Environmental Health degrees focus on protecting public health through disease prevention, sanitation, and environmental monitoring. Programs range from bachelor's (4-5 years, $80,000-$170,000 total cost) through PhD levels. Graduates work for the CDC, EPA, WHO, and local health departments in roles earning $47,000-$100,000+ annually. The field projects 12% job growth through 2034.
Welcome to EnvironmentalScience.org, your comprehensive resource for exploring environmental health education and career paths. Environmental health sits at the critical intersection of public health and environmental science, addressing how our surroundings impact human wellbeing. Whether you're passionate about disease prevention, food safety, or air quality monitoring, this field offers diverse pathways to make a meaningful difference in communities worldwide.
Why Study Environmental Health?
Environmental health focuses on understanding and preventing health problems arising from our living conditions-whether natural or human-made. The field emerged from recognizing a fundamental truth: where we live, work, and play directly affects our health outcomes. From ensuring clean drinking water to managing toxic waste sites, environmental health professionals protect communities from preventable diseases and environmental hazards.
Students in this field learn to balance human needs with environmental protection. You'll study how past "solutions" sometimes created new problems requiring remediation. It's intellectually honest work that acknowledges we don't always get it right the first time, but we learn and improve our approaches.
Due to the work of organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), many people think of environmental health as simply disease prevention. It's actually much broader. Air quality, water safety, food inspection, living conditions, and toxicity testing all fall under this umbrella. You might specialize in restaurant inspections, become an air pollution analyst, or pursue medical school with an environmental health foundation.
Environmental Health Degree Levels Compared
Choosing the right degree level depends on your career goals, research interests, and desired level of responsibility. Here's how the three main degree levels compare:
| Degree Level | Duration | Typical Total Cost | Career Level | Research Focus | Common Roles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's | 4-5 years | $80,000-$170,000 | Entry-level positions | Limited; focus on fundamentals | Quality inspectors, lab technicians, field workers |
| Master's | 2-3 years | $40,000-$90,000 | Mid-level management, specialists | Moderate; thesis or internship | Program managers, research coordinators, consultants |
| PhD | 2-3 years post-Master's | $40,000-$90,000 (often funded) | Senior scientists, faculty, executives | Extensive; original research required | University professors, senior CDC/EPA scientists, policy advisors |
Bachelor's Degrees in Environmental Health
Most undergraduate programs award a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Environmental Health or Environmental and Occupational Health. These degrees have rigorous science requirements, including biology, chemistry, and statistics. Many programs require or strongly encourage internships, giving you hands-on experience before graduation.
Requirements
Expect to submit SAT scores, high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a letter of intent. Application fees typically range from $50-$100. Some programs have minimum GPA requirements for science coursework.
Coursework
You'll complete 120-130 undergraduate credits, covering diverse scientific topics and key environmental health issues. Core courses typically include environmental toxicology, epidemiology, water and air quality, hazardous waste management, global health threats, and environmental ethics. Biology and chemistry sequences (often through organic chemistry) form your scientific foundation. Statistics and research methods prepare you for evidence-based practice.
Many programs integrate real-world projects where you'll assess community health risks, test water samples, or evaluate workplace safety conditions. This hands-on approach helps you understand how classroom concepts apply to actual public health challenges.
Employment Outlook
Bachelor's degree holders find entry-level positions as EHS technicians, food safety inspectors, water quality technicians, and air quality specialists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, related roles show strong growth: environmental health specialists and occupational health professionals earn a median of $83,910 annually with 12% projected job growth through 2034.
Federal and state government agencies hire the most environmental health graduates. The EPA, FDA, state health departments, and municipal water districts all need qualified professionals. Private consulting firms and industrial facilities also employ environmental health specialists to ensure regulatory compliance.
School Spotlight
Boise State University
Boise State University offers a Bachelor's degree in Environmental and Occupational Health, accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC). The program emphasizes practical skills development through courses in water supply systems, toxicology, air quality assessment, noise pollution, and hazardous waste management. Students benefit from internship opportunities throughout Idaho, gaining experience in both urban and rural health settings.
Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University provides a Bachelor's of Science in Environmental Health with EHAC accreditation. The curriculum balances traditional sciences-biology and organic chemistry-with specialized environmental health courses including waste management, environmental toxicology, and environmental ethics. The program prepares graduates to immediately enter the environmental health workforce in various capacities.
