What Can You Do with an MPH in Epidemiology?

Imagine yourself investigating the spread of an infectious disease across the U.S., finding key risk factors and uncovering ways to save lives. It's a constant process of tiny “Eureka!” moments that coalesce into one big discovery. This is life as an epidemiologist working for a government agency or private organization. Your work could transform public health outcomes—a deeply fulfilling result that makes a genuine difference in people's lives.

Health professionals who work as epidemiologists study the causes and patterns of infectious and chronic diseases. Epidemiology is a swiftly growing field that's projected to have a 16% increase in jobs between 2024 and 2034.¹

Earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) is your first step to becoming an epidemiologist and making a difference in society. This guide explores how an MPH in Epidemiology can open doors to an enriching public health career—and how you can decide if it's the right path for you.

Can You Be an Epidemiologist with an MPH?

The path to becoming an epidemiologist starts with a bachelor's degree in a science, math or a health-related field such as biology or statistics. From there, students can pursue a master's degree in public health with a focus on epidemiology.² The MPH is widely recognized as the standard credential for epidemiologists because it uniquely combines population health perspectives with rigorous training in clinical research methods and statistical analysis—exactly what you need to investigate disease patterns and inform public health decisions.

While a master's degree is sufficient to qualify for most careers in epidemiology, some employers may prefer candidates with a Ph.D. or medical degree as well. This is a common requirement for professionals who direct research projects or teach epidemiology at the college or university level.²

Career Paths for MPH in Epidemiology Graduates

Individuals who earn an MPH in Epidemiology can work for federal, state, or local government health agencies. Some apply their skills in research settings or become university professors. Common job titles include epidemiologist, clinical research coordinator, research associate and healthcare administrator.³

In recent years, epidemiology has integrated big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into disease tracking and prevention efforts. MPH programs can include core or elective courses in data modeling and analysis, which are useful for nontraditional career paths in data science and informatics.

Epidemiologists pursuing a data science track can integrate AI and ML to identify disease trends using data sources. This is an especially potent focus area for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One such example is the way the CDC's data science team leverages real-time information gleaned from emergency visits to find areas where drug overdoses are trending. They share that information with public health officials, who can focus resources or employ new methods to fight drug addiction and safeguard community health in those areas.⁴

Government and Public Health Agencies

State and local governments are major employers of epidemiologists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 50% of epidemiologists hold positions in state and local governments.⁵ Their work revolves around public health issues such as chronic and infectious diseases. They conduct surveys and support educational outreach activities to reduce the spread of illness and encourage healthier habits. For example, an epidemiologist may interview patients suffering from an infectious respiratory illness to understand how they became sick. They then compare each patient's responses to identify common risk factors. That information can help public health officials develop prevention tools to slow the spread of the illness.³

Research and Academia

Research institutes such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) need epidemiologists to investigate disease causes and monitor outbreaks.³ Pharmaceutical companies may also seek epidemiologists to support the development of illness treatments. Typical job titles in these areas include research scientist, clinical research coordinator and epidemiologist.

In research roles, epidemiologists plan or direct studies of specific health problems. They analyze data obtained through their observations to identify causes of disease. Results from their studies may be communicated to public health officials and government policymakers.³

Epidemiologists who pursue careers in academia can conduct health-related studies, with university support for publication in academic journals. Kent State University is an R1 research university. Its distinguished faculty have deep research experience in numerous areas, including COVID-19 and opioid addiction. Their research is funded by organizations such as the NIH and the CDC, and helps to inform public health policy.

Academic epidemiologists conduct research while teaching public health and epidemiology courses. Their students benefit from engaging with the latest epidemiology findings and participating in projects that develop their clinical research skills.

Epidemiology MPH Salary and Job Outlook

The BLS expects significant demand for epidemiologists through 2034. Positions are expected to open as people retire or transfer to other fields. Technological advancements may also contribute to job growth, as their use may identify new diseases that require epidemiological research.⁶

The current national average salary for an epidemiologist is $83,980.1 However, as you gain experience or specialize in a certain area of epidemiology, your earnings may grow. Research epidemiologists earn an average of $96,670 annually, while infection control epidemiologists can make $118,000 per year.^7,8 Working for a research institution or hospital may pay more than roles offered by state or local governments.⁹

Advancing Your Career with an MPH in Epidemiology

Obtaining an MPH is the first step toward an enriching career that serves public health interests. However, the science epidemiologists use frequently changes as researchers and scientists uncover new patterns and risk factors that cause illness.

To stay abreast of changes in epidemiology, make continued learning a part of your routine. Attend conferences such as the CDC's Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS), which is held annually and discusses recent scientific findings and strategies to improve public health.¹⁰ Joining the Society for Epidemiologic Research is another option. It's a global organization of epidemiologists that offers a research community and hosts regular workshops where you can network with fellow health professionals.¹¹

At Kent State University, you can leverage our nationwide connections with health organizations—connections that could lead to long-term career opportunities in research or public health policy. Accepting an internship is another way to get your foot in the door with employers while earning hands-on experience.

Shape the Future of Public Health

The epidemiologists in positions to address today's most urgent health challenges didn't get there by chance—they earned the specialized training and professional connections that define career success in this field. Kent State University's STEM-designated online Master of Public Health in Epidemiology delivers both.

Study with distinguished faculty who are active researchers shaping public health policy at organizations like the NIH and CDC. Our rigorous 24-month curriculum builds expertise in biostatistics, data analysis and clinical research through real-world applications you can complete on your schedule. As an R1 research institution with 300+ community partnerships throughout the Cleveland healthcare corridor, Kent State connects you with the professionals and opportunities that accelerate your career trajectory.

Your next role in epidemiology starts here. Schedule a call with an admissions outreach advisor to discuss how our program aligns with your career goals.