What Epidemiologists Do
Epidemiologists study health problems to find what is causing them and ways they can be prevented. To do this, they will collect and analyze data through surveys and possibly samples of bodily fluids. With these samples, they will try to detect patterns, and they will figure out how to reduce the risk of these problems happening. Within epidemiology, there are a variety of specialty areas including infectious diseases, chronic diseases, maternal and child health, public health preparedness and emergency response, environmental health, injury, occupational health, oral health, substance abuse, and mental health.
Epidemiologists can work in offices and labs for the government, hospitals, or colleges. For example, they could be employed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which is a federal agency.
How to Become an Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists typically obtain at least a master's degree in a field such as public health, epidemiology, or medicine. According to Public Health Online, schools such as George Washington University, Tufts University, and Purdue University offer a Master of Public Health degree. Many people also go on to study for a PhD in a similar field. During their studies, epidemiology students will take classes in public health, biological sciences, statistics, medical informatics, and more.
As an epidemiologist, it is important to have communication and critical-thinking skills. In addition, being detail oriented is helpful, so that the data is collected and analyzed accurately.
Pay and Job Outlook of Epidemiologists
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average annual salary for epidemiologists was $70,990 in May 2019; however, their wage can range anywhere from $44,000 to $119,290. This range mostly depends on where they are working.
From 2019 to 2029, there is expected to be a 5% increase in the amount of epidemiologists employed in the United States. One reason for this predicted growth is because hospitals are beginning to hire more epidemiologists as they emphasize infection control.
Sources
Information from:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Epidemiologists,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/epidemiologists.htm (visited December 18, 2020).
Epidemiology Degrees. (2020, June 30). Retrieved December 28, 2020, from https://www.publichealthonline.org/epidemiology/degree-programs/
Picture from:
How to Become an Epidemiologist. (2020, May 30). Retrieved December 28, 2020, from https://www.careersinhealthcare.com/epidemiologist/