensures that health programs, like those aimed at reducing smoking or improving water quality, are effective and efficient. They collect and analyze data to determine what works and suggest improvements. This role is crucial for maximizing the impact of public health efforts, ensuring resources are used wisely, and health outcomes are improved. Evaluation specialists possess curiosity, analytical thinking, attention to detail, good communication, and problem-solving skills. Those who enjoy figuring out how things work and making a difference in their community may find this to be a great career.
Salary Range
- $64,000 – $130,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Sociology, Psychology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Evaluation, Public Health, Social Sciences, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in evaluation research, public health organizations, non-profit organizations, or government agencies.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
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A Family Peer Advocate is centered on providing essential support, guidance, and advocacy for families navigating various challenges, such as healthcare, education, and social services. This position requires key characteristics like empathy, strong communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. Family Peer Advocates work closely with families, offering mentorship, resources, and assistance in accessing necessary services. This field significantly impacts the community by promoting family well-being, empowerment, and resilience. It is a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Salary Range
- $27,000 – $48,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: High School Diploma or GED Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Enhance Your Skills: Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Training Duration: ~6-12 months (varies based on training programs)
- Gain Experience: Relevant volunteer or work experience in family support roles Duration: ~1-2 years
Academic Institutions
Discover a wide range of academic institutions and programs tailored to enhance your professional development. For more information, visit our Social Worker and start planning your future today!
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
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A Family Services Specialist in the Department of Human Services in the state of Nevada involves providing essential support to families and individuals by assessing needs, determining eligibility for various programs, and connecting them with resources and services. Key characteristics of this position include strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with care and professionalism. This role plays a vital part in enhancing the well-being of the community by ensuring that families receive the support they need to thrive.
Salary Range
- $45,000 – $60,000/ year
Required Experience
- A minimum of sixty semester credits from an accredited college or university in general studies, business administration, social science or human services and one year of experience of administrative duties.
- To qualify as a Family Services Specialist I, two years of experience in a clerical, administrative, or program support role is necessary. This experience should include customer relations; obtaining, verifying, and evaluating information; organizing and prioritizing work to meet timelines and standards; applying and explaining program rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; and performing mathematical computations.
- As a Family Services Specialist II and III, one to two years of professional experience performing social services case processing duties is required. This includes applying rules and regulations, conducting personal interviews with applicants to exchange information, documenting facts pertinent to program requirements, researching financial circumstances, and determining eligibility.
Additional Information
- Family Services Supervisor Class Specification | DHS
- Family Services Specialist Class Specification | DHS
- What does a Family Services Specialist do? Career Overview, Roles, Jobs | NASW
- Family Services Specialist Job Description | InterviewGuy
Career Choices & Growth
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A Grant Writer in public health helps organizations secure the funds needed to run vital health programs. They research funding opportunities, write persuasive proposals, and submit them to potential funders. This role is crucial because it ensures that public health initiatives, like disease prevention, health education, and improved healthcare access, have the resources they need to succeed. Grant writers play a key role in making sure communities receive the support they need to stay healthy. Grant writing includes strong writing and research skills, attention to detail, organization, and good communication. Those who enjoy writing, researching, and making a difference in their community might find this career highly rewarding.
Salary Range
- $44,000 – $86,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Writing, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions. Stay current with grant writing best practices, funding strategies, and organizational development.
Academic Institutions
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
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A Health Communication Specialist is a professional who creates and shares important health messages to educate the public about health issues, such as disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. They work with healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations to ensure that health information is clear and accessible. Key qualities for success in this role include strong communication skills, creativity, empathy, and the ability to work well under pressure. Working as a Health Communication Specialist provides opportunities to develop effective communication strategies and engage with diverse audiences. This career is rewarding because it involves helping people understand and improve their health.
Salary Range
- $87,000 – $106,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Public Health, Health Education, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Health Communication, Public Health, Health Education, or a related field (optional but advantageous) Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions in healthcare organizations, public health agencies, or communication departments.
- Networking: Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and connect with other health communication 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
- What is a Health Communications Specialist? | Master’s Public Health
- Understanding the Eight Areas of Responsibility for Health Education Specialists
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Related Career Pathways