Epidemiology, according to the World Health Organization, is the "study of of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events (including disease), and the application of this study to the control of diseases and other health problems." This exciting field combines science, medicine, research and public awareness, making it a great option for students who are not only scientifically minded but who are passionate about making the world a better place. In this resource guide, you will find information on degree programs and their specializations and courses, as well as information related to a variety of careers within epidemiology.
Sample Courses
As an epidemiology student, you will have access to science and public health courses that not only cover historical trends and information regarding epidemiology, but the latest research and applications as well. At the University of Washington, for example, courses include Nutritional Epidemiology, Exposure Measurement, and Infectious Diseases.
Possible Specializations
Depending on the degree program you choose, you may be able to specialize in an area of epidemiology that is of particular interest to you. For example, at Colorado State University, students can choose to take particular classes in the subject areas of Environmental/Occupational Health, Toxicology/Cancer Biology, Microbiology, and Statistics. Many colleges offer a complementary minor in fields like public health or global health, which can serve as a great primer for graduate level pursuits.
Degree Types
Disease and Epidemiology is a highly specialized field that requires at least a bachelor's degree to enter professionally. However, it is possible for a student to begin at the associate level. Each program offers specific benefits and has specific limitations. In order to figure out which is right for you, browse the information provided below and speak with program advisors about what their school's graduates are accomplishing in the field.
Associate
There are benefits to entering an associate degree program rather than beginning your career at a traditional university. Not only are community and junior colleges typically cheaper than universities, they also offer entry to students who need to raise their GPA before applying to a bachelor's program. Finally, an associate degree program will allow you to take introductory science courses so you may better understand if you are passionate enough to dive into Disease & Epidemiology.
Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree, typically a 4-year program, is not only required for many entry level science jobs, it's also a prerequisite for a master's, arguably the most important level of education in epidemiology.
Master's
A master's degree is required for many epidemiology positions, making it the best option for students who aspire to be professional epidemiologists. In a graduate program, students will have the opportunity to conduct their own research with the support of faculty members and university resources.
Ph.D.
A doctoral degree is a great option for students who wish to secure a professorship. Ph.D. candidates must present and defend a doctoral dissertation. Graduates may go on to teach college-level students or become professional research scientists. Given that the field deals with public health, at the highest level, professors may be expected to serve as lobbyists or advocates for new public health initiatives. They may also end up being the leaders and decision makers communities rely on to establish preventative and safety measures. These professors are also likely to be turned to during health crises.
Career Pathways
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate for epidemiology jobs is 10%, which is on par with the national average of 11%. Graduates of an epidemiology or public health program will have the option to work for government agencies, health organizations and research facilities. If a graduate becomes passionate about teaching, they may become educators in areas like microbiology, public health, or infectious diseases. Professional epidemiologists can expect an annual average salary of $65,270.
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Journals
This journal is for the public and epidemiologists. Articles focus on "prevention, diagnosis and management of infectious and sexually transmitted diseases in humans […]."
This journal is released monthly by the CDC. It "represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections."
International Journal of Infectious Diseases
This peer-reviewed journal is available to the public with no subscription fee. Published on a monthly basis, it includes empirical research on infectious diseases.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
This journal provides quality research articles on "microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, and related disciplines, on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases […]"
THE LANCET Infectious Diseases
The Lancet publishes print and online peer-reviewed article. Articles spotlight infectious diseases and their effect on global health.
Trade Magazines
This magazine offers interesting articles and information on science, engineering and related subjects. Subscribe or read online for access to articles from…
Harvard School of Public Health Magazine
This magazine is offered to science students and professionals. The magazine is released quarterly and is paired with a digital edition.
This magazine is made available through Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and offers an in depth look into the world of one of the nation's…
As "the magazine for science professionals," The Scientist provides online and print articles that cover a wide variety of scientific issues and topics.
Grants
American College of Epidemiology's Student Papers Award
Deadline: April 30th
Award Amount: Varies
Masters or doctoral epidemiology students who are members of ACE or who have tied to ACE are eligible. Students are required to submit an original paper with epidemiological research.
Epidemiology and Genomics Research Funding Opportunities
Deadline: Varies
Award Amount: Varies
These grants and research opportunities are coordinated by the National Cancer Institute. While highly specialized, this list is an indicator of some of the field's most important work.
International Society for Infectious Diseases' Research Grants
Deadline: April 1st
Award Amount: Up to $6,000
The ISID grant program is "designed to pilot research projects by young investigators living and working in developing countries." When the project is completed, a written report must be submitted to…
Scleroderma Foundation's Research Grant Program
Deadline: September 15th
Award Amount: Varies
Favoring work that deals directly with Scleroderma's efforts, the foundation offers qualified candidates the chance to pursue grants dealing with virology, epidemiology and biology.
Swiss Society for Infectious Diseases Fellowships
Deadline: April 1st
Award Amount: Up to $35,500
For established epidemiologists working and living in Eastern Europe or in a developing nation. The fellowship will relocate the doctor to Switzerland to pursue research and training.
Scholarships
Johns Hopkins Department of Epidemiology's Scholarships
Deadline: Varies
Award Amount: Varies
Awarding students in the school's epidemiology department a number of distinct scholarships and grants, Johns Hopkins stands out as one of the most thorough finaid supporters of their students.
Paffenbarger-Blair Fund for Epidemiological Research on Physical Activity
Deadline: January 16th
Award Amount: $10,000
This scholarship awarded by the American College of Sports Medicine effectively explains its focus in its title: exploring the relationship between epidemiology and activity.
CDC-Hubert Global Health Fellowship
This fellowship is open to medical students interested in applying their knowledge to a field assignment in a developing country. Assignments are 6 to 12 weeks.
Epidemiology Elective Program for Senior Medical and Veterinary Students
Medical students will enjoy this fellowship, which is an opportunity to work directly with CDC epidemiologists.
James A. Ferguson Emerging Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program
This 9 week fellowship is offered by the CDC. It takes place in the summer, and offers students the opportunity to be mentored by an epidemiologist working for the CDC.
The CDC Experience Applied Epidemiology Fellowship
This fellowship is offered to students enrolled in med school. It's 10-12 months long and located in Atlanta. Students have the opportunity to explore epidemiology's role in medicine.
Student Organizations
Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE)
SOPHE, boasting over 4,000 members, "promotes healthy behaviors, healthy communities, and healthy environments through […] its network of local chapters, and…
The International Epidemiology Association
This international association boasts "more than 1,000 members in in over 100 different countries." One of their main goals is to support the awareness of…
Professional Organizations
American Association for the Advancement of Science
This nonprofit works to "advance science, engineering, and innovation throughout the world […]." Since 1848, this organization has brought professionals together to support the sciences.
American College of Epidemiology
This organization supports professional epidemiologists by sponsoring events and meetings, releasing publications and recognizing important figures within the community.
American Public Health Association
The APHA supports many health professionals, including epidemiologists, educators, students, and doctors. Becoming a member offers networking opportunities and access to meetings and publications.
Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology
This association boasts more than 15,000 members and offers resources and networking for professional epidemiologists.