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Career Maps

Pursuing a career in the health, life sciences and biotechnology sector provides many opportunities. The Blue Ridge Partnership for Health Science Careers (BRPHSC) approaches education and career advancement as a highway – with on and off ramps – rather than a linear path start to finish. The following career maps were created to help people look beyond a single job and visualize an entire career through a variety of paths. These career pathways also assist with seeing job progression and advancement, while showcasing how different roles are connected in the industry. Workforce needs in health, life sciences and biotechnology continue to grow and offer exciting and rewarding careers in many disciplines. The careers highlighted below were identified as the most critically needed job clusters in our region.

The careers highlighted below were identified as our region’s most critically needed job clusters. Information contained on the career maps is intended to be used as a guide. For the most up-to-date information regarding education requirements and program availability, please contact your guidance counselor, career advisor, or institution for assistance.

*We are continuing to develop career pathway maps for additional job clusters. More are currently in development, so be sure to check back soon for the latest updates and additional pathway information.

Job roles featured on this map include:

  • Certified Dental Assistant
  • Dental Assistant I
  • Certified Orthodontic Assistant
  • Dental Assistant II

Job roles featured on this map include:

  • Ophthalmic Assistant
  • Optical Technician
  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
  • Scrub Tech (Surgery Center)
  • Contact Lens Tech
  • Certified Ophthalmic Technician
  • Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist
  • Optician
  • Registered Nurse (Surgery Center)
  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (Surgery Cente)
  • Orthoptist
  • Optometrist
  • Ophthalmologist

Job roles featured on this map include:

  • Radiology Technologist
  • CT Technologist
  • MRI Technologist
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
  • Sleep Technician
  • Registered Sonographer – Ultrasound
  • Registered Sonographer – Vascular
  • Registered Sonographer – Echo
  • Registered Polysomnographic Technologist

Job roles featured on these maps include:

  • Psychiatry Technician
  • Administrative Coordinator
  • Healthcare Administrative Assistant
  • Peer Recovery Specialist
  • Clinical Transporter
  • Patient Advocate
  • Discharge Planner
  • Nurse (LPN, RN, BSN)
  • Qualified Mental Health Professional
  • Case Manager
  • Intake Coordinator
  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Nure Practitioner
  • Professional Counselor
  • Nursing Senior Director
  • Physician Assistant
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • Psychiatrist
  • Psychologist
  • Medical Doctor

Job roles featured on this map include:

  • Certified EMT
  • First Responder
  • Police Officer
  • Firefighter
  • Rescue Squad
  • Critical Care Paramedic
  • Paramedic
  • Flight Paramedic

Job roles featured on this map include:

  • Physical Therapist Assistant
  • Occupational Therapist Assistant
  • Rehabilitation Aide
  • Physical Therapist
  • Occupational Therapist

Jumpstart your career in Health Science.