Health educators impart wellness information in a variety of settings

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August 27, 2009

Health educators impart wellness information in a variety of settings

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Pay: The 1,010 health educators in the Seattle-Bellevue-Tacoma area earned a median wage of $52,450 in 2007, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,700 and $64,590.

The job: Health educators work to encourage wellness through teaching people and communities about behaviors that promote healthful living and prevent disease. Five out of 10 work in health care and social assistance, and two in 10 work in state and local government.

Within medical facilities, health educators tend to work one on one with patients and their families. Often, health educators work closely with physicians, nurses and other staff to create educational programs or materials, such as brochures, Web sites and classes.

Demand: Employment is expected to grow by 26 percent, much faster than average.

Training: A bachelor's degree in health education is generally required; some employers also want to see experience gained through an internship or volunteer work. A master's degree may be required for some jobs, especially in public health. Some employers may require candidates to be certified health education specialists, a credential awarded by examination.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

This article was originally published in March 2009.