Epidemiologist

Epidemiology is considered the basic science of public health. Epidemiologists are the first to identify a disease as it occurs in a population, then they track the disease as it moves through that population. Using statistics, demography, and sound research methods, epidemiologists work to develop methods that prevent or control the spread of new diseases.

Work Environment
Epidemiologists work for universities/research organizations; federal, state, and local health departments; major health organizations; and large medical corporations.

Job Outlook
With the emergence of new diseases and the reemergence of tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, job trends indicate that epidemiologists will be in demand into the next century.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Epidemiologists who work in public health must have a master's or doctoral degree. Course work will include an average of 15 hours in the field of epidemiology, as well as statistics, demography, research design, operations research, and core public health courses.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $55,000 - $85,000.

Educational Programs
Master's/Doctoral Degrees
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health
The University of North Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health - Fort Worth