Epidemiologist
To be a successful Epidemiologist you should…

- have ability and a strong interest in science
- have the ability to follow a problem to conclusion
- have the ability to work with a variety of people
- have the ability to work with governmental regulations
- have the ability to think logically
- have the ability to speak and write effectively
- have the ability to exercise patience, flexibility, and a willingness to work in different locations under a variety of conditions
What will my job be like?
Epidemiologists are scientists who first identify a disease in a population and then track it as it moves through the population. Epidemiologists research the cause and frequency of a disease by using statistics and demographics (i.e., ethnicity, race, and age) to prevent or control the spread of new diseases.
Epidemiologists may specialize in:
- Clinical Health Industry (Clinical Epidemiology)
- Infectious Diseases (e.g., HIV, Tuberculosis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
- Chronic Diseases (e.g., Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes)
- Occupational/Environmental Diseases
- School Health
Where could I work?
- Colleges/Universities
- State and Local Health Departments
- Federal or Government Health Agencies
- Research Institutions
- Large Medical Corporations
What is the average annual salary?
$91,800
What is the future of this career?
Employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Epidemiologists are likely to have good job prospects overall.
What type of education and/or training do I need?
Epidemiologists receive their education through programs at colleges or universities. A 4-year bachelor’s degree can be obtained. A master’s degree or doctoral degree (PhD) is often required.
Where can I get the education and/or training?
- Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic
- University of Connecticut, Storrs
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven
Do I need a license or certification for this career?
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
Where can I get more information?
Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology
1400 Crystal Drive
Suite 900
Arlington, VA 22202
202-789-1890
www.apic.org
Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health
1900 M Street NW, Suite 710
Washington, DC 20036
202-296-1099
www.asph.org