It's possible to begin many medical jobs within one to two years. For example, the education for an LPN, medical assistant or phlebotomy technician can take as little as one year. Other positions that require an associate degree, like the position of a respiratory therapist, can take up to two years to complete. Regardless if you earn a professional certification or an associate degree for your desired position, you can still enter the workforce much more quickly than if you were to pursue a medical job that requires a bachelor's degree or a graduate degree.