Is a Medical Specialties Degree Online Right for You?

There are a flurry of very specific occupations in the field of health and medicine. For those who wish to earn an online degree in medical specialties, a desire to tackle the more natural side of medicine is the main goal. Often referred to as holistic medicine, medical specialties professionals rely on massage therapy, chiropractics, acupuncture, reflexology, and herbal remedies to achieve a healthy and natural balance among their patients.

There are many individuals who worry about the effects chemicals and newer medications have on the body. Instead of opting for new age pills and treatments that don't occur naturally in the world, they choose to rely on substances that can be found through more traditional methods. That's where learners of medical specialties come into play. These professionals learn about the natural benefits of herbs and plants as well as physical procedures like massages and acupuncture to treat patients suffering from a variety of different illnesses. Ultimately, medical specialties explore the most natural way to improve the lives of patients.

A glimpse into the realm of medical specialties

Professionals in medical specialties have an opportunity to learn about a variety of topics related to the broad realm of health and internal balance. For example, individuals seeking a career in chiropractics may benefit from learning about the neuromusculoskeletal system. After taking courses that familiarize them with the nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons that compose the human body, they may be equipped to pursue a state license to practice.

On the other hand, people who wish to learn about alternative medicines may pour their efforts into learning about holistic treatments that are effective natural remedies and the history of use of such substances over a period of time or within certain cultures. Moreover, online classes may teach individuals about the particular chemicals and compounds that make natural ingredients effective in combating illnesses.

Possible salaries for a career in medical specialties

Your salary as a medical specialties professional is largely decided by your specific job title, your level of education, your experience in the industry and your skill. Consider the following careers, with statistics compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

  • Chiropractors: 2012 Median annual salary of $66,160 (15 percent projected growth through 2022)[i]
  • Dieticians and nutritionists: 2012 Median annual salary of $55,240 (21 percent projected growth through 2022)[ii]
  • Health educators: 2012 Median annual salary of $41,830 (21 percent projected growth through 2022)[iii]

Additional skills required for a career in medical specialties

While other medical fields focus on treating specific symptoms, medical specialties rely on improving the internal balance of the body. The field is considered spiritual by some, and weaving that element of the practice into the learning experience can often benefit potential clients looking for such institutions later one. Some medical specialties careers seek to understand the mind, body and spirit to improve health outcomes, so learning about all these facets is important.


[i] bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/chiropractors.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dietitians-and-nutritionists.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm