University of Findlay

What you'll study

This programme emphasises applied environmental science and industrial control technologies. Core topics include environmental sampling and analysis, air and water pollution control, hazardous materials management, environmental regulations and compliance, and safety systems. Students gain technical competence through laboratories, fieldwork and equipment-based classes.

• Environmental Sampling & Laboratory Methods — principles of sampling, chain of custody, analytical techniques, quality assurance and laboratory safety.
• Air Quality and Control Technologies — sources of air pollution, monitoring methods, control equipment and emission reporting.
• Water and Wastewater Treatment — physical, chemical and biological treatment processes, sampling for water quality parameters and treatment system operation.
• Hazardous Materials and Waste Management — classification, handling, storage, transport, emergency response and disposal options.
• Environmental Law and Compliance — federal and state regulatory frameworks, permitting, inspections and record-keeping requirements.
• Occupational Safety and Health — workplace hazard identification, risk assessment, personal protective equipment and OSHA-related practices.
• Geospatial Tools and Data Analysis — introduction to GIS, mapping and basic data interpretation for environmental applications.
• Capstone/Field Practicum — an applied project or placement with an industrial, municipal or consulting partner that integrates technical skills in a real-world setting.

Structure and learning methods

The degree typically combines lecture courses, hands-on laboratory and workshop sessions, supervised field sampling, and an applied capstone or internship. Courses are delivered by faculty with industrial and regulatory experience, and students may earn industry-relevant certifications as part of coursework or placement opportunities.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong foundation in mathematics and natural sciences. Typical preparation includes courses in chemistry, biology and algebra. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in environmental technology, and one or more letters of recommendation.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence. Transfer applicants with related associate degrees or prior technical training may be eligible for advanced standing; specific credit awards are determined by transcript evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and supervisory roles in the public and private sectors. Common entry-level positions include:

• Environmental or field technician (air, water, soil sampling)
• Environmental health and safety (EHS) technician or coordinator
• Hazardous materials handler or waste management specialist
• Water and wastewater treatment operator
• Compliance specialist or permit coordinator for industry or municipal agencies
• Laboratory technician in environmental testing facilities

Many graduates work for consulting firms, manufacturing companies, utility providers, waste management firms or government environmental agencies. The programme also provides a foundation for professional certification (for example in sampling, safety or waste handling) and for further study in environmental science, engineering technology or public health at the graduate level.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a hands-on, applied approach with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who bring industry and regulatory experience into the classroom. The campus supports practical training with laboratories, field sampling equipment and partnerships with local industry and municipal utilities that facilitate internships and capstone placements.

Students benefit from career services focused on placement in technical roles and from opportunities to earn employer-valued certifications during their studies. The programme is designed to equip graduates with the technical skills and workplace experience needed to enter environmental control and safety careers immediately upon graduation.