How to become an epidemiologist

The COVID19 pandemic pushed a set of medical professionals, who most of us previously knew nothing about, into the spotlight. Suddenly, epidemiologists were all over the media, explaining how diseases originate, spread, and mutate.

The reason epidemiologists are vital in tackling pandemics is their training in understanding and identifying disease patterns. Utilizing surveys, experiments, risk assessment procedures, statistical analysis, and probability theory, epidemiologists can discover essential elements that influence the spread of an illness.

What is an epidemiologist?

An epidemiologist studies the prevention, distribution, and control of diseases. Unlike medical doctors, epidemiologists do not have to complete medical school, as they do not treat patients. Instead, they study populations at large – both human, microbial, and viral.

Is epidemiology a good career?

Epidemiology is among the most exciting and rewarding positions in the public health sector. Sometimes considered as being disease detectives, a career in epidemiology can appeal to people who are curious about science, want to contribute to society, and enjoy problem-solving.

The median salary of an epidemiologist is $74,560, and this goes up to $99,020 for epidemiologists working in scientific research and development services. The job outlook for epidemiologists is excellent. COVID19 has played a critical role in the projected 30% job growth over the next decade.

» Read: Alternative careers for healthcare professionals

Read on to discover the various jobs in the epidemiology sector, the skills needed to get them, and the steps required to become an epidemiologist.

Types of careers in epidemiology

Within epidemiology there are many different career paths. Below are some of the main types of epidemiologists.

As with similar healthcare professions, there are no shortcuts to becoming an epidemiologist. It typically takes 7 years to earn the required bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

A second possible route involves enrolling in medical school and earning a doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) degree – with a specialization in epidemiology. Usually this means at least 9 years of studying. Although most epidemiologists do not have an M.D., this qualification is relevant for some specialized career paths, such as becoming a medical epidemiologist.

Step 1 – Study relevant subjects in high school

If you want to become an epidemiologist, it can be beneficial to focus on biology, chemistry, and math in high school. You can also start exploring ways to gain hands-on experience, such as enrolling in public health volunteering activities or shadowing a professional in the field. Participating in such activities not only provides a better understanding of the role and demonstrates to future schools and employers that you are serious about entering the profession.

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Step 2 – Get an undergraduate degree

The next step is to complete a 4-year bachelor’s program. There are no specific epidemiology undergraduate degrees, but it is important to enroll in a program directly related to your career plans. Typically, this means a science-based degree.

Below are some of the degrees that candidates planning to become an epidemiologist tend to choose:

• health science and public health
• nursing
• biostatistics
• chemistry
• biology
• environmental studies
• physics
• mathematics

Step 3 – Get a master’s degree

To become an epidemiologist, it is mandatory to earn a master’s degree. Most students choose to study a master’s in public health, with a concentration in epidemiology. Others choose a closely related field. These 2-year programs usually include research techniques, biostatistics, social and behavioral sciences, environment health, and generic health policies.

Courses in a master’s of public health curriculum that can be useful for an aspiring epidemiologist include:

• health sciences
• disease prevention
• social work
• healthcare administration
• healthy nutrition
• nursing
• health statistics

Students can gain first-hand experience of the epidemiology field through relevant internships, including governmental agencies such as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the National Health Institute. Local clinics and hospitals or other community-based agencies also offer internship opportunities for those who want to analyze public health data. Upon completion of a master’s degree in public health or related field, graduates are eligible for entry-level epidemiology positions.

Step 4 – Get certified (optional)

Unlike other healthcare careers, no certification is required for epidemiology. However, you can choose to get certification in public health – CPH. The 4-hour multiple-choice exam is managed and overseen by the National Board of Public Health Examiners. Although this certification is not mandatory, some employers welcome it as proof that you have core competencies in the public health field.

Another certification you can obtain is the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology certificate. This testifies that you’re committed to preventing infections, improving prevention, and contributing to global patient and healthcare safety.

Step 5 – Continue your education (optional)

For those who want to continue their education, a doctoral degree in epidemiology is the logical next step. A Ph.D. in epidemiology typically takes 4 to 5 years, and requires students to write a final dissertation.

» Read: Get paid to get your Ph.D.

Earning a doctorate opens the door to many exciting careers in the field. Typically graduates go on to work for the government, nonprofits, universities, or pharmaceutical companies. The roles available to Ph.D. graduates include:

How to pay for your education

Another challenge on the journey to becoming an epidemiologist is paying for your education. The fees vary, depending on the college and program you choose. Fortunately, there are different financial support options available.

The most frequent form of assistance is federal student aid. The FAFSA form can be submitted online from October to June. Candidates need to prove their need for financial assistance and choose an eligible program to access a federal loan. Alternatively students can apply for a scholarship, grant, or fellowship to raise the necessary finances.

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Numerous associations and institutes, including the Center for Disease Control (CDC), offer financial aid for public health students, depending on economic need, place of residence, and academic results. Students can also access grants that help them to participate in research abroad, often in areas or countries where dangerous and neglected diseases may cause severe epidemics – the New Aid Foundation financial support is just 1 example.

Final thoughts

Upon completion of their master’s degree, graduates can start working as an epidemiologist. Most entry-level roles are in local hospitals or clinics, research labs, or governmental or nonprofit organizations.

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During your first years as an epidemiologist, shadowing experienced professionals, researchers, and field workers is recommended. This way, you can increase your knowledge of different diseases, public health policies, medications, and vaccine options.