Epidemiologists

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Epidemiologists does

Epidemiologists investigate patterns and causes of diseases and health conditions in populations to prevent outbreaks and improve public health. They analyze data, conduct research, and advise health agencies during health crises like disease outbreaks.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~4 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists — $103,410/yr
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — $90,150/yr
• Environmental Restoration Planners — $82,220/yr
• Industrial Ecologists — $82,220/yr
• Climate Change Policy Analysts — $82,220/yr