Many of today's medical and health care professionals are highly visible and interact with dozens of patients every day, while others do much of their hard work behind the scenes or away from view.

Most people know a nurse or two, and you may visit your doctor's office and probably have picked up a prescription at your local pharmacy. But what about the larger health care team you don't interact with? For example, we have clinical laboratory scientists, responsible for performing scientific testing on samples and reporting results to physicians. Or what about the health information administrator that manages, protects and analyzes your health care records? Or respiratory therapists that specialize in breathing concerns such as asthma?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for these health care workers will increase by at least 15 percent by 2029.

Fast Facts:

• KU clinical laboratory science students are usually recruited to their first position while still in the program and report an average starting salary of $62,500.
• Across the entire profession of health information management, the median salary was $110,680 per year in 2023.
• Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13%, with a median annual salary of $77,960, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Not convinced? Join us if you fall under any of these:

• I am thinking about a career in health care, but not sure in what field.
• I want a high probability of getting accepted to a health care program.
• I want the best possible education, but not sure about being in school for more than 4 years.
• I want a career with a good salary, and a variety of different job opportunities.
• I want to help people and would like to do something unique.
• I have an interest in biology, microbiology, and/or working in the lab.
• I have an interest in business, health care, and computer science.
• I have an interest in direct patience care, and therapy, something like nursing.
• I have an interested in a major/bachelor's degree or minors that could supplement my plans of attending medical, physical assistant, genetics, or forensic science graduate programs.

Date: Friday, October 31, 2025

Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm (drop ins, no need to make an appointment) 

Location: Summerfield Hall, room 201

Any questions, contact Alex Lopez at alopez12@kumc.edu.