Epidemiologists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Investigate and describe the determinants and distribution of disease, disability, or health outcomes. May develop the means for prevention and control.
Median pay: $87,220/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +16.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.
About 800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Communicate research findings on various types of diseases to health practitioners, policy makers, and the public.
• Oversee public health programs, including statistical analysis, health care planning, surveillance systems, and public health improvement.
• Investigate diseases or parasites to determine cause and risk factors, progress, life cycle, or mode of transmission.
• Educate healthcare workers, patients, and the public about infectious and communicable diseases, including disease transmission and prevention.
• Monitor and report incidents of infectious diseases to local and state health agencies.
• Plan and direct studies to investigate human or animal disease, preventive methods, and treatments for disease.
• Provide expertise in the design, management and evaluation of study protocols and health status questionnaires, sample selection, and analysis.
• Write articles for publication in professional journals.
What's the median pay for Epidemiologists?
The median pay for Epidemiologists is $87,220 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Epidemiologists?
Employment for Epidemiologists is projected to change +16.2% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.
What education is typically required for Epidemiologists?
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Epidemiologists?
About 800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.