University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The programme provides a mix of core public health and specialised environmental health courses, laboratory and field methods, and applied practicum or research experience. Typical subjects include environmental toxicology, exposure assessment, environmental and occupational epidemiology, industrial hygiene, environmental policy and risk assessment, water and air quality, environmental microbiology, and geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental health.

Students follow either a thesis or a practicum/project option. Coursework emphasises quantitative skills such as biostatistics, sampling design and environmental monitoring, together with qualitative components like policy analysis and community health communication. Hands-on training in laboratory techniques, instrument use for air and water sampling, and data analysis is a core element of the curriculum.

Seminars, invited-speaker series and opportunities to work with faculty-led research centres allow students to engage with contemporary topics such as chemical exposures, climate impacts on health, occupational safety, and environmental justice.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree, typically in biology, chemistry, environmental science, public health, engineering or a related discipline.
• A competitive academic record; most successful applicants have relevant coursework in chemistry, biology and introductory statistics or mathematics.
• Application materials including academic transcripts, a statement of purpose describing interests and goals, a current CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional equivalents.
• Relevant work, volunteer, or laboratory experience is advantageous; some applicants may be admitted with conditional prerequisites if additional undergraduate courses are required.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in government agencies, private industry, non-profit organisations and academia. Common roles include environmental health specialist, industrial hygienist (with further certification), environmental consultant, regulatory compliance officer, risk assessor, and public health programme manager. Alumni also move into laboratory-based research positions, environmental monitoring and remediation roles, and policy or advocacy organisations focused on environmental protection and community health.

The degree also provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue doctoral study in environmental health sciences, epidemiology or related fields.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers an interdisciplinary environment with access to the School of Public Health and Health Sciences and affiliated research institutes that focus on environmental and population health. Students benefit from faculty with active research programmes, laboratory facilities for exposure and toxicology work, and opportunities for community-engaged field placements across Massachusetts and the New England region.

The campus supports collaboration across departments such as environmental science, civil and environmental engineering, and landscape architecture, enabling applied, cross-disciplinary training. Proximity to state public health agencies and a strong regional network of environmental employers helps students secure practicum placements and professional connections.

Overall, the programme combines rigorous coursework, practical skill development and research opportunities to prepare graduates for immediate employment in environmental health roles or further academic study.