The healthcare industry in the United States is evolving rapidly, creating a surge in demand for skilled professionals across a wide range of specialties. In response, U.S. universities are expanding their offerings to include high-demand healthcare degrees that align with current and future workforce needs. These programs are designed to prepare students for roles that are not only stable but also come with strong earning potential. In 2025, several healthcare degrees stand out as the fastest growing, both in enrollment and job market relevance.
Nursing Degrees Continue to Dominate
Nursing remains the backbone of the U.S. healthcare system, and the need for qualified nurses is only increasing. Programs like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) continue to see high enrollment across the country. Universities are also offering accelerated and hybrid formats to meet demand and accommodate non-traditional students.
Advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists, are filling critical gaps in primary care and specialty services. These roles come with high salaries, autonomy, and job security, making nursing degrees one of the most attractive choices for 2025 and beyond.
Health Informatics Is Surging in Popularity
The rise of digital healthcare has created strong demand for professionals who can manage patient data, systems, and security. Degrees in health informatics and health information management are among the fastest growing in U.S. universities. These programs blend healthcare, IT, and business to produce graduates ready for roles in hospitals, insurance companies, and government health systems.
As more healthcare providers move toward electronic records and AI-driven data tools, informatics professionals are essential to managing information and maintaining compliance with federal regulations. The field offers high-RPM career paths that are both future-proof and flexible.
Public Health Degrees Are Expanding
After the global pandemic, public health became a national priority. As a result, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Public Health (MPH) have experienced significant growth. These degrees prepare students to work in disease prevention, health education, epidemiology, and health policy.
In 2025, universities are tailoring public health programs to include specialized tracks in mental health, global health, and community wellness. Graduates are finding jobs in both government and private sectors, and many positions come with strong salary potential and advancement opportunities.
Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Are In Demand
As the U.S. population ages, there is an increasing need for rehabilitative care. Degrees in occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) are growing rapidly, especially in states with large senior populations. These programs typically require advanced degrees such as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), but job placement rates are high.
Students pursuing these paths benefit from direct patient care experience and the opportunity to work in various settings-from hospitals and outpatient clinics to schools and long-term care facilities. These fields offer excellent work-life balance and are among the most fulfilling in the healthcare space.
Physician Assistant (PA) Programs Are Booming
Physician assistant programs are expanding quickly across U.S. universities due to rising demand in primary care and specialized practices. The PA role is ideal for students looking for a high-paying healthcare career that requires less schooling than becoming a physician.
PAs can diagnose, treat, and prescribe under the supervision of a licensed doctor, and their services are critical in both rural and urban health settings. In 2025, the average salary for PAs remains well above the national average, making this a highly sought-after degree for students entering healthcare.
Mental Health and Behavioral Science Degrees
The rising awareness of mental health issues in the U.S. has led to a significant increase in degrees focused on clinical psychology, counseling, and behavioral health. Universities are launching specialized programs aimed at training mental health professionals to meet the country’s growing needs.
These programs often lead to careers in hospitals, private practice, and telehealth platforms. With demand for therapists and mental health counselors at an all-time high, this area of healthcare education is expanding at a rapid pace.
Conclusion
In 2025, the fastest growing healthcare degrees in U.S. universities reflect the nation’s evolving health priorities. From nursing and health informatics to public health and mental health counseling, students have a wide range of high-value programs to choose from. These degrees not only align with job market trends but also provide meaningful, long-term careers with excellent growth potential. For those seeking stability, strong income, and the chance to make a difference, these healthcare degrees offer an outstanding return on investment.