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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 involves a blend of formal education, skills development, and in some cases, certification. If you're interested in this rewarding career, here's a step-by-step guide to set you on the right path.
Firstly, it's important to understand what a health educator does. They are professionals who work to promote wellness and healthy lifestyles by educating individuals and communities about behaviors that can prevent diseases, injuries, and other health issues. They develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities.
To become a health educator, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in health education or a related field such as:
Some positions, especially those in higher education institutions or at the government level, may require a master's degree.
Hands-on experience is crucial in the health education field. You can gain experience through:
While not always mandatory, becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) can enhance your job prospects. The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) offers the CHES examination. Some employers may also recognize the Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) credential for advanced-level positions.
To be effective in your role, you should develop key skills such as:
Keep abreast of the latest public health research and trends by:
Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide insights into best practices. Connect with peers through:
Once you're qualified, look for job opportunities in places like:
Remember that each step is integral to building a solid foundation for your career as a health educator. By gaining the necessary education, experience, certifications, and skills, you'll be well-prepared to enter this dynamic field. Keep learning and networking throughout your career to continue making a positive impact on public health.
A health educator is a professional who works to improve the health of individuals and communities by educating them about behaviors that promote wellness. They develop and implement strategies to enhance the health of individuals and communities, and they work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
To become a health educator, you typically need:
Key skills for health educators include:
Health educators can be found in diverse environments:
Salaries for health educators vary based on location, experience, and education level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the median annual wage for health educators was $56,500.
Career advancement opportunities may include:
Yes, there is a growing demand for health educators. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of health educators and community health workers will grow 13% 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.
Joining professional organizations can offer networking opportunities, resources, and continued education. Some notable organizations include:
Remember that the path to becoming a successful health educator involves continuous learning and adapting to new health challenges. Engaging with professional communities and staying informed about the latest public health trends will help you stay relevant and effective in your role.