Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in the biological, chemical and physical sciences before focusing on applied environmental health topics. Early coursework typically covers general chemistry, biology, physics, statistics and introductory public health, while core major modules address environmental toxicology, environmental microbiology, exposure assessment, environmental chemistry and environmental policy.

• Exposure assessment and sampling methods — techniques for measuring chemical, biological and physical hazards in air, water, soil and food.
• Environmental toxicology — mechanisms of toxicity, dose–response relationships and risk characterisation for chemical and biological agents.
• Occupational and industrial hygiene — workplace exposures, control strategies, personal protective equipment and workplace health programmes.
• Environmental microbiology and water quality — microbial hazards, disinfection, water treatment and monitoring.
• Air quality and pollution control — sources, transport and mitigation of air pollutants, indoor air quality.
• Environmental law, policy and risk communication — regulatory frameworks, environmental health policy, community engagement and communicating risk to diverse audiences.
• GIS and data analysis — spatial analysis and data visualisation applied to environmental health problems.
• Capstone, practicum or internship — applied project or professional placement with public health agencies, industry, environmental consultancies or research groups to develop practical skills.

The degree typically integrates laboratory classes and field-based exercises—students gain hands-on experience with environmental sampling equipment, analytical instrumentation and health surveillance methods.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong performance in science and mathematics. Typical recommended preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry, algebra or precalculus, and English. Admissions consider overall academic achievement, the strength of the science preparation, and any relevant experience such as volunteer work, summer internships or employment in environmental or health settings.

Colorado State University evaluates undergraduate applications holistically; prospective students should consult the university's admissions webpages for the official list of required documents and for guidance on transfer credit and advanced standing.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Environmental Health move into a range of roles in public, private and non-profit sectors. Common entry-level positions include environmental health specialist/technician, environmental field sampler, water quality technician, laboratory analyst and public health inspector. With additional training, certification or graduate study, graduates may work as industrial hygienists, environmental consultants, epidemiology researchers, risk assessors or regulatory compliance officers.

Alumni also progress into roles with local and state health departments, environmental protection agencies, consulting firms, utilities, private industry (environmental health and safety departments), environmental non-governmental organisations and academic or government research labs. The degree also provides preparation for graduate study in public health, environmental science, toxicology or related disciplines.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers this programme within a department that emphasises interdisciplinary training and hands-on learning. Students benefit from laboratory and field resources on campus, opportunities to participate in research projects and connections with regional public health and environmental organisations in Colorado. Fieldwork opportunities are supported by proximity to a variety of ecosystems and practical case studies focused on real-world environmental health challenges.

The university’s emphasis on experiential learning—through practicum placements, community partnerships and capstone projects—helps students build practical skills valued by employers. Faculty research strengths across environmental health, exposure science, toxicology and occupational health provide pathways for students to gain research experience and to prepare for professional certification or graduate study.