Environmental Health Degree Programs with Course Descriptions

Environmental health concerns the balance of human life and the environment. Students of this discipline examine how mankind affects an ecosystem (and vice versa) and explore ways to prolong the lives of both. Environmental health degree programs are offered on the associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

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Associate Degree in Environmental Health

Program participants study environmental and human health relationships, as well as corresponding ecological problems. Topics covered might include noise and water pollution, radiation and food protection, and solid and hazardous waste. Most 2-year programs in environmental health are designed for transfer to 4-year colleges and universities.

Education Prerequisites

Associate degree program applicants generally must posses a high school diploma or GED. They also might be required to submit high school transcripts.

Program Coursework

Courses in an associate's degree program in environmental health are science intensive and include laboratory work. A typical curriculum might feature classes such as the following:

  • Environmental biology
  • Environmental chemistry
  • Environmental health science
  • Environmental and human toxicology
  • Instrumental analysis
  • Public science health

Popular Career Options

Environmental health jobs for associate's degree graduates typically are entry-level and may include the following:

  • Field technician
  • Health technician
  • Industrial hygienist

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Health Sciences

Bachelor's degree programs in environmental health sciences prepare students to deal with environmental issues regarding health and sustainability. Degree candidates learn to diagnose and analyze problems, such as pollution, before suggesting solutions or preventions. They also explore the use of scientific principles and technological tools for evaluation and research.

Education Prerequisites

A high school diploma or the equivalent is mandatory for admission to most 4-year colleges and universities. Additionally, SAT or ACT scores and high school or 2-year college transcripts must be submitted.

Program Coursework

Environmental health students typically take general science courses before advancing to applied environmental science classes. In their junior and senior years, students may choose special interest and specialized courses, such as the following:

  • Bacteriology
  • Epidemiology
  • Exposure assessment
  • Plant biology
  • Occupational health
  • Safety and health

Popular Career Options

Bachelor's degree holders in environmental health sciences often find work in health and saftety with private or public agencies. Specific job titles might include the following:

  • Registered sanitarian
  • Public health technologist
  • Toxicologist

Master's Degree in Environmental Health

Ecological research is a main component of a master's degree program in environmental health. Students explore current and future challenges facing humans and the environment. They learn about environmental engineering and management, pollution control, water technologies and health safety.

Education Prerequisites

Graduate students must hold an undergraduate degree in environmental sciences or a related field and must submit their college transcripts. In-field experience often is encouraged, and GRE scores may be required.

Program Coursework

Master's degree programs typically include general environmental health classes, in addition to specific concentration courses involving in-depth analysis of ecosystems, engineering and design. Topics of study might include the following:

  • Environmental statistics
  • Ecotoxicology
  • Global environmental issues
  • Research design
  • Ecological engineering
  • Urban area ecosystems

Popular Career Options

Environmental health master's graduates are trained for upper-level management positions. They may choose highly specialized careers or opt for general public health work, such as the following jobs:

  • Environmental researcher
  • Environmental health specialist
  • Industrial hygienist

Doctorate Degree in Environmental Health

The goal of a doctoral degree program in this field is to train leaders in environmental health research. Doctoral candidates conduct research in environmental hazards, such as toxicology, pollution and contaminants, and design, write and defend a dissertation. Some programs provide different tracks of study, such as health and climate, occupational safety or industrial hygiene.

Education Prerequisites

Applicants to doctoral degree programs in environmental health must have an undergraduate degree with an acceptable GPA. A master's degree is recommended, but may be earned in conjunction with many doctoral programs. Respectable GRE scores also are necessary.

Program Coursework

Doctoral candidates generally work on their dissertation in tandem with laboratory and class work. This includes core courses in environmental health, as well as classes in specific areas of interest. Topics of study might include the following:

  • Methods of risk assessment
  • Environmental health introduction
  • Environmental development
  • Environmental analysis and monitoring

Popular Career Options

Those who earn doctoral degrees in environmental health typically find work in academics or research. Available positions might include the following:

  • Professor of environmental health
  • Environmental health researcher
  • Environmental specialist
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    Areas of study you may find at University of Michigan include:
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