Should I be an epidemiologist?

An epidemiologist plays a very important role in society.

• They research the causes and consequences of illness and disease

• They collect and analyze their findings

• They present their findings to the public, health practitioners, and local and federal governments

• They also help prevent these diseases from spreading and threatening societal health

Ultimately, their work shapes the health policies we live with today.

Although you can come from any area, a Bachelor's degree in health or natural science is preferred. Additionally, you would need to obtain a Masters's degree in Epidemiology or a related field.

Students enrolled in a graduate program work closely with professors who are genuinely dedicated to the study of diseases.

You could be working on writing grants to attain funding for your research one day, and the next day, chatting with international public health officials about next steps for preventing a disease outbreak!

Where would an epidemiologist find work?

• government agencies whether federal or even for a small city

• private research facilities

• pharmaceutical companies

• hospital systems

• universities

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

On a given day, an epidemiologist:

Works in a clean, well-lit location like a laboratory or office

Traves to a location to research and monitor the outbreak of a disease

Analyzes data related to a current outbreak

Educates the public, patients, doctors, and policymakers about diseases and infections

The average epidemiologist salary in the United States is $98,708  

An epidemiologist in Canada typically earns around $88,000

If you enjoy using math, science, and the notion of unraveling the unknown facts of a disease, this might be for you!

To excel in this career you need to:

• think creatively and critically

• communicate ideas in reports and papers

• use math and statistics to analyze data

• research and be curious about tdiseases

• work on a team

This may not be the right career if you:

• prefer a consistent schedule that does not change

• are not interested in working with data and numbers

• do not enjoy using new software and technology

Let's look at these two prospective Epidemiology students:

Thomas

• has a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

• is the president of the student body

• has experience working with high school students that compete in science competitions

Jaya

• enjoys working with the public

• has a Bachelor's in Communications

• excelled in math classes

• has volunteered with a local charity group

If you feel this is the career for you, take a moment to write down any questions you have and then follow these suggestions: