WHAT IS ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH?
Environmental Health Sciences examines the interactions between humans and their environment, including biological, chemical and physical factors and their effects on health. It includes a study of human activities and improving the quality of shelter, air, water, food, and other natural resources. Industrial hygiene is the area of public health focused on workplace hazards that may cause sickness or significant discomfort among workers or the community.
Environmental Health Scientists and industrial hygienists often work toward limiting human exposure to biological, chemical and physical hazards in their environments. Areas of specialization are related to exposure to volatile chemicals, indoor air pollution, excess noise, asbestos contamination, heavy metal toxicity, ventilation design, and ergonomics.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS?
Environmental Health students can expect to take basic courses in applied chemical and biological sciences, including biology, chemistry, engineering, and medicine. Coursework in engineering, physics, environmental sciences and safety is often required as well. Specific course we've seen include:
- Environmental Health Sampling and Analysis
- Food Protection
- Vector Control
- Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
- Respiratory Effects of Air Pollution
- Exposure Assessment
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Great Resources
on Environmental Health / Industrial Hygiene
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- Industrial and Environmental Noise
- Environmental Health Regulations
- Environmental Risk and Society
- Hazardous Waste Management Technology
- Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, and Ecogenetics
- Environmental and Occupational Toxicology
- Radioactive and Chemical Wastes
- Radiation Hazards Analysis and Control
- Drinking Water and Health
- Pesticides and Public Health
CAREERS AND SALARY OUTLOOK
Environmental Health graduates are in demand by private industries, consulting firms, government agencies, and institutions in occupational health departments, public health agencies, solid and hazardous waste management companies, and pollution control organizations. Some specific job titles we've seen include:
- Air Sampling Technician
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Career Guidance
in Environmental Health
 No one wants polluted air or water. The challenge for businesses and agencies today is to do the most good with the time and money available, says Enviro Consultant Dr. Anthony Maranto. >>>
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- Noise Exposure Surveyor
- Indoor Air Quality Assessment Specialist
- Asbestos/Lead Testing Inspector
- Environmental Assessment Analyst
- Toxicologists
- Occupational health nurses and physicians
- Epidemiologists
- Industrial hygienists
- Water pollution specialists
- Sanitarians
- Hazardous and solid waste specialists
- Health educators
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians were $46,010 in 2002. Most occupational health and safety specialists are employed by Federal, state and local agencies or large firms. Check out the full report from BLS here.
RELATED AREAS OF STUDY
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