Radiology Technician
Radiology technicians, or radiographers, use X-ray and ultrasound machines, magnetic resonance and positron emission scanners, and other equipment to help diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries under the direction of a physician. They explain and prepare patients for radiological tests and treatment.
Average Annual Salary
U.S. average: $49,320
Michigan average: $45,850
Educational Requirements
To become a registered radiology technician, students must complete a two-year training program in a hospital or school. Many states, not including Michigan, require a state-administered license to practice.

Dental Hygienist
The dental hygienist is a professional licensed to provide direct care to patients, including oral prophylaxis (cleaning), taking X-rays, assessing the condition of the periodontium (gums) and providing periodontal therapy. They also act as dental health educators.
Average Annual Salary
U.S. average: $62,430 / Michigan average: $58,210
Educational Requirements
Dental hygiene education can be obtained in a two-year certificate or associate degree program or in a four-year bachelor's degree program. All states require a license to practice dental hygiene, obtained by successfully completing both a clinical and written exam, the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, or a comparable state exam.

Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists treat breathing and heart-lung conditions by administering oxygen, oxygen mixtures, aerosol medications and chest physiotherapy. They often provide emergency treatment for patients with heart failure, stroke, drowning or shock.
Average Annual Salary
U.S. average: $48,610 / Michigan average: $47,620
Educational Requirements
To become a registered respiratory therapist, students must graduate from an approved two year, college-level program at a community college or a vocational school and pass national written and clinical examinations.

Physician Assistant
Physician assistants work under the supervision of physicians to perform physical examinations, provide routine tests, and treat illness and injury. They prescribe medications, provide patient and family education, and provide appropriate referral to other health care team members.
Average Annual Salary
U.S. average: $74,270 / Michigan average: $74,930
Educational Requirements
Acceptance to an academic physician assistant program requires at least two years of collegiate-level study and the completion of specific prerequisite courses. Physician assistant programs vary in length and type of degree, but all include extensive supervised clinical training.

Registered Nurse
Registered nurses (RNs) supervise and plan the care of ill patients, oversee care given by practical nurses and nurses' aides, ensure that physicians' orders are followed, and may give injections and administer fluids. RNs often specialize in fields such as post-surgery care or pediatrics.
Average Annual Salary
U.S. average: $59,730 (Note: advanced practice nurses usually receive salaries in the high range of nurse salaries, with some earning more than $83,440 in 2006.)
Michigan average: $59,700
Educational Requirements
Some colleges offer two-year nursing programs leading to a diploma or associate degree and are combined with clinical practice in hospitals. Bachelor's degrees are required for nearly all nursing management positions and a master's degree is required to teach.

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