Epidemiology is the method used to find causes of health outcomes and diseases in populations. When disease outbreaks, like Covid-19, or other threats emerge, epidemiologists are on the scene to investigate. Epidemiologists are often referred to as “Disease Detectives,” because they work to identify what is the cause, who is at risk, and determine how to stop the spread. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, they seek to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes through research, community education, and health policy.
Where do they work?
Epidemiologists typically work in public health or research. They can work in state and local government addressing public health problems, or for federal agencies like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the National Institute of Health (NIH). Epidemiologists who work in the private setting might do research for health insurance companies or insurance companies.
Epidemiologists might specialize in certain public health fields, including:
- Infectious disease
- Chronic disease
- Environmental health
- Substance abuse
- Mental Health
How to Become an Epidemiologist
A Master’s degree is typically required for this career field. Most epidemiologists have a Masters in Public Health (MPH) or some related degree like a Masters in Biomedical Anthropology, but epidemiologists can have a masters degree in a variety of fields. Those who focus more heavily on research may have a Ph.D. or medical degree. In addition to technical training in the sciences, statistics and analysis, epidemiologists should have strong communication skills, critical thinking skills, and be detail-oriented.
Interested in learning more? Check out the Occupational Outlook Handbook and this article from U.S. News. Consider talking to people working in the public health field. Join Mentor Match and connect with alumni in this field, including,
- Heather Colley, Program Director at the NIH
- Michelle Tropper, Director of Clinical Programs at HealthEfficient
- Katelyn Maguire, Director of Infection Prevention at Marshfield Clinic Health System
