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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Health Promotion Specialists.
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 Promotion Specialists.
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.
As a health promotion specialist, your role will be crucial in encouraging healthy lifestyles and preventing illness through public health education and intervention. Here's a step-by-step guide to building your career in this vital field.
Before you dive into the educational requirements and skill sets needed, it's important to fully grasp what a health promotion specialist does. In this role, you'll:
To become a health promotion specialist, you will typically need:
Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in health education, public health, or a related field is often required as a starting point. Look for programs that include coursework in biology, psychology, nutrition, and health education principles.
Master's Degree (Optional): While not always necessary, a master's degree in public health (MPH) or a related field can enhance your job prospects and prepare you for leadership positions.
Consider obtaining the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential from the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC). This certification can improve your employability and demonstrate your commitment to professional standards.
Regularly read professional journals and attend conferences to stay current on the latest research in public health and health promotion. Organizations like the American Public Health Association (APHA) provide valuable resources.
Build a professional network by joining organizations and attending events related to public health. Networking can lead to job opportunities and collaborations.
Continue your education through workshops, webinars, and additional certifications. This commitment to learning will ensure that you remain an effective health promotion specialist throughout your career.
Health Promotion Specialists work to improve the health of individuals and communities through education, policy-making, and research. They develop programs that encourage healthy lifestyles, advocate for health-related issues, and work on public health campaigns.
To become a Health Promotion Specialist, you typically need:
While not always mandatory, certification can enhance job prospects and credibility in the field. The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing offers the CHES and MCHES certifications.
Key skills include:
Health Promotion Specialists can be found in a variety of settings:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in health education and community health occupations is expected to grow faster than average from 2019 to 2029.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Yes, with experience, Health Promotion Specialists can advance to:
Salaries vary based on location, experience, education, and the type of employer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the median annual wage for health educators was $56,500.
Joining professional organizations can provide networking opportunities, resources, and continuing education. Some organizations include:
By understanding these key aspects of the Health Promotion Specialist career path, you can better prepare for a rewarding role in this field. Stay informed about educational paths, necessary skills, work environments, job outlook, salary expectations, and professional development opportunities to navigate your career effectively.