An epidemiology degree can be applied in a variety of settings, including research, clinical practice, veterinary medicine, and field work. Epidemiologists can also work in a laboratory or a hospital, as well as travel to different parts of the world where disease has spread. An epidemiologist’s main responsibility is to research disease in humans and animals, from its causes to its overall control.
Researchers use their epidemiology degrees to investigate specific diseases; the goal of the research is usually to find a way to eradicate or control the germ. Often, the researcher will focus his or her research on a particular community or region where the disease is prevalent. Environmental and cultural factors are examined in order to determine the best course of action for curing or treating a group of sick patients.
Clinical epidemiologists are mostly employed hospitals to create health parameters for their employees and visitors. The epidemiology degree used in clinical applications ensures that a hospital does not infect its employees and patients with multiple germs. Hand washing and disinfecting surgical areas are just two of the many variables that a clinical epidemiologist must keep track of.
An epidemiology degree in veterinary medicine allows a worker to control or eliminate a disease in a population of animals. Ailments like mad cow disease must be investigated, diagnosed, and contained so that the animal population does not die in large numbers. Furthermore, some animal diseases have the potential to affect humans. Humans may become ill from eating infected beef or cow’s milk, for example. Veterinary epidemiologists work hard to ensure the health of both human and animal populations.
In some cases, disease outbreaks can occur in far-flung corners of the globe. Field workers put their epidemiology degrees to good use visiting infected areas and collecting data. The epidemiologist may collect bodily fluid samples and interview patients, with questions ranging from daily routines to environmental interactions, such as drinking unfiltered water. As a result, the epidemiologist can start planning treatment for the sick and preventing new infections.
When choosing an epidemiology degree concentration, consider your level of comfort with working conditions. Field workers travel frequently and may travel to dangerous locations around the world. Hospital and laboratory workers, on the other hand, are typically stationed in one location throughout the workday; epidemiologists who require quiet areas for research and reasoning may prefer a laboratory or hospital setting.