Master's Degrees in Environmental Health
A Master's degree opens doors to research positions and management roles. Many students pursue graduate education to conduct meaningful research or qualify for positions requiring advanced training. Some PhD programs prefer or require a Master's degree for admission.
Requirements
You'll submit GRE scores, undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs require minimum GPAs in core science courses or may ask you to retake prerequisites if your undergraduate performance didn't meet their standards.
Coursework Options
Master's programs typically blend coursework with practical experience. You'll choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks. Thesis programs require original research culminating in a defended thesis document. Non-thesis programs substitute an extensive internship or applied project.
Most programs offer 36-48 credit hours over two to three years. Some schools allow specialization in areas like water quality or air pollution science. Others provide general environmental health training. Your advisor's research focus often shapes your specialization opportunities.
Core courses usually cover advanced toxicology, environmental epidemiology, biostatistics, risk assessment, and environmental health policy. You'll develop skills in data analysis, study design, and communicating scientific findings to non-technical audiences.
Career Advancement
Master's graduates often become senior managers in local government laboratories, research coordinators at public health agencies, or consultants advising private companies on compliance and safety. Safety managers in environmental health and related fields oversee teams, compile research data, and report findings to stakeholders. These mid-career positions pay $60,000-$90,000 depending on location and sector.
School Spotlight
Mississippi Valley State University
Mississippi Valley State University offers both thesis and non-thesis Master's of Science options in Environmental Health. The thesis track requires original research work, while the non-thesis path mandates an extensive internship. Both routes share common core courses and culminate in written and oral comprehensive examinations, ensuring graduates master essential concepts regardless of track.
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University provides a Master's of Public Health with Global Environmental Health specialization. The program accommodates working professionals through evening and online courses. Core coursework includes Public Health Administration, Environmental Risk Assessment, and Biostatistics. Elective options like Environmental Emergencies and Disasters, Global Environmental Health, and Advanced GIS allow students to tailor their education to career interests.
PhD in Environmental Health
Doctoral programs train leaders who design research studies, direct public health initiatives, and teach the next generation of environmental health professionals. PhD candidates often have Master's degrees already, though some programs accept exceptional undergraduates directly.
Requirements
Most programs require a Master's degree for admission. You'll submit GRE scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a detailed statement of research interests. Some programs require securing an advisor before formal admission-a faculty member must agree to supervise your research.
Research and Coursework
Students with Master's degrees typically complete 60 credit hours total, including their previous graduate work. If entering directly from a Bachelor's program, expect 90+ credits. Your time focuses on original research that advances environmental health knowledge.
Core doctoral seminars cover historical health issues, advanced toxicology, environmental health law and regulation, exposure assessment, and statistical modeling. You'll attend professional seminars featuring current practitioners and researchers, building networks while learning about cutting-edge work in the field.
The dissertation represents your original contribution to environmental health science. This multi-year research project must advance understanding in your chosen area, whether that's emerging contaminants, climate health impacts, or vulnerable population protection.
Leadership Positions
PhD graduates lead research teams at the CDC, EPA, WHO, and academic institutions. They direct public health laboratories, advise policymakers on environmental regulations, and train future environmental health professionals. Senior medical scientists earn a median of $100,590 annually, with top earners exceeding $168,000. Job growth for medical scientists projects 9% through 2034, much faster than average.
School Spotlight
Boston University
Boston University offers a PhD in Environmental Health with four established concentrations: toxicology, exposure and risk assessment, environmental epidemiology, and urban and community environmental health. The program emphasizes investigating exposure-related health outcomes at the community level, preparing graduates to address real-world public health challenges through rigorous research.
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University's College of Public Health provides a PhD in Environmental Health Sciences designed to prepare students for quality research design and conduct, effective policy development, problem investigation, community leadership, and academic instruction roles. Admission is selective, and applicants with Master's of Public Health degrees receive preference.
Career Specializations in Environmental Health
Environmental health encompasses diverse specialties, each addressing specific aspects of public health protection. Here are common areas where graduates focus their careers:
- Air Quality Analysis - Monitor atmospheric pollutants, assess compliance with Clean Air Act standards, and investigate sources of air contamination affecting respiratory health. Work for state environmental agencies, consulting firms, or industrial facilities managing emissions.
