Epidemiology
What is an epidemiologist?
Epidemiologists examine the causes of diseases to prevent them from transmitting and recurring.
What is the salary and benefits?
Epidemiologists rank in the top tier of best-paid healthcare workers in a comfortable $64,220 in 2011, although the highest-paid epidemiologists cross the $100,000-mark, earning a whopping $100,020.
Full Federal benefits including salary, leave, health and life insurance, long-term care insurance, retirement, and savings plan (401k equivalent) will be provided.
Required education
You need at least a master's degree from an accredited postsecondary institution in public health, while some do earn Ph.Ds
Working Conditions
Epidemiologists usually work in clean well lit offices or laboratories. Field work or emergencies may require work at night, on weekends or on holidays. It is considered low risk although you may work with dangerous chemicals and pathogens.
Pros/Cons
Pros
Good for those who like to help others
Enjoyable for those who enjoy numbers for statistical analysis
You will be solving serious problems
Cons
Elements of danger due to infectious disease
You need rigorous training
Uncomfortable situations for the squeamish
Promotion oppritunities
Competition for research jobs, which are the highest-paying, are very fierce. However, those who only have a master’s degree can enter the field and become specialized with additional fieldwork and education, which can let you be advanced.