MPH in epidemiology better than biostatistics?

[abc456]

Hello all,
I am currently a junior undergraduate student (chemistry major/ biology minor). This summer, I plan to begin applying to MPH programs. I'm still trying do decide between epidemiology and biostatistics (I have a very strong math and science background). At this point, I think I'm leaning more towards epidemiology, but I'm not entirely sure yet. I was wondering if anyone could give me some information (pros and cons) of an MPH in epidemiology as well as information regarding an MPH in biostatistics. Some of the things that I would like to know are:
1. What is the earning potential of someone with a MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics? Is there a lot of room for advancement?
2. Would I be able to earn a degree in one of these fields and possibly work in the other in the future? (Biostatistics degree working in epidemiology and vice versa)
3. Since I am a chemistry major as opposed to a biology major, would I stand a chance in getting accepted to an epidemiology program? I've heard that many programs favor students with degrees in the biomedical sciences. (As far as experience, I've interned for 3 summers for a major healthcare corporation and have accumulated approximately 250 volunteer hours in hospitals, pharmacies, Red Cross, etc.)
4. Do biostatisticians participate in research?

Any input will be greatly appreciated!

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[IntriguedStudent]

Hello all,
I am currently a junior undergraduate student (chemistry major/ biology minor). This summer, I plan to begin applying to MPH programs. I'm still trying do decide between epidemiology and biostatistics (I have a very strong math and science background). At this point, I think I'm leaning more towards epidemiology, but I'm not entirely sure yet. I was wondering if anyone could give me some information (pros and cons) of an MPH in epidemiology as well as information regarding an MPH in biostatistics. Some of the things that I would like to know are:
1. What is the earning potential of someone with a MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics? Is there a lot of room for advancement?
2. Would I be able to earn a degree in one of these fields and possibly work in the other in the future? (Biostatistics degree working in epidemiology and vice versa)
3. Since I am a chemistry major as opposed to a biology major, would I stand a chance in getting accepted to an epidemiology program? I've heard that many programs favor students with degrees in the biomedical sciences. (As far as experience, I've interned for 3 summers for a major healthcare corporation and have accumulated approximately 250 volunteer hours in hospitals, pharmacies, Red Cross, etc.)
4. Do biostatisticians participate in research?

Any input will be greatly appreciated!

I have applied (and been accepted to) MPH in epidemiology programs. Keep in mind that most of my research into the fields has been in epidemiology, but I will try to comment on both.

1. The earning potential is pretty good for both, with biostatistics probably having a slightly higher earning potential. I say pretty good because none of the MPH concentrations are going to net a high pay. However, they are probably the highest paying (with the exception of possibly HPM) of the MPH concentrations. There is going to be some room for advancement, but for most lead researcher positions in epidemiology are going to require that you have a PhD.
2. I really don't know that you can do much crossover in these two fields (or really why you would want to). While epidemiology requires a foundation in biostatistics, it also requires that you learn much more biology and study design. You'll be qualified for the concentration you choose. Employers won't be likely to hire you for the other.
3. Yes. Epidemiology programs tend to not care very much if you come from a different background. As long as you can convey that you understand and have an interest in the field, you should be fine.
4. Biostatisticians are an integral part of research.

 

[Stories]

They do very different kinds of work. Biostats folks often end up in programming roles. Epi folks more often end up in more study design and evaluation roles.