Medical Certifications You Can Get as a High Schooler: Jump-Start Your Healthcare Career
Are you a high school student passionate about healthcare and eager to get a head start on your medical career? The good news is that you don’t have to wait until college to begin building valuable credentials. There are several medical certifications that you can get as a high schooler that will not only boost your college applications but also prepare you for future healthcare roles.
Why Pursue Medical Certifications in High School?
Getting certified in medical skills while still in high school offers numerous advantages. These certifications demonstrate your commitment to the healthcare field, provide hands-on experience, and can even lead to part-time job opportunities. Plus, they give you a competitive edge when applying to pre-med programs and nursing schools.
Top Medical Certifications for High School Students
1. CPR and First Aid Certification
One of the most accessible and valuable certifications for high schoolers is CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid. Organizations like the American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer courses specifically designed for teenagers. These certifications teach life-saving skills that are useful in any setting, from babysitting to volunteer work at community events.
Time commitment: Typically 4-8 hours Cost: Usually $50-$100 Prerequisites: None
2. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Many states allow students aged 16 or 17 to pursue CNA certification. As a CNA, you’ll learn basic patient care skills including taking vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, and maintaining patient comfort. This certification opens doors to paid positions in nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies.
Time commitment: 75-150 hours of training Cost: $500-$1,500 Prerequisites: Varies by state; usually requires being at least 16 years old and having a high school diploma or being enrolled in high school
3. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Basic
Some high schools offer EMT-Basic courses, or you can enroll through community colleges and training centers. While requirements vary by state, many allow students 16 and older to become certified EMTs. This certification provides comprehensive training in emergency medical care and can lead to volunteer or paid positions with ambulance services.
Time commitment: 120-150 hours Cost: $1,000-$2,000 Prerequisites: Usually 16-18 years old (varies by state), high school diploma or GED
4. Medical Assistant Certification
While less common for high schoolers, some vocational programs offer medical assistant training to qualified students. Medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings, making this a versatile certification.
Time commitment: Several months to a year Cost: Varies widely Prerequisites: May require being 18 or completion of certain coursework
5. Pharmacy Technician Certification
Certain states and programs allow high school students to train as pharmacy technicians. This certification teaches you about medication management, prescription processing, and pharmaceutical terminology.
Time commitment: Several months
Cost: $1000-$3500
Prerequisites: Usually 16-18 years old (varies by state). We have grants available for many of these programs. Contact us to learn more.
How to Choose the Right Medical Certification
When selecting which medical certifications to pursue as a high schooler, consider these factors:
- Your career goals: If you’re interested in nursing, a CNA certification makes sense. If emergency medicine excites you, pursue EMT training.
- Time availability: Some certifications require significant time commitments that may conflict with school schedules.
- State requirements: Certification requirements and age restrictions vary by state, so research what’s available in your area.
- Cost: Determine what you or your family can afford, and look for scholarships or school-sponsored programs.
- Job opportunities: Consider which certifications will help you gain employment or volunteer experience.
Where to Find Training Programs
High school students can find medical certification programs through:
- Local community colleges
- Technical and vocational schools
- Hospital education departments
- American Red Cross chapters
- High school career and technical education (CTE) programs
- Online certification courses (for certain credentials)
Benefits Beyond the Certification
Earning medical certifications as a high schooler provides benefits that extend far beyond the credential itself. You’ll develop professionalism, learn to work in team environments, gain patient interaction experience, and build a network of healthcare professionals who can serve as mentors and provide recommendation letters for college applications.
Getting Started
If you’re ready to pursue medical certifications as a high schooler, start by talking to your school guidance counselor about available programs. Many schools have partnerships with local healthcare facilities and training centers. Additionally, reach out to hospitals and clinics in your area to ask about youth training opportunities.
Remember, the healthcare field values hands-on experience and demonstrated commitment. By earning medical certifications while still in high school, you’re showing initiative and building a strong foundation for your future healthcare career. Whether you dream of becoming a doctor, nurse, paramedic, or any other medical professional, these early certifications will give you invaluable experience and a significant advantage as you pursue your goals.
