North Carolina State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in environmental health sciences with elective options and a culminating experience. Core topics typically include environmental toxicology, exposure assessment, environmental microbiology, environmental and occupational epidemiology, risk assessment and environmental chemistry. Quantitative skills are emphasised via courses in biostatistics, environmental sampling and spatial analysis (GIS).

Students choose between a research thesis or a professional option (project or practicum). Research students work with faculty on laboratory or field investigations in areas such as contaminant fate and transport, biomonitoring, aerosol science, or molecular toxicology. Professional students complete an applied practicum or capstone project in partnership with industry, public agencies or NGOs.

• Typical modules: Environmental Toxicology; Exposure Science and Assessment; Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology; Environmental Risk Assessment; Environmental Chemistry; Methods in Environmental Microbiology; Biostatistics for Environmental Health; Geographic Information Systems for Environmental Analysis.
• Skills developed: study design, laboratory and field methods, quantitative data analysis, regulatory interpretation, science communication, and project management.
• Format: full- and part-time study options with lab-research or practicum placements; thesis and non-thesis pathways are available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, public health, engineering or a closely related field. A solid foundation in chemistry and statistics is recommended. Competitive applicants present a strong academic record, a CV, a personal statement describing goals and relevant experience, and two or three letters of recommendation.

The programme may request GRE scores for some applicants; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test unless exempt. Applicants with professional experience in environmental or public health practice are also welcomed.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles in government, industry, consulting and research. Typical job titles include environmental health specialist, exposure scientist, industrial hygienist, environmental consultant, regulatory affairs specialist, and public health analyst. Many alumni work with federal and state environmental or health departments, private environmental consulting firms, manufacturing and energy companies, and non-profit organisations. The degree also prepares students for doctoral study in environmental health sciences, toxicology or related fields.

Why study at North Carolina State University

North Carolina State offers strong interdisciplinary strengths in environmental health, drawing on faculty expertise in toxicology, exposure science, microbiology and epidemiology. Students benefit from well‑equipped laboratories, access to spatial and analytical facilities, and collaboration opportunities with nearby institutions and research centres in the Research Triangle region. The programme emphasises applied experience through practicum placements and partnerships with state agencies and industry, helping students build professional networks and practical skills sought by employers.

Additionally, NC State’s focus on translational research and cross‑college collaboration provides pathways to work with engineering, statistics and public health units, supporting diverse career outcomes and continued academic progression.