Epidemiologists look at epidemics -- large outbreaks of disease or illness—with the goal of understanding the cause and how future outbreaks can be prevented. This type of research first proved that smoking was associated with increased risk of cancer.

Epidemiologists solve many of their cases by looking for the clues that point to the development of a disease. To discover these risk factors, they gather statistical data about groups of people, and then compare this data. Although they are not medical doctors, they have extensive training in health sciences fields and statistics.

Workplace: Epidemiologists work for universities, pharmaceutical companies, and the government. Some are self-employed as consultants for agencies interested in health concerns. Most epidemiologists have regular schedules and work 8 to 10 hours a day. They spend most of their time in offices, researching health issues and writing reports.

Useful high school subjects: Algebra & Geometry; Calculus; Biology; Chemistry; Physics; Social Studies; Computers

Post-secondary education: You will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, math, or a related subject, followed by a master’s degree in epidemiology, public health, or health statistics.

Salary: Most epidemiologists earn between $50,000 and $90,000 a year, however professors and directors of public health organizations often make closer to $100,000 a year.