- Disease Control and Epidemiology - Track disease outbreaks, identify transmission patterns, and develop intervention strategies. Epidemiologists work for local health departments, the CDC, and international health organizations investigating everything from foodborne illnesses to emerging infectious diseases.
- Food Safety and Restaurant Inspection - Ensure food service establishments comply with health codes, investigate foodborne illness outbreaks, and educate food handlers about safe practices. Most positions are with county or municipal health departments, protecting communities from preventable food-related illnesses.
- Water Quality and Public Utilities - Test drinking water for contaminants, monitor wastewater treatment effectiveness, and ensure compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act standards. Work for municipal water districts, state environmental agencies, or consulting firms advising on water system management.
- Sanitation Services and Waste Management - Oversee solid waste disposal, ensure proper handling of hazardous materials, and manage recycling programs. Environmental inspectors in this specialty protect groundwater from contamination and communities from improper waste disposal.
- Toxicology - Study how chemicals affect human health, establish safe exposure levels, and assess risks from environmental contaminants. Toxicologists work in research laboratories, regulatory agencies, and pharmaceutical companies developing safer products and protecting workers from occupational hazards.
How to Choose Your Degree Level
The right degree depends on your career ambitions and how much responsibility you want. Here's a framework to help you decide:
Choose a Bachelor's degree if: You want to enter the workforce quickly in a technical role. You're interested in hands-on work like inspections, laboratory testing, or field sampling. You'd like to gain experience before potentially pursuing graduate education. Entry-level salaries of $40,000-$55,000 meet your financial needs.
Choose a Master's degree if: You want to design and manage environmental health programs. You're interested in conducting applied research or leading project teams. You need credentials for state-level positions or consulting work. You want to specialize in a specific area like water quality or occupational health. Mid-career salaries of $60,000-$90,000 reflect your increased expertise.
Choose a PhD if: You want to lead original research that advances environmental health science. You're interested in teaching at the university level. You aspire to direct large-scale public health initiatives at agencies like the CDC or WHO. You want to shape environmental health policy at national or international levels. Senior-level salaries of $90,000-$150,000+ reflect your leadership role.
Many professionals start with a Bachelor's degree, work in the field for several years, then return for graduate education. This progression lets you clarify your interests and strengthen your graduate school applications with relevant experience.
Career Opportunities with an Environmental Health Degree
Your chosen school and degree level significantly influence career options. Some institutions excel in research preparation, while others emphasize practical training for specific careers. Understanding a program's strengths and alumni outcomes helps you select the right fit.
Career diversity in environmental health is remarkable. You might work for city health laboratories conducting routine water tests, join the Peace Corps improving sanitation in developing nations, or coordinate disease surveillance for the World Health Organization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention employs environmental health professionals worldwide, not just in Atlanta. The Environmental Protection Agency offers roles ranging from field inspectors to policy advisors.
Your degree level directly correlates with responsibility and independence. Certificate programs in environmental health provide specialized training for focused roles-food safety inspection, hazardous waste management, or industrial hygiene. These programs suit individuals with existing health or environmental science degrees seeking additional specialization and typically lead to steady, specialized careers.
Salary Overview: According to Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 data, environmental health professionals earn competitive salaries across various roles. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists average $83,910 annually, while Environmental Scientists and Specialists earn $80,060. Medical Scientists researching environmental health issues earn $100,590. Even Quality Control Inspectors in food and environmental safety fields earn $47,460, with strong job security given 69,900 annual openings projected.
Job growth varies by specialty. Occupational health and safety roles project 12% growth through 2034-much faster than average-with approximately 18,300 annual openings. Environmental scientists face 4% growth (about average) with 8,500 annual openings. Medical scientists show 9% growth with 9,600 openings, reflecting increased demand for research on environmental health impacts.
Geographic location affects both opportunities and salaries. State and federal government agencies employ the most environmental health professionals, followed by consulting services, manufacturing, and healthcare facilities. Urban areas typically offer more positions and higher salaries, though rural and small-city roles provide unique opportunities for broad responsibility and community impact.
