What Jobs Come From Public Health?
Public health is an important field that has a direct impact on the health of communities and individuals. It focuses on preventing disease, promoting health, and protecting the public from health-related threats. As a result, there are many different types of jobs that are associated with public health. Here, we will take a look at some of the most popular and in-demand public health jobs and how to get started in the field.
Types of Public Health Jobs
Public health jobs can be found in a variety of fields, from health care to research to policy and more. Some of the most popular types of public health jobs include:
Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and physician assistants work to provide direct care to patients. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses and providing preventative care and education to patients.
Epidemiologists
Epidemiologists are public health professionals who study the causes and patterns of diseases in populations. They use their findings to make recommendations for public health policies and programs.
Public Health Educators
Public health educators are responsible for designing and implementing public health education programs. Their goal is to educate the public about healthy behaviors and the importance of preventive care.
Environmental Health Scientists
Environmental health scientists work to protect the public from environmental hazards such as air and water pollution, radiation, and toxic substances. They measure and assess environmental risks and develop strategies to reduce them.
Biostatisticians
Biostatisticians are public health professionals who use statistical methods to analyze data related to health and disease. They are responsible for designing and conducting research studies, analyzing data, and communicating their findings to other public health professionals.
Skills Needed for Public Health Jobs
Public health jobs require a variety of skills, including communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, research, and data analysis. Some jobs, such as epidemiology and biostatistics, require more advanced skills, such as an understanding of statistics and mathematical modeling.
Education Requirements for Public Health Jobs
The education requirements for public health jobs vary depending on the specific job. Many jobs in public health require at least a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field, such as biology or statistics. For more advanced positions, a master’s degree or higher may be required.
How to Get Started in Public Health
Getting started in public health can be a daunting task, but it is possible with the right combination of education and experience. Here are some tips for getting started in public health:
- Gain Experience: Many public health jobs require experience in the field, so it is important to gain as much experience as possible while in school. Take advantage of internships, volunteer opportunities, and research projects to gain hands-on experience.
- Do Your Research: Research the different types of public health jobs and the skills and education requirements for each. This will help you determine which type of public health job is right for you.
- Network: Networking is an important step in the job search process. Reach out to professionals in the field to learn more about the job and to make connections.
- Apply: Once you have the necessary education and experience, it’s time to apply for jobs. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for.
Salary and Job Outlook for Public Health Jobs
The salary and job outlook for public health jobs vary depending on the type of job and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for healthcare occupations is $63,420 per year, while the median salary for epidemiologists is $69,660. The job outlook for healthcare occupations is expected to grow by 14% from 2018-2028, while the job outlook for epidemiologists is expected to grow by 5%.
Where to Find Public Health Jobs
Public health jobs can be found in a variety of places, including hospitals, government agencies, research institutions, and nonprofits. Popular job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are also a great resource for finding public health jobs.
Conclusion
Public health is a growing field that offers many different types of jobs. To get started in public health, it is important to gain experience, do research, network, and apply for jobs. With the right combination of education and experience, it is possible to find a rewarding career in public health.