How to Earn Over $100K Working in Health Care—Without a Bachelor’s Degree

Ever feel like society is playing a cruel joke, making you think the only way to hit the six-figure mark is through years of college and crushing student loans?

I hear you. But what if I told you there’s a way to earn over $100,000 a year without ever stepping foot in a bachelor’s program? Yeah, you read that right!

Let me introduce you to Ashley Quezada, a 38-year-old military veteran, who’s living proof that you can make bank in health care without fancy degrees.

Ashley now makes over $100K annually as a radiation therapist. You know what’s even better? He’s not alone—this path is more common than you'd think.

In this article, we’ll crack the code on health care careers that can take you to six figures—no four-year degree required.

Stick around, and I’ll give you practical tips to launch yourself into a high-paying health care job, minus the academic headaches.

And hey, I’ll even reveal one hot tip: One of these careers only takes 2 years of training. Intrigued?

Let’s dive in!

1. Radiation Therapist: High Pay with Low Time Commitment

Radiation therapists like Ashley administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. The training only takes 2 years via an associate degree or certificate program, but the average salary is a jaw-dropping $100K+ annually.

You’ll need to pass a certification exam, but compared to a four-year slog through college, this is a walk in the park.

Imagine earning six figures just two years after starting your training—and doing work that makes a real difference in people’s lives! Not only is it financially rewarding, but knowing you’re helping others heal makes this job emotionally fulfilling too.

2. Medical Equipment Sales: Sell Big, Earn Bigger

If you’re a people person with a knack for sales, health care equipment sales is your golden ticket.

These reps sell products like MRI machines, implants, and other medical tech to hospitals and clinics. With commissions, it’s not unusual to rake in $120K or more each year.

Here’s the best part—no medical background required! Companies prefer candidates with sales experience over degrees.

If you can build relationships and hit targets, you’re in. Plus, every sale you make has a positive impact on patient care—win-win!

3. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: The Hidden Gem of Health Care

Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to create images that help doctors diagnose medical conditions.

The training takes 2 years at most, and salaries easily climb past $75K—with some experienced sonographers making over $100K.

The job offers great work-life balance, with most sonographers working 40-hour weeks and rarely dealing with emergencies.

It’s a perfect fit if you want a high salary, stability, and time to enjoy life outside of work.

4. Health Care Coding Specialist: Money Meets Flexibility

Don’t sleep on medical coding. This behind-the-scenes role involves translating patient records into standardized codes for billing purposes.

Coders can earn $70K to $100K+, especially if they specialize in advanced areas or take on freelance clients.

The real beauty?

You can do this job remotely.

That means no morning commutes and the freedom to work in your pajamas—while still raking in six figures.

You’ll need to complete a certification course, but it’s usually quick and affordable.

5. Nuclear Medicine Technologist: Science + Salary = Success

This role involves preparing and administering radioactive drugs to patients for diagnostic scans.

Nuclear medicine techs typically earn $90K to $110K per year, and the only educational requirement is an associate degree. It’s a fascinating career if you’re into science and technology.

Sure, it sounds complex, but the job is incredibly rewarding, both intellectually and financially.

Plus, health care facilities are always in need of specialized technicians, meaning job security is rock solid.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! These five high-paying careers prove you don’t need a bachelor’s degree to thrive in health care.

From radiation therapy to health care sales, these roles offer the chance to earn over $100K without drowning in student debt or spending four years in college.

If this article opened your eyes to new possibilities, it’s time to take action! Research these career paths, find a certification program that suits your interests, and start your journey toward six-figure success.

And hey, if this helped you—or if you know someone stuck thinking a degree is the only way to make good money—share this article!

Let’s spread the word: Success is waiting for you, no degree necessary.