University of Michigan

What you'll study

The PhD in Environmental Health is an interdisciplinary research degree that combines core environmental health science with customised electives to support a student’s research focus. Typical areas of study include exposure science and assessment, environmental epidemiology, toxicology and mechanistic toxicology, environmental and occupational health policy, exposure modelling, risk assessment, and advanced statistical and computational methods for environmental health data.

Coursework normally covers foundational topics such as toxicokinetics, environmental fate and transport, advanced epidemiologic methods, biostatistics for environmental applications, and study design. Students will also take seminars and elective modules that reflect specialised interests—such as air pollution, climate change and health, water quality and contaminant transport, molecular epidemiology, or community-based participatory research.

Programme structure emphasises mentored research: students complete required coursework, pass qualifying and preliminary examinations, develop and defend a dissertation proposal, and carry out original research under the supervision of faculty. Training often integrates laboratory techniques, field exposure measurement, large-scale data analysis, and policy translation. Many students collaborate across schools and centres, drawing on resources in public health, environmental engineering, natural resources, and medical departments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree in a scientific discipline such as public health, environmental science, biology, chemistry, engineering, epidemiology or a related field. A master’s degree with research experience is advantageous, but strong applicants with a first-class bachelor’s degree and significant research experience may also be considered.

Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with potential supervisors, and at least three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. Evidence of research experience—such as publications, technical reports, or documented laboratory/field projects—is important. For applicants whose first language is not English, a recognised English language test score is required unless exempt under the university’s policies.

The programme looks for quantitative skills and familiarity with research methods; prior coursework or experience in statistics, experimental design, exposure assessment, or computational analysis strengthens an application. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential faculty mentors whose research aligns with their interests before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Environmental Health pursue a wide range of careers across academia, government, industry, and non-profit sectors. Common paths include tenure-track faculty positions in environmental health and related disciplines, research scientist roles in governmental agencies (for example agencies focusing on environmental protection and public health), and positions in public health institutes and policy organisations.

Other career options include roles in environmental consulting and risk assessment firms, industrial research laboratories, translational research centres, and international health organisations. Graduates with strong quantitative and computational skills also move into data science roles addressing environmental exposures and health outcomes. Many alumni take leadership positions that translate research into regulatory science, public health practice, and community interventions.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a broad, interdisciplinary environment with established faculty in environmental health and related disciplines across the School of Public Health, School for Environment and Sustainability, engineering and medical schools. Students benefit from access to specialised laboratories, long-term environmental monitoring projects, and partnerships focused on regional and global environmental health challenges.

Opportunities for cross-department collaboration, centre-based research initiatives, and community-engaged projects provide a rich setting for doctoral training. The University’s research infrastructure, connections to public health agencies and industry partners, and a strong tradition of mentoring doctoral researchers make it a compelling place to pursue advanced study in environmental health.