EPIDEMIOLOGIST

WHAT IS AN EPIDEMIOLOGIST?

Epidemiologists are scientists who study the prevalence, incidence, and distribution of disease in a population and seek ways to prevent or control that disease.  For example, an epidemiologist may conduct research on the risk factors of stroke, heart disease, arthritis, or AIDS.  Epidemiologists provide the scientific data to help governments, health agencies, and the general public deal with epidemics and serious health issues.

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN SCHOOL?

Epidemiologists who work in public health must have a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited postsecondary institution. Course work will include biostatistics, biology, demography, research design, operations research, and core public health courses.

Epidemiologists may specialize in the study of infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and vaccine-preventable conditions.  They may also specialize in chronic illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and diseases related to specific environments or occupations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Epidemiologists may work for universities, research organizations, federal, state, and local health departments, major health organizations, and large medical corporations. Most epidemiologists work full time and have a routine schedule. In 2010, the median annual wage for an epidemiologist was $63, 010 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK/ADVANCEMENT

With the emergence of new diseases and the re-emergence of tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, the job trends indicate that epidemiologists will be in demand for the next century. Employment is expected to increase 24% from 2010 to 2020.

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:

American Public Health Association
800 I street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 777-2742
www.apha.org