Health Education Specialists are professionals who develop programs and materials to promote wellness and healthy behaviors. They work to educate communities and individuals about health practices and to prevent illness and improve overall well-being.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 7.2% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 7,900
Direct AI exposure: 26% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 74% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $64K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $43K per year | $51K per year | $64K per year | $87K per year | $118K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $13K above the national average. | ||||
Health Education Specialists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, public health departments, non-profits, schools, and businesses. They may also work for government agencies or as consultants. Their roles often involve direct interaction with the public, as well as planning and administrative tasks.
Health Education Specialists play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease. They analyze the health needs of the communities or groups they serve and develop programs and interventions tailored to these needs. Their work involves not only educating the public about health issues but also advocating for healthier lifestyles and changes in policies that can improve community health. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as Health Education Specialists must effectively convey health information and motivate diverse audiences. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals and community leaders to develop and implement effective health education strategies. This career offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health. Health Education Specialists must be creative and adaptable, able to design programs that engage various populations and address a wide range of health issues.
A bachelor's degree in health education, public health, or a related field is typically required, equating to about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions, especially those in higher education or leadership, may require a master's degree.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.