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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Health Educators.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Health Educators.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 8%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with agencies and organizations interested in public health care.
Maintain databases, mailing lists, telephone networks, and other information to facilitate the functioning of health education programs.
Prepare and distribute health education materials, such as reports, bulletins, and visual aids, to address smoking, vaccines, and other public health concerns.
If you're interested in pursuing a career as a health educator, you're looking at a path that involves specialized education, gaining relevant experience, and obtaining certification. As a health educator, you'll have the opportunity to empower communities to improve their health and wellness through education and resources. Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a health educator:
Most health educator positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Focus on areas such as:
Relevant coursework might include subjects on human biology, epidemiology, medical terminology, and public health principles.
While completing your degree, seek out internships or volunteer opportunities that can provide practical experience. Consider the following settings for gaining experience:
For more advanced positions, a master's degree may be required. Programs like a Master of Public Health (MPH) or Master of Science in Health Education can enhance your expertise and job prospects.
Certification can demonstrate your knowledge and professionalism. The Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential is widely recognized. To become CHES certified, you must:
For advanced practice, the Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) credential is available.
Stay current with the latest health education practices by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences. Joining professional organizations such as The Society for Public Health Education can provide networking opportunities and resources for continued learning.
Look for job postings in places like:
With experience and continuing education, you may qualify for higher-level roles such as:
Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your education, certifications, and relevant experience when applying for positions.
Here are some authoritative resources to help you on your path to becoming a health educator:
By following these steps, you can build a successful career as a health educator and make a significant impact on public health outcomes.
To become a health educator, you typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in health education or health promotion. Coursework often includes:
Some positions may require a master’s degree, particularly for roles in public health or for community college teaching positions.
While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications can enhance your job prospects and professional status. The Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) are well-respected credentials offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.
Health educators need a mix of skills to be effective in their roles, including:
Health educators are responsible for:
Health educators can be found in a variety of settings:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations due to efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and education level. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides up-to-date salary information. As of their latest data, the median annual wage for health educators was approximately $46,910.
With experience, health educators can move into supervisory or management roles. Advancement can also include becoming a subject matter expert or specializing in a certain area of health education. Pursuing additional certifications or higher education can facilitate these opportunities.
Staying current involves:
Yes, there are international opportunities, particularly with global public health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Fluency in another language and an understanding of different cultures can be beneficial for these roles.