The healthcare field is rapidly growing in America, driven by high demand, rising wages, and new technologies. These factors attract both new graduates and career changers to health programs. If you’re exploring graduate education options in health, this article breaks down the test requirements and GRE scores that top healthcare programs in the U.S. are looking for. If you are ready to begin your GRE journey, consider a Magoosh Premium Plan today!
When you take the GRE, you choose your intended field of study for graduate school. This selection generates data showing average GRE scores by intended major, reflecting the scores of those planning to enter specific fields. Keep in mind, these scores represent test-takers, not those accepted into programs. However, this information can help you establish a baseline score goal for the exam.
All program information below was updated in Summer 2024. Rankings are based on the U.S. News and World Report Graduate Rankings . This data is meant to kickstart your school search and provide ballpark GRE score estimates. Be sure to double-check all requirements for each school early in your application process. Note that schools listing “Not Required” rather than “Does Not Accept” for the GRE may still review scores if submitted. Contact the program directly to clarify how they consider the test.
Are you interested in helping people in their hearing journeys? A doctorate in Audiology prepares you to study, assess, and treat hearing disorders in children and adults. This work includes prevention, diagnosis, and habilitation/rehabilitation of hearing disorders. Here are some of the top Audiology programs and their GRE requirements!
Clinical Psychology is a psychology specialty that focuses on providing comprehensive mental and behavioral healthcare. Clinical psychologists work with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, families, and communities, to address a wide range of psychological issues. Given the growing demand for mental health services, clinical psychologists find employment opportunities in various settings across the country, including hospitals, private practices, schools, and community health centers.
Master’s programs in Healthcare Management or Health Administration are designed to train students in managing healthcare businesses. Unlike MBAs, these degrees focus exclusively on the business aspects of healthcare, ensuring that every course emphasizes the unique challenges and dynamics of the healthcare system. These programs are perfect for those who want to blend their interest in health with business acumen. Similar to MBA programs, you can often find them in full-time, part-time, and executive formats, making them flexible for various career stages.
Nurse anesthetists, or CRNAs, play a critical role in providing high-quality, independent anesthesia care across various healthcare settings. They are essential to the American healthcare system and are in high demand nationwide. As a result, nurse anesthesia is one of the fastest-growing job sectors. This career path is perfect for those who want to work autonomously in challenging medical environments, making significant contributions to patient care. If you thrive in high-stakes situations and seek a rewarding, independent role in healthcare, becoming a CRNA could be an ideal choice.
MSN and DNP programs in Midwifery are tailored for students who want to provide primary health care to individuals during pregnancy. These programs equip nurses for certification and train them to care for both individuals and newborns. Midwifery is a highly sought-after specialty in nursing, offering opportunities to work in a wide range of settings. If you’re passionate about supporting people through pregnancy and birth, these programs prepare you to make a meaningful impact in diverse healthcare environments.
Occupational Therapy programs train students to help individuals achieve independence in their daily activities. These programs prepare therapists to assess, design, and implement personalized therapeutic interventions. With the rising demand for holistic, patient-centered care, graduates find opportunities in hospitals, schools, and health centers. This career path is ideal for those passionate about improving the quality of life for individuals facing physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Occupational Therapy offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact in various healthcare settings.
Pharmacy programs train students to dispense medications and offer expert drug-related advice. These programs prepare pharmacists to ensure the safe and effective use of medications. As the demand for healthcare services grows, graduates find opportunities in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and clinics. This career path is perfect for those interested in science and patient care, offering a crucial role in the healthcare system where you can make a significant impact on patient well-being.
Physical Therapy programs teach students to enhance mobility and alleviate pain in patients. These courses equip therapists with skills to create and execute personalized treatment plans. As the need for rehabilitation services rises, graduates secure positions in hospitals, clinics, and sports facilities. This profession appeals to those dedicated to aiding others in recovery and maintaining physical health. It significantly contributes to improving quality of life.
Physician Assistant programs educate students to deliver medical care under a physician’s guidance. These programs train PAs to diagnose conditions, formulate treatment plans, and perform medical procedures. With rising healthcare needs, PAs work in hospitals, clinics, and diverse medical environments. This career path attracts those passionate about patient care and medical practice. PAs are essential in enhancing healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.
Master’s of Public Health (MPH) programs prepare students to tackle public health issues and enhance community well-being. These programs train you to develop, implement, and evaluate public health initiatives. As public health challenges grow, graduates find opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations. This career path appeals to those dedicated to improving population health and preventing disease. Public health professionals play a pivotal role in shaping healthier communities. Keep in mind that dual degree programs, like MPH/MBA, may have different test requirements, and subspecialties like Biostatistics may require the GRE.
Rehabilitation Counseling programs train students to help individuals with disabilities achieve personal, career, and independent living goals. These programs equip counselors with the skills to assess needs, develop personalized plans, and provide therapeutic interventions. As awareness of disability rights grows, graduates find opportunities in schools, rehabilitation centers, and community agencies. This career path is ideal for those passionate about empowering others and promoting inclusivity. Rehabilitation counselors play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome barriers and improve their quality of life.
Master’s of Social Work (MSW) programs equip students to tackle social issues and support vulnerable populations. These programs provide training in assessment, counseling, and advocacy for social change. As social challenges increase, graduates find opportunities in schools, hospitals, government agencies, and community organizations. This career path is ideal for those passionate about improving individual and community well-being. Social workers play a crucial role in making a positive impact on society by addressing the needs of the most vulnerable and advocating for systemic change.
Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology programs train students to assess and treat communication disorders. These programs prepare individuals to diagnose speech, language, and swallowing disorders while developing effective treatment plans. Speech-language pathologists play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with communication challenges, helping them overcome obstacles to better express themselves and interact with others. If you’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives through communication, this career path offers both fulfillment and impact.
Veterinary Medicine programs train students to care for animals and address their health issues. These programs equip individuals to diagnose illnesses, perform surgeries, and create treatment plans for a variety of animals. Graduates find opportunities in diverse settings, including small animal practices, zoos, wildlife centers, and rural environments. This career path is perfect if you want the chance to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of animals.
As you’ve seen, healthcare programs have a wide diversity of GRE requirements. This is across fields and within fields across schools. You should use this blog post as a jumping off point for your own research into the best fit programs for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to programs if you have questions about your application or their requirements. Ready to begin your test prep journey? Consider a Magoosh study plan – they’ve been successful for many thousands of students over the years. Eager to get even more support, customized GRE practice, real ETS questions, and detailed answer explanations to all questions? A Magoosh Premium Plan will help you meet, and crush, your score goals!
Jen has a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and is a PhD candidate in U.S. History at Emory University. She’s worked in education, test prep, and admissions for over 12 years and has helped thousands of students in that time.