How to Become an Epidemiologist
Track how disease spreads through populations and use that evidence to design the public health response. It typically requires a master's degree, with a median salary of $87,220 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$87,220/yr
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
800
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Study Design
- Biostatistics
- Data Analysis
- Critical Thinking
- Science Communication
Helpful certifications
- MPH (Master of Public Health)
- CPH (Certified in Public Health)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an Epidemiologist make?
The median pay for an Epidemiologist is $87,220 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an Epidemiologist?
The usual entry point is a master's degree. Common majors are Public Health, Epidemiology, Biology, and Statistics.
Is Epidemiologist a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 800 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an Epidemiologist use most?
Common skills for this role are Study Design, Biostatistics, Data Analysis, Critical Thinking, and Science Communication.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.