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Epidemiologists

Overview

Epidemiologists study the cause, spread, and control of diseases and injuries that affect groups of people or communities. They use statistics, research, and field investigations to try to connect incidences of a disease or injury with characteristics of populations and communities. Some epidemiologists focus on infectious diseases, which are caused by bacteria and viruses and include HIV, chicken pox, rabies, and meningitis. Others focus on noninfectious diseases including heart disease, lung cancer, breast cancer, and ulcers. Approximately 7,600 epidemiologists are employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Master's Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average
Personality Traits

Curious

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Career Ladder
State Epidemiologist or Professor

Experienced Epidemiologist

Entry-Level Epidemiologist

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