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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.
Becoming a health educator is an enriching career path that allows you to contribute significantly to community wellness and public health. Health educators work in a variety of settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, businesses, and non-profit organizations. They develop programs and materials that promote healthy lifestyles, prevent diseases, and encourage positive health behaviors. If you're interested in pursuing this career, here are the steps you need to take:
Before you commit to becoming a health educator, it's important to have a clear understanding of what the job entails. Health educators typically:
To become a health educator, you generally need at least a bachelor's degree in health education or a related field such as public health or community health. Your coursework should cover topics such as:
Some positions, particularly those in higher education or specialized roles, may require a master's degree.
Hands-on experience is crucial in the field of health education. Consider volunteering or completing an internship to gain practical skills. You can look for opportunities at:
While not always required, becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) can enhance your job prospects and credibility in the field. The CHES certification is offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing. To qualify for the CHES exam, you'll need:
Health educators must stay informed about the latest research and trends in public health and education. Continuing education can be achieved through:
Networking is key in many fields, and health education is no exception. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to job leads, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative projects. Consider:
By following these steps, you can set yourself on the path to becoming a successful health educator. Remember that this role requires a passion for helping others, strong communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning. With dedication and the right qualifications, you can make a meaningful impact on public health outcomes.
To pursue a career as a health educator, you typically need:
Relevant coursework might include biology, psychology, and instructional technology. Additionally, internships or volunteer work in health education can provide valuable practical experience.
Yes, while not always mandatory, becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) can enhance your qualifications. These are offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.
Requirements include:
Certain states may have additional licensure requirements.
Health educators should possess a mix of hard and soft skills, including:
Health educators can work in a variety of environments:
Each setting may have unique responsibilities and target audiences.
Certainly! Specializations can include:
Specializing can often require additional training or experience in the chosen area.
The demand for health educators is growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is partly due to efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people about healthy habits and behaviors.
Professional development can take many forms:
Career progression may include:
Networking and continuous learning are vital for advancing in this field.