Education Costs and Financial Planning
Tuition varies significantly by state, institution type, and residency status. Using Boise State as an example, residents pay approximately $21,000 per year for tuition and expenses, while out-of-state students pay $34,000 annually. These figures represent total costs including fees, books, and living expenses-not just tuition.
Bachelor's programs typically require 4-5 years to complete, meaning total costs range from $80,000-$170,000 depending on your circumstances. Master's programs take 2-3 years with similar annual costs, totaling $40,000-$90,000. PhD programs also run 2-3 years post-Master's, though many doctoral students receive assistantships, grants, or fellowships that cover tuition and provide modest stipends.
Scholarships exist for environmental health students at all levels. Professional organizations like the National Environmental Health Association offer educational awards. Many schools provide departmental scholarships based on merit or financial need. Research assistantships in Master's and PhD programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Establishing state residency before enrolling can dramatically lower costs. Most states require 12 months of residence before qualifying for in-state tuition. If you're planning to attend an out-of-state school, consider moving early to qualify for resident rates-the savings often exceed $10,000 annually.
Online Environmental Health Degrees
Online education provides flexibility for working professionals or students unable to relocate. Several accredited institutions offer environmental health programs through distance learning, though you should verify your state's specific requirements for online degree acceptance in professional licensure or certification.
Familiarize yourself with program requirements before enrolling. Some online programs require occasional in-person attendance for laboratory sessions or intensive workshops. Others operate entirely remotely, using virtual laboratories and online collaboration tools.
Requirements
Online programs maintain similar admission standards as on-campus options: application fees, transcripts, GRE scores (for graduate programs), letters of intent, and sometimes minimum GPAs. Certificate programs typically require completion of a Bachelor's degree before admission.
Coursework Considerations
Course requirements depend on whether you're pursuing a certificate or full degree. Environmental Health Overview courses are nearly universal requirements. Some schools mandate in-person attendance when possible, particularly for laboratory skills or field methods courses. Verify technology requirements-you'll need reliable internet and may need specific software for data analysis or GIS courses.
Online Program Examples
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health offers certificates in Global Health and Environmental and Occupational Health. Both require at least 18 credits. Some courses may be pursued online depending on your location. These certificates target working professionals or individuals with Bachelor's degrees seeking specialized training without committing to full graduate programs.
University of Vermont
The University of Vermont provides a Certificate of Graduate Study in Environmental Health comprising 18 credits completable within one year. The program is designed for students pursuing graduate degrees in other health professions who want focused environmental health expertise to complement their primary degree.
The Importance of Accreditation
Attending an accredited institution is essential for degree recognition, credit transferability, and career opportunities. Regional accrediting bodies across the United States verify that colleges meet educational quality standards. The Council of Higher Education Accreditation provides searchable databases of accredited institutions.
Beyond institutional accreditation, environmental health programs may earn specialized accreditation from the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC). EHAC accreditation signals that a program meets rigorous standards for environmental health education. Graduation from an EHAC-accredited program is required for certain specialized positions with the U.S. Public Health Service. Some states also recognize EHAC graduates as having met educational standards for licensure or certification.
When evaluating programs, verify both institutional and programmatic accreditation. Attending an accredited college ensures your degree will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions. EHAC accreditation demonstrates program quality and may open doors to competitive positions requiring this credential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Environmental Health and Environmental Science?
Environmental Health focuses specifically on how environmental conditions affect human health-studying disease prevention, sanitation, food safety, and exposure to toxins. Environmental Science takes a broader view, examining ecosystems, conservation, climate, and natural resource management. While both fields overlap, environmental health programs emphasize public health applications and often prepare graduates for roles in health departments, disease control centers, and safety regulation. Many students interested in the health impacts of pollution choose environmental health, while those focused on ecosystem preservation or conservation choose environmental science.
How long does it take to earn an Environmental Health degree?
Bachelor's degrees typically require 4-5 years of full-time study, though some students complete requirements in three years with summer coursework or advanced placement credits. Master's programs take 2-3 years, depending on thesis requirements and whether you attend full-time or part-time. PhD programs require an additional 2-3 years beyond a Master's degree, though total time varies based on dissertation research complexity. Many working professionals extend these timelines by attending part-time while maintaining employment.
What can I do with an Environmental Health degree?
