These 5 health care jobs don't require a graduate degree

These are some of fast-growing positions in the industry.

By Robert Fucci, Monster staff

When you think of the health care industry, jobs such as nurses, doctors and surgeons likely come to mind, as does studying in college for many years.

But did you know there are many positions in the industry that require only bachelor degrees?

That's right. Just four years in college is all you need.

Health care, considered the fastest-growing industry in the U.S., employs over 18 million workers, with women representing about 80%, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

And with more than 5,600 registered hospitals in the country, chances are you can get your foot in the door with your bachelor's degree and earn a decent wage.

See if any of these sample jobs below pique your interest. Average pay provided by PayScale; hiring outlook provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Physician assistant (PA)

What they do: While working for a physician, PAs examine patients, diagnose injuries and illnesses, and provide treatment
Average annual pay: $86,000
Hiring outlook: 38% through 2022

Biomedical engineer

What they do: Improve the quality and effectiveness of patient care through analyzing and designing solutions
Average annual pay: $63,000
Hiring outlook: 27% through 2022

Radiation therapist

What they do: Administer radiation treatment to patients with various diseases, including cancer
Average annual pay: $65,000
Hiring outlook: 24% through 2022

Nuclear medicine technologist

What they do: Prepare and administer radioactive drugs to patients undergoing body scans
Average annual pay: $64,000
Hiring outlook: 20% through 2022

Medical sonographer

What they do: Aid physicians in assessing and diagnosing medical conditions by operating special imaging equipment
Average annual pay: $40,000
Hiring outlook: 39% through 2022

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