OVERVIEW
What Is a Public Health Researcher?
Public health researchers conduct case studies, literature reviews, and meta-analyses to decipher the mechanics behind morbidity and mortality. From interviewing community members about healthcare access to conducting in-depth epidemiological explorations, their work centers on understanding and improving population well-being. Many public health researchers work for academic institutions and research organizations where they evaluate vast data sets in search of actionable insights. They investigate and implement methods to enhance clinical outcomes through campaigns, educational programs, strategic partnerships, and evidence-based interventions.
Epidemiologists are public health researchers who study the causes of disease, laying the foundation for early detection and treatment strategies. These professionals conduct outbreak investigations, observational studies, questionnaires, and other inquiries to better understand how and why diseases occur.
Another crucial aspect of public health research involves examining disparities and biases in the medical industry. By studying the effects of race, gender, and socioeconomic status on healthcare, these researchers drive the creation of policies that promote equality.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Public Health Researcher Do?
The daily responsibilities of a public health researcher include the following:
- Designing and conducting surveys and research studies regarding public health issues.
- Gathering and analyzing statistics to gain insights regarding infectious diseases, emerging health threats, and population trends.
- Reviewing case studies and medical literature to reveal knowledge gaps and identify areas that require further investigation.
- Interviewing community members about their lifestyles, risk factors, and medical conditions.
- Evaluating the efficacy of community health initiatives to promote continuous improvement.
- Using data analysis tools to find correlations, patterns, and trends in data.
- Exploring the social determinants of health and promoting policies and practices to advance health equity.
- Writing reports, grant proposals, articles, and research presentations about public health programs and policies.
- Collaborating with academic institutions, government agencies, healthcare professionals, scientists, and community members regarding research projects.
Where Do Public Health Researchers Work?
Public health researchers work in diverse settings, including:
- Government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the National Institute of Health, and state and local health departments
- Universities and other academic institutions
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Nonprofits and non-governmental organizations
- Community health clinics
- Private businesses, including biotechnology organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and consulting firms
- Health policy and advocacy organizations
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Public Health Researcher?
Entry-level public health researcher jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in public health, epidemiology, biology, biostatistics, social and behavioral sciences, health education, or a related field. A Bachelor of Science in Public Health can lay the foundation for a rewarding career, providing students with the core competencies needed to understand and evaluate public health issues. Due to the intricate nature of the work, many public health researcher positions require a postgraduate degree. A Master’s in Public Health can equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in statistical analysis, environmental health, epidemiology, health education and advocacy, and other essential subjects.
Best Degrees for a Public Health Researcher
Health & Nursing
Health and Human Services – B.S.
An online health degree program for students who are committed to making a...
An online health degree program for students who are committed to making a difference for patients in a variety of ways.
- Time: 63% of students finish this program in 24 months
- Tuition: $4,210 per 6-month term
- Courses: 35 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Epidemiology
- Community and Public Health
- Cultural Awareness
- Pathophysiology
- Healthcare Values and Ethics
- Substance Abuse Support
This degree allows you to work inside the healthcare industry, while also directly working with patients who need help.
Health & Nursing
Master of Public Health
This online Master of Public Health degree program is a perfect fit for...
This online Master of Public Health degree program is a perfect fit for students who want to make a difference in their community.
- Time: 60% of students finish similar programs in 21 months.
- Tuition: $4,995 per 6-month term
- Courses: 12 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program:
- Biostatistics and analysis
- Environmental health
- Epidemiology
- Global health
- Public health policy and advocacy
- Health education and promotion
This degree prepares you with relevant industry skills and experience that will help you move forward in your career.
Health & Nursing
Public Health - B.S.
This online bachelor's degree in public health will prepare you to impact...
This online bachelor's degree in public health will prepare you to impact your community and make a difference.
- Time: 63% of students finish similar programs in 24 months.
- Tuition: $4,210 per 6-month term
- Courses: 33 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program:
- Cognitive psychology
- Public health approaches
- Epidemiology
- Biopsychosocial health models
This degree prepares you with relevant industry skills and experience that will help you move forward in your career.
How Much Does a Public Health Researcher Make?
$100,890
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies public health researchers as medical scientists. According to the BLS, public health researchers and other medical scientists earn an average annual salary of $100,890. Most professionals in this field earn between $61,810 and $168,020 a year. Salaries can vary depending on the employer, industry, and type of work performed. Researchers with significant experience and advanced degrees can expect to earn higher wages.
What Is the Job Outlook for a Public Health Researcher?
10%
The demand for public health researchers is growing. Projections indicate that from 2022 to 2032, the employment of public health researchers will grow by 10%. During this period, there will be an estimated 7,500 job openings each year. The growth rate for public health researchers is significantly higher than the average growth rate for all occupations, highlighting the increasing value of public health work.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Public Health Researcher Need?
A career in public health research involves a mix of scientific inquiry, data analysis, health advocacy, and program management. To excel in this multifaceted role, public health researchers need expertise in:
- Research methodology. In their efforts to improve population health, researchers design and conduct case-control studies, epidemiological investigations, cross-sectional surveys, and meta-analyses.
- Data analysis and management. By analyzing and interpreting large data sets, public health researchers can develop targeted strategies to enhance health outcomes, reduce disparities, and better understand the causes of disease.
- Critical thinking. Researchers scrutinize complex health issues and develop innovative strategies for improving community well-being.
- Verbal communication. Robust communication skills enable researchers to convey data-driven insights to stakeholders, collaborate with other health professionals, conduct interviews, and engage with communities.
- Written communication. Whether through grant proposals, research reports, or policy briefs, researchers leverage writing proficiency to share their findings with diverse audiences.
- Technical expertise. Public health researchers frequently use statistical analysis software, data visualization tools, electronic health records, artificial intelligence, health monitoring devices, and other technologies.
- Project management. Because they lead multilayered investigations with many complicated factors, public health researchers must be adept at coordinating, prioritizing, and executing tasks.
- Medical knowledge. A basic understanding of medical principles and terminology enables researchers to interpret data and collaborate with healthcare professionals.
- Adaptability. Public health is an ever-evolving field with new challenges and innovative practices emerging every day.
- Empathy. Understanding the lived experiences of individuals affected by health problems is crucial to fostering trust and developing effective interventions.
- Cultural competence. Researchers should recognize and respect how cultural differences, biases, and discrimination influence health challenges and solutions.
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
Next Start Date
{{startdate}}
Interested in Becoming a Public Health Researcher?
Learn more about degree programs that can prepare you for this meaningful career.