Career options are remarkably diverse. Bachelor's graduates work as food safety inspectors, water quality technicians, occupational health specialists, and laboratory analysts for government agencies, consulting firms, and private companies. Master's degree holders manage environmental health programs, conduct applied research, serve as program directors for health departments, or consult on regulatory compliance. PhD graduates lead research at the CDC, EPA, or WHO, direct public health laboratories, teach at universities, or advise policymakers on environmental health regulations. Some graduates transition into medicine, law, or environmental policy with their environmental health background providing unique expertise.
Do I need a Master's or PhD for most jobs?
No-many fulfilling careers are available with a Bachelor's degree alone. Entry-level positions as inspectors, technicians, and analysts require only undergraduate education. However, advancement to supervisory, research, or specialized roles typically requires graduate education. If you're content with hands-on technical work and don't aspire to program management or research leadership, a Bachelor's degree suffices. If you want to design studies, manage teams, or influence policy, plan for graduate education. Many professionals start with Bachelor's degrees, gain field experience, then return for graduate degrees when their career goals clarify.
Is Environmental Health a good career choice?
Environmental health offers strong career prospects for those passionate about protecting public health. Job growth of 12% for occupational health and safety specialists exceeds the national average, reflecting increased awareness of environmental hazards and workplace safety. Salaries are competitive-$47,000-$100,000+ depending on education and role. The work is meaningful; you directly improve community health through disease prevention and environmental protection. However, the field can be challenging. You'll sometimes deliver unwelcome news to businesses or communities about health risks. Budget constraints at government agencies can limit resources. If you're motivated by tangible health improvements and can handle bureaucratic processes, it's an excellent choice.
Can I earn an Environmental Health degree online?
Yes, several accredited programs offer online options, particularly at the Master's and certificate levels. Johns Hopkins, University of Vermont, and Old Dominion University all provide distance learning in environmental health. However, some states have specific requirements for online degree acceptance in professional licensing. Additionally, certain skills-laboratory techniques, field sampling methods, equipment operation-are difficult to teach entirely online. Many programs require occasional in-person intensive sessions or local internships to develop these practical skills. Online education works well for working professionals seeking advancement or career change, but verify that your state and intended employers will recognize the credential.
What is EHAC accreditation and why does it matter?
EHAC (National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council) accreditation certifies that an environmental health program meets rigorous educational standards. While not required for all careers, EHAC accreditation is essential for certain specialized positions, particularly with the U.S. Public Health Service. Some states also recognize EHAC graduation as meeting educational requirements for environmental health registration or certification. EHAC-accredited programs undergo regular reviews ensuring curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, and adequate resources. When comparing programs, EHAC accreditation indicates commitment to maintaining high standards. Schools like Boise State, Texas Southern, and others highlighted in this guide hold EHAC accreditation.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Degree Pathways: Environmental health education ranges from 4-5 year Bachelor's programs ($80,000-$170,000) through 2-3 year Master's programs to doctoral degrees. Each level opens different career opportunities, from entry-level technical positions to senior research and policy roles.
- Strong Job Market: The field projects 12% job growth through 2034 for occupational health and safety specialists-much faster than average. Approximately 18,300 annual openings for health and safety professionals combine with 8,500 environmental scientist positions and 9,600 medical scientist roles, creating robust opportunities across experience levels.
- Competitive Salaries: Environmental health professionals earn $47,000-$100,000+ depending on education and specialization. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists average $83,910 annually, Environmental Scientists earn $80,060, and Medical Scientists researching environmental health make $100,590. Even entry-level Quality Control Inspectors earn stable salaries around $47,460.
- Diverse Specializations: Career paths include air quality analysis, disease control and epidemiology, food safety inspection, water quality monitoring, sanitation management, and toxicology research. You can work for federal agencies (CDC, EPA, FDA), state and local health departments, international organizations (WHO, Peace Corps), consulting firms, or private industry ensuring workplace safety.
- Accreditation Matters: EHAC (National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council) accreditation ensures program quality and is required for certain U.S. Public Health Service positions. Some states recognize EHAC graduation as meeting licensing requirements, making accreditation an important consideration when selecting programs.
Ready to protect public health through environmental science? Explore accredited environmental health programs that align with your career goals and passion for making communities safer.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Quality Control Inspectors, and Medical Scientists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.
