Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core environmental health science with applied methods and professional practice. Typical modules cover environmental toxicology, exposure assessment, environmental and occupational epidemiology, quantitative risk assessment, environmental microbiology, environmental policy and regulation, and statistics for environmental health. Students also study geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental analysis, air and water quality management, contaminant fate and transport, and occupational health and safety principles.

Programme structures commonly offer options for a thesis or a professional practicum/capstone project. Coursework emphasises hands-on laboratory and field methods (sample collection, analytical techniques), modelling and data analysis, and science communication for diverse stakeholders. Seminars and research methods courses prepare students to design studies, interpret environmental monitoring data and translate findings into recommendations for policy or practice.

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. Strong applicants typically demonstrate coursework in introductory biology, chemistry (including general and organic chemistry), and college-level mathematics or statistics. Admissions committees look for a solid academic record, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, a current curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation.

Some applicants may be asked to complete prerequisite courses if their undergraduate programme did not cover foundational science or quantitative topics. Relevant professional experience, laboratory skills, fieldwork experience or practicum placements strengthen an application. Standardised tests may be considered on a programme-by-programme basis; check the programme’s admissions guidance for current testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical positions include environmental health specialist, industrial hygiene or occupational health technician, environmental consultant, environmental compliance officer, exposure scientist, risk assessor, and public health practitioner focused on environmental hazards. Employers include state and federal environmental and public health agencies, municipal government, environmental consulting firms, utilities and industry, non-governmental organisations, and academic or contract research organisations.

With additional research experience or continued study, graduates may move into specialist research roles or pursue doctoral study in environmental health, toxicology, epidemiology or related fields. The programme also prepares students for roles that require translating technical findings into policy, permitting and community engagement.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State University offers an interdisciplinary environment with faculty who work across environmental science, public health and engineering, providing breadth and depth in environmental health topics. Students benefit from access to laboratory facilities, field research opportunities and extension networks that connect campus research with state and regional environmental challenges.

MSU’s location supports applied study on freshwater systems, industrial and agricultural environmental issues prevalent in the region, and partnerships with state agencies and industry. The university’s emphasis on hands-on learning, practicum experiences and collaboration means graduates gain practical skills sought by employers and are well prepared for both professional practice and further research.