A medical career provides good pay, many avenues of opportunity, and high job security. Whether you’re a new graduate or still narrowing down career choices, healthcare is a smart choice. There are a number of different specialties to focus on. Here are five you may find particularly rewarding.

1. Obstetrics

This is the field concerned with pregnancy, childbirth, and neonatal care. Everyone loves babies, and obstetrics gives you the chance to be part of the miracle of birth day in and day out. In combination with gynecology (OB/GYN), you may also help treat important female issues such as menopause or ovarian cancer, or help couples that are having difficulty conceiving to start a family.

2. Cardiology

Cardiologists specialize in studying, diagnosing, and treating potential heart problems. This can involve risks such as high blood pressure, vein health, and high cholesterol. You might touch upon everything from nutrition to surgery. Heart disease is consistently one of the leading causes of death around the world. As a cardiology specialist, you have the potential of saving hundreds of lives over the course of your career.

3. Genetics

Genetics is one of the hot topics in modern medicine. By identifying genetic traits, you can help determine the likelihood of patients contracting a specific illness and recommend the treatments and medicines that are safest and most effective for each patient. You will need a good background in related disciplines like biochemistry and mathematics. But there is great potential here, such as stopping dangerous viruses or curing cancer.

4. Neurology

In this branch of medicine, you work with the complex human brain and nervous systems. Neurologists specialize in the treatment of disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, or dementia. You might also help patients with chronic pain, spinal injuries, or paralysis. Neurologists must have an extensive knowledge of human anatomy and nerve function, particularly the brain and spine.

5. Gerontology

In this field, you’ll specialize in treating the problems associated with aging. Joint problems like arthritis, lower bone density, lowered immune systems, and reduced stamina are associated with old age. By 2030, there are expected to be over 74 million senior citizens in the US. Qualified professionals, such as those with a graduate certificate in gerontology, look for ways to treat these problems and improve the quality of life for the elderly. You could also work as a consultant to retirement facilities or senior programs.

As you gain expertise and credentials, you always have the potential for shifting your career interests from patient care to research, teaching, or administrative duties. It’s important to set career goals and identify the qualifications you need to get there.

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer and blogger for business, home, and family niches. Dixie lives in Phoenix, Arizona, and is the proud mother of three beautiful girls and wife to a wonderful husband.