Fast-Track Careers in Healthcare
Not everyone has the time or resources to pursue a four-year degree before starting a career. The good news is that many in-demand healthcare careers can be launched in less than two years—with the right training and certifications. At Hawaiʻi Medical College, programs are designed to prepare students quickly for rewarding roles in Hawaiʻi’s healthcare system.
Here’s a look at the top careers you can enter in under 24 months.
Medical Assisting
Training time: 9–15 months
Medical assistants are the backbone of clinics and physician offices. They handle both administrative and clinical tasks—everything from taking vital signs to updating patient records. Because they bridge the gap between patients and providers, medical assistants are in constant demand.
With certification, you can step into this role in under two years and enjoy a variety of work settings, from hospitals to private practices.
Pharmacy Technician
Training time: 9–12 months
Pharmacy technicians assist licensed pharmacists in filling prescriptions, managing inventory, and educating patients. With Hawaiʻi’s aging population and growing reliance on medications, pharmacy techs play a vital role in the state’s healthcare delivery.
A short training program plus certification opens doors to jobs in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and specialty care facilities.
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Training time: 9–15 months
Behind every medical procedure is a bill and a code. Billing and coding specialists ensure accuracy in insurance claims, patient billing, and compliance with regulations. This role is ideal for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy office-based work.
Because billing and coding can often be done remotely, it also offers flexibility for students balancing family and career goals.
Medical Office Administration
Training time: 9–15 months
Every clinic and hospital relies on skilled administrators to keep operations running smoothly. From scheduling appointments to managing patient files, medical office administrators provide essential support.
Graduates often step directly into jobs as office managers, medical secretaries, or patient service coordinators—all within two years or less.
Why Short-Term Healthcare Training Works
Shorter training doesn’t mean fewer opportunities. In fact, programs under two years are:
- Focused: Only the skills you need to succeed in your role.
- Efficient: No long prerequisites or unrelated courses.
- Affordable: Faster training means lower tuition costs.
- Job-Ready: Employers are eager to hire certified professionals who can contribute right away.
Start Your Career with Hawaiʻi Medical College
If you’re wondering what healthcare careers you can start in under two years, the answer is clear: medical assisting, pharmacy tech, billing and coding, and medical office administration are all within reach.
At Hawaiʻi Medical College, we provide hands-on training, certification prep, and job placement support so students can quickly transition into meaningful healthcare careers across the islands.
