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Epidemiologist

Epidemiology is the study and analysis of the distribution, patterns, and determinants of health-related states or events (including disease), and the application of this study to the control of diseases and other health problems.1 Epidemiologists use their skills to investigate outbreaks of disease, evaluate the effectiveness of public health programs, and develop strategies to prevent and control diseases.1,2 They may also work to improve the health of populations by identifying and addressing the root causes of disease, injury, and disability.

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Epidemiology is the study and analysis of the distribution, patterns, and determinants of health-related states or events (including disease), and the application of this study to the control of diseases and other health problems.1 Epidemiologists use their skills to investigate outbreaks of disease, evaluate the effectiveness of public health programs, and develop strategies to prevent and control diseases.1,2 They may also work to improve the health of populations by identifying and addressing the root causes of disease, injury, and disability.

Education and Training

Most epidemiologists have a master's or doctorate degree in epidemiology, public health, or a related field.2,3 Some epidemiologists also have a medical degree.2 Epidemiologists who work in research may need a doctorate degree.2,3

To become an epidemiologist, you will need to complete a program of study accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).2 CEPH-accredited programs are available at colleges and universities throughout the United States and abroad.

Skills and Experience

Epidemiologists need a combination of quantitative and qualitative skills, including:

  • Analytical skills
  • Computer skills
  • Communication skills
  • Data analysis skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Research skills
  • Statistical skills
  • Writing skills

Epidemiologists also need to be familiar with public health principles and practices, as well as have a strong understanding of disease processes.

Work Environment

Epidemiologists work in a variety of settings, including:

  • Academic institutions
  • Government agencies
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Private industry

Epidemiologists may work in offices, laboratories, or in the field. They may travel to investigate outbreaks of disease or to collect data for research studies.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for epidemiologists is expected to be good over the next decade.3 This is due to the increasing demand for epidemiologists to investigate and control diseases, as well as to develop and implement public health programs.

Advancement Opportunities

Epidemiologists can advance to leadership positions in public health agencies or research institutions. They may also become involved in policy development or teaching.

Personal Growth Opportunities

Epidemiology is a field that is constantly evolving. Epidemiologists have the opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge throughout their careers. They may also participate in research and development projects that can lead to new discoveries and advances in public health.

Personality Traits and Personal Interests

Epidemiologists are typically analytical, detail-oriented, and have a strong interest in public health.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career in epidemiology. These projects may include:

  • Conducting a community health assessment
  • Developing a public health education campaign
  • Investigating an outbreak of disease
  • Writing a scientific paper on a public health topic

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about epidemiology and to develop the skills needed for a career in this field. Online courses can provide students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can also provide students with access to experts in the field of epidemiology.

Some of the skills and knowledge that students can gain from online courses in epidemiology include:

  • Basic principles of epidemiology
  • Data analysis techniques
  • Disease investigation methods
  • Public health program evaluation
  • Statistical methods

Online courses can be a helpful learning tool for students who are interested in pursuing a career in epidemiology. However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to prepare students for a career in this field. Students who complete online courses should also consider pursuing a degree in epidemiology or a related field.

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Salaries for Epidemiologist

City
Median
New York
$153,000
San Francisco
$138,000
Seattle
$137,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$153,000
San Francisco
$138,000
Seattle
$137,000
Austin
$136,000
Toronto
$127,000
London
£66,000
Paris
€70,000
Berlin
€78,000
Tel Aviv
₪263,000
Singapore
S$111,000
Beijing
¥148,000
Shanghai
¥103,000
Shenzhen
¥143,000
Bengalaru
₹252,000
Delhi
₹680,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to Epidemiologist

Take the first step.
We've curated 24 courses to help you on your path to Epidemiologist. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
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Reading list

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Providing a comprehensive overview of the field, this book covers study designs, data analysis methods, and the application of epidemiology to public health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the methods used to measure disease burden, including mortality, morbidity, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). It valuable resource for researchers and public health professionals working in the field of disease burden estimation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of SARS, including its history, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand this important virus.
Explores the concept of disease burden and how it can be used to measure the health of populations. It valuable resource for researchers and policymakers working in the field of public health.
Focuses on the relationship between nutrition and health, addressing the design, conduct, and analysis of nutritional epidemiological studies.
Focusing on cancer epidemiology, this book covers the etiology, risk factors, and prevention of various types of cancer.
Provides a practical guide to the diagnosis and management of SARS. It is written by a clinician who has extensive experience in the management of this disease and is essential reading for anyone who is involved in the care of patients with SARS.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the methods used to measure the economic burden of disease. It valuable resource for researchers and policymakers working in the field of health economics.
Provides a firsthand account of the SARS outbreak in 2003. It discusses the challenges of containing the outbreak and the lessons that were learned from the experience.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the SARS outbreak in 2003. It discusses the origins of the virus, the spread of the disease, and the global response to the outbreak.
Provides a concise overview of SARS, including the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. It also discusses the public health response to SARS and the lessons that have been learned from the outbreak.
Examines the global impact of SARS, including its economic, social, and political consequences. It is written by the former Director-General of the World Health Organization and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the broader implications of this virus.
Provides a detailed overview of the SARS virus and its interactions with the human host. It is written by a leading virologist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of this virus.
Assesses the burden of air pollution and its impact on health and the environment. It valuable resource for researchers and policymakers working in the field of environmental health.
Assesses the economic, environmental, and social impacts of climate change. It valuable resource for researchers and policymakers working in the field of climate change.
Assesses the burden of disease in emerging economies. It valuable resource for researchers and policymakers working in the field of global health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the SARS outbreak from the perspective of the World Health Organization. It includes detailed information on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS.
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